Driving in Japan as a Tourist: Essential Tips & Guide

Driving in Japan as a Tourist: Essential Tips and Guide

Essential Guide to Driving in Japan as a Tourist

Planning a self-drive trip around Tokyo's outskirts? With a blend of scenic views, cultural sites, and urban adventures, driving in japan as a tourist can be a great way to explore places like Nikko, Kawaguchiko, and Yokohama. Here’s a guide to help you decide if driving is the right choice for your journey, and learn all the tips to start planning your tour, and start driving in japan as a tourist.


Your Itinerary: Exploring the Outskirts

Nikko (2 Nights):
Known for its historic shrines and natural beauty, Nikko is a great destination for a drive. However, parking near main shrine sites can be challenging. If you plan to explore the outskirts or hiking trails, renting a car locally for a day might be more convenient while driving in japan as a tourist.

Ashikaga:
A stopover on your way down from Nikko, Ashikaga offers a quaint experience. Consider finding a place to stay overnight before continuing to Kawaguchiko. If you are driving in japan as a tourist you might want to consider stopping in this hidden gem.

Kawaguchiko (2 Nights):
Located near Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchiko is ideal for self-driving. A car allows you to explore the various lakes and scenic spots at your own pace. This is one area where having a car is highly recommended when driving in japan as a tourist.

Kamakura:
Famous for its numerous small temples, Kamakura's narrow roads can be crowded with pedestrians. Finding parking can be time-consuming and expensive when driving in japan as a tourist. Consider using public transport for Kamakura and taking short walks to explore the sights.

Yokohama (3 Nights):
A vibrant city with many attractions accessible via public transport, driving in Yokohama can be both convenient and cumbersome. While traffic is generally lighter than in Tokyo, parking fees can add up, especially in popular areas when driving in japan as a tourist.

Tokyo (Odaiba & Sky Tree):
Driving in central Tokyo, including Odaiba and near the Skytree, can be challenging due to high parking costs and traffic congestion. For these urban areas, public transport is usually more efficient and stress-free for driving in japan as a tourist.


Is Driving the Best Option for Your Trip?

While driving offers flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace, it may not always be the most practical choice in urban areas like Kamakura and Tokyo. Here are some considerations while driving in japan as a tourist:

  • Traffic and Parking: High traffic volumes and expensive parking are common in urban centers. Even seasoned drivers might find navigating these areas stressful.
  • Public Transport: Japan boasts an excellent public transportation system. For many locations on your itinerary, using trains or buses might be more convenient and economical when driving in japan as a tourist.
  • Toll Fees: Driving between major cities can incur significant toll fees. Plan your budget accordingly if you choose to drive when driving in japan as a tourist.

Recommendations for driving in japan as a tourist

  • Consider renting a car specifically for areas where public transport is less efficient, such as Kawaguchiko and the outskirts of Nikko.
  • Use public transport for densely populated urban areas where parking is scarce and costly, such as Kamakura, Yokohama, and central Tokyo when driving in japan as a tourist.
  • Look into the logistics of renting a car from and returning it to the same location to avoid hefty drop-off fees while driving in japan as a tourist.

Conclusion

A self-drive trip around Tokyo’s outskirts can be a rewarding experience, offering a unique perspective of Japan’s scenic and cultural landscapes for someone driving in japan as a tourist. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons, especially regarding traffic, parking, and costs. For a balanced approach, consider mixing both driving and public transportation, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds when driving in japan as a tourist. Safe travels!

Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko Shrines in Nikko Yokohama City scape


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