Rural Japan RV Road Trip Through Scenic Towns
Source:
@Lloyd & Mandy
10 places in Nagano featured in a youtube post by Lloyd & Mandy, verified on Google Maps: Lake Kawaguchi, Zenkō-ji temple, Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen), and 7 more.
Lake Kawaguchi
Place
4.6
Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the Fuji Five Lakes, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities and offers various amenities including a kids' playground, a local grocery store, and a ramen diner. Visitors can also enjoy unique experiences like swan paddle boats and exploring nearby ice caves.
Zenkō-ji temple
Place of worship
4.5
Zenkō-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Nagano City, offering an incredible cultural experience. It is one of the oldest and most important temples in Japan, housing the first Buddhist statue ever brought to Japan. Visitors can explore its grounds and immerse themselves in its rich spiritual heritage.
Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)
Zoo
4.5
The Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Monkey Park) is a unique destination where visitors can observe wild Japanese macaques relaxing in natural hot springs. The park offers an unforgettable experience, particularly when the monkeys are bathing in the steamy waters against a snowy backdrop. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day during spring to avoid peak crowds.
Hakuba
Place
Hakuba is a valley in the Japanese Alps renowned for its stunning mountain views and ski resorts. It offers a cool vibe with a mix of Japanese and Australian visitors, making it a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding. An RV park in Hakuba provides powered sites, toilets, and hot showers, offering comfort while enjoying the snowy landscape.
Matsumoto
Place
Matsumoto is home to Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest and most highly regarded castles, built in the 1500s. Known as 'Crow Castle' for its black walls, it's a significant historical landmark. Visitors can walk around the exterior for free, admiring its unique architecture, which is built on a moat rather than a hill, or pay to go inside to explore the steep stairwells and low ceilings.
Nagano
Place
Nagano City is a culturally rich city in Japan, known for its famous Zenkō-ji Temple. It offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty, serving as a gateway to the nearby Snow Monkey Park. The city provides a comprehensive cultural experience before heading out to see the famous macaques.
Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba (Traditional Japanese Village)
Museum
4.4
Fuji Village is located near Lake Kawaguchiko and offers an incredible view of Mount Fuji, towering over the landscape. It appears to be a convenient stop with a kids' playground, a grocery store, and a ramen diner, perfect for families or those needing amenities while exploring the Fuji area.
Roadside Station Narusawa
Rest stop
3.7
Michi-no-eki Narasawa is a roadside rest stop that provides free overnight parking with stunning views of Mount Fuji, especially at sunrise. It offers bathrooms and nearby restaurants, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option for travelers in RVs. It also features a local market, flower fields, and ice cream stalls.
Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort
Ski resort
4.4
Hakuba Happo-One is a premier ski resort within the Hakuba Valley, offering amazing 360-degree views of the Japanese Alps. It's a popular destination for both skiing and snowboarding, with gondolas providing access to the slopes. The resort caters to a wide range of visitors, including those seeking a relaxed and comfortable experience on the snow.
Chichibu
Place
Chichibu is a tranquil escape from the bustling cities, offering quiet streets, small shops, and peaceful scenery along the riverside. Visitors can enjoy wandering through the town and appreciating the serene atmosphere. It's an ideal first stop for those looking to experience rural Japan.