Eco-Friendly RV Travel in Japan: Tips for Sustainable Touring

Travelling across Japan in a motorhome is one of the best ways to experience this stunning country – and it can be made all the better with a few eco-friendly tips. In this article, we’ll help you create a sustainable road trip across Japan in an RV, giving you a chance to soak up the unique cultural and natural beauty that this nation offers. From choosing the right RV to adopting some eco-conscious best practices, this guide will help you enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime journey across Japan that is sustainable and incredible.

One of the best ways to discover the beauty and culture of Japan is with an RV road trip. This approach gives you complete freedom, letting you choose your destinations and how long you spend there. Although the traditional image of an RV adventure might not scream eco-friendly, there are plenty of ways that you can transform your motorhome adventure into a form of sustainable touring. In this article, we’ll help you enjoy eco-friendly RV travel in Japan by offering some tips for sustainable touring across this iconic country.

Choosing the Right RV

The first step in planning an eco-friendly RV trip is selecting the right vehicle. In a perfect world, you’ll find a fully electric RV. In reality, though, these are quite rare, so the next best thing is to choose a modern RV from a reputable provider. For campervan rental, Tokyo will likely give you the most options here. If you can, look for the smallest suitable RV for your needs to reduce fuel consumption and keep your carbon footprint as low as possible.

Regular Maintenance Checks

Ensure that your RV is well-maintained before embarking on your journey. A well-tuned engine, properly inflated tyres, and efficient cooling systems do a great job of reducing emissions and also improve fuel efficiency. The best way to do this is by renting your RV from a reputable provider (such as our team at Travellers Autobarn) who will have a well-maintained fleet of RVs for you to choose from.

Smart Planning and Routing

Another great way to keep your RV trip eco-friendly is to spend some time route planning to eliminate unnecessary driving. Use GPS and updated travel apps to find the most direct routes to your destinations. Avoiding congested areas and travelling during off-peak times can also decrease your fuel consumption and reduce the stress of navigating through heavy traffic.

For example, you might want to consider planning a direct route from north to south that offers a streamlined path of travel. This might incorporate an itinerary such as:

●Take a ferry to head north and start your journey in Sapporo, Hokkaido. This will give you a chance to explore a wealth of famous parks, local markets and iconic destinations like Daisetsuzan National Park.

●Travelling to Aomori, from Hakodate via ferry instead of flying between the islands. Once in Aomori, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of Honshu, home to the mystical Shirakami-Sanchi.

●Moving further south towards the Kanto region, home to beautiful destinations like Nikko and the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. When travelling by motorhome, Tokyo and other big cities may be congested – so choose your routes wisely!

●From Tokyo, you can head towards the Kansai region, where you can stop off at prime locations like Nagoya and then Kyoto.

●Continuing south, you may want to stop at Hiroshima before heading to the islands of Honshu and Shikoku for its breathtaking views and hot springs.

●Round off your adventure in Kyushu, home to Nagasaki and Kagoshima. Nagasaki offers several memorials and museums to visit, while Kagoshima offers beautiful views of one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, Sakurajima.

Waste Management

One of the best ways to live sustainably during your RV adventure is to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle by reducing the amount of waste you produce. Choose reusable over disposable products, such as cloth napkins, rechargeable batteries, and durable cookware. Recycle waste whenever possible and dispose of it properly at designated disposal facilities.

Respecting Nature and Local Norms

While exploring natural areas across Japan, always stick to marked trails and designated campsites. This reduces the impact on local ecosystems and prevents the destruction of native flora and fauna. Avoid making new trails or expanding existing ones.

Support Local Communities

Engage with local communities and buy local products. This helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of goods and supports the local economy. Plus, you’ll get to experience authentic local culture and cuisine.

Enjoying an Eco-Friendly RV Trip in Japan is Easy

Travelling by RV in Japan can be one of the most rewarding ways to see the country, but it comes with a responsibility to do so sustainably. By choosing the right vehicle, planning efficiently, and adopting sustainable habits, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact. By implementing these tips, you can ensure that your adventures in Japan are not only memorable but also sustainable. Happy travelling!