Van Life Guide to Winter Road Trips in Japan by a Campervan

Winter may seem like an unconventional time for a road trip, but renting a campervan during the colder months offers a unique and fun experience. In this blog, we will discuss the top benefits of choosing a campervan for winter travel and how to turn the cold season into a memorable adventure.

Renting an RV in winter can be a cost-effective choice for several reasons:

Lower Rental Rates:

During the winter months, we offer reduced rates compared to peak seasons. If you want to keep travel costs down, choosing the off-season is a fundamental strategy.

Discounted Campgrounds:

Winter is typically considered the off-season for campgrounds and RV parks. Many offer lower rates or special winter promotions, helping you save on accommodation costs.

Fewer Crowds and Better Deals:

With fewer travelers on the road, you may find better deals on attractions. Additionally, popular spots are less crowded, leading to more flexible and affordable options.

Savings on Accommodation:

Renting a campervan eliminates the need for separate hotel or lodging expenses. Since your campervan serves as both your transportation and accommodation, it can lead to significant savings on lodging costs.

By taking advantage of lower rental rates and off-season discounts, winter campervan rentals offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy travel and outdoor activities.

Clear Skies and Sunshine:

Winter in Japan often brings clear, sunny days. The crisp, blue skies and abundant sunshine create beautiful, picturesque landscapes and enhance outdoor experiences. In Kyoto and Nara, you can often enjoy the autumn leaves until early December. Even though it’s cold, the daytime weather is typically sunny, making it quite pleasant for a stroll and enjoying the vibrant fall colors.

However, in mountainous areas such as ski resorts, weather conditions can be highly variable due to snowfall, so it’s important to stay vigilant.

Winter in Japan offers a variety of delightful experiences:

1. Onsen (Hot Springs): Enjoying a relaxing soak in an onsen surrounded by snowy scenery is a quintessential Japanese winter experience. The contrast between the hot springs and the cold air is incredibly soothing.
2. Cultural Traditions: Winter is a season for traditional Japanese events such as New Year’s celebrations and the practice of “hatsumode” (the first shrine visit of the year). These customs offer a unique insight into Japanese culture and traditions.
3. Festivals and Illuminations: Japan’s winter festivals are a highlight, featuring dazzling light displays and ice sculptures. Events like the Kobe Luminarie offer stunning visual experiences and festive atmospheres.
4. Cultural Experiences: Winter is a great time to experience Japanese culture through traditional New Year’s celebrations, such as visiting shrines for hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year), and enjoying seasonal foods like hot pot dishes and oden (a comforting stew).
5. Winter Cuisine: Japanese winter cuisine is hearty and delicious. Enjoy seasonal dishes such as nabe (hot pot), yudofu (tofu hot pot), and freshly made mochi (rice cakes), which provide warmth and comfort during the cold months.
6. Peaceful Atmosphere: The winter season brings a tranquil ambiance to Japan, allowing for peaceful strolls through historic temples, serene gardens, and snow-covered landscapes.
7. Winter Wildlife: For nature enthusiasts, winter offers opportunities to see unique wildlife, such as the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs in Jigokudani Valley.

Tips for Winter Car Camping

Check Resort Accessibility:

Ensure the areas you plan to visit is accessible by 2WD vehicles, especially during winter. Some areas may be difficult to reach in snowy conditions.

Winter tires and chains must be prepared.

If you’re traveling through areas with snowfall or icy roads, carrying snow chains and wear winter tires are extremely important for safety, as they will provide extra traction and help your campervan navigate slippery or steep roads. It’s a good idea to practice installing them before your trip so you’re not caught off guard in freezing conditions and keep in mind that many mountain passes, most places require your vehicle to have snow chains during winter months.

Choose the Right Campsite :

In winter, many campgrounds may be closed, so it’s important to research campgrounds that are open year-round and make reservations in advance if possible.

At RV parks, which are designed specifically for car camping, external power sources are available. Therefore, if you plan to bring a portable heater, it is recommended to stay at an RV park. Many RV parks require advance reservations, so it’s a good idea to research and book ahead.

Plan Your Meals:

While you can use a gas stove in the KUGA campervan to prepare warm drinks and meals, consider bringing easy-to-prepare, hot foods like instant ramen or ready-made meals. Eating at nearby restaurants that offer warm dishes such as Ramen can also be a comfortable option.

Monitor Weather Conditions:

Keep an eye on the weather forecast and road conditions. Winter weather in Japan can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas. Be prepared for snow and icy roads.

Avoid driving during times when the roads are likely to be frozen. Typically, this includes early mornings and late evenings when temperatures drop below freezing, leading to icy conditions. Check local weather forecasts for warnings about freezing temperatures and plan your travel accordingly to minimize the risk of encountering slippery roads.

Car camping in mountainous areas can be extremely cold and challenging. It’s highly recommended to bring an electric blanket to stay warm. Vehicles equipped with built-in heaters (FF heaters) are limited in number and require advance reservations, so be sure to contact us early to secure one.

For Those Considering a Trip to a Ski Resort

Japan is home to many famous ski resorts. However, our vehicles are not suitable for trips to these ski areas. For those considering a trip to Hokkaido, unfortunately, we are unable to provide vehicle rentals.

Winter tourist destinations in Japan where you can enjoy activities without snow:

These destinations offer a variety of cultural and outdoor activities during the winter months.

Kumamoto

Attraction: Visit Kumamoto Castle and the picturesque Suizenji Jojuen Garden. The mild winter weather makes it perfect for sightseeing. Aso Kuju National Park. The scenery of Aso is breathtaking, even in winter. The magnificent caldera presents a striking landscape that captivates visitors with its sheer beauty and grandeur. Surrounded by lush green hills and volcanic features, Aso offers a stunning backdrop that is both serene and awe-inspiring during the colder months.

Nagoya

Attraction: Explore Nagoya Castle, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, and the vibrant shopping districts without worrying about snow.

Fukuoka

Attraction: Enjoy local cuisine, visit historical sites like Fukuoka Castle, and relax in the city’s parks, all while experiencing a mild winter.

Hiroshima

Attraction:  Visit the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and the beautiful Miyajima Island. The weather is generally mild in winter.

Nara

Attraction: In the quiet atmosphere of winter, you can explore ancient temples and interact with the friendly deer. Todai-ji Temple, in particular, is highly recommended.

Shikoku Region

Attraction: Shikoku in winter is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The mild climate allows for pleasant exploration of its stunning landscapes, including the serene temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Enjoy the warm waters of the region’s famous onsens, such as Dogo Onsen, where you can relax and rejuvenate.

The winter months also bring fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience with the picturesque scenery, from the rolling hills to the rugged coastline. Indulge in seasonal delicacies like fresh seafood and local citrus fruits, which are at their peak during this time. Whether you’re hiking the beautiful trails or enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of quaint towns, Shikoku in winter offers a delightful escape for every traveler.

A winter campervan trip offers a unique experience and a chance to enjoy beautiful landscapes. Make the most of Japan’s winter charm and embark on a heartwarming adventure. Memorable journeys await you!