Road Genius compares campervan rentals in Japan so international travelers can choose the right vehicle and supplier. Tokyo is the main arrival point, with Narita and Haneda airports and fast expressways that connect the city to Mount Fuji, Nikko and the Pacific coast. Campervans let you leave the city center quickly and sleep beside rivers, lakes and hot-spring towns on the same trip.
Season | Average high °C / °F | Good time? |
---|---|---|
Spring (March–May) | 20 / 68 | Yes – mild weather, flowers, low rain |
Summer (June–August) | 30 / 86 | Mixed – long days but humid and busy |
Autumn (September–November) | 22 / 72 | Yes – clear skies, autumn colors, fewer crowds |
Winter (December–February) | 10 / 50 | Possible – dry and sunny, cold nights |
Tokyo expressways charge distance-based tolls. An ETC card lets you pass without stopping, but international visitors can pay with cash or card at the gate.
Speed limits are 30–50 km/h (20–30 mph) on city streets and 80 km/h (50 mph) on most expressways.
Many city parking garages have a height limit of 2.1 meters (6.9 feet). Look for open-air coin parking or suburban park-and-ride lots instead.
Main roads have English signs. Navigation systems often use phone numbers, so keep campsite phone numbers ready.
Gas stations close around 8:00 PM. 24-hour pumps are common only on expressways and in outer suburbs.
Expressway service areas provide free Wi-Fi, hot meals and wide parking spaces that fit large campervans.
Place | Hook-ups | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Wakasu Park Campground (Koto-ku) | None | 13 km from Tokyo Station, sea view, shower facilities | No electrical hook-ups, gates close 10:00 PM, book up to 3 months ahead |
Auto-camp Akigawa (Akiruno) | Water and Electric | Riverside sites, hot spring next door | Narrow approach road, maximum vehicle length 7 meters (23 feet) |
RV Park Yamanaka-ko (Lake Yamanaka) | Full | 15 amp power, waste dump, Mount Fuji view, late check-in | 90 km from Tokyo, water freezes December–February |
Michi-no-Eki network (roadside stations) | None | Free parking, 24-hour toilets, about 10 within 60 km of city | No waste dumping, quiet hours 10:00 PM–6:00 AM, one night only |
Special winter tires or tire chains are required on mountain roads from December to March. Confirm availability with your rental company.
Camping in parks or on streets is illegal. Fines start at 10,000 yen and police may require you to move.