Top 5 September Campervan Destinations in Japan
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Japan in September offers the best of both seasons — a touch of summer and the beginning of autumn.
It’s a great time to travel by campervan thanks to the mild and pleasant weather.
In this blog, we’ll introduce 5 top places and events you can enjoy by campervan this September.
Experience beautiful weather while exploring Japanese culture on the road!
JAPAN ROAD TRIP offers early bird and long-term discounts, so your road trip can be both fun and affordable.
In addition, we have branches across Japan.
That’s why it’s easy to choose where you want to start your adventure.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a long journey, we’re here to help make it unforgettable.
Sapporo Autumn Festival
If you’re planning a campervan trip to Hokkaido this September, don’t miss the Sapporo Autumn Festival. It takes place in Odori Park, right in the center of Sapporo. The event is a great way to enjoy Hokkaido’s rich food culture.
You’ll find fresh seafood, grilled meats, ramen, cheese, and local sweets. There are also plenty of drinks to enjoy, including craft beer, sake, and wine.
The weather in September is cool and pleasant. Autumn leaves begin to appear, making it a great time to explore outdoors. It’s the perfect chance to relax, eat, and enjoy the season.
Parking is available near Odori Park. For example, Times Odori Nishi 11 Parking is just a short walk from the festival. You can also find Mitsui Repark and other 24-hour parking lots across the city. Many list size and height limits online, which is helpful if you’re driving a campervan.
Park nearby, stroll through the festival, and enjoy one of Japan’s most delicious and colorful autumn events.
For more details, visit their website:
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Shimokitaza Moon Art Night
If you’re looking for a magical evening during your campervan trip in Tokyo, don’t miss the Shimokitazawa Moon Art Night. It happens every September. This outdoor festival lights up the backstreets of Shimokitazawa with amazing art.
As you walk around, you’ll see huge works like the floating Museum of the Moon and glowing rabbits by Amanda Parer. You’ll also find colorful moonbow arches called Elysian Arcs. The art is spread across parking lots, rooftops, train station basements, and other spots. In other words, the whole neighborhood becomes a gallery at night.
Besides the art, local cafés and shops join the event. They offer special menus, workshops, and pop-ups. Because of this, there is always something new to discover.
Most of the art is free to see. However, some places like rooftops or underground spaces need a small ticket.
Parking can be tricky in Shimokitazawa. But don’t worry. You can park your campervan at nearby lots. For example, Times BONUS TRACK Parking is close to the festival. Also, Repark Shimokitazawa South Exit Lot and Sanwa Parking near Setagaya-Daita Station are good options. This way, you can park safely and explore on foot.
All in all, Shimokitazawa Moon Art Night is a great way to enjoy Tokyo’s creative side. Park nearby, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the art under the September moon.
For more details, visit their website:
https://www.instagram.com/moonartnight_shimokitazawa/
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Kinchakuda Spider Lily Festival
If you’re planning a campervan trip near Tokyo, don’t miss the Kinchakuda Spider Lily Festival in Hidaka, Saitama. From mid-September to early October, over 5 million bright red spider lilies bloom in Kinchakuda Manjushage Park. This creates a stunning, colorful landscape.
The park has a unique purse-shaped layout, surrounded by the winding Koma River. You can enjoy easy walks and cross the scenic Aiai Bridge. Also, local food stalls offer seasonal treats like chestnut snacks and drinks.
The festival runs daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. Admission is 500 yen, but it’s free for junior high students and younger.
Parking near the park is limited. Because the area gets busy, plan ahead. If you’re driving a campervan, park a little farther away and walk in. The nearest parking lots are near Koma Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. It’s about a 15-minute walk to the park.
Overall, the Kinchakuda Spider Lily Festival is a great way to enjoy Japan’s autumn colors. Park nearby, enjoy the flowers, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
For more details, visit their website:
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Kyoto Full Moon Viewing
If you’re visiting Kyoto this September, don’t miss Kangetsu no Yūbe — the Full Moon Viewing at Daikaku-ji Temple. This old tradition lets you enjoy a peaceful night under the harvest moon.
The event runs from mid-September to mid-October. It is usually open from 5 PM to 9 PM. Admission costs 500 yen for adults and 300 yen for children. A highlight is the boat ride on Osawa-no-ike Pond. These dragon-headed boats glide quietly on the water, reflecting the moonlight. Therefore, booking the boat ride in advance is recommended.
Daikaku-ji is about a 15-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or Randen Saga Station. Parking near the temple is limited. So, if you are traveling by campervan, park at nearby lots or use public transport and walk to the temple.
While you are there, visit Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Togetsukyo Bridge. Also, staying overnight nearby lets you enjoy the area without rushing.
In short, the Full Moon Viewing is a great way to experience Kyoto’s culture, nature, and history. So, add it to your September travel plans!
For more details, visit their website:
https://www.daikakuji.or.jp/event_season_autumn/
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Aizu Samurai Festival
If you’re visiting Fukushima in September, don’t miss the Aizu Samurai Festival in Aizu-Wakamatsu. This lively event celebrates the samurai heritage of the Aizu Domain during the Boshin War. It runs from September 19 to 21. The main parade is on September 20.
The highlight is the grand samurai procession at Tsuruga Castle. Over 500 people dress in authentic samurai armor and parade through the city. You’ll see flag bearers, horse riders, sword dances, and mock battles. This makes the festival a great way to experience Japan’s history.
In the evenings, enjoy traditional mountain dances and lantern parades. Families will also like the children’s parade, where kids dress as the famous Byakkotai warriors.
Getting there is easy by train or car. However, parking near Tsuruga Castle is limited during the festival. If you travel by campervan, it’s best to park at nearby lots and walk to the event. Public transport is also a good choice.
The festival lets visitors join the parade by wearing samurai armor. This is a unique way to make your trip special. Be sure to book early if you want to join.
Overall, the Aizu Samurai Festival is a must-see for history lovers. It’s a fun way to enjoy authentic Japanese culture. So, add it to your September travel plans!
For more details, visit their website:
https://www.aizukanko.com/kk/festival/aizu-matsuri
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Summary
And that’s our Top 5 campervan destinations in Japan for September. There are many more places and events to enjoy the start of autumn across the country. If you want more ideas or want to rent a campervan with us, feel free to contact us by mail, WhatsApp, or Messenger. We’re always ready to help!
