Japan’s National Route 1 was known as the Tokaido in Edo Period and has long contributed to the development of the country. Hit the roads on a historic RV journey along Japan’s iconic Tokaido Road, stretching from Tokyo to Kyoto. Start your adventure in Tokyo, exploring the Edo-Tokyo Museum before heading to notable stops like Kawasaki, Hakone, and Shizuoka. Each destination offers a beautiful blend of nature, history, and Edo-era culture. Visit ancient temples, traditional post towns, and scenic viewpoints, all while enjoying the comfort of your campervan with accessible campsite accommodations. Conclude your travels in Hamamatsu, reflecting on the rich historical tapestry of feudal Japan. This campervan trip along the Tokaido Road provides a unique and immersive way to experience Japan’s heritage and landscapes.
Embarking on a road trip along the historic Tokaido Road is like driving through the pages of Japanese history. This vital artery, which once connected Edo (present-day Tokyo) with Kyoto during the Edo period, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural landmarks. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the unique culture and history of this area, then renting a motorhome is one of the best ways to go. Here’s how you can explore the Tokaido Road in the comfort of a campervan, stopping at historical landmarks and well-preserved post towns, all within an eight-hour drive from Tokyo.
Tokyo
Day 1
The Starting Point: Tokyo
When travelling via campervan rental, Tokyo is the perfect starting point. The capital of Japan offers several spots worth exploring that echo the legacy of the Tokaido Road. The Edo-Tokyo Museum in Ryogoku provides a perfect prelude to your journey with exhibits that showcase the life and culture during the Edo period. Since you’ll be travelling by campervan, consider staying at a nearby campsite such as the Jonanjima Seaside Park Camping Ground, which offers amenities for campervans.
Kawasaki
Day １
First Stop: Kawasaki
When travelling via motorhome, Tokyo is just the start of your journey – but you won’t have far to travel for your next destination. Just a short drive from Tokyo, Kawasaki lies along the route of the old Tokaido Road. Visit the Kawasaki Daishi Heikenji Temple, an important religious site founded in 1128, ideal for a peaceful morning walk. For parking, the temple provides a spacious lot that can accommodate campervans, allowing you to explore without worries about where to leave your vehicle.
Hakone
Day ２
Historical Hakone
As you drive further south, the road takes you to the scenic landscapes of Hakone. Known for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone was also an important checkpoint on the Tokaido Road. The Hakone Sekisho (checkpoint) offers a glimpse into the strict control of traffic along the road during the shogunate. Better still, it has enjoyed a recent restoration after 140 years of aging. Now is the best time to get a glimpse of what Edo-period Japan would have been like along the Tokaido Road. Camp at the Ashinoko Campsite, located near Lake Ashi, which accommodates campervans and offers facilities like bathrooms and fire pits.
Shizuoka
Day ３
The Heart of the Tokaido: Shizuoka
Continuing along the coast, your next destination is Shizuoka, a prefecture rich with Tokaido history. Make a stop at the Nihondaira Ropeway and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine for breathtaking views and a touch of feudal architecture. Parking is campervan-friendly, ensuring easy access to the shrine. For a deeper dive into the Edo period, the post town of Mariko is a must-visit. Famous for its historical teahouses, Mariko offers a taste of the past with its traditional cuisine and preserved buildings. Additionally, be sure to visit the Hiroshige Museum of Art in Shizuoka, where you can immerse yourself in the world of Edo-era woodblock prints, including the iconic Tokaido Fifty-three Stations series, which beautifully depicts the journey along the Tokaido road.
Kakegawa
Day ３
The Charm of Kakegawa
Drive into the heart of Kakegawa, where the Kakegawa Castle, reconstructed in traditional wooden architecture, offers insights into the feudal era. The nearby Kakegawa Kachoen Park is not only a delight for bird lovers but also provides ample parking for campervans. Consider staying overnight at the Enshu Forest RV Park that is encircled by cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring time.
Hamamatsu
Day ４
Final Destination: Hamamatsu
As you approach the end of your Tokaido journey, Hamamatsu offers a mix of history and modernity. The Hamamatsu Castle, where Tokugawa Ieyasu spent his later years, is surrounded by a serene park, perfect for an afternoon stroll. For campervan travellers, the Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika is an ideal place to stay. It offers the ability to stay in their parking lot overnight as long as you purchase a tent camping site. There’s also the opportunity to pick your own fruits, adding a unique experience to your historical journey.
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