With a unique background as a train conductor for Kintetsu Railway—a major Japanese rail company—and years of road-tripping experience in his 20s, this writer shares insights to help international visitors discover the real charm of Japan. Originally from Nara and now based in Osaka, he runs a rental car business offering manual-transmission and custom Japanese cars. From early morning rentals to tailored drive plans, he brings a playful spirit to travel. Having explored scenic routes across Japan, especially in Shikoku and Nagano, he delivers authentic, experience-based content as a true expert in tourism and driving.
Section 1: The 2025 Japan Travel Playbook: Critical Updates & Pre-Trip Essentials
Welcome to Japan! As you plan your adventure for 2025, it's crucial to understand that the landscape of travel here is evolving. The "old" way of visiting—simply landing and figuring things out—is being replaced by a more structured approach. These changes aren't meant to be obstacles; they're designed to make tourism more sustainable, manage the incredible influx of visitors, and ensure that both residents and travelers have the best possible experience. This guide is your new playbook. It will equip you with the most up-to-date information, helping you navigate these changes with confidence and plan a trip that is smoother, smarter, and more rewarding.
Navigating the New Rules: What to Expect in 2025
Recent years have seen Japan grapple with the challenges of its own popularity. Issues like overwhelmed hospitals, crowded attractions, and system loopholes have prompted the government to introduce several key changes for tourists. Here’s what you absolutely need to know before you go.
Mandatory Travel Insurance One of the most significant updates is the forthcoming requirement for all tourists to have private travel insurance. This policy was introduced to address the growing issue of unpaid medical bills from foreign visitors, which placed a strain on local healthcare systems. Before your trip, you must purchase a policy that covers, at a minimum, emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation (the cost of sending you home if medically necessary). Many affordable options are available online, and it's a small price to pay for peace of mind. Be prepared to show proof of your insurance upon entry.
JESTA (Japan Electronic Travel Authorization) For travelers from visa-exempt countries, Japan is rolling out the Japan Electronic Travel Authorization (JESTA) system. Similar to the ESTA in the United States, JESTA is an online pre-clearance system. You will need to fill out a short online form with your identification and travel details and pay a small fee before you board your flight. This system is designed to enhance security and streamline the immigration process, meaning shorter wait times for you upon arrival. Keep an eye on official government channels for the official launch date and application portal.
The Revamped Tax-Free Shopping System The days of instant tax-free discounts at the register are changing. To combat abuse of the system, Japan is shifting to a post-purchase refund model. This means you will now pay the full price, including the 10% consumption tax, in-store. You must then keep your receipts and present them, along with your purchased goods and passport, at a designated refund counter at the airport before your departure.
This is a critical change to be aware of for two reasons. First, you need to budget for the upfront tax cost in your shopping expenses. Second, you must allow significant extra time at the airport for the refund process, as lines can be long, and customs may need to inspect your items. To ensure a smooth refund, keep your tax-free purchases in their original packaging and do not use them before you leave Japan.
Overtourism Measures: Dual Pricing & New Fees In an effort to manage crowds and fund the maintenance of popular sites, some destinations are introducing new fees and dual-pricing models. For example, climbing the popular Yoshida Trail on Mount Fuji will now require a permit with a higher fee. Himeji Castle has also announced plans to charge a higher admission fee for foreign tourists compared to local residents. These measures are part of a broader strategy for sustainable tourism, aiming to preserve these cultural treasures for generations to come while ensuring a better experience for those who visit.
Core Logistics: Money, Connectivity, and Communication
With the major policy changes covered, let's dive into the day-to-day essentials that will make your trip seamless.
Cash is Still King (Mostly) Despite its futuristic image, Japan remains a surprisingly cash-based society. While major hotels, department stores, and restaurant chains in big cities accept credit cards, many smaller shops, local eateries, ticket machines, and temples or shrines do not. It is essential to carry a sufficient amount of Japanese Yen (JPY) with you at all times to avoid getting caught in a bind.
Accessing Your Money Getting cash can be a challenge in itself. Many Japanese bank ATMs do not accept foreign-issued credit or debit cards. Your most reliable options are the ATMs found inside 7-Eleven convenience stores and post offices. These are widespread and are your go-to source for withdrawing Yen. Plan ahead and withdraw larger sums to minimize transaction fees.
Staying Connected: Pocket Wi-Fi vs. eSIM Constant internet access is invaluable for navigating with Google Maps, checking train times, and using translation apps. While you might find free Wi-Fi hotspots in stations or convenience stores, they can be unreliable and insecure. The two best options are renting a Pocket Wi-Fi device or purchasing a tourist SIM/eSIM.
- Pocket Wi-Fi: A small, portable device that provides unlimited internet for multiple devices. You can pick it up at the airport upon arrival and drop it off before you depart. It's an excellent choice for groups or those with multiple gadgets.
- eSIM/SIM Card: A great option for solo travelers or those who prefer not to carry an extra device. An eSIM can be installed on your phone digitally before you even leave home, providing instant connectivity upon landing.
Breaking the Language Barrier Don't let the language barrier intimidate you. While learning a few key phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals—Konnichiwa (Hello), Sumimasen (Excuse me/Sorry), Arigato gozaimasu (Thank you), and Oishii (Delicious)—it is not strictly necessary for survival, especially in major tourist areas. Many Japanese people, particularly in cities, speak some English, though they may be modest about their ability. For practical help, download the Google Translate app and its Japanese dictionary for offline use. A fantastic tip is to have the names and addresses of your destinations (like your hotel) written down or saved as a screenshot in Japanese to show to taxi drivers or people you ask for directions.
Table: Japan 2025 National Holidays & Peak Travel Periods
One of the most critical pieces of advice I can offer is to be aware of Japan's national holidays. Traveling during these periods can mean facing massive crowds, fully booked transportation, and sky-high accommodation prices, as the entire country seems to be on the move. Planning your trip to avoid these peak times will drastically improve your experience.
| Holiday Name | Date | Notes & Impact on Travel |
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Part of the Shōgatsu holiday (approx. Dec 29 - Jan 3). Widespread closures and heavy domestic travel. |
| Coming of Age Day | January 13 | A three-day weekend. Expect increased travel and crowds. |
| National Foundation Day | February 11 | A single public holiday. |
| Emperor's Birthday | February 23 | Creates a long weekend (Feb 22-24) due to a substitute holiday. Expect increased travel. |
| Vernal Equinox Day | March 20 | A single public holiday. |
| Cherry Blossom Season | Late March - April | Not a public holiday, but a major peak tourist season. Book everything far in advance. |
| Shōwa Day | April 29 | Marks the beginning of Golden Week. |
| Golden Week | April 29 - May 6 | Japan's longest holiday period. AVOID TRAVELING during this time if possible. Extreme crowds, sold-out transport, and maximum prices. |
| Constitution Memorial Day | May 3 | Part of Golden Week. |
| Greenery Day | May 4 | Part of Golden Week. |
| Children's Day | May 5 | Part of Golden Week. |
| Marine Day | July 21 | A three-day weekend. Popular time for coastal and beach travel. |
| Mountain Day | August 11 | A public holiday leading into the Obon season. |
| Obon Season | Mid-August (approx. 13-17) | Not an official public holiday, but a traditional period for visiting ancestral homes. One of the year's three busiest travel seasons. |
| Respect for the Aged Day | September 15 | A three-day weekend. |
| Autumnal Equinox Day | September 23 | A single public holiday. |
| Sports Day | October 13 | A three-day weekend. |
| Culture Day | November 3 | A single public holiday. |
| Labor Thanksgiving Day | November 23 | Creates a long weekend (Nov 22-24) due to a substitute holiday. |
Section 2: Mastering Japan's Lifelines: An Insider's Guide to Trains & Cars
As someone who has spent over a decade on the rails as a Kintetsu conductor and the last several years exploring every corner of this country by car, I can tell you that understanding Japan's transport is the key to unlocking its true potential. I love our train system; it's a marvel of engineering and punctuality. I spent years ensuring passengers on my Limited Express trains had a perfect journey. But I also know its limits. Let me share with you the secrets of both the rails and the road, so you can choose the right tool for your adventure.
The Way of the Rails: A Connoisseur's View
For daily travel within and between cities, Japan's rail network is second to none. Here’s how to navigate it like a pro.
The Ubiquitous IC Card (Suica/Pasmo/ICOCA) Forget buying individual paper tickets for every ride. The single most essential tool for any traveler is a rechargeable IC card. In Tokyo, you'll find Suica and Pasmo; in the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara), it's the ICOCA card. Functionally, they are interchangeable across most of the country. You can get one at a ticket machine in any major station, load it with cash, and then simply tap it on the card reader at the ticket gates to enter and exit. The fare is automatically deducted. It's a massive time-saver and can be used on virtually all trains, subways, and buses. As a bonus, you can also use it to pay at convenience stores (
konbini), vending machines, and even some restaurants.
The Japan Rail (JR) Pass: A Calculated Decision, Not a Default Many guides will tell you to buy a Japan Rail (JR) Pass without question. As a transport professional, I advise a more calculated approach. The JR Pass, which allows unlimited travel on most JR trains (including many Shinkansen bullet trains), can be an excellent value if you plan a fast-paced, multi-city trip covering long distances, such as Tokyo to Hiroshima and back within a week.
However, it is not always the most cost-effective choice. If your trip is focused on a single region, or if you plan to spend significant time in cities like Kyoto where buses are the primary mode of transport, a JR Pass may not pay for itself. Furthermore, the pass does not cover private railway lines (like the one I used to work for, Kintetsu) or city subways, which are often essential for getting around. Before you buy, map out your major train journeys and compare the total cost of individual tickets to the price of the pass. Sometimes, a regional pass or simply paying as you go with an IC card is the smarter financial choice.
The Pinnacle of Train Travel: Kintetsu's Sightseeing Expresses Working for Kintetsu, I had the privilege of operating some of the most incredible trains in Japan. These aren't just modes of transport; they are curated experiences. If you want to see the best of what Japanese train travel can be, I highly recommend a journey on one of our sightseeing limited expresses.
- Shimakaze (The "Island Wind"): This is the crown jewel of our fleet, a luxury train connecting Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya with the beautiful Ise-Shima peninsula, home to Japan's most sacred shrine. The experience is unforgettable. The train features panoramic observation cars with floor-to-ceiling windows, private saloon-style rooms, and a bi-level café car serving local delicacies like Matsusaka beef curry and seafood pilaf. The premium seats are made of supple leather and come with built-in massage functions and electronic reclining. It’s a journey where the ride itself becomes a cherished part of your vacation.
- Aoniyoshi (A Tribute to Nara): Connecting Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, the Aoniyoshi is a moving tribute to the ancient capital of Nara. The train's design is inspired by the art and culture of the Tenpyo era, with a regal purple exterior and intricate patterns inside. The seating is incredibly spacious, with plush twin seats and semi-private salon seats for groups of three or four. There's even a small library and a sales counter offering local Nara products like craft beer and special sweets. It’s a 35-minute journey from Kyoto to Nara that feels like stepping into a luxurious, rolling art museum.
The Pivot to Freedom: Why a Car Unlocks the Real Japan
After years of life on a fixed schedule, moving along predetermined tracks, I found myself craving something different. I wanted to see the places between the stations, the coastlines the rails didn't follow, and the mountain villages they couldn't reach. So, I bought a car and started driving. It was a revelation. I discovered a Japan that was quieter, wilder, and more intimate than the one I knew from the train window. This personal journey is why I started my car rental business—to share that feeling of freedom and discovery.
Beyond the Golden Route The famous "Golden Route" of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka is serviced brilliantly by the Shinkansen. But this efficiency comes at a cost: it funnels millions of tourists into the same few places. Japan's true soul often lies just beyond the reach of the tracks. Think of the winding coastal roads of the Izu or Noto peninsulas, the remote hot springs (onsen) deep in the mountains, and the vast, beautiful landscapes of regions like Shikoku or rural Nagano. In these areas, public transport can be infrequent or nonexistent. A car transforms these places from difficult-to-reach dots on a map into an accessible, flexible itinerary.
The Antidote to Overtourism The Japanese government itself is now encouraging travelers to explore beyond the major hubs to alleviate the pressures of overtourism. Driving is the single best way to answer this call. It allows you to disperse into less-crowded regions, support smaller local economies, and have a more authentic and personal experience. Instead of waiting in line with thousands of others at a famous temple in Kyoto, you could be discovering a small, serene shrine on a coastal drive, with no one else around. This is the new, more sustainable way to travel in Japan, and a car is your key.
The Ultimate Guide to Driving in Japan (Your Article-Within-an-Article)
Renting a car in Japan is straightforward if you're prepared. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.
Getting Your Permit: The IDP is Non-Negotiable This is the most critical step. To drive in Japan, most foreign visitors must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Crucially, it must be a permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. Permits from the 1968 Vienna Convention are not valid in Japan. You
must obtain your IDP in your home country before you arrive in Japan; they are not issued here. When driving, you must carry your IDP, your original valid driver's license from your home country, and your passport at all times.
There are a few exceptions. Drivers from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan can drive with their original license accompanied by an official Japanese translation. This translation must be obtained from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or their respective country's embassy or consulate in Japan.
Rules of the Road: Left is Right Driving in Japan follows a few core principles:
- Drive on the Left: All traffic is on the left side of the road, and the driver's seat is on the right side of the car.
- Speed Limits: Typical speed limits are 80-100 km/h on expressways, 40 km/h in urban areas, and 50-60 km/h on other roads. Signs are clearly posted.
- Railway Crossings: You must come to a complete stop before crossing any railway track, look both ways, and listen.
- No Turning on Red: Unlike in some countries, you cannot turn on a red light, even if the way is clear. You must wait for a green light or a green arrow.
- Drinking and Driving: Japan has a zero-tolerance policy. The legal limit is effectively zero, and penalties are extremely severe for the driver, any passengers who allowed them to drive, and the establishment that served the alcohol. Do not drink even a single drop of alcohol if you plan to drive.
Navigating Expressways & ETC Cards Most of Japan's major highways are toll roads. While you can pay with cash or credit card at the "一般" (General) green-signed gates, this can cause delays. The best way to travel is with an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) card. Most rental cars are equipped with an ETC reader. You can rent an ETC card from your rental company for a small fee (e.g., around JPY 330). With the card inserted, you can use the purple-signed "ETC" lanes, slowing to about 20 km/h as you pass through the gate, which will open automatically. The toll is recorded, and you settle the total bill when you return the car. For tourists, this also unlocks access to regional Expressway Passes (like the Hokkaido Expressway Pass or Tohoku Expressway Pass), which offer unlimited travel on expressways in a specific region for a flat fee—a fantastic deal for road trips.
The Art of Parking: Cities vs. Countryside Parking can be one of the biggest challenges of driving in Japan, especially in cities.
- Urban Parking: Space is at a premium, so parking is expensive and often inventive. You'll find multi-story garages and automated parking towers. The most common type is the "flap-lock" or "coin parking" lot. You park in a space, and after a few minutes, a metal barrier rises from the ground behind your wheels, locking the car in place. When you're ready to leave, you go to a central payment machine, enter your space number, pay the fee, and the barrier will lower, allowing you to exit.
- Rural Parking: Outside of major city centers, parking is much easier and often free, especially at supermarkets, convenience stores, and tourist attractions.
- Parking Etiquette: You'll notice that almost everyone in Japan reverses into parking spaces. This is an unwritten rule. It's considered safer as it allows you to drive forward into traffic when leaving, providing a much clearer view. It also makes maneuvering in tight spaces easier. Practice your reversing skills; it's the local norm.
Fueling Up: A Guide to Japanese Gas Stations Gas stations (gasorin sutando) are easy to navigate once you know the basics. There are two types:
- Full-Service: An attendant will guide you to the pump with shouts of "Oorai, oorai!" (Alright, alright!). They will ask for your fuel type and amount. Some simple Japanese phrases are very helpful here:
- Fuel Type: "Regular" (レギュラー), "High-Octane" (Haioku, ハイオク), or "Diesel" (Keiyu, 軽油).
- Amount: "Mantan" (満タン) for a full tank.
- Example: "Regular, mantan, onegai shimasu." (A full tank of regular, please.).
- Self-Service (セルフ): These are marked with the word "セルフ" (serufu). The pumps have color-coded nozzles: Red is Regular, Yellow is High-Octane, and Green is Diesel. This is extremely important, as putting the wrong fuel in will damage the car. The payment console is usually a touchscreen (many have an English option) where you select fuel type, amount, and payment method before you begin pumping. Always touch the static electricity removal pad before handling the nozzle.
Section 3: Crafting an Unforgettable Journey: Epic Road Trips & Hidden Gems
Now that you have the keys and know the rules, let me show you where the road can take you. These are the journeys that made me fall in love with Japan all over again, the places where the drive itself is as spectacular as the destination. This is the freedom that train schedules can never offer.
Shikoku: The Island of Winding Coasts and Mountain Mysteries
Often overlooked by first-time visitors, Shikoku is a paradise for drivers. It's an island of rugged coastlines, deep mountain valleys, and ancient pilgrimages, all best explored at your own pace. On my road trips here, I found a side of Japan that felt raw and untamed.
- The Yokonami Kuroshio Line (Kochi): This is, without a doubt, one of the greatest driving roads in southern Japan. Stretching along a narrow peninsula jutting into the Pacific, this road offers a breathtaking sequence of sweeping curves, dramatic sea views, and lush mountain scenery. Every turn reveals a new vista. It’s a road that makes you feel truly alive and connected to the landscape.
- Iya Valley's National Roads (Tokushima): The journey into the remote Iya Valley is an adventure in itself. While a highway can get you to the region, the real experience is on the old national roads. These are narrow, winding, and sometimes treacherous mountain passes that climb high above the clouds. It's here you'll find the famous "Peeing Boy of Iya Valley" statue, perched precariously on a cliff edge, a symbol of courage that feels fitting for the drive. This is the kind of thrilling, white-knuckle journey that is only possible with your own vehicle.
- Sadamisaki "Melody Road" (Ehime): Japan is full of wonderful quirks, and this is one of my favorites. As you drive along a specific stretch of this road on the Sadamisaki Peninsula, the tires passing over grooves in the pavement create a musical tune. It’s a delightful and mysterious experience that you'll want to drive over again and again, a small piece of magic you'd never find on a bus tour.
- Connecting the Culture: A car allows you to string these experiences together seamlessly. You can start your day marveling at the giant Zenigata Sand Sculpture, a massive coin etched into the sand, then drive to the historic Marugame Castle for panoramic views, and end your day at a remote temple like Iwaya-ji, a sacred site on the 88-temple pilgrimage that feels worlds away from the tourist trail.
Nagano: The Majestic Alps and Highland Vistas
If Shikoku is about coastal drama, Nagano is about alpine grandeur. As the heart of the Japan Alps, this region offers some of the most spectacular high-altitude driving in the country. I've spent countless days exploring these roads, especially as the seasons change.
- The Venus Line: This is Nagano's most famous scenic drive, and for good reason. This 76-kilometer route winds through the highlands of Tateshina, Kirigamine, and Utsukushigahara, often rising above the treeline to offer jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Yatsugatake Range and the distant Northern Alps. Key stops include the serene Lake Shirakaba, the rolling grasslands of the Kirigamine Kogen where alpine flowers bloom in summer, and the striking Utsukushigahara Open-air Museum perched at 2,000 meters. A practical tip from experience: service stations and restaurants are scarce along the main highland stretch, so be sure to fill up your tank and grab supplies in the Lake Shirakaba area before you ascend. Also, be aware that the highest sections are closed due to snow from mid-November to late April.
- The Shiga-Kusatsu Kogen Route: This incredible drive takes you to the highest point on any national highway in Japan (2,172 meters) and is an experience of raw nature. The road carves through a volcanic landscape of steam vents and stark beauty. The ultimate reward at the end of this route is descending into Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most famous hot spring towns. There is no better way to end a day of exhilarating driving than by soaking in the therapeutic, mineral-rich waters of a traditional outdoor bath like the Sainokawara Rotenburo. This is the perfect fusion of adventure and relaxation that a road trip facilitates so well.
Section 4: Living Like a Local: A Guide to Japanese Culture & Etiquette
Traveling in Japan is about more than just seeing the sights; it's about engaging with a culture built on respect, harmony, and mindfulness. Understanding a few key customs will not only help you avoid unintentional offense but will also deepen your appreciation for the Japanese way of life.
The Art of Respect: Navigating Shrines and Temples
One of the most common points of confusion for visitors is the difference between a Shinto shrine and a Buddhist temple. Here's the simple rule to remember: Shrines are for Shinto gods (you clap your hands), and Temples are for Buddhist worship (you do not clap).
Shrine Etiquette (Shinto) You'll recognize a shrine by the iconic torii gate at its entrance.
- The Torii Gate: Bow once before passing through. The center of the path (sandō) is reserved for the deity, so walk along the sides.
- Purification (Temizuya): At the purification fountain, take a ladle with your right hand and pour water over your left hand. Then, switch hands and wash your right. Switch back to your right hand, pour water into your cupped left hand, and rinse your mouth (do not drink from the ladle or swallow the water). Spit the water out discreetly on the ground beside the fountain. Finally, rinse your left hand once more and tip the ladle upright to let the remaining water run down the handle, cleaning it for the next person.
- Prayer: At the main hall, gently toss a coin into the offering box. If there is a bell, ring it once to greet the kami (gods). Then, perform the prayer ritual: two deep bows, two claps, place your hands together in prayer, and finish with one final deep bow.
Temple Etiquette (Buddhist) Temples are identified by a large sanmon gate and often have a pagoda and incense burners.
- The Sanmon Gate: Bow once before entering. It is considered disrespectful to step on the wooden threshold of the gate; step over it instead.
- Purification: Some temples have a temizuya like shrines, where you follow the same purification ritual. Many also have a large incense burner (jōkōro). You can purchase a bundle of incense, light it, and then extinguish the flame by waving your hand (do not blow it out). Place the incense in the burner and you can waft some of the smoke towards yourself; it's believed to have healing properties.
- Prayer: At the main hall, offer a coin. If there is a gong (waniguchi), you may ring it gently. Then, place your hands together in front of your chest, bow your head, and pray silently. Do not clap. When you are finished, make one final bow.
Dining with Grace: Japanese Table Manners
Japanese dining etiquette is centered on showing appreciation for the food and the people who prepared it.
- Essential Phrases: Always begin your meal with a heartfelt "Itadakimasu" (I humbly receive) and end with "Gochisōsama-deshita" (Thank you for the feast). These are said to everyone at the table and often towards the kitchen staff upon leaving.
- Chopstick Etiquette: Chopsticks (ohashi) have a few important rules. Never stick them upright in your bowl of rice, as this is done at funerals. Do not pass food from your chopsticks directly to another person's chopsticks. Don't use them to point at people or spear your food. When not in use, place them on the provided chopstick rest ( hashioki).
- Noodles and Soup: Slurping noodles, especially ramen and soba, is perfectly acceptable and even considered a sign that you are enjoying the meal. It also helps cool the hot noodles as you eat them. When drinking soup from a small bowl, it is polite to lift the bowl to your mouth rather than leaning over the table.
A Culinary Guide for Every Traveler: Halal, Vegan & Vegetarian
Navigating dietary restrictions in Japan can be challenging, as many dishes contain hidden, non-obvious ingredients like dashi (fish stock), mirin (sweet rice wine), or pork-based broth. However, with a bit of knowledge and preparation, it is entirely possible to enjoy Japan's incredible culinary scene.
Halal in Japan The availability of Halal food is growing, especially in major cities. While there is no single central body for Halal certification, many resources can help you find suitable options.
- What to Look For: Dishes like seafood or vegetable tempura, grilled chicken skewers (yakitori), and shabu-shabu (hot pot) can often be Halal-friendly, but you must confirm the ingredients. Specifically, ask if sake or mirin were used in the marinade or sauce. The number of restaurants serving certified Halal wagyu beef, sukiyaki, and ramen is increasing, so look for official Halal certification marks at restaurant entrances.
- Resources: Use apps and websites like Halal Navi or Japan Muslim Guide to find verified restaurants and prayer spaces near you.
Vegetarian & Vegan in Japan For vegetarians and vegans, the biggest hurdle is the near-ubiquitous use of dashi made from bonito flakes (fish) in most broths and sauces.
- Shōjin Ryōri: The best way to experience authentic Japanese vegetarian cuisine is to try shōjin ryōri, the traditional multi-course meal of Buddhist monks. This elegant, all-vegan cuisine is based on principles of balance and seasonality and can be found at some temples and specialized restaurants.
- Common Dishes: Safer bets at regular restaurants include cucumber (kappa maki) or pickled radish (oshinko maki) sushi, rice balls (onigiri) with a pickled plum (umeboshi) filling, and cold soba noodles (zaru soba) with a request for a soy-based dipping sauce instead of the standard dashi-based one.
- Helpful Resources: The HappyCow app is an invaluable tool for finding vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Additionally, some large chains are starting to cater to these diets. For instance, the curry chain CoCo Ichibanya offers a specific "Vegetarian Curry" that is free of animal products. Always be prepared to show a translation card explaining your dietary needs clearly in Japanese.
Section 5: Your Adventure, Your Way: The Deep Seek Japan Experience
Throughout this guide, I've shared my passion for a different way of traveling in Japan—one that values freedom, discovery, and a genuine connection to the road. For the traveler who has absorbed these lessons, who wants to escape the crowds, and who craves an adventure as unique as they are, a standard rental car just won't do. That's where we come in. I started Deep Seek Japan not just to rent out cars, but to provide the perfect vehicle for the kind of journey I believe in.
Not Just a Rental, It's a Part of the Adventure
We understand that for a true enthusiast, the car isn't just a tool to get from A to B; it's a core part of the experience.
- For the True Enthusiast: Manual JDM Cars: This is our specialty. We offer a fleet of manual transmission Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars—the kind of vehicles that are celebrated in global car culture, like those seen in movies and video games. If you're a driver who loves the feeling of a direct connection to the machine and the road, you won't have to settle for a generic automatic rental.
- Customized for the Road: Our cars are prepared by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts. We've added touches like custom carbon-style seat wraps for a sportier feel and applied Paint Protection Film (PPF) to the hoods of our cars. This means you can enjoy Japan's beautiful, winding mountain roads without worrying about every little stone chip—a small detail that shows we understand a driver's mindset.
- Unmatched Flexibility: Service That Fits Your Itinerary: Standard rental companies often have rigid 10 am to 7 pm business hours. We know that the best adventures don't always fit that schedule. That's why we offer flexible, by-appointment service, including early morning pickups (as early as 7 am) and late-night returns. This allows you to catch that early flight or squeeze in one last scenic drive without stress. Our prime location in Osaka city makes for easy access, getting you on your way quickly.
- Your Personal Itinerary on a Plate: The Drive Map: This is the culmination of my experience. For customers who share their travel plans with us, I personally create a custom Drive Map. Drawing on my years of exploring Shikoku, Nagano, and beyond, I'll chart out scenic routes, hidden gems, and practical stops. This isn't a generic printout; it's a tailored plan with Google Maps links that you can use on your phone, turning your rental into a fully guided road trip adventure.
Conclusion: Find Your Own "Secret Japan"
Japan is a country of infinite layers. The train will take you to its famous, beautiful surface, and for many, that is a wonderful experience. But a deeper, more personal Japan awaits those willing to take the wheel. It's found on the coastal roads where you can stop for a photo whenever you wish, in the mountain villages where the silence is broken only by the wind, and in the small, family-run restaurants you stumble upon by chance.
The most memorable journeys are not the ones that are perfectly planned on a timetable, but the ones that leave room for spontaneity and discovery. The real secret of Japan isn't a place; it's a feeling. It's the freedom to follow a curious road, to create your own path, and to find a version of this incredible country that belongs entirely to you. The trains will take you to Japan. A car will help you find your Japan. Take the wheel.