Japan is a country built for rail travel — but some of its most breathtaking scenery is only accessible by car. Once you have your JAF translation sorted, a world of incredible road trips opens up. Here are our top picks for foreign drivers in 2025.
1. Hokkaido: Japan's Wide-Open North
Hokkaido is the dream destination for drivers. Unlike the rest of Japan, roads here are wide, straight, and relatively uncrowded. The Furano–Biei Flower Route in summer offers endless fields of lavender and sunflowers, while the Shiretoko Peninsula (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) rewards those who venture far east.
Best season: June–September
Highlight: The Blue Pond (Aoiike) near Biei, reachable only by car
2. Ise-Shima and Kii Peninsula, Mie Prefecture
The Kii Peninsula in central Japan is largely off the tourist radar, yet it contains some of the country's most sacred sites — including the Grand Shrine of Ise and the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Winding coastal roads and dense cedar forests make for unforgettable driving.
Best season: October–November (autumn foliage)
Highlight: Nachi Falls, one of Japan's tallest waterfalls
3. Kyushu Loop: Volcanoes, Onsens, and Coastlines
Kyushu, Japan's southernmost main island, offers a compact loop that packs in incredible variety. Drive around Mt. Aso (one of the world's largest calderas), through the hot spring towns of Beppu and Yufuin, and down to the dramatic Ibusuki sand bath coast.
Best season: Year-round (mild climate)
Highlight: The Yamanami Highway across the Aso highland
4. Shikoku Pilgrimage Route (88 Temples)
The traditional route connecting 88 Buddhist temples across Shikoku island is usually walked, but driving it gives you the flexibility to complete it in 5–7 days instead of weeks. The landscapes range from rugged Pacific coastline to misty mountain passes.
Best season: Spring (March–May) or autumn
Highlight: Cape Muroto on the wild Pacific coast
5. Nikko and Oku-Nikko, Tochigi
Just two hours north of Tokyo by car, Nikko offers an easy escape into mountain scenery. Beyond the famous Toshogu Shrine, the Iroha-zaka switchback road climbs through dense forest to Lake Chuzenjiko and the Kegon Falls.
Best season: October–November for peak autumn colours
Highlight: The 48 hairpin turns of Iroha-zaka
Before You Go: Get Your JAF Translation
Remember — if your license is from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, or Taiwan, you need a JAF translation before you can rent a car in Japan. Apply online through JDLTC in just 5 minutes.