Campervan Adventures: Explore Japan’s Secret Winter Spots
#tourist-spots
Campervan travel in Japan is a great way to enjoy a winter road trip. It gives you the freedom to explore hidden destinations. You can stay warm and comfortable while on the move. Also, this guide shows some of Japan’s best winter spots you can visit by campervan.
Togakushi Shrine (Nagano)
Campervan trips to Togakushi Shrine in Nagano offer a serene winter escape. The shrine complex includes several shrines set in snow-covered cedar forests. These are Hokosha (Lower Shrine), Chusha (Middle Shrine) with its famous cedar avenue, Okusha (Upper Shrine) deep in the forest, Kuzuryusha, dedicated to the nine-headed dragon, and Hinomikosha, the smallest and least visited.
Campervan travelers can park near the shrine entrances. The day-use lots make it easy to explore the trails and main shrine buildings without stress. Walking from Hokosha to Okusha takes around 60–90 minutes depending on pace, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the scenery.
Togakushi Shrine blends history, culture, and nature. It is an ideal destination for a winter road trip by campervan.
For more details, visit their website:
https://www.togakushi-jinja.jp/english/
Location:
Gokayama (Toyama Prefecture)
Shirakawa-go’s neighbor, Gokayama in Toyama Prefecture, is a hidden winter gem. Although many travelers flock to Shirakawa-go, few make the short 1-hour journey to Gokayama. Here, the village is known for its traditional gassho-zukuri thatched houses, which look magical when covered in snow. In particular, key areas to explore include Suganuma and Ainokura, where historic houses are preserved and local life continues.
For campervan travelers, there are convenient day-use parking lots near the village entrances. Therefore, it is easy to explore the streets, small museums, and walking paths without worrying about parking.
Overall, Gokayama offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and winter scenery. As a result, it’s an ideal stop for a serene winter road trip by campervan.
For more details, visit their website:
Location:
Nyuto Onsen (Akita Prefecture)
Nyuto Onsen in Akita Prefecture is a tranquil winter retreat. While many tourists head to more famous onsen towns, Nyuto Onsen remains a peaceful escape surrounded by snowy forests. The area is home to several traditional ryokan, each with its own natural hot spring baths. For example, Tsurunoyu and Kuroyu are popular choices for soaking in outdoor rotenburo while enjoying the snow-covered scenery.
Campervan travelers can make use of nearby day-use parking lots, which provide easy access to the ryokan and walking paths. Therefore, you can explore the area comfortably without worrying about parking.
Overall, Nyuto Onsen offers a perfect combination of relaxation, nature, and authentic Japanese onsen culture. As a result, it’s an ideal winter stop for anyone traveling Japan by campervan.
For more details, visit their website:
http://www.nyuto-onsenkyo.com/
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Oku-Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture)
Oku-Nikko, located in Tochigi Prefecture, offers a secluded and scenic winter escape. Although many visitors stick to central Nikko, the Oku-Nikko area offers quieter roads, frozen waterfalls, and snow-dusted forests. For instance, Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls provide breathtaking winter scenery away from the crowds. Moreover, the area features hot springs and small local eateries where you can warm up after exploring.
Campervan travelers will find several parking lots near the main attractions, making it easy to stop and enjoy the sights. Consequently, you can explore at your own pace without worrying about finding a place to park.
All in all, Oku-Nikko blends nature, serenity, and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal destination for a winter campervan road trip. Thus, it’s perfect for travelers looking to experience Japan’s quiet winter beauty.
For more details, visit their website:
https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/destinations/okunikko/
Location:
Tazawako Lake (Akita Prefecture)
Tazawako Lake in Akita Prefecture is a peaceful winter retreat that often goes under the radar. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake offers serene, photogenic views perfect for a quiet getaway. In winter, parts of the lake freeze, creating a magical, icy landscape that’s perfect for nature lovers.
For campervan travelers, parking is easy to find near the lakeside, allowing you to stop and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Moreover, the area has a handful of cozy lakeside eateries where you can warm up with local cuisine. After a chilly walk, nearby onsen provide the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the winter atmosphere.
Whether you want a calm stroll along the shore, to capture stunning winter photos, or simply enjoy the solitude of a less-visited area, Tazawako Lake offers all of this. Consequently, it’s an ideal destination for a campervan road trip, combining nature, relaxation, and convenience for a truly memorable winter experience.
For more details, visit their website:
https://tazawako-kakunodate.com/ja/
Location:
Summary
Here are 5 secret winter spots that you can enjoy on a campervan trip. These places are still not very popular with tourists, so you can experience the scenery and atmosphere without the crowds.
JAPAN ROAD TRIP has rental locations all across Japan, making it easy to plan your own road trip.
We also offer special discounts, including:
Be sure to check them out to rent your campervan at a lower price.
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