Road Trip in Japan on a Shoestring: The Best 10-Day Japanese Road Trip Itinerary

Japan is a dream destination for many, but it’s often seen as expensive especially when you fly with Japan's largest airline. Don’t worry, budget travelers! With good planning, you can explore Japan without spending too much. Here’s a 10-day road trip itinerary that will take you through some of the best places in Japan. Get ready for a journey filled with beautiful sights, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Before you start your trip, make sure you have the right visa. Many countries, like the US, Canada, Australia, and those in the EU, can enter Japan as tourists for up to 90 days without a visa. Always check the latest visa requirements from your local Japanese embassy or consulate, as rules may change.

The best times for a road trip in Japan are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons have nice weather, beautiful landscapes, and fun festivals like the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in October. Spring is famous for cherry blossoms in Hokkaido, the winter sports in Nagano, and the Snow festival in Sapporo, while autumn has stunning fall colors.

Your journey begins in Tokyo, Japan’s busy capital. While you could spend a lot of time exploring Tokyo, we’ll focus on some budget-friendly highlights.

Start your trip in Asakusa, home to the famous Senso-ji Temple. This is Tokyo's oldest temple and a peaceful escape from the city's busy streets. Walk along Nakamise Shopping Street, where you can buy affordable souvenirs and try traditional snacks. The lively atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-see. Visiting Senso-ji is free, and the souvenirs and street food here are reasonably priced.

For a taste of modern Tokyo, visit Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. Watching the organized chaos from a nearby café is quite an experience that anyone visiting should try. The surrounding area is full of shops and eateries where you can window shop and find affordable meals. Nearby, the serene Meiji Shrine located in a lush forested area, offers a calm retreat from the city noise. Both Shibuya Crossing and Meiji Shrine have no entrance fees.

Stay at Khaosan Tokyo Origami Hostel, which costs about $25 per night for a dorm bed. It’s a friendly place where you can meet other travelers.

For food, try conveyor belt sushi at Genki Sushi, which is an affordable and fun way to try one of Japan’s signature dishes. Plates are usually under $1 each, making it easy to control your spending. If you want something hearty, head to Ichiran Ramen for a delicious bowl of ramen in a unique solo dining booth. Meals here are around $10, a good deal for Tokyo.

A two-hour drive from Tokyo, Hakone is famous for its hot springs, beautiful views of Mount Fuji, and scenic landscapes.

Hakone is full of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Start with a boat cruise on Lake Ashi and on a clear day, you’ll see breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. The lake, surrounded by mountains and forests, is perfect for a relaxing day out. While boat cruises can be a bit pricey, walking around the lake and enjoying the views is free.

Don’t miss the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which has a vast collection of sculptures in a beautiful outdoor setting, similar to those in Kanazawa. The museum also has indoor exhibits, including works by Picasso. Entry to the museum is about $10, which is reasonable for such a unique experience.

For a truly relaxing experience, visit one of Hakone’s many hot springs (onsen). Tenzan Onsen is a popular choice, offering traditional wooden baths in a peaceful setting for around $15.

Stay at Hakone Tent for around $30 per night for a dorm bed. It’s a cozy place with an on-site bar where you can relax and meet other travelers.

For food, try local delicacies at the Hakone-Yumoto Station area. There are many restaurants and food stalls offering affordable and tasty meals, with many options under $10.

Hakone offers a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s busy streets. The quiet environment and the majestic presence of Mount Fuji make it a perfect place to relax and recharge. The affordable onsen and beautiful natural sights make Hakone a great budget destination.

The drive from Hakone to Kyoto takes about 4-5 hours. Along the way, consider stopping in Shizuoka for some budget-friendly sights and beautiful views of Mount Fuji. Shizuoka offers several free parks and viewpoints to enjoy the scenery.

Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is full of historical and cultural sites.

Kyoto is known for its traditional Japanese culture. Start your visit at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates that form a beautiful path up the mountain. The hike up the mountain is peaceful and offers stunning views like the Japanese alps. Visiting Fushimi Inari is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly attraction.

Next, visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. This Zen temple’s top two floors are covered in gold leaf and reflect beautifully in the surrounding pond. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Japan. Entry to Kinkaku-ji is about $4, making it an affordable must-see attraction.

Another must-visit is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove where walking through the towering bamboo stalks feels like entering another world. The nearby Arashiyama area has plenty of shops and cafés to explore. The bamboo grove is free to visit, and you can find affordable snacks in the area.

Stay at K’s House Kyoto, where dorm beds are around $25 per night. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore the city.

For food, enjoy Kyoto-style sushi at Izuju or affordable udon at Omen. Both restaurants offer meals for under $10, providing delicious local flavors without breaking the bank.

Kyoto feels like a step back in time with its well-preserved temples, traditional tea houses, and peaceful gardens. It offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The affordable entry fees and many free attractions make Kyoto an excellent destination for budget travelers.

A short one-hour drive from Kyoto, Nara is perfect for a day trip. It’s famous for its friendly deer and ancient temples.

Nara is a mix of natural beauty and historical significance. Start at Nara Park, where you’ll see hundreds of friendly deer roaming freely as they are considered sacred and are a symbol of the city. You can buy deer crackers to feed them for a small fee, but walking around the park with deer is free.

Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. The temple itself is an architectural marvel with its massive wooden structure. Entry to Todai-ji is about $6, which is a great price for such a significant site.

Another must-see is Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns. The shrine is surrounded by a beautiful forest, making it a peaceful place to explore. The entry to the outer shrine is free, and there’s a small fee to enter the inner area.

Return to Kyoto for the night and stay at K’s House Kyoto.

For food, try local specialties at the Nara Food Market. It offers a variety of street food and traditional dishes, with many options for under $10.

Nara is peaceful with its expansive parks and historical sites. The tame deer add a unique and magical touch to the experience. The many free and low-cost attractions make Nara a perfect budget-friendly day trip.

The drive from Nara to Hiroshima takes about 4 hours. This leg of the journey offers scenic views of Japan’s countryside.

Hiroshima is a city that symbolizes peace and resilience.

Start your visit at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb. The park is a place for reflection and learning, with several monuments and museums. Entry to the park is free, and the Peace Memorial Museum costs around $2, making it a very affordable and educational experience.

Take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, famous for its “floating” torii gate. At high tide, the gate appears to float on water, creating a magical scene. The island is also home to friendly deer and the historic Itsukushima Shrine. The ferry ride is about $5 each way, and entry to the shrine is around $3.

Stay at Hiroshima Hana Hostel for around $25 per night. It’s conveniently located for exploring the city.

For food, enjoy Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura. This savory pancake is a delicious and affordable meal, with prices typically around $8.

Hiroshima’s somber history is balanced by its vibrant sense of hope and renewal. Miyajima Island offers a serene escape with its iconic floating torii gate. The affordable attractions and moving experiences make Hiroshima a worthwhile stop on your budget road trip.

A 3-hour drive from Hiroshima, Matsuyama is known for its historic castle and Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs.

Start with Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s few original surviving castles. The castle, perched on a hill, provides panoramic views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea. Entry to the castle is about $5, which is a great price for the beautiful views and historical experience.

Dogo Onsen is believed to be Japan’s oldest hot spring. Soak in the historic baths and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters. The main building’s entry fee is around $5, making it an affordable and relaxing experience.

Stay at Matsuyama Guesthouse for around $20 per night. It’s a friendly and comfortable place to stay.

For food, sample local dishes at Dogo Shopping Arcade, where you can try specialties like taimeshi (sea bream rice). Many eateries offer meals for under $10, giving you a taste of local flavors without spending much.

Matsuyama combines history and relaxation. The castle offers stunning views, while Dogo Onsen invites you to unwind in its thermal waters. The affordable attractions and local dishes make Matsuyama a perfect budget-friendly destination.

The drive from Matsuyama to Osaka involves a ferry ride, adding a unique element to your road trip. Enjoy the scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea during the ferry ride.

Osaka is Japan’s culinary capital, known for its vibrant street food scene and bustling nightlife.

Start in Dotonbori, a lively area known for its neon lights and mouth-watering street food. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Street food in Osaka is delicious and inexpensive, with most items costing around $3-$5.

Visit Osaka Castle, surrounded by a moat and extensive gardens. The castle’s museum offers insights into Japan’s history. Entry to the castle is about $5, which is a good deal for such a significant site.

For a modern experience, visit the Umeda Sky Building and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Floating Garden Observatory. The observatory costs around $10, offering stunning views of the city.

Stay at J-Hoppers Osaka Guesthouse for around $25 per night. It’s a friendly place with a social atmosphere.

For food, feast on takoyaki and okonomiyaki from street vendors in Dotonbori. The affordable and delicious street food is one of the highlights of visiting Osaka.

Osaka is lively and energetic, with neon lights, bustling markets, and delicious food everywhere. It’s a city that truly comes alive at night. The affordable street food and reasonably priced attractions make Osaka a great destination for budget travelers.

Your final leg takes you back to Tokyo, completing your road trip from Osaka. Use this time to reflect on your journey and explore any missed spots in the capital before you return the car to the car rental company, and eventually fly home.

When driving in Japan, there are several key regulations and helpful tips so you can have a safe and smooth journey.

1. Drive on the Left Side of the Road: One of the most significant adjustments for many drivers is that Japan follows the left-hand driving system. This might take some getting used to, especially for those accustomed to driving on the right side of the road.

2. Seatbelts are Mandatory: Safety is a top priority in Japan, and wearing seatbelts is compulsory for all passengers, both in the front and back seats. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up before starting your journey.

3. No Mobile Phones While Driving: Using mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited unless you have a hands-free device. This law is in place to reduce distractions and increase road safety.

4. International Driving Permit (IDP): To legally drive in Japan, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home country’s driver’s license. Ensure you have both documents with you at all times while driving.

1. Navigation: Japan’s road system can be complex, so having a reliable GPS or map app is essential. These tools will help you navigate efficiently and avoid getting lost.

2. Parking: In cities, parking can be quite expensive. To save money, consider parking in suburban areas and using public transportation to explore urban centers.

3. Tolls: Japan’s expressways are well-maintained but come with tolls. It’s wise to budget for these expenses, as they can add up especially on long trips. Tolls ensure smoother and quicker travel times.

4. Fuel: Gas stations are abundant across Japan, and many offer full-service options. Attendants will not only fill your tank but also check your oil and clean your windshield, ensuring your vehicle is in good condition.

When it comes to renting a car, Japan offers several budget-friendly options from different rental companies:

1. Times Car Rental: Known for its competitive rates and numerous locations, making it a convenient and affordable choice.

2. Nippon Rent-A-Car: Offers reliable service and a wide selection of vehicles to meet various needs.

3. Toyota Rent a Car: Provides discounts for longer rental periods, making it a great option for extended stays.

• Rental Cost: Expect to pay about $50-$70 per day for an economy rental car, which is a cost-effective way to travel around Japan.
• Fuel: With fuel prices around $1.20 per liter, driving in Japan is reasonably priced. Additionally, the efficient fuel economy of most cars means you won’t spend excessively on gas.
• Tolls: Toll fees can vary by route, but budgeting around $20-30 per day is a good estimate.

1. International Driving Permit (IDP): This is a must-have for driving in Japan.

2. Navigation Tools: A GPS device or a smartphone with a map app is crucial for a hassle-free road trip.

3. Cash: Many rural areas may not accept credit cards, so having cash on hand is always advisable.

4. Comfort Items: Pack a travel pillow, snacks, and water for long drives to ensure comfort.

5. Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and reusable bags for shopping and carrying items. These small items can make a big difference in your overall travel experience.

By following these laws and tips, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant driving experience in Japan.

Yes, Japan is one of the safest countries for driving. Roads are well-maintained, and traffic rules are strictly followed. The country’s high safety standards and courteous drivers make it a pleasant place to drive.

You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home country’s driver’s license. Make sure to get an IDP before your trip.

Tolls can add up, but they ensure well-maintained roads and quicker travel times. Budget around $20-30 per day for toll roads.

Japanese people are generally very helpful. Use a GPS or map app like Google Maps, and don’t hesitate to ask for directions. Many locals speak basic English and are willing to assist.

Yes, Japan offers a range of budget accommodations, from hostels to capsule hotels. When planning a trip to Japan, visit websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com for they can be excellent resources for finding affordable places to stay in your road trip destinations.

Taking a 10-day road trip in Japan on a budget is a wise idea for most and is entirely possible with careful planning. From the bright lights of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto, the historical sites of Hiroshima to the delicious food of Osaka, Japan offers a rich tapestry of experiences. This itinerary ensures you make the most of your journey without spending too much. Enjoy your travels!