Customers' stories: 4 Days, 3 Nights in Japan’s Winter Wonderland by Campervan Japan

Travel dates: 12–15 February 2025

Campervan: Nami campervan

Route: Tokyo → Kusatsu Onsen → Karuizawa → Yamanashi → Atami → Tokyo

This winter, my husband and I set off on a trip full of firsts. It was our first time driving in Japan during winter, our first time seeing so much snow, and our first Japan campervan journey. What followed was four unforgettable days that took us from snowy onsen towns to a surprising glimpse of early spring—showing us just how rewarding winter campervan travel in Japan can be.

Day 1: Tokyo to Kusatsu Onsen — Our First Taste of Winter Japan

We picked up our Nami campervan in Tokyo and began driving toward Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns. As we climbed higher into the mountains, the scenery slowly transformed. Snow gathered along the roadside, trees turned white, and the air felt noticeably colder.

It was our first time driving a campervan in winter conditions in Japan, but the journey felt smooth and reassuring. Having a winter-ready campervan made a big difference, allowing us to enjoy the drive rather than worry about the road.

Arriving in Kusatsu, we were immediately amazed. Steam rose from the streets, snow rested quietly on rooftops, and the town felt both lively and deeply traditional. We watched the famous Yumomi onsen water-cooling performance, then spent the evening onsen hopping, moving between bathhouses at a relaxed pace.

Later, we picked up local onsen snacks and enjoyed them inside the campervan, warm and comfortable while snow fell outside. It was the perfect first night—peaceful, memorable, and uniquely Japanese.

Day 2: A Gentle Winter Day in Karuizawa

We started the day by driving to Karuizawa, where the atmosphere felt calm and refined under the winter air. Our first stop was Harunire Terrace, a cozy cluster of cafés and shops surrounded by trees. Even in winter, it felt warm and inviting, and we enjoyed wandering along the wooden paths at an unhurried pace.

From there, we explored a few of Karuizawa’s historic churches, quietly tucked away among the trees. With snow softening the surroundings, the area felt peaceful and reflective—an ideal way to slow down during a winter trip.

In the evening, we headed to Tombo-no-Yu Onsen. Soaking in the open-air bath while snow gently fell around us was the perfect way to end the day. By the time we returned to the campervan, we felt completely relaxed, warm, and ready for the next leg of our winter campervan journey.

Day 3: A Quiet Night Above the Clouds in Yamanashi

Before leaving Karuizawa, we drove to a local strawberry farm for an all-you-can-eat strawberry buffet. As winter is strawberry season, we had so many varieties of strawberries.

We then head to OSOTO NO TERRACE, a campground high in the mountains of Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture. As we arrived, we were stunned by the view. From the campsite, we could look out over the city below, with Mount Fuji visible throughout the day and night.

Even more special was the silence. There was no one else around—just us, the mountains, and the vast winter sky. We lit a campfire, cooked dinner outdoors, and took our time enjoying the stillness of the evening.

Despite it being our first time camping in winter, we never felt uncomfortable. The Nami campervan was incredibly cozy. The bed was comfortable, and the heater kept the interior warm all night. We slept deeply, surrounded by snow and complete quiet.

Day 4: From Snow to Sakura in Atami

On our final day, we headed south toward Atami in the Izu region. Just two days earlier, we had been surrounded by heavy snow, so what we saw next came as a complete surprise.

In Atami, plum blossoms were already in bloom—and even cherry blossoms. It felt as though we had travelled between seasons in a single drive. Seeing sakura in February was something we never expected, and it made the end of our trip feel especially special.

This stop was recommended by the team at Roam and Roll Campervan, and it reminded us how valuable local knowledge can be when travelling by campervan in Japan. They truly know where to find these hidden seasonal moments.

From Atami, we drove back to Tokyo, wishing the journey didn’t have to end so soon.

Final Thoughts: Winter Campervan Travel in Japan

Travelling by campervan gave us the freedom to experience snow, hot springs, mountains, and early spring flowers—all in just four days. For first-time winter drivers and first-time winter campers, the experience felt safe, comfortable, and surprisingly easy.

This trip showed us just how special winter travel in Japan by campervan can be when you move at your own pace. We wished we had more time on the road—and we will definitely be back for another adventure in the Nami campervan.

 Book your Roam and Roll campervan in Tokyo and start your Mt. Fuji road trip with comfort, simplicity, and unforgettable moments along the way.

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