The long way there
The drive from Tokyo to Kyoto takes you from Japan's ultra-modern capital to its cultural heart. Pass Mount Fuji on clear days, traverse the Japanese Alps, and discover the stark contrast between Tokyo's neon-lit streets and Kyoto's serene temples and traditional geisha districts.
Where to pull over
Mount Fuji
100 km inJapan's iconic sacred volcano (visible on clear days)
Lake Kawaguchiko
110 km inBest views of Fuji reflected in the lake
Hakone
90 km inHot spring resort with mountain views
Nagoya
350 km inCastle town with samurai history
Fushimi Inari
460 km inFamous tunnel of 10,000 vermillion torii gates
Driving tips
- 1
Highway tolls in Japan are expensive—budget ¥10,000+ for this route
- 2
Consider the Shinkansen (bullet train) for time—2 hours vs 5 hours
- 3
Driving is on the left side of the road
- 4
Book highway rest stop (service area) food—it's excellent
- 5
Reserve Kyoto ryokans (traditional inns) well in advance
Other ways through
Tomei Expressway direct
Route 1 coastal scenic route
Central Expressway through Alps