Customers' story: 7-Day Japan Road Trip from Tokyo to Hokkaido (and Back)
- roamnrolljapan
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 4
One of our most memorable experiences in Japan was embracing Van Life renting a campervan and road-tripping from Tokyo all the way up to Hokkaido, then slowly driving back south while exploring local towns, nature spots, and scenic stops far from the tourist crowds.
🚐 Why We Chose Van Life in Japan
Before the road trip, we did a lot of research everything from traffic laws and campervan parking to finding the right rental company. We ultimately decided on Roam & Roll Campervan, based in Tokyo. Their prices are slightly higher than some others, but the van was brand new, beautifully designed, and fully equipped. It is a solid value, especially with long-term rental discounts.
What we loved about the campervan:
Spotlessly clean and smelled fresh
Equipped with kitchen tools, fridge, foldable bed, and power sockets
Easy to drive and fuel-efficient
• English-speaking support and clear instructions
🛳️ Starting the Journey: Ferry from Tokyo to Hokkaido
We kicked off our Japan road trip on April 29, picking up the campervan in the morning and driving about 2 hours to Oarai Port in Ibaraki Prefecture. From there, we boarded the Sunflower Ferry bound for Tomakomai Port in Hokkaido.
The ferry journey takes around 18 hours and includes private cabins, shared bathrooms, lounges, and a restaurant. It was surprisingly comfortable! We arrived in Hokkaido around 1 PM the next day and hit the road right away.
Our 7-Day Itinerary: Hokkaido to Tokyo
Day 1: Tomakomai → Noboribetsu
We originally planned to hike Mount Tarumae, but the trail was closed due to high winds and dense fog. So instead, we drove along scenic lake roads and spent the night at Kojohama Onsen Hotel, a quiet hot spring inn perfect for resting after the ferry.
Day 2: Noboribetsu → Niseko
9:00 AM – Walked 30 mins through a forest trail to reach Oyunuma Brook Natural Footbath, a peaceful geothermal stream where you can soak your feet.
1:00 PM – Cherry blossom viewing at Sobetsu Park, overlooking Lake Tōya.
3:00 PM – Scenic break at Aikawa Viewpoint.
Overnight stay at Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO, a minimalist hotel with panoramic mountain views.
Day 3: Niseko → Hakodate
Lunch at Nokanosobaya Yoteizan, a local soba restaurant.
Dessert stop at Niseko Takahashi Dairy Farm (Milk Kobo) — soft-serve ice cream and yogurt were amazing.
Afternoon walk at Shiribetsugawa Lan Lan Park, a relaxing riverside space.
Day 4: Exploring Hakodate
Morning: Strolled through the lively Hakodate Morning Market for fresh seafood and local specialties.
Afternoon: Climbed Goryōkaku Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the star-shaped fort below perfect for photos.
Day 5: Hakodate → Aomori
Took an early morning ferry across the Tsugaru Strait from Hakodate to Aomori (about 4 hours).
In the afternoon, visited Hirosaki Park, famous for its cherry blossoms and historic Hirosaki Castle with a beautiful red bridge backdrop.
Day 6: Aomori → Morioka → Sendai
Long but scenic drive through Tōhoku’s countryside.
Stayed overnight at Tenjinhama Auto Camping Site, a lakeside campground with excellent facilities and a gorgeous mountain view.
Day 7: Sendai → Tokyo
Final stretch back to Tokyo. We returned the campervan smoothly and wrapped up our journey with full hearts and happy memories.
💡 Helpful Tips for Van Life in Japan
Essentials:
International Driving Permit (IDP). Must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
ETC card rental. Speeds up expressway toll payments and can save you money.
Apps You’ll Need:
Google Maps for navigation
NAVITIME Japan Travel for train/ferry/camper routing
Michi-no-Eki Finder to locate roadside stations (rest stops with food, toilets, parking)
Parking & Camping:
Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Stations) Free to use, with toilets and food stalls.
• Auto Campsites Offer electricity, showers, ocean/mountain views. Book in advance during holidays or sakura season.
Final Thoughts
This road trip gave us a completely new way to see Japan waking up in nature, cooking in the camper van, discovering local shops and onsen far from the tourist zones.
It was freeing, flexible, and incredibly fulfilling. Next time, we’re dreaming of heading south to Kyushu or Shikoku in a campervan.
If you’re considering a unique, immersive way to explore Japan Van Life might just be your perfect adventure.
Useful Links
Google MyMaps – Van Life Stops in Japan
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