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Road Genius compares campervan rentals across Japan so you can choose the right van and supplier. Most international travellers start in Tokyo, Osaka or Sapporo and loop through national parks, coastal routes and historic towns. One-way hires are common on the long north–south run between Hokkaido and Kyushu.
Campervan Depots
Best Time for a Campervan Trip
| Season | Avg High °C | Good time? |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 13–22 °C | Yes – cherry blossom season and mild weather |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 25–31 °C | Mixed – hot, humid, typhoons in late August |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 14–24 °C | Best – dry weather, autumn colours |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 3–10 °C (below 0 °C in Hokkaido) | Good for snow sports; roads may be icy |
Driving Tips
- The expressway speed limit is 100 km/h unless signs show lower speeds. Rural roads often have limits of 50 km/h.
- Tolls apply on most expressways. An ETC card allows you to pass toll gates without cash. Ask the rental company to include one.
- Many rural roads are under 2.5 m wide. Vans longer than 6 m may have clearance problems and difficulty with tight turns.
- Petrol is called "regular" (unleaded). Diesel pumps are green. LPG is rare outside cities.
- Large rest stops (Service Areas) display vacancy signs for nearby campgrounds and list road closures in English.
- Parking lots usually prohibit sleeping in vehicles unless they display the "RV Park" logo.
Campsites and Overnight Options
| Place | Hook-ups | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Auto Campground | Full | Hot showers, electricity, staff on site | ¥4 000–¥6 000 per night, book 1-3 months in advance |
| National Park Campground | Water+Electric | Good scenery, low cost, close to hiking trails | Basic toilets, many close in winter |
| Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station) | None | Free, 24-hour toilets, open all year | No hook-ups, quiet hours 22:00-06:00 |
| RV Park Japan Network | Water+Electric | Waste dump point, 100V outlets, online booking | ¥2 000–¥5 000, limited spaces per site |
Refuelling and Service Points
- Expressway Service Areas and larger town stations provide 24-hour petrol and diesel. Some sell small LPG cylinders.
- Fresh water taps are available at most Auto Campgrounds, RV Parks and many michi-no-eki. Ask staff before using.
- Grey and black-water dump stations are available at RV Parks and some Auto Campgrounds. Plan to empty tanks every 3–4 days.
Important Information
- Typhoon season peaks in late August and September. Strong winds can close bridges and ferries.
- Snow tyres or chains are required in Hokkaido and mountain areas from December to March.
- Police emergency number is 110. Fire and ambulance number is 119. Operators have basic English support.
- You must carry the vehicle's shaken (roadworthiness certificate) and your International Driving Permit at all times.
- Many car ferries (for example, Honshu–Hokkaido) charge fees based on vehicle length. Check your vehicle measurements before booking.
