Most Scenic Road Trips in Tokyo, Japan
1. Hakone Skyline
This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. The winding roads through the lush greenery provide a relaxing escape from the city.
- Distance: It's a short drive, perfect for a day trip.
- Accessibility: Roads are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey.
- Scenery: Offers stunning views at various lookout points.
- Seasonal Variations: Especially beautiful in spring and autumn.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to hot springs and the Hakone Ropeway.
2. Chichibu-Musashino National Park Loop
The route takes you through beautiful landscapes with forested mountains and vibrant flower fields. Great for nature lovers.
- Distance: Requires a full day to enjoy.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible from Tokyo by the expressway.
- Scenery: Known for its lush natural beauty.
- Wildlife: Spot native bird species and other wildlife.
- Picnic Spots: Ideal for stopping to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
3. Fujisan Skyline
Get close to Mount Fuji with panoramic views along this picturesque drive. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Distance: Longer drive, but rewarding views.
- Accessibility: Roads are well-signed and easily navigated.
- Seasonal Variations: Varies remarkably snow in winter, cherry blossoms in spring.
- Safety: Roads can be busy, especially on weekends.
- Nearby Attractions: Access to Fuji Five Lakes area.
4. Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park Route
This area offers a majestic landscape filled with hills, rivers, and ancient temples.
- Distance: Best enjoyed as a weekend trip.
- Scenery: Features beautiful mountain views.
- Hiking Opportunities: Great trails for walking and hiking.
- Nearby Attractions: Historical temples and shrines abound.
- Accessibility: Can be accessed conveniently by car.
5. Miura Peninsula Route
Offers a coastal drive with views of fishing villages, beaches, and distant islands. A serene escape from city hustle.
- Distance: Moderate drive, easily managed in a day.
- Fresh Seafood: Known for excellent seafood restaurants.
- Beaches: Stop by sandy shores for a swim.
- Cultural Attractions: Unique maritime culture to explore.
- Accessibility: Road is straightforward and well-marked.
6. Nikko National Park Drive
A stunning path through lush forests and hot springs, with ancient temples and shrines along the way.
- UNESCO Sites: Access world heritage sites like Toshogu Shrine.
- Scenery: Known for its brilliant autumn foliage.
- Natural Hot Springs: Plenty of onsens to relax in.
- Distance: Further from Tokyo, best for an overnight stay.
- Cultural Significance: Rich historical landmark sites.
7. Izu Peninsula Route
This drive showcases rugged coastlines, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes. Ideal for those seeking diverse scenery.
- Coastal Views: Offers dramatic ocean vistas.
- Volcanic Landscapes: Features unique natural formations.
- Onsen Towns: Famous for its hot spring resorts.
- Seasonal Flowers: Vibrant blooms throughout the year.
- Distance: Drives here are versatile, from short trips to multi-day explorations.
8. Boso Peninsula Loop
Drive through a mix of mountain landscapes and coastal scenery, with charming rural landscapes.
- Distance: Perfect for a leisurely weekend outing.
- Beaches: Known for pristine and quiet beaches.
- Fishing Villages: Stop by local villages for fresh seafood.
- Rural Scenery: Offers a taste of countryside Japan.
- Accessibility: Well-connected by road, close to Tokyo.
9. Shiretoko Peninsula Scenic Drive
Uncover the untouched beauty of Shiretoko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its lush forests and wildlife.
- Distance: Suitable for adventurous explorers.
- Wildlife: Opportunities to see bears and deer.
- Scenery: Features dense forests and coastal cliffs.
- Photographic Opportunities: Perfect for capturing nature shots.
- Seasonal Variations: Majestic icy views in winter.
10. Lake Kawaguchi Circuit
Experience splendid views of Mount Fuji reflected in the lake and surrounding countryside.
- Distance: Short enough for a relaxing day trip.
- Mount Fuji: Provides iconic views of the mountain.
- Picnic Areas: Plenty of spots for a scenic lunch.
- Local Cafes: Discover picturesque lakeside cafes.
- Outdoor Activities: Boating and hiking options nearby.
11. Aokigahara Forest Drive
Known as the Sea of Trees, this area offers a mysterious drive with dense forest and lava rock formations.
- Mystical Vibe: Known for its serene and eerie atmosphere.
- Geological Features: Includes fascinating lava caves.
- Flora and Fauna: Rich in unique plant and animal life.
- Accessibility: Accessible but requires careful driving within the forest.
- Safety: Stick to marked paths due to the dense forest.
12. Yatsugatake Highland Route
Enjoy the refreshing highland air and expansive views of the Yatsugatake Mountains along this scenic route.
- Distance: Ideal for a tranquil day's journey.
- Alpine Scenery: Offers views of impressive peaks.
- Seasonal Highlights: Stunning in both summer and winter.
- Hiking and Climbing: Multiple outdoor activities available.
- Remote Retreat: A quieter option for peaceful reflection.
13. Kawazu-Nanadaru Loop
This route is famous for its waterfalls and cherry blossoms, offering a refreshing escape.
- Natural Beauty: Features seven stunning waterfalls.
- Cherry Blossoms: Unequally stunning during spring blooms.
- Trail Walks: Several walking paths available around waterfalls.
- Accessibility: Well-signposted and easily navigable.
- Proximity to Tokyo: Close enough for a calming day trip.
14. Chuo Alps Panorama Road
Ideal for mountain and sky enthusiasts, providing panoramic views of Central Japan's jagged peaks.
- Altitude: A higher elevation drive.
- Scenery: Highlights include sharp contrasts between land and sky.
- Wildlife and Plants: Diverse flora and fauna in the alpine regions.
- Distance: Longer journey but incredibly rewarding.
- Hiking Trails: Multiple starting points for great hiking.
15. Bandai-Azuma Sky Line
Enjoy the drive through volcanic landscapes with unique sulfur vents, providing a striking road trip experience.
- Volcanic Scenery: Breathtaking geothermal sites.
- Bright Colors: Notable for vibrant earth tones.
- Geological Interest: Ideal for geology buffs.
- Accessible Facilities: Rest stops and visitors' centers along the way.
- Safety Considerations: Be cautious of the road conditions related to volcanic activity.
16. Okutama Lake Scenic Drive
A beautiful escape into the rugged beauty of Okutama, with mountainous lakeside views.
- Water Views: Offers magnificent views of the reservoir.
- Recreational Activities: Boating and hiking available.
- Quiet Retreat: Known for its peaceful surroundings.
- Accessible by Car: Well-paved roads throughout.
- Photography Opportunities: Great spots for landscape photos.
17. Kamakura and Enoshima Drive
A historical route featuring both ancient temples and beautiful coastal views.
- Cultural Landmarks: Access to ancient shrines and temples.
- Beaches: Offers lovely seaside vistas.
- Proximity to Tokyo: Easily reached within an hour.
- Restaurants: A mix of traditional and modern eateries.
- Shopping Options: Explore charming local shops.
18. Minakami Hot Spring Route
A drive through the spa town of Minakami, nestled within mountains, offering relaxation and scenic charms.
- Hot Springs: Famed for its rejuvenating onsens.
- Scenic Beauty: Exquisite views of rivers and mountains.
- Accessibility: Straightforward drive with ample signage.
- Seasonal Variations: Delightful in both snow and cherry blossom seasons.
- Outdoor Activities: Rafting and nature walks prevalent.
19. Utsunomiya Romantic Road
Traverse this captivating route leading through farmland, untouched nature, and quaint villages.
- Rural Japan: Highlights the rustic charm of countryside life.
- Quaint Villages: Discover small towns and local culture.
- Culinary Treats: Known for Utsunomiya's famous gyoza.
- Scenic Stops: Perfect for a leisurely drive with frequent stops.
- Distance: Convenient for a single-day journey or extended exploration.
20. Ibaraki Coastal Route
A lesser-known gem offering serene beauty with expansive ocean views and peaceful coastal towns.
- Ocean Views: Offers serene and open coastal vistas.
- Local Seafood: Discover eateries with fresh local fish.
- Historical Sites: Includes traditional fishing villages and historic sites.
- Accessibility: Straightforward drive, good for new visitors.
- Crowd Levels: Typically less crowded compared to more popular routes.