2025 New Golden Route 12-Days Campervan Itinerary.
#travel-plans
The traditional Golden Route in Japan includes Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, but a January 2025 survey found a new route popular with foreign tourists. To make your trip easier, we’ve gathered the best destinations along this new Golden Route for you to explore by campervan!
Day-1 Tokyo
First of all pick up your campervan in our head office and start your trip!
Ueno
From our head office to Ueno it will be 20 to 30 minutes drive.
Ueno is a must-visit in Tokyo, offering attractions like Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo, Tokyo National Museum, and the lively Ameyoko Market, along with delicious local food such as sushi, ramen, and street snacks—all easily accessible from Ueno Station.
Visit each places website for more information:
Ueno Park:https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno
Ueno Zoo:https://www.tokyo-zoo.net/english/ueno/index.html
Tokyo National Museum:https://www.tnm.jp/?lang=en
Ameyoko Market:https://www.ameyoko.net/
Location:
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo after exploring Ueno! It’s just a 50-minute to 1-hour drive from there.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo lets you explore real Harry Potter sets, props, and costumes. Experience behind-the-scenes magic, take interactive tours, and snap photos dressed as a wizard!
Visit website for more information:
https://www.wbstudiotour.jp/en/
Location:
After touring around Tokyo you can spend the night in Tokyo Auto Camper Oji Kamiya, make sure to make reservation in advance. From Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo it will be 30 minutes drive.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.kurumatabi.com/park/kurumatabipark/723.html
Location:
Day-2 Saitama
Omiya
From Tokyo Auto Camper Oji Kamiya to Omiya it will be 40 minutes drive.
Omiya is known for Omiya Park, Bonsai Village, and its major train station connecting to Tokyo. It offers a mix of nature and urban convenience.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.pref.saitama.lg.jp/omiya-park/
Location:
Kumagaya
From Omiya park to Kumagaya it will be 30 minutes drive.
Kumagaya is known for its rich history, the Kumagaya Uchiwa (traditional fan), and beautiful natural spots like the Arakawa River. It’s also famous for the Kumagaya Summer Festival, attracting many visitors each year.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.oideyo-kumagaya.com/en/
Location:
HonjōWaseda
From Arakawa river to Marigold Hill park it will be 1 hour and 10 minutes drive.
Marigold Hill Park in Honjō, Saitama, is known for its seasonal flowers, with marigolds in summer and cosmos in autumn. It’s a great spot for a peaceful walk or picnic.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.city.honjo.lg.jp/bunka_supotsu_kanko/shizen_koen_seibutsu/koen/1394600999966.html
Location:
After enjoying nature in Saitama, stay at Karasugawa Auto Camp, just 25 minutes from Marigold Hill Park. Be sure to book in advance!
Visit website for more information:
https://karasugawa-ac.jp/index.html
Location:
Day-3 Gunma
Takasaki
From Karasugawa Auto Camp to Fukiware falls it will be 1 hour and 5 minutes drive.
Fukiware falls, the “Niagara of Japan,” is a stunning V-shaped waterfall in Gunma, perfect for nature lovers and photographers, especially in autumn.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.city.numata.gunma.jp/kanko/fukiware/
Location:
Annakaharuna
From Fukiware falls to Megane Bashi it will be 1 hour and 35 minutes drive.
Usui 3rd Bridge, or “Megane Bashi,” is a stunning four-arch railway bridge blending art and engineering. Its red brick contrasts beautifully with nature.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.city.annaka.lg.jp/page/2018.html
Location:
For the night you can stay at Togenoyu Spa Auto Camping Ground from Megane Bashi it will be 7 minutes drive please make a reservation in advance!
Visit website for more information:
https://www.nap-camp.com/gunma/14974
Location:
Day-4 Karuizawa
Kyu Karuizawa
From Togenoyu Spa Auto Camping Ground to Kyu Karuizawa it will be 35 minutes drive.
Kyu-Karuizawa was once a post town on the Nakasendo Route and is now the heart of the Karuizawa resort area. It has a relaxing atmosphere with stylish cafes, holiday villas, and great shopping at Prince Shopping Plaza and Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza.
Visit website for more information:
https://karuizawa-kankokyokai.jp/
Location:
Teisho-ji Temple
From Kyu Karuizawa to Teisho temple it will be 45 minutes drive.
he largest ancient temple in the city of Saku, the Teisho temple is renowned for having spread Zazen meditation outside the archipelago, as far as Europe.
Visit website for more information:
https://db.go-nagano.net/en/topics_detail6/id=12307
Location:
Bessho Hot Spring
From Teisho temple to Bessho Hot Spring it will be 1 hour and 10 minutes drive.
Bessho Hot Spring, is known for its historic onsen and relaxing atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy traditional Japanese hot spring baths.
And for the 4th day you can stay the night here and have a relaxing night make sure to book early.
Visit website for more information:
https://go.ueda-kanko.or.jp/spot/bessho-hot-springs/
Location:
Day-5 Nagano
Narai Post Town (Narai-Juku)
From Bessho Hot Spring to Narai Post Town it will be 1 hour and 45 minutes drive.
The well-preserved Narai-juku post town marks the midpoint of the old Nakasendo Road, the Edo-era path connecting Kyoto with old Tokyo. One of the most prosperous post towns, Narai’s wooden buildings stretch for over 1 km.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
Kamakura Village
From Narai Post Town to Kamakura village it will be 2 hours and 5 minutes drive.
Every winter, over 20 snow huts (Kamakura), creating the magical Restaurant Kamakura Village. Built by locals on snowy rice fields, this tradition is a symbol of Iiyama’s winter charm.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.iiyama-ouendan.net/en/
Location:
In the night you can stay at Imori Campsite from Kamakura village it will be 45 minutes drive, make sure to make a reservation in advance.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.nap-camp.com/niigata/15814
Location:
Day-6 Niigata
Naena Falls
From Imori Campsite to Naena Falls it will be 30 minutes drive.
Naena Falls, located in Myoko, Niigata, is a stunning 55-meter waterfall known for its powerful flow and scenic beauty. It’s especially breathtaking in autumn when surrounded by colorful foliage.
Visit website for more information:
https://niigata-kankou.or.jp/spot/8528
Location:
Benten Rock
From Naena Falls to Benten Rock it will be 1 hour and 25 minutes drive.
Benten Rocks, located on the coast of Niigata, are unique rock formations shaped by ocean waves. They offer a stunning view, especially at sunset, making them a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Visit website for more information:
https://discover-itoigawa.com/see-do/history-culture/benten-iwa-rock/
Location:
For the night you can stay at Asahihisuikaigan Auto Camping Ground, from Benten Rock it will be 45 minutes drive.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.town.asahi.toyama.jp/section/buntai/camp/hisui.html
Location:
Day-7 Toyama
Kurobe Gorge
From Asahihisuikaigan Auto Camping Ground to Kurobe Gorge it will be 35 minutes drive.
Kurobe Gorge, one of Japan’s deepest gorges. Visitors can take the Kurobe Gorge Railway to enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and hot springs along the way.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.kurotetu.co.jp/en/
Location:
Iwase Townscape
From Kurobe Gorge to Iwase Townscape it will be 1 hour and 5 minutes drive.
Iwase Townscape in Toyama preserves historic merchant houses from the Edo period. Strolling through its charming streets offers a glimpse into Japan’s past, with traditional buildings, sake breweries, and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.toyamashi-kankoukyoukai.jp/en/
Location:
Gokayama Gassho-zukuri Village
From Iwase Townscape to Gassho-zukuri Village it will be 1 hour and 25 minutes drive.
Ainokura, the most remote Gokayama village, has 20 gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some as inns and museums. A UNESCO site since 1995, it offers a quiet, authentic experience.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
To fully enjoy the Gassho-zukuri Village, stay at a local inn and experience the culture. You can book a reservation on their website!
Day-8 Ishikawa
Nagamachi Samurai Houses
From Gassho-zukuri Village to Nagamachi it will be 1 hour and 30 minutes drive.
Nagamachi, a former samurai district near Kanazawa Castle, retains its historic charm with old residences, earthen walls, and narrow lanes. Key attractions include Nomura-ke, a restored samurai house, and the Shinise Kinenkan Museum, showcasing merchant life.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.ishikawatravel.jp/en/spots/nagamachi-samurai-district/
Location:
Kutani-yaki Art Museum
From Nagamachi to Kutani-yaki Museum it will be 1 hour drive.
The Kutani-yaki Museum showcases Kutani-yaki pottery, a traditional Edo-period craft known for its vibrant green, purple, yellow, red, and blue glazes.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
And for the night you can at Shibamasa Auto Camping Ground, from Kutani-yaki Museum it will be 35 minutes drive. Please make a reservation in there website in advance!
Visit website for more information:
http://shibamasa.com/sp/camp.php
Location:
Day-9 Fukui
Tojinbo Cliffs
From Shibamasa Auto Camping Ground to Tojinbo Cliff it will be 15 minutes drive.
Tojinbo is a 1 km stretch of rugged basalt cliffs along the Sea of Japan, north of Fukui City. Carved by waves, the towering 30-meter cliffs have rare hexagonal and pentagonal rock formations. Visitors can explore the trails along the edge or take a boat cruise for a different view.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
Echizen Ono Castle
From Tojinbo Cliff to Echizen Ono Castle it will be a hour and 15 minutes drive.
Echizen Ono Castle, in Ono City, is a hilltop castle known as a “castle in the sky” for its floating appearance when clouds cover the town below.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
Kehi Jingu Shrine
From Echizen Ono Castle to Kehi Jingu Shrine it will be a hour and 35 minutes drive.
Kehi Jingu Shrine, located in Tsuruga, Fukui, is a historic Shinto shrine famous for its massive wooden torii gate, one of the largest in Japan. It is an important cultural site with a serene atmosphere, attracting visitors for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
After enjoying the beauty of Fukui you can stay at Miami Beach Auto Campground for the night, from Kehi Jingu Shrine it will be a 1 hour and 30 drive. Make sure to book in advance if you are planning to stay here.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
Day-10 Shiga
Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa is right next to Miami Beach Auto Campground, so you can enjoy the view while camping or admire it while driving.
Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest freshwater lake, known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife. It offers stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset, and is a great spot for boating, cycling, and sightseeing.
Visit website for more information:
https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/japan-heritage/
Location:
Saikyo-ji Temple
From Miami Beach Auto Campground to Saikyo-ji Temple it will be 30 minutes drive.
Saikyo-ji Temple, is a historic Buddhist temple known for its beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere. It serves as the head temple of the Tendai Shinsei sect and features traditional architecture, cultural treasures, and a peaceful environment perfect for reflection.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
At night, you can stay at Nishimiyazu Road Park, about a 1 hour and 50-minute drive from Saikyo-ji Temple. Since it’s a free car camping spot, we recommend arriving early to secure a spot. Please note that there are no shower facilities.
Visit website for more information:
https://kurumatabi.net/west/2023/11/06/post-8042/
Location:
Day-11 Kyoto
Amanohashidate
From Nishimiyazu Road Park, you can drive just 6 minutes to the Crotch-Viewing Platform for a great view of Amanohashidate.
Amanohashidate is one of Japan’s most famous scenic spots, known for its sandbar covered with pine trees that stretches across Miyazu Bay. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from lookout points, take a relaxing walk along the sandbar, or explore nearby temples and hot springs.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.kyototourism.org/en/sightseeing/529/
Location:
Miyama thatched Village
From Amanohashidate to Miyama thatched Village it will be 1 hour and 20 minutes drive.
Miyama Thatched Village, located in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, is a traditional village known for its well-preserved thatched-roof houses. It offers visitors a glimpse into rural Japan’s past, with scenic views of lush mountains and picturesque farming landscapes.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
You can spend the night at Natural Forest Family car camping site, from Miyama thatched Village it will be 1 hour and 25 minutes drive. Make sure to book in advance in there website if you are planning to stay here.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.shizen-no-mori.com/
Location:
Day-12 Osaka
Meiji-no-mori Mino Quasi-national Park
From Natural Forest Family car camping site to Mino Waterfalls it will be 50 minutes drive.
Mino Waterfall, is a beautiful natural attraction surrounded by lush greenery. With a height of 33 meters, it is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Kansai region. The waterfall is a popular spot for hiking, offering a serene atmosphere and stunning views.
Visit website for more information:
Location:
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
From Mino Waterfalls to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan it will be 55 minutes drive.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the world’s largest aquariums, featuring marine life from the Pacific Rim, including dolphins, penguins, and a whale shark. It offers a unique experience with diverse habitats, making it a popular family attraction.
Visit website for more information:
https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/
Location:
Summary
JAPAN ROAD TRIP offers one-way drop-off, so you can return your campervan at our Osaka branch or Kansai International Airport. We also have early bird and long-term discounts, giving you the best value for your trip along the New Golden Route!
For reservations or inquiries, contact us via mail, What’sApp, or Messenger.
We look forward to serving you!
03-4266-8842
