Explore Japan Road Trip 2025 with this complete 12-day itinerary from Tokyo to Kyoto. Discover offbeat gems, scenic drives, and local eats with this ultimate Japan road trip guide.
Embarking on a Japan road trip is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country’s hidden gems and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning a Tokyo to Kyoto drive, a journey through the Japanese Alps road trip, or a scenic Mount Fuji road travel adventure, Japan offers stunning landscapes and well-maintained roads perfect for self-driving. From the best road trips in Japan to cultural road travel Japan, you’ll uncover traditional villages, coastal highways, and scenic mountain passes.
This self-drive Japan itinerary blends the urban energy of Tokyo, the historic charm of Kyoto, the onsen town of Hakone, and the spiritual beauty of Nara. If you’re considering a Japan countryside drive, you’ll find it’s ideal for photographers, culture lovers, and solo travelers seeking peaceful retreats. Whether it’s a short Japan weekend road trip or a 14-day road journey, traveling by car lets you set your own pace and go beyond the tourist path.
Japan offers one of the world’s most seamless and beautiful road trip experiences. With its mix of world-class city life, serene countryside, coastal roads, and mountain scenery, road travel in Japan reveals the true essence of this island nation off the tourist trail. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or in a group, road travel in Japan provides unprecedented freedom, discovery, and richness. From Tokyo‘s neon streets to Kyoto‘s timeless temples, this is your ultimate guide to an unforgettable adventure in Japan.
Why Choose a Road Trip in Japan?
Japan‘s public transport is notoriously efficient, but there’s no substitute for the freedom of a self-drive holiday. A self-drive holiday in Japan allows you to:
- Reach off-the-beaten-path villages like Shirakawa-go or Kiso Valley
- Explore scenic routes like the Noto Peninsula or the Japan Romantic Road
- Taste local cuisine and customs in off-season towns
Japan is designed for freeway driving, with excellent roads, clear signs, including English, and lovely roadside rest areas.
Day 1–2: Tokyo – The Electric Start
Highlights:
- Shibuya Crossing
- Asakusa Temple
- Odaiba Waterfront Drive
Start your journey in Tokyo, Japan‘s vibrant capital. Collect your hire car from a reputable firm, such as Toyota Rent-a-Car or Nippon Rent-A-Car, and take a day or two to familiarize yourself with this vibrant city. From the high-rise buildings of Shinjuku to the historic Senso-ji Temple of Asakusa, Tokyo has a perfect blend of the new and old.
Drive over Rainbow Bridge into Odaiba at sunset, ideal for shots of the water and skyline. Don’t forget to switch your GPS to avoid toll roads if you don’t have much money to spare.
Travel Tip: Utilize ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) cards for highway convenience, it saves time and minimizes toll expenses.
Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone – Nature & Onsen Escape
Distance: ~85 km
Estimated Drive Time: Two hours
Get away from Tokyo‘s congestion and head south to Hakone, within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The mountain climb is rewarded with misty forests, volcanic terrain, and Japan‘s renowned onsen (hot springs).
Must-Do in Hakone:
- The Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Lake Ashi boat ride
- The Owakudani volcanic valley
- Stay in a traditional ryokan
If the sun is shining brightly, you can spot Mount Fuji reflected in Lake Ashi, particularly enchanted in the morning.
Day 4–5: Hakone to Mt. Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes
Distance: ~70 km
Drive Time: 1.5 hours
Depart from Hakone by heading north to the Fuji Five Lakes area, referred to as Fujigoko. A chance to see Japan‘s famous Mt. Fuji is here.
Highlights:
- Chureito Pagoda Viewpoint
- The Lake Kawaguchi scenic loop
- Fuji-Q Highland amusement park
Do a leisurely drive around the lakes, each with a unique landscape and roadside food stalls. Chureito Pagoda, particularly during cherry blossom or autumn, is a photographer’s paradise.
Food Tip: Sample Hōtō noodles, a well-known local favorite around Lake Kawaguchi, wide, flat noodles in a rich miso broth.
Day 6–7:Fuji to Matsumoto via the Chuo Expressway
Distance: ~140 km
Drive Time: 3 hours
Travel northwest to Nagano Prefecture, where scenery changes to mountain highlands. Stop in Matsumoto, famous for having one of Japan‘s finest remaining original castles.
Don’t Miss:
- Matsumoto Castle (also called “Crow Castle”)
- Antique stores and cafes on Nawate Street
- Daio Wasabi Farm provides fresh wasabi tastings
If you’re visiting in winter, you could detour to nearby ski resorts such as Hakuba.
Day 8–9: Scenic Drive to Takayama & Shirakawa-go
Distance: ~150 km
Drive Time: 3.5–4 hours
Just driving through the Japanese Alps is simply breathtaking. Mountain roads, tunnels, and valleys lead you to Takayama, a town beautifully preserved from the Edo era
Takayama Highlights:
- Sanmachi Historic Street
- Takayama Jinya (former government house)
- Hida beef specialties
Drive the short distance from Takayama to Shirakawa-go, a World Heritage village famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses covered in thatched roofs. Spend the night in one if you can, it’s enchanting under the cover of a snowfall or starry night sky.
Day 10: Kanazawa – Culture and Art
Distance: ~125 km
Drive Time: 2.5 hours
Drive west to Kanazawa, or “Little Kyoto.” The mountain road levels out into coastal Ishikawa Prefecture.
Top Spots:
- Kenrokuen Garden (one of Japan‘s three best)
- The Twenty-First Century Museum of Contemporary Art
- The Nagamachi Samurai District
- Omicho Market for sashimi-grade fresh seafood
Kanazawa is replete with traditional crafts, don‘t leave without purchasing a piece of gold-leaf work or lacquerware.
Day 11–12: Kyoto – The Cultural Finale
Distance: ~260 km
Drive Time: 4–5 hours
End your road trip in Kyoto, Japan‘s cultural hub. From serene temples to tea ceremonies, Kyoto is more relaxed and full of old customs.
Kyoto Must-Visits:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine (the 10,000 torii gates)
- The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Gion District to watch geishas
Park your vehicle at your lodging and explore Kyoto on foot, by bicycle, or public transportation, narrow roads and crowds make driving not so great here.
Ultimate 10-Day Japan Road Trip Itinerary: From Tokyo to Kyoto
Explore Japan’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities on this scenic self-drive adventure. This 10-day itinerary takes you from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, with unforgettable stops along the way.
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Tokyo | Arrival, Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree |
| Day 2 | Nikko | UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls |
| Day 3 | Hakone | Hot springs (onsen), Lake Ashi cruise, Hakone Open-Air Museum, Ropeway |
| Day 4 | Mount Fuji (Fujikawaguchiko) | Chureito Pagoda, Fuji Five Lakes, panoramic views of Mount Fuji |
| Day 5 | Matsumoto | Explore Matsumoto Castle, Daio Wasabi Farm, scenic Alps drive |
| Day 6 | Takayama | Traditional Old Town, Hida beef tasting, morning markets |
| Day 7 | Shirakawa-go | Thatched-roof Gassho-zukuri farmhouses, historical village walk |
| Day 8 | Kanazawa | Kenroku-en Garden, Samurai & Geisha Districts, Omicho Seafood Market |
| Day 9 | Kyoto | Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion stroll |
| Day 10 | Kyoto / Departure | Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market, return car rental, depart or extend your stay |
Travel Tips for Driving in Japan
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Needed by most foreign visitors.
- Drive on the left: Japan follows UK-style driving.
- The ETC card must be used for more convenient and cost-effective toll road travel.
- Fuel Stations: Found everywhere, but closing early in rural places.
- Parking: Usually paid; budget for it, especially in cities.
- Navigation: Google Maps and built-in GPS apps are great.
A Crucial Note on Tolls & the ETC Card
Japan’s expressway (高速道路, kōsokudōro) network is incredibly efficient but comes with a significant cost. Tolls can be one of the biggest expenses of your road trip.
-
Cost Example: The ~260 km drive from Kanazawa to Kyoto can cost over ¥7,000 in tolls.
-
The ETC Solution: Renting an ETC card from your car rental company is highly recommended. Insert it into your car’s dashboard, and it automatically pays tolls as you pass through gates, saving time and offering potential discounts.
-
Budgeting Tip: When using a route planner like Google Maps, always select the “Avoid Tolls” option to see the time/cost difference. Sometimes the scenic, toll-free route is a more enjoyable and affordable choice, even if it takes longer.
Essential Japan Road Trip FAQ
Q: Is driving in Japan difficult for foreigners?
While Japan’s cities are best navigated by public transport, driving in the countryside is a pleasure. Roads are excellently maintained and well-signed. The main challenges are navigating narrow streets in old towns and the high cost of expressway tolls. Driving is on the left.
Q: Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
Yes, absolutely. Visitors from most countries must have an IDP (accompanied by their valid home driver’s license) to rent and drive a car in Japan. Obtain this from your national automobile association before you arrive in Japan.
Q: Is it easy to find parking?
Yes, but it’s rarely free. Cities and popular towns have plentiful paid parking lots (often costing ¥300-600/hour). Many hotels, especially in rural areas, offer free parking for guests. Always factor parking costs into your daily budget.
Q: What’s the best way to navigate?
Google Maps or Apple Maps work very well in Japan for driving directions. You can also use the in-car GPS offered by rental companies, which can be set to English and is excellent for avoiding toll roads if desired.
Q: Are the expressway tolls expensive?
Yes, be prepared for high toll costs. For example, the one-way toll from Tokyo to Kyoto can cost around ¥11,000 (approx. $70 USD). Renting an ETC card allows for electronic payment and provides some discounted rates, especially for off-peak and weekend travel.
Key Planning Links for Your Japan Road Trip Guide 2025
| Resource | Purpose & Official Link |
|---|---|
| Official Tourism Portal | Explore regional highlights, driving routes, travel advice: Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) |
| Visa & Entry Requirements | Review eligibility and application details for visiting Japan: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan – Visa Information |
| Car Rental Providers | Book trusted rental services for solo or group travel: Toyota Rent-A-Lease, Nippon Rent-A-Car |
| Expressway Toll Info (ETC System) | Review toll options and apply for prepaid cards: Japan Expressway Route Map |
| Highway Traffic Updates | Check real-time traffic conditions and road closures: Japan Expressway Information Service |
| JR Pass & Railway Passes | Combine off-road detours with train travel flexibility: Japan Rail Pass |
| Emergency Numbers & Travel Alerts | Stay prepared with essential contact and safety info: Japan Travel Safety – Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) |
Final Thoughts: Why Road Travel in Japan is Unforgettable
From Tokyo’s dazzling city lights to Kyoto’s eternal beauty, a drive through Japan is the essence of nature, culture, and adventure. From enjoying soba in the mountains of Nagano or taking a soak in an onsen overlooking Mt. Fuji, every mile unlocks a new facet of Japan‘s incredible diversity.
This itinerary is ideal for 12–14 days but can be adjusted to suit loner travel. however you adjust it, Japan by road guarantees memories, tales, and secrets you will never forget.
