The Best Road Trip Destinations in the Kii Peninsula area

Kii Peninsula provide visitors with the opportunity to experience some of what makes Japan so special. In this region, you can treat yourself to venerated shrines and temples, gorgeous natural beauty, hiking and rafting in the mountains or enjoying all that the many beaches have to offer. A Campervan rental, with all the freedom and flexibility it offers, is a fantastic way to enjoy a road trip and explore this delightful area.

Ise Jingu

the heart of Japan, has stood for over 2,000 years.  It consists of 125 shrines, including the main areas of Geku Grand Shrine and Naiku Grand Shrine.

Ise-Mairi:

Visit Ise Jingu, the most famous tourist attraction in Ise City, which has long been a sacred place for the Japanese people and is said to purify the mind. Naiku, dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers a sacred and serene atmosphere. Geku, dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, complements Naiku and provides a profound sense of reverence. Nearby, Okage Yokocho offers a traditional townscape where you can enjoy local specialties, traditional food, and sweets while strolling around. This region provides a deep insight into Japan’s Shinto history and culture, offering a spiritually enriching and heartwarming experience.

Toba Observatory on the Pearl Road

The Pearl Road is a 23.8-km drive that connects the towns of Toba and Shima. As you go along, you’ll find lots of observation points and places to enjoy a tasty meal.

Toba Observatory Perched on a hill 163 metres above sea level, it offers some breathtaking views of the Ago Bay’s rias coast and the Pacific Ocean. There’s a spacious car park and a lovely cafe where you can enjoy some delicious local treats like Ouchiyama soft-serve ice cream. In the winter, when the air is clear, you can even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji.

Doro Kyo Gorge

Doro Kyo Gorge is an absolute gem of a spot nestled in the upper reaches of the Kitayama River in the Kumano River system, which flows through Wakayama, Mie and Nara prefectures. It’s part of the Yoshino-Kumano National Park. On your road trip, you’ll find the perfect spot to stay in your Campervan, with gorgeous views of the virgin mountains right outside your door

Roadside Station Okutoro is located in the heart of the gorgeous Doro Kyo Gorge. It’s situated in Okutoro Park, which has all that you need with a convenience store, hot spring, restaurants, tennis courts, lodging facilities, including an autocamp that’s perfect for campervans, and so much more. It’s the perfect place for visitors to enjoy everything Kitayama Village has to offer, and the view from the open-air hot spring bath is simply breathtaking.

Kumano Sanzan and Kumano Kodo

The Kumano Sanzan area is home to three beautiful shrines and one wonderful temple: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachisan Seigan-toji Temple. Kumano Sanzan’s shrines and temple are all within 20 to 40 km of each other in the southeastern part of Wakayama Prefecture. They are connected to each other by the “Kumano Kodo” (Kumano Pilgrimage Route), which is a wonderful way to explore them. In 2004, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range”. If you think the whole hike might be a bit too much for you, don’t worry! You can drive to the trail head. Why not treat yourself to a day trip or even hike a section of Kumano Kodo?

Nachi Falls

Nachi Falls is especially well-known as it is the tallest waterfall in Japan and is considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful waterfalls. At 133 meters, it plunges gracefully into a serene pool below, framed by verdant forest. This stunning natural wonder is not only a visual spectacle but also holds deep spiritual significance in the Kumano region. Visitors are captivated by its majestic beauty and the tranquil atmosphere that surrounds it, making it a must-see destination for those seeking both natural splendor and cultural depth.

Kii Peninsula, this lovely, less-visited area is full of fascinating history, spirituality and nature – it’s a real hidden gem and perfect for a campervan road trip! The great thing about a Travellers Autobarn campervan is that you’re not restricted by time, public transport or making hotel reservations which is really handy making it a wonderful way to explore this area giving you the opportunity to get to know the heart of Japan