There are many attractive spots in Kansai area that you should visit with your campervan. In this issue, we will introduce five places that we particularly recommend, along with the reasons why and the best times to visit. We have also added parking locations and nearby hot spring spots to each spot.
1. Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture
Awaji Island has a beautiful coastline and lush nature. It is easy to travel around with a camper and has a wide variety of roadside stations.
- Why: Spectacular drive along the coast, rest at Awaji Highway Oasis
- Best time to visit: Evening (sunset view is recommended)
- Parking: Awaji Highway Oasis parking lot (spacious and convenient)
- Hot spring spot: Nandan Onsen (located in the southern part of Awaji Island, with an open-air bath with a spectacular view)
2. Mt. Hiei-zan ,Shiga/Kyoto Prefecture
Hieizan, overlooking Lake Biwa, is a place where you can experience nature and history. There is a spacious parking lot, ideal for campers.
- Why: Historic temple tour and spectacular view of Lake Biwa
- Hot spring spot: Yugoto Onsen (relaxing hot spring resort located northwest of Lake Biwa)
- Best time to visit: morning (stroll in a quiet atmosphere)
- Parking: Hieizan Driveway parking lot (large and easily accessible)
3. Yoshinoyama, Nara Prefecture
Yoshinoyama is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. With a large parking lot and well-maintained roads, you can visit comfortably even with a camper.
- Why: Famous for its cherry blossoms, beautiful scenery in each season
- Hot spring spot: Dorogawa Onsen (about 1 hour drive from Yoshinoyama, famous as a hidden hot spring)
- Best time to visit: Early morning (for cherry blossom viewing without crowds)
- Parking: Yoshinoyama Parking Lot (large and easily accessible)
4. Kumano Kodo ,Wakayama Prefecture
The Kumano Kodo is registered as a World Heritage site. It is an exciting way to tour this road, where history and nature are in harmony, at a leisurely pace in a campervan.
- Why: Historic pilgrimage route and tour of hot spring resorts
- Onsen spots: Kawayu Onsen (located along the river, with natural open-air baths)
- Best time to visit: Before noon (to allow time to relax in the hot springs)
- Parking: Kumano Kodo Center parking lot (convenient access)
5. Tango Peninsula, Kyoto Prefecture
- Why: Spectacular coastline drive and fresh seafood
- Best time to visit: Daytime (seaside scenery and lunch time)
- Parking: Roadside Station Tenki Tenki Tango (spacious and easy to use)
- Hot spring spot: Mamato Onsen (located by the sea, you can enjoy hot spring with beautiful sunset)
These spots are perfect for enjoying a campervan trip within the Kansai region. Enjoy a comfortable trip, relaxing in the hot springs while experiencing nature and history.