14+ Day Itinerary of Japanese Sacred Sites

Begin your journey in Chiba with a visit to Mount Nokogiri, a sacred mountain overlooking Tokyo Bay. In the carved cliffs is Nihon-ji Temple, which houses Japan’s largest stone-carved Buddha and dozens of quiet Arhat statues, offering a spiritual experience without the heavy crowds of major temples. In autumn, the colours here paint the forests in shades of red and gold, making it the perfect introduction to your trip. There are several parking areas you can walk to the temple from.

There aren’t too many campsites available nearby. So, you can make full use of your RV and spend a night nearby. Just remember to stock up on supplies before heading south towards the Kii peninsula!

Drive toward the Kii Peninsula, home to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike busier Kyoto, the Kumano trails remain relatively quiet, especially in autumn. There are course lengths ranging from a few hours to a few days, so be sure to research which ones fit your ability and time restraints.

Highlights include:

• Kumano Hongu Taisha: A grand shrine in a tranquil valley.
• Kumano Nachi Taisha: With its iconic pagoda and waterfall framed by autumn foliage.
• Hot spring villages like Yunomine Onsen are the perfect place to soak after long walks.

Camping spots are available near Tanabe and along the peninsula, including Tanabe Kawayu Campground. This option allows for a bit of flexibility in your pilgrimage experience and gives you access to useful amenities like laundry services.

A short drive north takes you to Mount Koya, the spiritual centre of Shingon Buddhism. While some parts of Koyasan can be popular, many side temples and forest walks remain peaceful. Okunoin Cemetery, with its moss-covered gravestones and towering cedars, is particularly atmospheric in autumn.

You can park your RV outside town and explore on foot. Evening temple stays are possible, but returning to the comfort of your RV gives flexibility and privacy. You might also want to travel west to reach Hosono-Keiryu Campsite, which offers some great amenities and RV hookups.

Take the ferry to Shikoku, Japan’s fourth-largest island, famous for its 88-temple pilgrimage route. Instead of attempting the full circuit, you might want to focus on a section that combines spirituality with autumnal beauty. Some options include:

• Iya Valley: This location is remote with stunning scenery, vine bridges and quiet shrines. Because of the remoteness, the roads can be narrow with sharp curves, so be sure to drive carefully.
• Zentsu-ji Temple: The birthplace of Kobo Daishi, founder of Shingon Buddhism.
• Scenic walks along the pilgrimage paths are always beautiful in autumn, with fiery red leaves in October and November.

Shikoku’s rural landscapes make RV travel especially rewarding, with roadside stations and campsites offering safe overnight parking.

Next, head to Kyushu’s Kunisaki Peninsula, an area shaped by ancient Buddhist culture yet far from mainstream tourist trails. Here, the Rokugo Manzan temples and stone Buddhas are nestled among wooded hills. In autumn, the mix of rural scenery, mountain paths, and vibrant foliage creates a deeply atmospheric journey that is well worth exploring.

Stop by small towns for local food like Kenchan, and take advantage of Kyushu’s warmer climate, which is perfect for outdoor walks even late into the season.

Heading further inland in Kyushu allows you to explore Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. While the summit can sometimes be closed due to volcanic activity, the surrounding shrines and trails are nothing short of spectacular. The crisp air and rolling hills dressed in autumn hues make this a highlight of your journey south.

Begin the return leg by driving northeast, taking scenic routes through Shikoku and back toward Honshu. Break the journey into two days or more days, stopping at roadside stations or campgrounds to rest. This return stretch is a chance to reflect on the sacred sites you’ve visited and enjoy more of Japan’s countryside.

Finish your trip back in Chiba, where you’ll return your motorhome in Tokyo and conclude your once-in-a-lifetime RV journey across Japan’s lesser-visited sacred sites.

This 14+ day itinerary combines Japan’s sacred traditions with the natural beauty of autumn. By focusing on quieter pilgrimage routes, mountains, and rural temples, you can immerse yourself in spiritual Japan away from the usual tourist hotspots. With your RV acting as both transport and home, the journey offers freedom, comfort, and a truly unique way to experience this breathtaking country.

Check out some of our recommended Itinerary here:

• See Our Epic 14-16 Day Camper Van Road Trip Across Japan: The Ultimate Itinerary
• See Our November Foliage Road Trip: A 5-Day Campervan Itinerary Through Japan’s Autumn Landscapes
• See Our Seasonal Places to Visit in Japan: Fall and Winter Roadtrip
• See Our Beyond Tokyo Area: A Road Trip to Japan’s Scenic Spots and Historical Treasures

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