CultureJapanese Coastal Drives: Scenic Routes and Road Trip Tips
By Tour in Japan editors · Updated
Japan's coastline is stunning — from the Izu Peninsula to the Seto Inland Sea. Here are the best driving routes and road trip tips.
Japan's coastline is stunning — from the Izu Peninsula to the Seto Inland Sea. Here are the best driving routes and road trip tips.
Top Coastal Drives
1. Izu Peninsula (Tokyo Day Trip)
| Detail | Info |
|---|
| Distance | 150 km loop |
| Duration | Full day |
| Highlights | Shimoda, Kawazu waterfalls, onsen |
| Best season | Spring (cherry blossoms), Autumn |
2. Shimanami Kaido (Cycling + Driving)
| Detail | Info |
|---|
| Distance | 60 km |
| Duration | Half day driving, full day cycling |
| Highlights | Six islands, bridges, ocean views |
| Best season | Spring, Autumn |
3. Kannami Skyline (Mt. Fuji Views)
| Detail | Info |
|---|
| Distance | 30 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Highlights | Mt. Fuji views, Lake Ashi |
| Best season | Clear winter days |
4. Hokkaido Coastal Roads
| Detail | Info |
|---|
| Distance | 500+ km |
| Duration | 3–5 days |
| Highlights | Cape Soya, Shiretoko, coastal cliffs |
| Best season | Summer (June–September) |
5. Nagasaki Coast (Kyushu)
| Detail | Info |
|---|
| Distance | 100 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Highlights | Hirado, coastal villages |
| Best season | Spring, Autumn |
Road Trip Tips
Before You Go
- [ ] International Driving Permit
- [ ] Rental car booked
- [ ] ETC card for tolls
- [ ] GPS navigation (rental car has one)
- [ ] Cash for tolls and parking
- [ ] Snacks and water
- [ ] Sunscreen and hat
- [ ] Camera
Driving in Japan
| Rule | Details |
|---|
| Drive on the left | Same as UK, Australia |
| Speed limits | 60 km/h (general), 100 km/h (expressway) |
| Toll roads | ETC card for discounts |
| Parking | Paid, ¥200–500/hour |
| Rest stops | Excellent (SA/PA) |
Budget
| Item | Cost |
|---|
| Car rental | ¥5,000–10,000/day |
| Gas | ¥1,500–3,000/day |
| Tolls | ¥1,000–5,000/day |
| Parking | ¥1,000–3,000/day |
| Total | ¥8,500–21,000/day ($57–140) |
Tips
- Rent a car — essential for coastal drives
- Get an ETC card — for toll discounts
- Check weather — coastal roads can be windy
- Stop at rest areas — great food and views
- Bring a camera — coastal scenery is stunning
- Plan fuel stops — gas stations can be sparse in rural areas
- Drive during the day — avoid night driving on unfamiliar roads
- Enjoy the journey — coastal drives are about the experience
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