One-Week CHIBA Coastal Campervan Journey

When travelling Japan by motorhome, Tokyo and its surrounding districts are a great place to kick things off. Chiba is an ideal starting point, as you can collect your motorhome and any necessary supplies for the road, such as food, from one of the many shops here. After a brief orientation and supply run, head south towards Kisarazu, just over an hour’s drive away.

Your first stop is Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu, one of Japan’s largest and most stylish outlet malls. Here, you can spend an afternoon browsing over 300 stores featuring international and Japanese brands, from outdoor gear to designer fashion. Grab lunch at the food court, where you can enjoy local seafood donburi or freshly made ramen.

In the evening, drive to the nearby Umihotaru Parking Area, a floating rest stop on the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line. Here you’ll get panoramic sunset views across Tokyo Bay before settling at a local RV-friendly parking area. Enjoy your first campervan evening overlooking the illuminated bay bridge.

From Kisarazu, follow Route 127 south towards Minamiboso, a stretch known for its laid-back beaches, flower fields, and fresh seafood. To stretch your legs, you can stop by Kanaya Port, where local fishermen unload the day’s catch. Enjoy the gorgeous coastal views and dig into one of the freshest sashimi lunches you’ll ever have at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Continue to Nokogiriyama (Mount Nokogiri), home to dramatic cliffside views and Japan’s largest stone Buddha. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the ropeway or hike to the top for sweeping vistas over Tokyo Bay. You can stop overnight nearby at a seaside campsite such as Futtsu Park Auto Campground, where you can wake to the soothing sound of waves.

The next day, follow the coastline to Tateyama, a city known for its warm climate and flower fields even in winter. While here, you can stop at Tateyama Castle and Nago Beach before unwinding at a local onsen before dinner. Many roadside michi-no-eki (roadside stations) in this region allow overnight campervan parking and have fresh seafood stalls nearby.

Your next stop is Kamogawa Onsen, a serene seaside resort town facing the Pacific Ocean. Check into an onsen facility with RV parking nearby, such as Kamogawa Grand Hotel Onsen, which offers day-use hot springs. Just keep in mind that those with tattoos are forbidden from entering the hot springs.

Here, you can spend your day soaking in ocean-view baths, exploring Kamogawa Sea World, or strolling along the Maebara Beach promenade. The area’s calm atmosphere makes it perfect for slow travel. It’s a chance to enjoy beach picnics, and fresh local sushi.

In the evening, relax in your campervan near the coastline, where the sound of waves will lull you to sleep.

Continue north along the coast to Katsuura, where you will discover a fishing town famous for its morning market, one of the oldest in Japan. Stroll through the stalls selling dried fish, local fruits, and snacks, then head to Katsuura Undersea Park, where you can view marine life through underwater observatories.

After soaking up the sights, head further to Onjuku, a charming surf town with Spanish influences. Its crescent-shaped beach is idyllic and popular for paddleboarding and seaside cafes. Park your campervan near Jikkoku Auto Campground and bask in this area’s natural beauty. If you’re peckish, you can enjoy a beachside barbecue.

Heading northeast, the Isumi and Ichinomiya area blends coastal nature with trendy cafés and surf culture. Stop by Taito Beach, a favourite among Tokyo’s weekend surfers, or explore some of the local restaurants that offer gorgeous food and sea views.

If you’re travelling between April and October, this region is ideal for swimming or paddleboarding. During cooler months, enjoy long walks along the shore or visit local craft markets.

You can stay at a nearby campground such as Mutsuzawa UJack, an RV-friendly camping area that’s a stone’s throw from the coast.

Stretching over 60 kilometres, Kujukuri Beach is one of Japan’s longest beaches and a must-see for coastal travellers. Spend your days beachcombing, or watching surfers.

If you’re hungry, you won’t struggle to find great food. Stop by local seafood shacks offering grilled hamaguri clams and maguro donburi (tuna rice bowls). You can also visit Katakai Port, famous for its morning markets and oceanfront views.

This area has many well-equipped campgrounds, such as Kujukuri Auto Campground, where you can enjoy a bonfire under the stars.

On your final leg, drive northeast to Choshi, the easternmost city of the Boso Peninsula. Visit Inubosaki Lighthouse for spectacular sunrise views, then stop by Choshi Electric Railway, a charming local line that connects small coastal towns.

Before returning your campervan, treat yourself to a farewell meal of Choshi-style sushi, renowned for its freshness and quality. Then make your way back to Narita City, completing your full-circle journey around the peninsula.

Whether you’re soaking in ocean-view hot springs, exploring local seafood markets, or watching the sunrise from your camper by the beach, this two-week coastal journey captures the essence of slow, scenic Japan, all within easy reach of the capital.

Check out some of our recommended Itinerary here:

• See Our November Foliage Road Trip: A 5-Day Campervan Itinerary Through Japan’s Autumn Landscapes
• See Our Winter Wonderland: Campervan adventure to explore Onsen (Hot Springs) in Japan
• See Our 5 Reasons Why Fall is the Perfect Time for a Campervan Adventure in Japan
• See Our Van Life Guide to Winter Road Trips in Japan by a Campervan

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