As an avid road-tripper myself, I am so looking forward to taking road trips in spring in Japan. Why? Because it’s a season of breathtaking beauty, with cherry blossoms in full bloom, rolling green hills, and soft coastal views. One of the best ways to experience this season is by hitting the road and exploring the country’s most scenic routes by car. Today, let us introduce four road trip routes that will give you a memorable journey through Japan’s springtime.
Gunma Prefecture along Japan’s Romantic Road. Photo Credit: Japan’s Romantic Road Official Website
Japan’s Romantic Road (Tochigi to Nagano)
Route: Tochigi Prefecture (Nikkō) → Karuizawa → Ueda → Nagano
Distance: Approximately 320 km
Time Required: At least 2-3 days
Official Website: https://www.jrs-roman.org/
Japan’s Romantic Road (日本ロマンチック街道) is a series of routes designated by local mayors in 1982. This route stretches across Tochigi, Gunma, and Nagano prefectures in central Japan. This scenic drive takes you from the historical grandeur of Nikkō Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the tranquil beauty of Lake Chūzenji, surrounded by cherry blossoms and mountain views. Along the way, you can unwind in Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, or explore the European-style streets and nature trails of Karuizawa. History lovers will appreciate a stop at the Ueda Castle Ruins, an excellent cherry blossom viewing spot with samurai history.
Ichinokurasawa in Gunma along Japan’s Romantic Road. Photo Credit: Japan’s Romantic Road Official Instagram
Food lovers can indulge in Nikkō’s specialty yuba (tofu skin), enjoy a warm bowl of soba noodles in Karuizawa, savor Kusatsu’s famous onsen manju (sweet steamed buns), and taste the crisp, sweet Shinshu apples in Nagano.
Nikko Yuba. Photo Credit: Nikko Official Tourism Website
This journey is ideal for couples or travelers who appreciate history, nature, and charming small towns. The combination of hot springs, historic sites, and mountain scenery makes it a refreshing and romantic getaway.
Shizunai Cherry Blossom Road. Photo Credit: Hokkaido Official Tourism Website
Shizunai Cherry Blossom Road (Hokkaido)
Route: Shizunai (Hokkaido) → Cape Erimo → Obihiro
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Time Required: At least 1-2 days
A drive along the Shizunai Nijukken Road is an unforgettable experience, as this 7-kilometer stretch is lined with 3,000 cherry blossom trees, making it one of Japan’s most breathtaking spring drives. Beyond the blossoms, the journey continues to Cape Erimo, where rugged cliffs meet the vast Pacific Ocean, creating a dramatic coastal backdrop. The trip then leads to the tranquil Tokachi Plain, known for its dairy farming and expansive countryside scenery.
Cape Erimo. Photo Credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Along the way, enjoy Hokkaido’s renowned seafood, including fresh uni (sea urchin) and scallops at Cape Erimo, feast on succulent Tokachi beef steak in Obihiro, and indulge in the region’s famous dairy-based soft-serve ice cream. Since Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms bloom later than those in mainland Japan, this road trip is perfect for those seeking a late-spring adventure.
Hokkaido’s famous seafood. Photo Credit: Hokkaido Official Tourism Website
Hokkaido’s cool climate causes cherry blossoms to bloom later than in mainland Japan, making this road trip a perfect late-spring getaway. The scenic ocean views and peaceful countryside offer a serene experience for travelers.
Yamanami Highway. Photo Credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Shizunai Cherry Blossom Road (Hokkaido)
Route: Kumamoto → Aso → Yufuin → Beppu
Distance: Approximately 85 km
Time Required: At least 1-2 days
The Yamanami Highway is a perfect road trip for those who love dramatic landscapes and hot springs. Starting in Kumamoto, the journey takes you through the volcanic wonderland of Mt. Aso, home to one of the world’s largest active calderas. Stop at Daikanbo Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of rolling green hills before continuing to the charming hot spring town of Yufuin, known for its picturesque lake and thriving art scene. The trip ends in Beppu, famous for its unique “hells” (Jigoku) and rejuvenating onsen experiences.
Onsen in Beppu. Photo Credit: Visit Kyushu Official Website
Along the way, savor Kumamoto’s rich, garlic-infused ramen, enjoy premium Akaushi (red beef) steak from Aso, try Yufuin’s delightful pudding and cheesecake, and taste Beppu’s specialty, hell-steamed cuisine. This route is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation in Japan’s most famous onsen towns.
Akaushi in Kumamoto. Photo Credit: Aso Official Website
The Yamanami Highway is one of Japan’s most scenic mountain drives, offering an unforgettable journey through volcanoes, hot springs, and picturesque landscapes. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation in Japan’s best onsen towns.
Chirihama Beach Drive. Photo Credit: Japan National Tourism Organization
Chirihama Beach Drive (Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa)
Route: Kanazawa → Chirihama Beach → Wajima → Suzu
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Time Required: 1-2 days
One of Japan’s most unique driving experiences, the Chirihama Nagisa Driveway allows you to drive right along the sandy shoreline with the waves of the Sea of Japan lapping beside you. The journey continues to Wajima, where you can explore the historic morning market filled with fresh seafood and handmade crafts, before heading to the terraced rice fields of Shiroyone Senmaida, which offer breathtaking views overlooking the sea. Further along the coast, Mitsukejima Island, known as the “Battleship Island,” makes for a fantastic photo stop.
Mitsukejima. Photo Credit: Ishikawa Official Tourism Website
Enjoy fresh Noto oysters and sashimi, taste delicious lacquerware bento meals in Wajima, and indulge in Ishikawa’s famous gold leaf soft-serve ice cream.
Noto’s oysters. Photo Credit: Ishikawa Official Tourism Website
This road trip is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of coastal scenery, unique local culture, and delicious seafood. Driving on the sand at Chirihama Beach is an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit for adventurous drivers.
Driving in Japan against Mt. Fuji. Photo Credit: N O E L
Spring in Japan is a magical time of year, and these scenic road trips offer the perfect way to experience it. Each of these routes showcases Japan’s incredible natural beauty. So, fuel up your car, grab some local snacks, and embark on a journey through Japan’s most breathtaking spring landscapes. Want to know how to drive in Japan? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Driving in Japan.
Happy road-tripping!
Featured Photo Credit: Hiroyoshi Urushima
