Japan is incredibly proud of its rich culture and heritage, which has been preserved for centuries and is still visible in modern life here. One of the more enchanting cultural experiences found in Japan is onsen culture, which perfectly blends relaxation and discovery. These natural hot springs are dotted across the country, giving you a chance to explore warm and inviting hot spring towns.

By heading along the southern regions of Japan by RV, you can keep the journey comfortable, on your terms and snow-free in the winter. Starting from Chiba, this seven-day road trip leads you through historic onsen villages, coastal retreats, and volcanic hot spring hubs in milder parts of the country.

 

Quick stats

1204km trip distance

7 days day roadtrip

KUGA Camper Van ( up to 3 people) / CHUBBY Camper(Up to 2 people) / Station Wagon ( Up to 7 people) recommended

road trip map

Chiba to Hakone Onsen

Day 1

With campervan rental, Tokyo is a great place to start, as you can collect your vehicle and begin your journey. After collecting your campervan in Chiba, make your first stop in Hakone, one of Japan’s most accessible and famous hot spring resorts. Nestled in the mountains just outside Tokyo, Hakone brings together the natural beauty of volcanic valleys with cultural attractions and plenty of hot spring choices. In winter, the air is crisp, but snow rarely disrupts travel, making it ideal for campervan explorers.

While here, you can spend the day soaking in open-air baths that frame the majestic outline of Mount Fuji in the distance. Don’t miss your chance to ride the Hakone Ropeway over Owakudani Valley either, where plumes of volcanic steam rise dramatically from the earth, and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum with its unique art and landscape. When night falls, park up at Michi-no-Eki Hakone Toge, which offers space and convenience for overnight campervan stays.

Always make sure to check road conditions as roads may freeze, making driving conditions for a campervan dangerous.

Hakone to Shuzenji Onsen

Day 2

From Hakone, head south into the Izu Peninsula, a region celebrated for its warm climate, scenic coastline, and deeply traditional hot spring towns. Your destination is Shuzenji Onsen, sometimes called the “Little Kyoto” of Izu. This charming riverside town is dotted with bamboo groves, historic temples, and atmospheric bridges spanning the Katsura River.

Upon arrival, consider a stroll along the stone paths of Shuzenji Temple. Here, you can soak your feet in free ashiyu (foot baths) along the river, and enjoy the peaceful bamboo forest walkway. In the evening, sample local specialities like wasabi-infused dishes, a regional highlight. Campervans can park at Michi-no-Eki Izu no Heso, just outside town, for a restful night.

Izu to Hamamatsu to Kanzanji Onsen

Day3

Continue your journey westward toward Hamamatsu and the shores of Lake Hamana, where Kanzanji Onsen awaits. This lakeside resort blends relaxation with scenic beauty effortlessly, offering open-air baths that overlook calm waters and mild weather, even in winter. It’s a tranquil change of pace and an excellent spot to recharge.

During the day, you can take the Kanzanji Ropeway for panoramic lake views. Parking is available at Kanzanji Station or at Laka Hamana Palpal Parking Lot. You can also wander through Hamamatsu Flower Park, which bursts with seasonal colour year-round, but be warned the park is closed December 29-31st.. The region is also famous for its freshwater eel, so be sure to try unagi prepared in the local style. Campervan travellers will find Michi-no-Eki Tenryu a convenient overnight stop.

Hamamatsu to Arima Onsen

Day 4

Heading west, cross into Kansai and make your way to Arima Onsen, nestled in the Rokko Mountains near Kobe. One of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns, Arima is known for its unique “gold” and “silver” waters. The golden baths are rich in iron and salt, while the silver baths contain clear, radium-rich waters that are both prized for their therapeutic qualities.

The town’s narrow streets are filled with wooden inns, speciality shops, and a nostalgic charm that’s perfect for wandering. You can pair your soak with a meal of local Kobe beef or sake from the Nada district nearby. For campervans, overnight parking is available at Michi-no-Eki Kobe Fruit & Flower Park Ozo, which provides a safe and comfortable base.

Arima to Dogo Onsen

Day 5

From Kansai, drive across the impressive bridges of the Seto Inland Sea to reach Matsuyama in Shikoku, home to the legendary Dogo Onsen. Considered one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, Dogo Onsen has been welcoming bathers for over a thousand years and famously inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.

Spend time soaking in the historic Dogo Onsen Honkan, an elegant wooden bathhouse steeped in history. While here, you can explore the shopping arcades around the town, where you can find citrus treats and artisanal souvenirs, or take a tram ride through Matsuyama for a leisurely city tour. Campervans can park comfortably at Michi-no-Eki Fuwari, a short drive from the town centre.

Dogo to Beppu Onsen

Day 6

Next, cross from Shikoku to Kyushu by ferry and head to Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts. Known for having the largest volume of hot spring water in the country, Beppu is an absolute must for onsen lovers. The town is divided into eight hot spring areas, each with its own character and style of bathing.

During your stay, you can soak up some unique experiences such as sand baths, where you’re buried in warm volcanic sand, or mud baths, where the mineral-rich waters provide a natural spa treatment. Don’t miss the “Hells of Beppu” (Jigoku Meguri), a series of spectacular and colourful hot spring pools that are for viewing rather than bathing. For campervans, Michi-no-Eki Yufuin, just outside Beppu, offers a great overnight stop.

Beppu to Kurokawa Onsen

Day 7

Finish your journey in the mountains of Kumamoto at Kurokawa Onsen, one of Japan’s most charming and atmospheric hot spring villages. The town is known for its traditional wooden ryokan, riverside outdoor baths, and rustic setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Be sure to pick up a wooden “Tegata” pass, which allows you to visit three different onsen of your choice throughout the village, and enjoy sampling a variety of bathing styles. Stroll the lantern-lit streets in the evening, savour a local meal, and take in the quiet beauty of the surroundings. Parking spaces are scarce so if you’re planning a daytrip, the New Parking Lot along Route 442 is recommended. Campervans can park overnight at Michi-no-Eki Aso, about 40 minutes away.

Find True Peace When Touring Japan’s Onsen Towns by RV

From the Fuji views of Hakone to the nostalgic charm of Dogo, the volcanic baths of Beppu, and the rustic riverside atmosphere of Kurokawa, each stop in this itinerary offers relaxation and cultural discovery. When travelling by motorhome, Tokyo is just the start of an incredible journey across Japan. You’ll enjoy freedom and flexibility, with roadside stations ensuring easy overnight stays along the way. It’s the perfect way to combine adventure with comfort while experiencing Japan’s hot spring culture this winter.

If you’re looking to explore even more of Japan, consider staying for two to three weeks or longer.

A longer trip allows you to dive deeper into local traditions, regional cuisines, and off-the-beaten-path destinations that make Japan truly unforgettable.

Why not incorporate some of these itineraries into your plans—or add them on to extend your adventure even further?

Check out our recommended Itinerary here:

Looking for more? Find a huge range of different routes and road trip itineraries across Japan.

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