The great outdoors is great no matter where you are, but nature and adventure in Japan is unlike any other place on Earth. From the lakes to the mountains to the plains, the landscape of Japan is unique, and offers experiences like no other.
But what is it about camping in Japan that makes it so appealing? Why is it a favorite of tourists and locals alike? And, more importantly, how can you do it? Pack your bags, camper, and JoynTokyo will take you on an in-tents experience!
Why Camping in Japan Feels Different
Every nation has its own allure in nature, and Japan is no exception. While many people, understandably, love to marvel over Tokyo’s bright lights, or Kyoto’s ancient architecture, or Osaka’s… whatever it is they have in Osaka, there is much natural beauty to experience in Japan that humbles even the most pleasant of urban experiences.
Japan is a country that, while not comparable in size to nations like the USA, nevertheless has landscapes that range from sun-kissed beaches to snowcapped mountains, and from grassy plains to sandy deserts. Where would we recommend? Well, let us tell you!
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The Best Places to Camp in Japan
While Japan may be small, its camping options are plentiful. Here are five excellent places for one to pitch a tent!
Mori no Makiba Auto Campsite
In Chiba prefecture, east of Tokyo, this is a wide campsite where your tent can be put wherever you want (except on top of other tents, though!). You can enjoy not only open plains perfect for walking and running with a dog, blueberry patches to nibble from (but DON’T take more than you need!) and even a river to take a dip in.
- Check-in time: from 3pm~
- Mori no Makiba Auto Campsite Website
Kouan Campsite
On the edge of Lake Motosu, one of the Five Fuji Lakes, you can camp with Mt. Fuji itself as your backdrop, a golden opportunity for those who want to take in Japan’s geological symbol (and for those who are in it for the Gram).
- Check-in time: from 3pm~
- Kouan Campsite Website
Togakushi Eastern Campsite
In Nagano prefecture, this site is perfect for anyone who likes mountainous landscapes, with the Togakushi mountain range to the north, and Mt. Iizuna in the south. Moreover, as a forested location, it is terrific for those who love natural shade in Japan’s hot summer, as well as spending the night beneath starry skies.
- Check-in time: from 3pm~
- Togakushi Eastern Campsite Website
Vacation Village Minami Awaji Seaside Campsite
Based in Hyogo prefecture in Kansai, this oceanside site overlooks the Fukura Bay, and is well equipped with electricity and running water to make your camping experience more comfortable. These amenities are enhanced by its proximity to the Shiosai no Yu onsen, a ten minute walk away, as well as a marketplace that sells freshly caught fish that can be cooked on as barbeque.
- Check-in time: from 3pm~
- Minami Awaji Seaside Campsite Website
Oku-Biwako Campsite
Located on the shore of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, visitors have the choice to put up their tent, camp in a vehicle, or rent a villa or cottage. Lake Biwa is known as a beautiful lake for swimming, as well as being a must-visit spot for fishing enthusiasts. Any season is great for visiting, but it is known in the spring as one of the top 100 places for cherry blossom viewing.
- Check-in time: from 3pm~
- Oku-Biwako Campsite Website
Car Camping
With Japan being known for its smaller, fuel efficient cars, those who enjoy cross-country driving and camping in RVs may think that they could be out of luck. However, this is not the case! Companies like Japan RV Rental can help you to hire an RV and make your own way through Japan. Many camp sites have spaces for just such excursions, though you should be aware that you will likely need to acquire an International Driver’s Permit, as most foreign licenses are not valid on their own.
Best Glamping Places
Japan has also caught onto the trend for “glamping” (or, “glamorous camping”) for those who want to combine the joy of getting away from it all in nature with amenities such as WiFi, to keep in touch with people and, of course, share their experiences on social media. If this sounds like you, then here are three glamping site suggestions!
Mobility Resort Motegi Forest and Starry Sky Camping Village
Offering five different kinds of tents, this site in Tochigi offers plenty of space between each, to ensure privacy. You can stargaze, barbeque, and sit around a campfire, and enjoy all the modern benefits that people expect nowadays.
PICA Hatsushima
This site on the island of Hatsushima in Shizuoka prefecture is surrounded by beautiful clear water, and is great for fishing. Guests stay in a private resort villa, where modern comfort meets the great outdoors.
- Check-in time: 2pm~
- PICA Hatsushima Website
LUXUNA Ise-Shima
In Mie prefecture, LUXUNA is a glamping resort, where guests can choose whether to stay in a well appointed tent on the shore or in the woods. You can also enjoy kayaking, a tent sauna, and a bath heated by wood burning.
- Check-in time: 3pm~
- LUXUNA Ise-Shima Website
How Much Does it Cost?
Well, this is a difficult one to answer, at it will depend on the camping you choose. Some sites are free for guests, but they are relatively few. If you’re putting up your own tent, prices can be relatively low, from as little as ¥400/night to ¥3,000. Glamping will be more expensive, with prices usually going for a minimum of ¥4,000/night all the way up to ¥30,000. For RV camping, site prices again are often as low as ¥1,000/night, but you will have to factor in the price of renting the RV, as well.
There we have it! For anyone yearning to return to the wild, seeking a break from the busy routines of Tokyo, or just want to see the stars without light pollution, camping in Japan is the perfect get away.
