Best Road Trips Japan

Lonely Planet's Best Road Trips Japan reveals 36 incredible escapes - with maps - so you can experience the freedom of the open road.

Get ready for a road trip like no other and discover unforgettable drives across Japan that range from 1-day escapes to week-long adventures, from appreciating deep nature and secluded hot spring towns between Matsumoto and Kanazawa; to circumnavigating the lush green island of Yakushima populated with sea turtles; and swinging on vine bridges in the Iya Valley.

Inside Lonely Planet's Best Road Trips Japan:

• Discover 36 open road escapes that range from 1 day to 1 week
• Each route featured includes easy-to-use maps, detailed directions and tips about when to go, duration, distance, and how to link your trip to other drives
• Find the top stops and experiences as well as fun photo opportunities along the way
• 'Our Picks' section highlights the best: historical drives, onsen drives, coastal drives, rural drives, adventure drives, 
• Local travel experts share why they love each trip 
• Essential 'Toolkit' on arriving, hiring the right car for your trip, getting around, local driving laws, accommodation, health and safety, and more
• Covers: Around Tokyo, Central Honshū, Kansai, Western Honshū, Tōhoku, Hokkaidō, Shikoku, Kyūshū & Okinawa

Hit the road with Lonely Planet's Best Road Trips Japan and discover breathtaking drives that offer a precious window into this very special country.