Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip Itinerary
The Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip is an excellent way to explore the beauty and culture of Japan. This route covers an impressive 1012km and is best driven in 12 days in order to soak up the sights and attractions along the way. The best time of year to undertake this journey is from April to October when the weather is mild and the roads are in good condition.
The route includes the stunning towns of Kamakura, Matsumoto, Ise and Nara, each offering their own unique historical sites and landscapes. There are several UNESCO Heritage monuments to explore, making this a truly memorable experience. The roads are mostly excellent but can be narrow and winding in places.
The Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip is suitable for every driver, although some budgeting will be required to take full advantage of the journey. With its spectacular views and cultural attractions, this road trip offers a truly remarkable experience and memories to last a lifetime.
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991 km
route length
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START
Tokyo
Distance 991 km
Driving time 22.9 h
Pace: slow
227.8 kWh
Airports
HND
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NRT
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Tokyo is the vibrant, bustling capital of Japan. It is a city of contrasts, where ancient shrines and temples coexist with the ultra-modern. Tokyo is a great starting point for a road trip, such as the "Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip" that will take you through some of Japan's most stunning scenery.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Tokyo is Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT). At the airport you can rent a car and hit the road for an unforgettable journey.
In Tokyo, there are a host of sights to see. Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower, a must-see landmark with outstanding views of the city and beyond. Be sure to check out the Imperial Palace, the residence of the emperor of Japan, and take a stroll through Ueno Park, a beautiful green space full of museums, temples and shrines.
No trip to Tokyo is complete without sampling the city's renowned cuisine. Sample traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura and ramen, or explore the city's diverse food scene with a visit to one of its many food markets.
From Tokyo, you can explore the rest of Japan on your "Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip". Visit the ancient city of Kyoto, take in the stunning views of Mount Fuji, and explore the city of Nara with its sacred temples and shrines. You could also take a side trip to Hiroshima, the city that was the site of the first atomic bomb attack.
So start your Japan road trip in Tokyo and explore this incredible city and the many attractions that Japan has to offer.
1
Tokyo
- Kamakura
Distance 61 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: slow
14.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip from Tokyo to Kamakura and discover the wonders of the Japanese countryside! Start your journey in Tokyo, the nation's capital, and drive the 67 km (42 miles) south to Kamakura. It will take you less than two hours to get there. Along the way, you'll get to see some of Japan's most famous historical sites and picturesque landscapes. Make sure to have your camera ready to snap photos of the Great Buddha of Kamakura, the most popular attraction in the city. You can also explore the ancient temples and shrines in the area, or take a stroll along the beach. There are plenty of places to stop for food and souvenirs, so make sure to take advantage of them. This is just one stage of a larger tour, and there is much more to explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Kamakura - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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2
Kamakura
- Hakone
Distance 53 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
12.2 kWh
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Take your road trip to the next level and explore the incredible 53 km journey from Kamakura to Hakone! This trip can be done in fewer than two hours, so you can easily explore the best of both cities. Start your journey in Kamakura, a city of historical significance and home to many shrines and temples. Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a 13.35-meter tall bronze statue, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the city. Then, head to Hakone, a picturesque mountainous region with hot springs, incredible views of Mt. Fuji, and the famous Hakone Shrine. Enjoy a relaxing ferry ride on Lake Ashi, and take in stunning views of the surrounding area. Make sure to drive around the Hakone Turnpike, a winding, scenic road that will give you breathtaking views of the surrounding area. You can also take a cable car ride at Owakudani, an active volcanic area. With so much to see and do, this journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information on attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Hakone - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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3
Hakone
- Matsumoto
Distance 207 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: fast
62.0 kWh
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Embark on a 207 km road trip from Hakone to Matsumoto and explore the best of Japan! Start your journey in the beautiful Hakone, home to some of the most stunning views of Mount Fuji, and then journey onwards through the winding roads of the mountainous region. Along the way, you will be able to take in the sights of the picturesque landscape, with some of the most beautiful views of the Japanese countryside. Make sure to take your time and appreciate the historical sites and the scenery, as you make your way to Matsumoto. The drive will take you no more than 3 hours, and you will be able to get an even better experience of the region. In Matsumoto, you can explore the historic castles and the stunning views from the city's mountainside. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the best of Japan!
Matsumoto - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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4
Matsumoto
- Tsumago
Distance 101 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: modest
26.2 kWh
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Embark on a 101km road trip from Matsumoto to Tsumago, a journey that will take you less than 2 hours. Along this route, you can admire the picturesque landscapes of Japan's countryside, with its rolling hills and lush forests. As you drive along the winding roads, you will come across several historical sites that are worth a visit. On the way, you can also enjoy the sights of the riverside and the traditional towns. Once you reach Tsumago, you will find yourself surrounded by old-style buildings and a serene atmosphere. Make sure to take time to explore and take in the stunning views. Don't forget to take lots of photos! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, you can find detailed information in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for an exciting adventure!
Tsumago - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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5
Tsumago
- Ise
Distance 219 km
Driving time 5.4 h
Pace: modest
56.9 kWh
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Embark on a 219km long road trip starting from Tsumago, Japan and ending in Ise and you will be in for a treat. This journey will take you less than 6 hours and will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. To start your journey, you will take a ferry across the sea. You will then be taken along a winding road, offering panoramic views of the countryside. During your drive, make sure to keep an eye out for some of the historical sites and picturesque landscapes that the area has to offer. Once in Ise, you will find many attractions to explore, from temples and shrines to ancient ruins. With so much to see and do, you will be glad you made this journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check the Itinerary of this stage.
Ise - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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6
Ise
- Kumano
Distance 121 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: modest
31.6 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling 127 km road trip from Ise to Kumano, one of the most beautiful and historic regions in Japan. You will be amazed by the stunning landscape and the historical sites along the way. The entire journey will take you fewer than 3 hours, so be sure to take your time and admire the scenery. As you drive, you will go through some winding roads and narrow sections, so be sure to pay extra attention. On your way, you can visit the Ise Grand Shrine, one of the most sacred Shinto shrines in Japan, and the Kumano Hayatama Taisha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both sites are great for exploring and will give you a unique insight into the culture and history of the region. Make sure to also look out for the beautiful scenery along the way, including the lush forests and stunning coastline. For more information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Kumano - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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7
Kumano
- Nara
Distance 132 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: slow
30.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip from Kumano to Nara and explore some of the most incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites in Japan! This 137 km journey will take less than 4 hours to complete, and you can enjoy picturesque landscapes and spectacular views along the way. Start your journey in Kumano and visit the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, an ancient route used by monks and pilgrims for centuries. From here, you'll drive along winding roads, passing through narrow valleys and lush forests until you reach Nara. Make sure to explore the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where you can admire the incredible Japanese architecture. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the Nara Park, where you can see the beautiful deer roaming around. For a unique experience, visit Todai-ji Temple, the world's largest wooden building, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest, a pristine forest with ancient trees. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience on this road trip! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of the tour.
Nara - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Nara - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Nara
- Kyoto
Distance 43 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: slow
10.0 kWh
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Embark on a memorable road trip from Nara to Kyoto! This 47km journey will take you less than an hour and will be full of interesting sights. Start off with the beautiful Isuien Garden in Nara, a tranquil landscape garden perfect for a stroll. Then, visit Todai-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous and historically significant temples in Japan. As you make your way to Kyoto, admire the picturesque views of the Japanese countryside and the local wildlife. In Kyoto, don’t miss the grand Kinkaku-ji Temple, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the stunning Golden Pavilion. For a different experience, visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, the picturesque shrine of thousands of vermilion tori gates. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Kyoto - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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9
Kyoto
- Osaka
Distance 53 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
13.9 kWh
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Embark on a 54km journey from Kyoto to Osaka and discover some of the best attractions that Japan has to offer! This beautiful road trip will take you less than two hours and you will be able to enjoy picturesque landscapes and historical sites. Along the way, you can visit The Fushimi Inari Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Ujigami Shrine, the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan. The journey is also excellent for nature lovers, as you will be able to admire the beauty of the Katsura River, a beautiful stream that passes through the city of Kyoto. Lastly, a visit to the Osaka Castle is a must if you're looking for a unique experience. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Osaka - Japan - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Osaka
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The final destination of the "Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip" is Osaka, Japan – a bustling, vibrant city that offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors. From historical sites to modern marvels, there is something to suit all tastes.
The first stop in Osaka is the magnificent Osaka Castle, a 16th century castle which will transport you back in time with its beautiful architecture and lush gardens. After exploring the castle grounds, take a stroll around the bustling Nishinomaru Garden, where you can enjoy the serenity of the lotus pond and the beauty of the cherry blossoms in bloom.
If you're looking for something a bit more modern, head to Umeda Sky Building, a unique architecture marvel which houses an observation deck and several restaurants. There's also Universal Studios Japan, a fun-filled theme park with plenty of rides and attractions to enjoy.
To experience Osaka's local culture, visit the lively Dotonbori area, where you will find traditional Japanese restaurants, shopping arcades, and buzzing nightlife. Alternatively, you can take a cruise along the Okawa River and admire the stunning views of the city.
The closest international airport to Osaka is Kansai International Airport (KIX), which is located 50km from the city center. After a long journey, Osaka is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.
Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Tokyo
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End:
Osaka
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Distance:
991 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND),
Narita International Airport (NRT)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip is an enthralling excursion that traverses the heart of Japan, covering roughly 1012 kilometers. Ideally spread over 12 days, this journey offers explorers a profound connection with Japan's breathtaking landscapes, ancient traditions, and contemporary vibrancy.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Kamakura: This coastal town is steeped in history, featuring numerous shrines, Zen gardens, and the iconic 13th-century bronze Great Buddha statue, known as Daibutsu, which stands at a height of approximately 11.4 meters.
- Matsumoto: Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is renowned for its original black-and-white crow castle, Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure that provides insight into the samurai era.
- Ise: Regarded as the spiritual heart of Shintoism, the Ise Grand Shrine is Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine and is rebuilt every 20 years in a centuries-old tradition known as Shikinen Sengu.
- Nara: An ancient capital of Japan, Nara is home to the impressive Todai-ji Temple, which houses the world's largest bronze Vairocana Buddha statue, and the Nara Deer Park, where over 1,200 wild sika deer roam freely.
Best Time to Go:
Embarking on this Road Trip between April and October is recommended, with the added bonus of witnessing the stunning cherry blossoms in spring or the vibrant autumn foliage. Summer festivals also offer a peek into Japan's seasonal celebrations.
Potential Risks:
While Japan's Roads are well-maintained, some stretches can be narrow, particularly in rural areas, and may include hairpin turns. It's important for drivers to stay alert and be comfortable with different driving conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Japan's transportation system is renowned for its efficiency; however, ensure to budget for toll Roads, which are common and can be pricey.
- Gaining knowledge of local driving laws, such as the prohibition of using mobile phones while driving, and understanding the etiquette, like the use of hazard lights to thank other drivers, will enhance your travel experience.
- Consider incorporating experiences like staying in a traditional ryokan, visiting an onsen (hot spring), or participating in a tea ceremony for a deeper cultural immersion.
A good choice for:
The Tokyo to Osaka Road Trip encapsulates the essence of a transformative journey, blending awe-inspiring sceneries with profound cultural encounters. It's an unforgettable voyage that beckons the culturally curious and adventurous souls, promising a deeply personal glimpse into the heart of Japan.
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