Where to Stay in a Campervan in Japan

Renting a campervan is the best way to travel around Japan. Japan is a very friendly country for overnight stays in a car. This is because there are so many restrooms, bathing facilities, and convenience stores available, making it easy to complete any necessary errands. There are also many places where you can stay overnight in your car, and if you go to the suburbs, you will have even less trouble finding such a parking space. Let’s take a look at what kind of places you can stay overnight in your car.

Road station ‘Michi no eki’

Michi no eki is free resting place, of which there are more than 1,000 throughout Japan. They are often located in suburban areas rather than urban areas. Basically, toilets are available 24 hours a day and are always kept clean. Depending on the location, hot water is available from the hand washing stations in winter, and warm toilet seats are also available, which is very much appreciated by those staying in cars. Most also have souvenir shops and restaurants adjacent to them, where you can taste local specialties. (Closed at night).

Camping is prohibited, so this facility is only recommended for a relaxing and quiet stay in the car.

Related info: Michi no eki official site

Auto camping ground

There are many campgrounds in Japan, many of which are free. Campgrounds are often equipped with toilets and sinks. And since Japan is a hot spring country, there are sometimes hot spring facilities adjacent to campgrounds as well. Even if there are no showers at the campground, you can drive a short distance to find a hot spring facility with a high probability. Please note that campgrounds may require reservations on weekends and during the high season.

It is also recommended that you carry some cash, as some campground reception areas and hot spring facilities do not accept credit cards.

Related info: RV park

Free parking lots

If you prefer not to be in a popular place and want to enjoy private space, you can stay at a free parking lot or a park parking lot instead of the places mentioned above. Parks are usually equipped with toilets, and the advantage is that they are not very popular. Many Japanese prefer camping sites, so not many people stay overnight in their cars in parks or free parking lots. Free parking will often be found in the mountains, along rivers, or near hot spring facilities. There are such parking lots near hiking and wild nature hot springs, but most of them are not equipped with toilets.