Campervan Guide: Top 5 Yōkai Spots in Japan
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If you are visiting Japan this autumn, then why not explore the country by campervan and, at the same time, enjoy Halloween in a Japanese style while taking in the beautiful scenery? Moreover, Japan has many places where you can experience yōkai — traditional Japanese folklore creatures.
With branches all over Japan, JAPAN ROAD TRIP makes it easy to pick up your campervan. This way, you can start your adventure wherever you like.
This autumn, combine scenic drives with a spooky twist. For example, explore towns and temples full of yōkai, Japan’s famous folklore creatures.
From eerie legends to playful spirits, these five destinations let you enjoy the perfect mix of culture, mystery, and fun. So, pack your bags, start your engine, and dive into the enchanting world of Japanese yōkai!
Fukusaki, Hyōgo Prefecture — The Living Yōkai Town
Fukusaki is famous as the birthplace of Kunio Yanagita, the father of Japanese folklore studies. Over time, the town embraced its yōkai heritage, decorating streets with playful and sometimes moving yōkai statues.
For example, the Bench Yōkai invites visitors to sit and take photos. In addition, it provides a fun and interactive way to experience the town’s supernatural charm.
Moreover, explore the Yanagita Kunio Memorial Museum to dive into local legends and folklore firsthand. Fukusaki offers a perfect mix of culture, fun, and mystical experiences.
Campervan tip: Park near Tsujikawayama Park or other main attractions to explore the town easily. Also, nearby roadside stations make for convenient stops or overnight stays.
For more details, visit their website:
https://www.town.fukusaki.hyogo.jp/0000002183.html
Location:
Sakaiminato, Tottori Prefecture — GeGeGe no Kitarō’s World
Sakaiminato is famous for Mizuki Shigeru Road, an 800-meter street lined with over 150 bronze yōkai statues. Additionally, the Mizuki Shigeru Museum honors the creator of the iconic manga GeGeGe no Kitarō.
Furthermore, the town features themed cafés and souvenir shops, providing visitors with a fun, immersive experience.
Campervan tip: Park at Taishomachi Paid Parking Lot or nearby roadside stations for safe overnight stays. Also, visit in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
For more details, visit their website:
https://mizuki.sakaiminato.net/road/
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Tono, Iwate Prefecture — The Folklore Heartland
Tono is known as the “land of legends,” with stories of kappa, zashiki-warashi, and other yōkai. Throughout the town, you can explore folklore sites and local museums that bring these legends to life.
For instance, the Tono Monogatari sites offer a deep dive into rural Japanese folklore. Moreover, roadside stations provide convenient campervan parking and even overnight stays.
Campervan tip: Fuel up in town before exploring rural areas, as gas stations can be sparse. Additionally, plan your route to hit multiple folklore sites efficiently.
For more details, visit their website:
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Mount Osore (Osorezan), Aomori Prefecture — The Otherworldly Realm
Mount Osore is a mystical volcanic area connected to the afterlife. Its sulfuric lakes and rugged landscapes create a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere.
In addition, visit the Osorezan Bodai-ji Temple to learn about local legends and spiritual rituals.
Campervan tip: Park close to the temple for easy access. Also, pack snacks, water, and check road conditions, as facilities are limited and autumn weather can change quickly. Overnight parking nearby is limited, so plan stops in advance.
For more details, visit their website:
https://www.tohokukanko.jp/en/attractions/detail_1250.html
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Kyoto — Hyakki Yagyō & Yōkai Streets
Kyoto features areas linked to the Night Parade of One Hundred Demons (Hyakki Yagyō). For example, Ichijō-dōri has shops and installations dedicated to yōkai, creating a lively atmosphere.
Moreover, seasonal events and festivals celebrate these legends, adding a cultural and entertaining twist to your visit.
Campervan tip: City parking is limited, so park outside the center and explore by public transport. Additionally, some large shopping centers and highway rest areas allow overnight campervan parking.
For more details, visit their website:
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Summary
Explore Japan’s top 5 yōkai towns and spots this autumn by campervan! From Fukusaki’s playful Bench Yōkai to Kyoto’s legendary Hyakki Yagyō streets, these destinations offer a perfect mix of culture, folklore, and supernatural charm. Traveling by campervan makes it easy to explore at your own pace while enjoying scenic routes and immersive experiences.
Even better, renting a campervan is now more affordable than ever! You can take advantage of our early bird and long-term rental discounts, and if you’re renting for the second time, you’ll also enjoy an extra 5% off with our repeater discount.
Alternatively, you can choose our special autumn campaign, which gives you 25% off the basic rental fee. Please note that this seasonal offer cannot be combined with other discounts.
Booking is simple — you can easily reach us by mail, WhatsApp, or Messenger to start your unforgettable adventure.
