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Kanto Night View Guide by Campervan

Emotional Moments Brought by Kanto’s Night View Journey with Camping Car

Camping cars not only enable free travel but are also the optimal means of transportation for touring night view spots. The contrast between Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi’s city lights viewed from Hakone’s Daikanzan, fantastical industrial night views woven at Chiba Port Kombinat, and the lighthouse floating in tranquility and night sky stars from Jogashima on Miura Peninsula.

This time, we’ll introduce 5 carefully selected night view spots in the Kanto region at highlands, industrial areas, and ports that are difficult to reach without camping cars. We’ll also explain parking points and important notes for each location, so please use this as reference for your night view tours!


1. Hakone・Daikanzan Observatory (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Characteristics and Appeal

Daikanzan Observatory is located in the mountains of Hakone, offering panoramic night views of Hakone’s townscape and Sagami Bay from approximately 1,000m elevation. On clear days, you can also see lights from Tokyo Bay and the Izu Peninsula in the distance, creating spectacular scenery with city lights stretching in dotted lines.

富士山側から芦ノ湖の夜景
Lake Ashi Night View from Mount Fuji Side

Parking Points

The observatory has a dedicated parking lot where camping cars can park. However, parking lots may be closed at night, so check operating status in advance.

Important Notes

  • In winter, prepare chains due to possibility of freezing or snow accumulation.
  • Mountain roads are narrow, so large camping cars require careful driving.

2. Chiba Port Tower (Chiba Prefecture)

Characteristics and Appeal

The area around Chiba Port is an industrial zone that becomes enveloped in a fantastical atmosphere at night when kombinats and port facilities are illuminated. The view from Port Tower is also popular among industrial night view enthusiasts.

Parking Points

Port Tower’s parking lot is spacious, allowing camping cars to park with plenty of room. Parking fees are reasonable at around 500 yen per day.

Important Notes

  • Parking lots may close at night, so visiting during operating hours is recommended.
  • Those concerned about industrial area odors or noise can park at a slightly distant location.

3. Miura Peninsula・Jogashima Lighthouse (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Characteristics and Appeal

Jogashima Lighthouse at the southernmost tip of Miura Peninsula is a night view spot where you can enjoy quiet port town lights and fishing boat illumination. The pleasant sea breeze and sound of waves create a special night experience.

城ヶ島の夕景
Jogashima Evening Scene

Parking Points

Jogashima has multiple parking lots, but for camping cars, “Jogashima First Parking Lot” is recommended. It operates 24 hours with ample space secured.

Important Notes

  • At night, surroundings become completely dark, so bring lights to ensure safe footing.
  • Be considerate of engine noise and bright lighting to avoid disturbing local residents.

4. Saitama Prefecture・Ranzan Valley Observatory

Characteristics and Appeal

Ranzan Valley in Saitama Prefecture is a spot that bustles with autumn leaves and river activities during the day, but at night you can view distant city lights. Especially from the observatory, it’s a hidden gem where you can enjoy sparkling city lights in tranquility.

Parking Points

There’s a parking lot near Ranzan Valley BBQ area, but it may close at night, so look for parking spaces slightly away from the observatory.

Important Notes

  • Roads to the observatory are narrow with insufficient paving in some areas, requiring careful driving.
  • Wildlife may appear, so minimize nighttime movement.

5. Yokosuka City・Takatoriyama Observatory (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Characteristics and Appeal

From Takatoriyama Observatory, you can overlook night views of Yokosuka City and the Yokohama direction. The scenery woven by industrial area lights and Tokyo Bay’s maritime traffic illumination is worth seeing.

Parking Points

You can use the nearby “Takatoriyama Park Parking Lot.” The parking lot is relatively small-scale, so early arrival is recommended.

Important Notes

  • Mountain roads have steep grade sections requiring driving skills.
  • Walking is required to reach the observatory, so visit in comfortable clothing.

Basic Etiquette for Night View Tours

When touring night view spots with camping cars, pay attention to the following points.

  1. Consideration for engine noise and lights
     To enjoy the surrounding tranquility, keep engine noise and interior lighting moderate.
  2. Always take trash with you
     Night view spots are often surrounded by natural environments, so be mindful of environmental protection.
  3. Check operating information in advance
     Confirming parking lot operating hours and traffic restrictions before visiting provides peace of mind.

Conclusion: Unforgettable Journey Woven by Kanto’s Night Views and Camping Cars

Hakone Daikanzan, Chiba Port Kombinat, and Miura Peninsula Jogashima. The scenery painted by each night view spot provides special experiences that are deeply etched in viewers’ hearts. The spectacular views spreading from Hakone Daikanzan’s summit, the inorganic beauty emitted by Chiba Port Kombinat’s factories, and the harmony of sea and starry sky at Miura Peninsula Jogashima. By utilizing camping cars, free movement and comfortable accommodation are realized, allowing you to fully enjoy these spectacular views. Using this article as reference, please tour Kanto region night views with camping cars and experience special emotional moments. If you’re planning night view tours with camping cars, please also check out this article on preparation and photography techniques.

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I have always wanted to travel in a campervan and have moved from staying in a minivan to buying a campervan. I am currently doing a lot of research for the purchase of a campervan. I am still a new guide, but I will use this opportunity to learn more and share this information with you.