Trip Overview

This is the road trip that made us fall in love with Japan.

On our very first visit to Japan, we spent almost three weeks travelling around the country in an RV, exploring incredible places well beyond the usual tourist destinations. From the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji to the beautiful mountain villages of the Japanese Alps, it ended up being one of our favourite travel experiences ever.

In fact, we loved this part of Japan so much that we eventually returned and bought an abandoned farmhouse in rural Nagano, which we're now renovating into our family home!

We've taken the highlights of that original adventure and turned them into this 7-day self-drive itinerary, designed to help you experience some of the places that made us fall in love with Japan.

Starting in Tokyo, you'll head to the beautiful Fuji Five Lakes region before making your way into the Japanese Alps. Along the way, you'll explore historic Matsumoto, spend time in the mountain village of Hakuba, discover Nagano's temples and traditional hot spring towns, and visit the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani before returning to Tokyo.

Expect spectacular scenery, incredible Japanese food, peaceful countryside, traditional onsens and plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path.

This isn't your typical Tokyo-to-Kyoto itinerary. It's a chance to slow down, explore a different side of Japan and experience the places that made us want to call this country home.

A rental car is essential for this itinerary, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you need help arranging one, the Trip To Japan team can assist with car rental options.

Day 1

Tokyo to Mount Fuji: Your Road Trip Begins

Pick up your rental car in Tokyo and leave the city behind as you make your way toward Mount Fuji. One of the things we loved most about travelling through Japan by road was how quickly the scenery changed, and there's something pretty special about seeing Mount Fuji appear in the distance for the first time. Once you arrive in Kawaguchiko, spend the afternoon exploring Lake Kawaguchi, visiting Oishi Park and enjoying the incredible mountain views. We also recommend hiring one of the swan-shaped pedal boats on the lake. It's a little touristy, but we did it on our first visit and absolutely loved it! Finish your first day with some delicious Japanese food before settling into your accommodation for the night.

Day 2

Exploring Mount Fuji and the Five Lakes

Today is all about exploring the incredible Mount Fuji region. Start your morning with a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for beautiful views over Lake Kawaguchi and the surrounding mountains. One of our favourite experiences from our original trip was visiting the lava caves around Mount Fuji. Head to Narusawa Ice Cave, where you can explore an underground world formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. Afterwards, spend some time driving around the Fuji Five Lakes region, stopping at scenic viewpoints and exploring wherever catches your eye. That's one of the things we loved most about having our own vehicle in Japan — the freedom to discover places along the way. Finish the day with dinner in Kawaguchiko before spending a second night near Mount Fuji.