Stamp Rallies in Japan by Campervan
Did you know that stamp rallies in Japan are quite popular among both tourists and locals? For this blog, we’ll show you how to enjoy stamp rallies in Japan by campervan.
JAPAN ROAD TRIP has branches around Japan, so you may hire a campervan that is convenient for you. We also offer a driving lesson at our main branch. It ensures that beginners can operate a campervan without risk.
What is stamp rally?
Stamp rallies are courses where participants visit places to collect stamps. These places usually share a common theme. Some digital rallies use QR codes or GPS. Apps track attendance and give stamps. These rallies, organized by train operators and shops, promote their services.
Most of the stamp rally is free, so it is also a good souvenir for yourself. Here are some examples that you can enjoy by campervan.
Michi-no-Eki Rallies
Michi-no-eki are roadside services run by locals. They promote local produce and attractions, like organic carrots and woven handbags. A popular event is the Hokkaido rally. It has 127 stops and has run for over 30 years. Collectors of 30 or more qualify for prizes. They include local specialties from the michi-no-eki. Individual prefectural governments run these.
Check website for more information:
https://www.michi-no-eki.jp/stamprally
Attraction Stamp Rallies
Many tourist attractions have used stamp rallies to encourage exploration. Exclusive stamp books and designated pages for each stamp make visits more enjoyable. The 100 Castles Stamp Rally has run since 2006. The Official Japan Castle Foundation organizes it. It includes features and grand statues. In 2022, they added a 24-castle version. Another notable rally is the Japan Towers Rally. It includes Tokyo Tower, Sapporo TV Tower, and Yokohama Marine Tower.
Check website for more information:https://stamp.funakiya.com/pref/touristspot.html
Onsen Rallies
In onsen towns like Kurokawa or Nozawa, visitors can enjoy relaxing baths. They can also join onsen rallies in Japanese pajamas. Most onsen have a stamp at the entrance, allowing visitors to check in after bathing. The Nozawa Onsen stamp trail urges stampers to collect stamps from onsen and historic sites. Those who collect 10 stamps win a designed onsen towel.
Check website for more information:
Train Station Stamp
Even you are ridding a campervan it is also fun to collect train station stamps since it is free.
The train station rally in Japan is a popular stamp trail. It began during the nationalization of the railways. It has evolved as each company added its own twist. Limited-edition versions cater to different demographics. Examples include character rallies like Pokémon and a rally for Japan Railway’s 150th anniversary. You can stamp Eki stamps on journals or notebooks, and bookstores sell them for ¥500-¥1,000. In July 2020, JR East launched new stamps for all 78 stations in their Tokyo branch area.
Check website for more information:
https://www.jr-odekake.net/navi/stamp_eki/
Goshuin Stamp
Goshuin, or temple stamps, cost money. If you like visiting temples, they are a nice way to remember your visit. They will write the name and date on the paper. You can buy a book in the temple. They will stamp it. Or, you can buy a stamped paper and stick it in your journal or notebook. Goshuin usually costs 500 yen. But, some temples have a special Goshuin that costs more than 500 yen. But there are rules for buying one.
1.Always pray at the shrine first.
2.The Goshuin is proof of your visit, so only get one for yourself.
3.Cherish the gratitude and respect shown to the shrine or temple.
Check website for more information:
Summary
Stamp rallies are very popular in Japan. Many people use the stamps. So, please follow the rules and be careful with them. This will help many tourists experience them. You can also try anime pilgrimage to visit your favorite anime places.
JAPAN ROAD TRIP is always open to give you useful information for your trip, so contact us via mail or What’sApp!
03-6777-6565
