Are you tired of your monotonous life and want the year to be over already? Well, pump the brakes because 2024 may have more to offer than you realize. Although the leaves have started to turn brown, you can still answer the call to adventure.
Many people think Japan’s magic is best experienced in the summer, with its famous festivals and bustling crowds, but autumn is packed with its own vibrant festivals and breathtaking landscapes. So, swap the couch for a campervan, grab your bags, and get ready for a journey through Japan’s stunning fall scenery!
Where To Go On Your Autumn and Winter Adventure in Japan
Kingdom of Lights in Huis Ten Bosch
Perhaps the most beautiful seasonal gift you will receive in Japan is Huis Ten Bosch’s Kingdom of Lights Festival, which takes place every night from May to November. The installation comprises around 13 million bulbs of different colors illuminating the Art Garden of Light. During the Christmas period, Huis Ten Bosch also showcases a stunning light-up Christmas tree that stands approximately 30 meters tall.
Rikugien Gardens in Tokyo
The auburn foliage of Rikugien Garden during fall can easily trump any trip taken during the spring. The endless array of cherry blossom trees turns into various shades of yellow, brown, and red.
This garden is perfect for an evening stroll during your rest stop on a campervan adventure. It also has famous teahouses where you can relax and unwind after a long day of travel, such as the Fukiage Chaya teahouse.
Saga International Balloon Fiesta Outside Saga City
This fantastical sky-sporting event is by far the biggest of its kind and conducted during the first few weeks of November across a five-day period. During this fiesta, over 50 colorful hot air balloons are flown along the Kase River just on the outskirts of Saga City.
The Saga International Balloon Fiesta is a once-in-a-year opportunity that you would not want to miss, even as a spectator. There are countless vendors selling traditional festival foods for the attendees and a huge tent filled with local crafts.
Jidai Matsuri Festival in Kyoto
Jidai Matsuri Festival, also known as the Festival of Ages, brings history to life each autumn. This captivating festival takes place on October 22nd and spans several historical periods, from the Meiji Restoration all the way back to the Heian Period.
Thousands of participants in traditional attire parade through the streets, embodying the spirit and culture of Japan’s rich history. With a campervan, you have the freedom to explore Kyoto before, during, and after the festival, absorbing the energy of a city that seamlessly blends past and present.
Lake Kawaguchi within the Fuji Five Lakes Region
For a peaceful escape from the city, Lake Kawaguchi offers spectacular views, especially with Mount Fuji as a dramatic backdrop to the vibrant fall foliage. It is one of the best spots for catching a serene sunrise or sunset. In a campervan, you can experience the beauty of the changing seasons from the comfort of your portable home.
Kiyomizudera Temple on the Hills of Higashiyama
No autumn road trip through Japan would be complete without a visit to Kyoto’s iconic Kiyomizudera Temple. It provides panoramic views over Kyoto, which is especially mesmerizing in autumn.
As the leaves turn red and gold, Kiyomizudera’s wooden terrace becomes one of the most picturesque spots in all of Japan. With a campervan, you have the flexibility to arrive early or stay late, capturing this beautiful scenery without the bustling crowds.
Why a High-Roof Camper Is Perfect for Autumn Adventures
Exploring Japan in a high-roof camper from Samurai Campers offers a comfortable and warm environment that’s essential during cooler seasons. Autumn’s crisp air and colorful landscapes create an ideal backdrop for a campervan journey, especially with the added headroom and flexibility of a high-roof model. These campers are specifically designed to provide a spacious living space so you can stand up and stretch out without feeling cramped.
As temperatures start to dip, a high-roof campervan allows you to eres with features like built-in heaters, insulated walls, and efficient storage for extra bedding. Moreover, many high-roof campers come with options for meal preparation so that you can enjoy hot meals on the road.
Tips for an Unforgettable Fall Campervan Journey
To make the most of your autumn camping experience in Japan, here are some useful tips:
Plan Ahead for Popular Destinations
As Japan is a popular tourist destination, planning ahead can help you avoid crowded spots and find ideal parking or camping areas.
Pack Layers and Seasonal Essentials
Autumn weather in Japan can vary, so pack versatile layers, rain gear, and essentials for both warm days and cool nights.
Bring Your Camera
In autumn, Japan transforms into a photographer’s paradise. Be sure to bring your camera along, and plan scenic stops where you can capture the season’s vibrant colors.
Take Advantage of Festivals and Seasonal Events
Check local calendars for events happening around your travel dates to make the most of your experience.
To Wrap Up
Fall camping in Japan offers a unique and unforgettable experience, especially in a high-roof campervan from Samurai Campers. With an array of vibrant festivals, stunning natural landscapes, and the comfort of a spacious camper, you can fully embrace the beauty of the changing seasons.
As the autumn leaves continue to fall, they open doors to new adventures, creating lasting memories and experiences that mark the year as one filled with exploration and wonder!
