Road Tripping Japan by Campervan: Costs, Tips & Real Experience
- roamandrollcampervan
- Sep 30
- 6 min read
Things to Know Before Renting a Campervan in Japan Traveling around Japan in a campervan has become increasingly popular, and I can totally see why. It gives you the ultimate sense of freedom like bringing your own little home on wheels. You can go wherever you want, at your own pace, without stressing over hotel check-ins or fixed schedules.
But for many people who are curious about this style of travel, there are always a ton of questions. So, I’ve put together a detailed guide based on my own experience, plus information from Roam & Roll Campervan in Tokyo, to make planning easier for anyone thinking about giving it a try.
Types of Campervans and Their Highlights Roam & Roll Campervan Japan offers a variety of models, all beautifully designed with brand-new wooden interiors. The cozy and clean aesthetic makes every van feel welcoming perfect for couples, small families, or groups of friends.
Mori Campervan : This model is highly versatile you can dine, relax, sleep, or store your belongings with ease. Its biggest advantage is that it accommodates up to 4 people, making it great for groups of friends or couples who want extra space.
Nami Campervan : Designed with couples in mind, it features a clear separation between the dining and sleeping areas, plus plenty of storage. Ideal for romantic getaways or a comfortable two-person trip.
Poka Mini Campervan : A compact option that’s easy to drive in the city. It comes with a height-adjustable kitchen, microwave, and seats that transform into a double bed at night and a cozy sofa by day. Perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking convenience and agility.
Personally, I went with the Mori Campervan because of its spacious under-bed storage and roomy dining area inside the van. Even though it was just the two of us, I was happy to pay a little extra for the added comfort throughout the trip
Amenities Inside the Campervan
Overall, the campervans from this company are very well-equipped, making them comfortable and practical for real travel.
Mori Campervan Comes with a queen-size bed plus a sofa bed that can accommodate 1–2 additional people, a medium-sized refrigerator, sink, under-bed storage, and a built-in heater that works even in sub-zero temperatures. It also includes a full camping set table, chairs, gas stove, pots, pans, and more.
All Models Every van is equipped with USB ports, an inverter for charging devices, and a small fridge for keeping fresh food and drinks. One highlight that many reviewers mention is how new and clean the vehicles are no unpleasant smells like older rentals. Each van also comes with a clear English manual for easy use.
If you’d like extra items, you can choose freely, such as:
Child seat (infant–1 year and up): ¥2,000 per rental
ETC card for automatic highway tolls: ¥600/day
Comprehensive insurance add-on: ¥5,000/day
Snow Peak camping gear: tent + sleeping bags ¥15,000, or full cooking set ¥15,000
Projector for in-van movie nights: ¥5,000
Booking Process & Policies
Booking is simple: just send in a quote request form and wait for a reply within 48 hours. Then transfer a deposit. Quotes are valid for 5 days.On pick-up day, go to the office in Sugamo, Tokyo. Vehicle check and contract signing take about 30–40 minutes. A refundable security deposit is also required (credit card or cash accepted).
Cancellation policy (fair and flexible):
Cancel 60+ days before: full refund or reschedule within 6 months
31–59 days before: 20% fee
7–30 days before: 50% fee
Less than 7 days / no-show: 100% feeExceptions apply for medical emergencies with official certification.
👉 Discover full details : Rental policy
1. Rental Price & Overall Costs
Rental rates average ¥10,000–25,000/day depending on model and season
(peak: cherry blossoms, Golden Week, autumn foliage).
Fuel: about ¥160–180/liter (regular gasoline)
Tolls: round trip Tokyo–Fuji–Nagano costs around ¥5,000–15,000
Overnight parking:
Michi-no-Eki = free (be considerate)
Auto camping grounds = ¥2,000–5,000/night with toilets, showers, BBQ
Cleaning fee: some companies charge ¥7,000 per rental
👉 Total daily cost usually comes to ¥15,000–30,000.
2. Driver’s License Requirements
Most travelers need an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1968 Geneva Convention.Some countries (e.g. Switzerland, Germany, France) may use their home license if accompanied by a Japanese translation from JAF.
3. Where Can You Stay Overnight?
Michi-no-Eki (道の駅): Over 1,000 roadside stations with clean restrooms and free parking. No tents or loud noise allowed.
RV Parks/Auto Camping Grounds: With electricity, toilets, hot water, sometimes next to onsen.
Private lots: Look for signs saying “Overnight Parking”.
🚫 Strictly avoid: residential areas, shopping malls, and roadside parking—fines and local complaints are common.
4. Is Driving Difficult?
Highways and countryside roads are easy, with English road signs.
In big cities, parking is tough and streets are narrow—best to avoid.
GPS often works by entering the phone number of the destination.
5. Best Seasons for Campervan Trips
Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms, cool weather
Summer (Jun–Aug): Best for Hokkaido; Honshu can be hot
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Stunning fall colors, but crowded
Winter (Dec–Feb): Great for skiing—choose vehicles with strong heaters and snow tires
6. Campground Rules
Use of Bladed Tools
Serious hand injuries often occur when chopping firewood.
Always use a log holder to prevent accidents.
Medical facilities are far away, so please be extra careful.
Protection of Privacy
Filming or requesting “interviews” for video sites is strictly prohibited.
Report any harassment immediately to the administration office.
Driving in the Campsite
Drive slowly and watch for pedestrians and ditches.
Park considerately without disturbing others.
Noise Control
Generators and unnecessary idling are prohibited.
Keep noise levels low, especially between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Fires
Open fires are prohibited.
Use only bonfire stands or barbecue stoves.
Camping and Parking
Do not set up tents, hammocks, or park vehicles under large trees, as roots may be damaged.
Pets
Keep pets on a leash at all times.
Clean up after your pet and respect those who may not like dogs.
Children
Campsites are free and undesignated; children may get lost when crowded.
Parents must supervise children closely.
No Fireworks
Fireworks are strictly prohibited due to fire hazards.
No Drones
Drones are prohibited as they disturb campers and may cause accidents if they fall.
Avoiding Natural Hazards
Nature can be dangerous—please stay alert and be prepared to protect yourself.
Wildlife
Wild animals live near the campsite.
Do not leave food outside.
Dispose of garbage only at the designated station between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Metal Pegs
Metal pegs left unattended are very dangerous.
Count your pegs when setting up and taking down your tent.
7. Insurance & Coverage
All vehicles include basic insurance (CDW).We recommend add-ons such as Zero Deductible coverage or accident/theft protection for peace of mind.
👉 Discover full details : Steps to Follow in Case of an Accident in Japan
8. Campervan Routes from Tokyo (5 Days)
Fuji – Nagano – Japanese Alps Scenic Mt. Fuji views, the Five Lakes, Matsumoto Castle, and breathtaking alpine nature.
Nikko – Aizu – Tohoku Sacred shrines, waterfalls, Edo-style villages, and hidden forest hot springs — best in autumn.
Izu Peninsula – Coastal Drive Jogasaki coastline, Shimoda’s white beaches, Dogashima cliffs, and seaside onsen.
Yamanashi – Takayama – Shirakawa-go Local wine tasting, the old town of Takayama, and UNESCO thatched-roof villages.
Nagano – Winter Snow Route Chic Karuizawa, snow monkeys in hot springs, Nozawa Onsen village, and world-class ski resorts.
👉 Discover full details, camping spots, and activities here: [Click to read more]
9. Campervan vs. Motorhome
Campervan: Compact, easy to drive, city-friendly, fits 2–4 people, budget-friendly. Limited amenities.
Motorhome: Full kitchen, bathroom, living space, fits 4–6 people. Harder to drive, parking is tricky, and higher cost.
👉 Conclusion:For first-timers in Japan, starting with a campervan is recommended. It’s easier to handle, more affordable, and still gives you the full road trip experience.
🔗 Online Channels & Contact Info
Platform | Handle / URL | Notes |
Their official Facebook page. Facebook | ||
They post reels and photos of van life, routes, and scenic spots. |