A 3-Week Hokkaido Road Trip Itinerary
(June – August)
While Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara are the usual suspects for a Japanese holiday,
there is a northernparadise waiting to be discovered. Hokkaido,
Japan’s northernmost island, is a world of its own
—offering vast wilderness, a rich cultural tapestry, and a summer climate that is,
quite frankly, the best in the country.
The Ultimate Climate Advantage
Forget the stifling heat and the “Tsuyu” (rainy season) of mainland Japan. From June to August,
Hokkaido remains refreshingly dry with comfortable temperatures ranging between 20°C and 25°C.
As the rest of the country swelters, Hokkaido stands as the ultimate sanctuary for those seeking a cool, breezy escape.
🚐 6 Reasons Why June – August is the Golden Season
No Rainy Season: Leave the umbrellas behind and enjoy clear blue skies throughout the summer.
Perfect Temperatures: Mild days and cool nights—ideal for hiking and sleeping comfortably in your van.
Floral Spectacles: Witness the world-famous lavender fields (peak in July) and vibrant summer blooms that last into August.
Great Value: Enjoy the beauty of early and mid-summer with rental rates that are often more reasonable than the late-August peak.
Seasonal Delicacies: Indulge in peak-season crab, sea urchin (uni), and scallops available all summer long.
Endless Daylight: Maximize your road trip with long summer days that stretch late into the evening, especially in June and July.
💡 Pro-Tips for the Summer Nomad
Layer Up: Don’t let the “summer” tag fool you. Even in July and August, temperatures in Rebun Island or Shiretoko can drop below 15°C at night.
Always pack a light down jacket or a windbreaker.
Crab Strategy: Whether it’s June or August, for the ultimate freshness and price, head to local coastal stalls in Wakkanai or Rausu.
Buying directly from the source is a game-changer!
Here is a 3-Week Road Trip Itinerary from Oarai to Tomakomai
Experience the ultimate freedom of the open road. This 21-day journey takes you through Hokkaido’s most iconic landscapes,
from blooming flower fields to the rugged wilderness of World Heritage sites.
Departure from Oarai Port & Arrival in Tomakomai
Day 1 -2
Pick up your campervan at the Travellers Autobarn Japan Narita Branch. From there, enjoy a smooth drive (approx. 1.5–2 hours) to Oarai Port in Ibaraki Prefecture. Board the evening ferry to begin your voyage. The 18-hour ferry ride is not just transit—it’s the start of your vacation. Relax in the onboard baths and enjoy the ocean views. You will arrive at Tomakomai Port in the evening. Spend your first night at a nearby RV park or head toward Lake Shikotsu.
The Crystal Waters of Lake Shikotsu & The Healing Springs of Noboribetsu
Day 3
Visit Lake Shikotsu, famous for having some of the clearest water in Japan. It’s a perfect spot for lakeside camping and crystal-kayak canoeing. After enjoying the serene lake, head to Noboribetsu Onsen to witness the dramatic, steaming vents of Hell Valley (Jigokudani). End your day soaking in its legendary mineral-rich waters—the perfect way to recharge before heading to Sapporo the following morning.
Sapporo’s Summer Vibes & Seafood Feasts
Day 4-5
Experience the refreshing breeze at Odori Park with a grilled corn cob. Visit Nijo Market for an incredible feast of King Crab and Snow Crab. After dark, park your van and explore the vibrant nightlife of Susukino.
The Colors of Furano & Biei
Day 6-7
Immerse yourself in the scent of lavender at Farm Tomita. In Biei, drive through the rolling hills of the Patchwork Road and witness the ethereal beauty of the Shirogane Blue Pond.
Cruising the Scenic Ororon Line
Day 8-9
Drive along the Ororon Line, a breathtaking coastal road with the Sea of Japan on your left. Stop at the Sarobetsu Plain for a sunset that feels like it’s at the edge of the world.
Rebun Island (Alpine Flower Paradise)
Day 10-12
Take the ferry from Wakkanai (you can board with your campervan). Hike the Momoiwa (Peach Rock) Trail to see rare alpine flowers and stand at Cape Sukoton, the northernmost tip of the island. June and July are the peak months for these unique blooms.
Wakkanai & The "White Road"
Day 13-14
Take a commemorative photo at the Northernmost Point of Japan monument at Cape Soya. Then, drive your van along the “White Road”—a stunning path made of crushed scallop shells that offers a brilliant contrast against the blue sea.
Okhotsk Coast & Abashiri
Day 15 -16
Follow the coast eastward. Spend a quiet night at a campsite near Lake Notoro or Lake Saroma, enjoying fresh local scallops and the cool lake breeze.
Shiretoko World Heritage Site
Day 17-19
Explore the “End of the World.”Walk the elevated boardwalks of the Shiretoko Five Lakes while watching for deer and brown bears. Trek to the secluded Lake Rausu and drive through the Shiretoko Pass, dominated by the majestic, rugged peak of Mount Rausu. Whether you’re hiking its alpine trails or admiring it from the pass, you can see its snow-capped ridges even in mid-summer, standing as the grand sentinel of this World Heritage wilderness.
Tokachi & Obihiro (The Sweet Kingdom)
Day 20
Drive south through the vast plains of Tokachi. This area is famous for its “Sweets Road”—be sure to try the local dairy products, desserts, and the famous Tokachi Butadon (pork bowl).
Return to Tomakomai & Ferry Home
Day 21
Stock up on local souvenirs and delicacies before heading to Tomakomai Port for the evening ferry back to Oarai. Reflect on your 3-week adventure as you sail across the Pacific.
Discover Japan’s Summer vanlife!
Check out some of our recommended Itinerary here:
- See Our Rural Areas to Visit in a Campervan Part 1: Tohoku / Hokkaido
- See Our Seasonal Places to Visit in Japan: Spring and Summer
- See Our The Top 8 Coolest Destinations in Japan for Summer
Looking for more? Find a huge range of different routes and road trip itineraries across Japan.
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