Prince Hotel BlogsJapan is a stunning country; from coast to coast and mountainous peak to mountainous peak, it deserves to be fully explored.
Don’t limit yourself to seeing only the cities, or only visiting the locations public transport can get you to; be in control of your own trip and explore this awe inspiring country at your own accord.
Getting off the beaten track is a great way to get to know a new country, and Japan’s hidden gems, gorgeous scenery, staggering mountains and beautiful coasts will reward your adventurous spirit generously.
Be sure to book your accommodation in advance with Prince Hotels; they are conveniently located all across Japan and offer way more than luxury rooms. You’ll find them in many stunning locations across Japan; resorts where you can ski, spa, hike or just chill out.
If you’re flying into Tokyo then check out the stunning Shinagawa Prince Hotel; not only is it one of the best hotels in Japan, it’s the perfect place to start a road trip and is home to some of the best Shinagawa restaurants. You can also try the Prince Karuizawa for a more scenic and restful location- it also happens to be one of the finest hotels in Karuizawa!
Now let’s take a look at some of things you need to know before buckling in and exploring Japan by car.
The International Driving Permit, or IDP, is a crucial bit of paperwork for any foreign national thinking of doing a road trip in Japan.
It must be acquired before you arrive in Japan, and will not be issued to anyone already in the country.
It is only valid with a recognised and government approved existing license, so make sure you carry your home license with you at all times.
Your IDP will last for a year, but that should be fine if you are on a shorter trip.
Renting a car from the airport, or anywhere else, works in very much the same way as many other countries in the world.
It is worth noting that cars drive on the left hand side of the road, so the steering wheel is located on the right hand side of the car. If this is different from your own country, then it would probably be worth getting used to the new setup in a carpark.
There are many toll roads in Japan, and you can pay for them with cash, card or the Electronic Toll Collection System (ETC)- but this requires some setup.
Choosing a good route is essential to any road trip, but being prepared to map-read or have a backup map ready to go is essential when you can’t read the language on the road signs.
Make sure you have a map you can read, or some data on your phone as a back up.
It’s also important to choose a route that takes you to all the spots you want to visit- obviously. So check out some road trip itineraries for inspiration.
You will find driving in Japan a very pleasant experience. Drivers are courteous and aware of their surroundings.
Drivers use their hazards a lot, mainly as a thankyou, so don’t be surprised to see flashing lights!
So there you have it. Some top tips to help you get started with planning your amazing Japanese roadtrip.
Wherever you decide to go you’re sure to have an amazing time thanks to the stunning beauty of Japan.
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