Japan with a campervan is a great way to see the country’s many faces, from cities to countryside. Doing a Campervan in Japan is a mix of freedom and convenience, you can travel at your own pace and live in your home on wheels. But knowing the best practices and laws for overnight stays is key to having a good trip. Here’s the ultimate guide on how to camp overnight in Japan.
Why Campervan In Japan?
Trains and hotels can be restrictive, especially if you want to go off the beaten path. Without flexibility, you might miss out on Japan’s hidden gems and have a less fulfilling trip. A campervan gives you the freedom to travel off the beaten path and see Japan’s natural beauty and local culture.
Use Michi-No-Eki (Roadside Stations)
Michi-no-Eki, or roadside stations, are a network of rest stops across Japan for road travelers, including campervans. They are free to use and have all the services you need for an overnight stay.
Features:
- Parking Areas: Michi-no-Eki has large parking areas where campervans can stay overnight.
- Facilities: Most roadside stations have clean restrooms, vending machines, and sometimes hot springs (onsen) or local markets.
- Safety: These places are generally safe, well-lit, and monitored so a good option for overnight stays.
For more info and a map of Michi-no-Eki locations visit the Michi-no-Eki website.
Stay At Designated Campsites
While Michi-no-Eki is convenient, designated campsites offer a more traditional camping experience. Japan has many campsites that are campervan-friendly and offer extra amenities.
Features:
- Full Facilities: Campsites often have electric hook-ups, water, shower facilities, and waste disposal areas.
- Scenic Locations: Many campsites are located in beautiful natural surroundings, by lakes, mountains, or forests.
- Community: Camping in Japan is a chance to meet other travelers and locals and get a deeper cultural experience.
For campsite bookings and reviews visit Japan Camping Car Rental’s campsites guide.
Overnight At Paid Parking Areas
In urban areas, it’s hard to find campsites or Michi-no-Eki. In those cases, paid parking areas are an option. These are usually found near train stations, shopping malls, or city centers.
Features:
- Convenient Locations: Paid parking areas are often near main attractions so great for city exploring.
- 24/7 Access: Many of these parking areas are 24/7 so you can arrive and leave whenever you want.
- Basic Facilities: Some parking areas may have basic facilities like restrooms and vending machines.
Find out how to camp in Japan’s cities for more city travel tips.
Stay At RV Parks
RV Parks are designated areas for recreational vehicles, including campervans. Japan has many RV parks that cater to campervan travelers with full facilities and services.
Features:
- Full Facilities: RV parks have power, water, waste disposal, and Wi-Fi.
- Security: These parks are designed with security in mind, often with gated entrances and on-site staff.
- Community Events: Many RV parks have community events or activities so you can meet other travelers.
For a list of RV parks in Japan visit Japan RV Club’s website.
Use Coin-Operated Parking Lots (Times Parking)
In urban areas where other options are limited, coin-operated parking lots, known as Times Parking, are the last resort. These are everywhere in Japan and are easy to find.
Features:
- Flexible Pricing: Times Parking lots charge by the hour so great for short stays.
- Widespread Availability: These lots are in almost every city so a good option when other choices are not available.
- Basic Amenities: Facilities are minimal but the lots are well-lit and monitored so safe.
Visit Times Parking’s website for locations and prices.
Campervanning In Japan Tips
Understanding local laws and customs is key to a smooth and legal campervan experience in Japan. Not following local rules can result in fines or worse ruin your trip. Here are the essential tips for campervan in Japan:
- Follow Local Rules: Always follow parking rules and don’t stay overnight in non-designated areas.
- Respect Quiet Hours: Many campsites and parking areas have quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.
- Dispose Of Waste Properly: Be mindful of waste disposal and use designated areas to empty grey water and other waste.
- Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Knowing a few basic Japanese phrases will help you use local services and interact with others.
For more campervan travel tips see our Japan campervan travel guide.
End
Campervanning in Japan is the best way to see the country, you can go beyond the tourist trail. By using Michi-no-Eki, designated campsites, paid parking areas, RV parks, and coin-operated parking lots you can stay safe and comfortable wherever your journey takes you. Plan, respect local customs, and enjoy the culture and nature of Japan.
Go! Japan campervan rental guide. Cheers!