Top 5 Scenic Drives in Japan for First-Time Renters

Driving in Japan for the first time is an exciting way to see landscapes that trains and buses can’t reach. These five routes combine dramatic views, easy-to-follow roads, and rental-friendly facilities so first-time renters can enjoy the country’s coastal cliffs, mountain passes, island bridges, and flower fields with confidence.

1. Hakone Skyline and Lake Ashi Loop (Kanagawa)

Distance: 40–80 km depending on chosen loop. Time: half-day to full day.

• Highlights: Panoramic views of Mount Fuji, winding mountain roads, hot spring towns, and the serene Lake Ashi.
• Why it’s good for first-timers: Short distances, frequent parking, and tourist-friendly signage in English and Japanese.
• Must-stops: Hakone Open-Air Museum, Owakudani valley, Lake Ashi pirate-ship cruise and Motohakone shrine.

2. Izu Peninsula Coastal Drive (Shizuoka)

Distance: 120–200 km depending on route. Time: full day or two.

• Highlights: Rugged coastlines, surfing beaches, citrus orchards and scenic seaside cliffs along Routes 135 and 136.
• Why it’s good for first-timers: Mostly two-lane roads with many rest stops and seaside cafes. Rental shops are available in Atami and Ito.
• Must-stops: Kawazu Seven Falls, Jogasaki Coast, Shuzenji’s bamboo-lined streets and coastal viewpoints.

3. Shimanami Kaido (Hiroshima to Ehime)

Distance: about 70 km. Time: half-day to full day (longer if bicycling stops are added).

• Highlights: A series of bridges linking small islands across the Seto Inland Sea, offering blue-water vistas and charming island towns.
• Why it’s good for first-timers: Well-marked route with dedicated lanes for bikes and cars; lots of parking and viewpoints.
• Must-stops: Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge observatory, Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima, and local seafood kitchens.

4. Noto Peninsula Coastal Route & Chirihama Driveway (Ishikawa)

Distance: 200–300 km for a full loop. Time: full day to two days.

• Highlights: Wild coastal scenery, rural fishing villages, terraced rice fields and the unique Chirihama Driveway where you can literally drive on compacted sand.
• Why it’s good for first-timers: Quiet roads with low traffic and authentic local stops. Be mindful of tides and road condition when using the sandy driveway.
• Must-stops: Wajima Morning Market, Senmaida rice terraces, Chirihama Beach Driveway.

5. Furano–Biei Panorama Road (Hokkaido)

Distance: 60–100 km in the furano-biei area. Time: half-day to full day.

• Highlights: Rolling fields of lavender (seasonal), patchwork farmlands, soft rolling hills and wide-open skies that make for postcard-perfect panoramas.
• Why it’s good for first-timers: Wide, relaxed roads and excellent viewpoints with parking. Perfect for leisure driving and photo stops.
• Must-stops: Shikisai-no-oka, Patchwork Road viewpoints, Farm Tomita for lavender season.

Practical Tips for First-Time Renters

• Drive on the left: Japan drives on the left; practice in a low-traffic area if you’re unfamiliar.
• Rent with ETC and GPS: Get an ETC card for tolls and a GPS that supports English to simplify routes and payments.
• Insurance and documentation: Bring your international driving permit, passport, and confirm insurance coverage with the rental agency.
• Fuel, tolls, and parking: Fuel stations can be scarce in rural areas; plan refueling. Many scenic spots have paid parking—carry cash or a credit card.
• Seasonal planning: Winter requires snow tires or chains in Hokkaido and mountainous regions. Summer can be busy—book rentals and accommodations early.
• Respect local rules: Observe speed limits, don’t use phones while driving, and be courteous in small towns where street parking is limited.

These five drives offer a mix of mountain panoramas, coastal drama, island hopping, and rural tranquility that suit first-time renters. Plan your route, leave room for spontaneous stops, and enjoy one of the best ways to experience Japan at your own pace.