Japan

Utforska natursköna vägar i Japan. Utforska rutter i 47 prefekturer.

Natursköna rutter i Japan

Tojinbo and the Echizen coast

Start at the cliffs of Tojinbo and follow Fukui’s coast south toward Cape Echizen. Break the journey near Takasu for a coastal pause before continuing to the cape. Park before approaching the cliff viewpoints and allow for a slower pace through the small seaside settlements. Cover photo: Tojinbo Oike 200507.jpg — っ. CC BY-SA 3.0: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tojinbo_Oike_200507.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

40.3 km • 36 min

Atsumi Peninsula to Cape Irago

Head west along the Pacific side of Atsumi Peninsula, linking Akabane with the shore near Hii and Koijigahama. Finish around Cape Irago for a walk to the lighthouse. This is a coastal road outing, with the beach and lighthouse paths left for exploring after parking. Cover photo: Koijigahama - Le monument de pierre.jpg — Yanajin33. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Koijigahama_-_Le_monument_de_pierre.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

17.1 km • 13 min

Hirado to the cliffs of Ikitsuki

Leave Hirado for Ikitsuki Island and continue past the Shiodawara cliffs to Obae Lighthouse. The island road combines fishing settlements with open sea views. Finish with a walk at the northern headland and return by road; no ferry is part of this itinerary. Cover photo: View of Hirado Strait from Hirado castle Nagasaki,JAPAN.jpg — Si-take. at Japanese Wikipedia. CC BY-SA 3.0: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:View_of_Hirado_Strait_from_Hirado_castle_Nagasaki,JAPAN.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

30.3 km • 33 min

Shonai coast: Yunohama to Yura

Follow Yamagata’s Sea of Japan coast from Yunohama through Kamo to Yura. Combine open sea views with a visit to Kamo Aquarium and a walk by Yura’s Hakusan Island. Keep aquarium time separate from the driving estimate and finish with a slow stop by the fishing harbour. Cover photo: Hakusan-jinja's 1-no-torii, Tsuruoka -March 2011 a.jpg — zunsan from Japan. CC BY 2.1 jp: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.1/jp/deed.en https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hakusan-jinja%27s_1-no-torii,_Tsuruoka_-March_2011_a.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

9.7 km • 9 min

Yamanami Highway through Kuju

Drive from Yufuin toward Chojabaru and Makinoto Pass, then finish on the Kuju highland side. Stop at Chojabaru for the visitor centre and a short wetland walk before continuing over the pass. Mountain hiking requires its own plan; the route’s stops are roadside access areas. Cover photo: Kuju Mountains (52132261297).jpg — Raita Futo from Tokyo, Japan. CC BY 2.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kuju_Mountains_(52132261297).jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

52.2 km • 50 min

Karatsu to Yobuko and Cape Hado

Travel from Karatsu’s castle-side waterfront toward Yobuko and Cape Hado. Make a food stop in the fishing town and leave time for a walk by the cape. This is a compact coastal itinerary with enough variety for an unhurried half-day, especially if you explore Karatsu before setting off. Cover photo: Cape Hado Heart.jpg — さえぼー. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cape_Hado_Heart.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

25.7 km • 22 min

Seseragi Kaido: Gujo to Takayama

Leave Gujo Hachiman for the wooded valleys of Seseragi Kaido, stopping at Meiho and the Pascal Kiyomi roadside station before continuing toward Takayama. Rivers and changing forest colours are the draw. Keep time for a walk in the towns at either end rather than treating them as fuel stops. Cover photo: Gujo hachiman castle P8117454.jpg — Akiyoshi's Room. Public domain: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:Public_domain https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gujo_hachiman_castle_P8117454.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

65.2 km • 53 min

Nagatoro to the Chichibu hills

Start beside the river scenery of Nagatoro, then head toward Chichibu Shrine and the wooded grounds of Chichibu Muse Park. This is an easy-to-break-up day with riverside walks, a town stop and an elevated park finish. Use the car parks rather than the narrow lanes around the attractions. Cover photo: Nagatoro Iwadatami Rocks (11043511563).jpg — Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France. CC BY 2.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nagatoro_Iwadatami_Rocks_(11043511563).jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

18.4 km • 19 min

Toyama Bay: Himi to Kaiwomaru

Start in Himi, follow the bay toward Amaharashi and continue to Kaiwomaru Park. Clear weather can reveal the Tateyama mountains across the water. Break the drive with a shore walk and a stop by the sailing ship; mountain visibility is a bonus rather than a promise. Cover photo: Michinoeki Amaharashi 20190429b.jpg — 掬茶. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Michinoeki_Amaharashi_20190429b.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

18.8 km • 22 min

Kaga’s hot-spring towns

Link Yamanaka, Yamashiro and Katayamazu on a relaxed Kaga outing. Walk the Kakusenkei gorge from Yamanaka, pause in Yamashiro’s old bathhouse district and finish beside Lake Shibayama. The pleasures are the town walks and water views, so leave time beyond the drive for each stop. Cover photo: 鶴仙渓川床 (Kakusen gorge) 20 Aug, 2011 - panoramio.jpg — Hiroaki Kaneko. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%E9%B6%B4%E4%BB%99%E6%B8%93%E5%B7%9D%E5%BA%8A_(Kakusen_gorge)_20_Aug,_2011_-_panoramio.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

12.9 km • 15 min

Asuka’s ancient landscape to Yoshino

Begin among Asuka’s historic sites, with stops at Asukadera and Ishibutai, then continue toward the Yoshino River. The first part is best enjoyed with short walks through the village landscape. Finish near Yoshino-Jingu rather than driving into the narrow upper temple streets. Cover photo: Ishibutai-kofun Asuka Nara pref05n4592.jpg — 663highland. CC BY 2.5: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ishibutai-kofun_Asuka_Nara_pref05n4592.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

20.9 km • 20 min

Kyoto by the sea: Amanohashidate to Ine

Start beside Amanohashidate, follow the shore of Miyazu Bay and continue to Ine’s boathouse village. Pause at Kasamatsu Park’s lower access area before heading north. The sandbar and the boathouse lanes are places to explore on foot, with the vehicle left in public parking. Cover photo: Michinoeki Funayanosato Ine 2017-04 ac (1).jpg — Asturio Cantabrio. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Michinoeki_Funayanosato_Ine_2017-04_ac_(1).jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

26.8 km • 23 min

Izumo’s shrine and Hinomisaki coast

Start near Izumo Taisha, pause at Inasa Beach and follow the coast to Hinomisaki. Combine the shrine visit with a walk around the lighthouse and rocky headland. This is a compact coastal outing with plenty to see after parking, so leave more time than the drive alone suggests. Cover photo: Hinomisaki lighthouse.jpg — Isebito. Public domain: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:Public_domain https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hinomisaki_lighthouse.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

12.2 km • 13 min

Futami coast to the streets of Ozu

Follow the coast from Futami past Shimonada and Nagahama before turning inland toward Ozu. The sea-facing road gives way to the Hiji River and the castle town. Stop briefly and considerately at Shimonada, where the station remains a working part of the local railway. Cover photo: Shimonada Station 201507(1).JPG — Sunport1216. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Shimonada_Station_201507(1).JPG Re-encoded; metadata removed.

35.0 km • 30 min

Naruto’s bays and strait

Travel from central Naruto toward the bays around the Naruto Skyline and finish in Naruto Park. Pause at Shihomidai for the island-and-water panorama before continuing to the strait. Whirlpools depend on tidal conditions, so plan any viewing visit separately from the driving estimate. Cover photo: Naruto strait aerial photo.jpg — Tdk. CC BY-SA 3.0: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Naruto_strait_aerial_photo.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

18.8 km • 19 min

Sanriku coves: Miyako to Kitayamazaki

Travel north along Iwate’s rugged coast, linking Jodogahama’s pale rocks with Taro and the cliffs of Kitayamazaki. Allow time to leave the vehicle and reach the viewpoints on foot. The coves and headlands make this a full outing even when the driving distance looks modest. Cover photo: 北山崎第一展望台からの北山崎.jpg — くろふね. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%E5%8C%97%E5%B1%B1%E5%B4%8E%E7%AC%AC%E4%B8%80%E5%B1%95%E6%9C%9B%E5%8F%B0%E3%81%8B%E3%82%89%E3%81%AE%E5%8C%97%E5%B1%B1%E5%B4%8E.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

84.0 km • 2 hr 6 min

Haruna Shrine, lake and Ikaho

Connect the wooded approach to Haruna Shrine with Lake Haruna and the descent toward Ikaho Onsen. Take a walk at the shrine and a lakeside break before continuing over the mountain. Finish around Ikaho’s stone steps, with time to explore the hot-spring town after parking. Cover photo: 逆さ榛名富士 - panoramio.jpg — shinohal. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%E9%80%86%E3%81%95%E6%A6%9B%E5%90%8D%E5%AF%8C%E5%A3%AB_-_panoramio.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

15.1 km • 21 min

Ome and the road to Lake Okutama

Leave Ome along the Tama River valley, stop around Mitake, and continue through Okutama toward Ogouchi Dam. The landscape changes from riverside settlements to steep wooded hills and reservoir views. Finish with a walk around the dam’s visitor area; this route stays on the approach to the lake rather than the Okutama Shuyu road. Cover photo: Lake Okutama 2.jpg — Douglas Paul Perkins. CC BY 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lake_Okutama_2.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

26.8 km • 58 min

Hakone: Lake Ashi and Sengokuhara

Link the lakeside scenery of Moto-Hakone with Togendai and the grasslands of Sengokuhara. Stop at Onshi-Hakone Park for a walk above Lake Ashi, then continue to the northern side of the caldera. The route is designed around sightseeing stops rather than a fast crossing of Hakone. Cover photo: LakeAshi and MtFuji Hakone.JPG — Kentagon. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:LakeAshi_and_MtFuji_Hakone.JPG Re-encoded; metadata removed.

14.1 km • 19 min

Tatsukushi to Cape Ashizuri

Begin at Tatsukushi’s rocky shore, continue through Tosashimizu and finish at Cape Ashizuri. Combine the drive with coastal walks at either end and a visit to Kongofukuji near the cape. The lighthouse and cliff paths are reached on foot from the visitor parking area. Cover photo: Ashizuri Cape 07.JPG — Reggaeman. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ashizuri_Cape_07.JPG Re-encoded; metadata removed.

25.8 km • 22 min

Oirase Gorge to Lake Towada

Follow the wooded valley from Yakeyama toward Lake Towada. Use the designated stopping areas for Oirase’s streamside walks and Choshi Falls, then finish at Nenokuchi on the lakeshore. The road shares a narrow corridor with walkers and buses; this route is about unhurried stops, not speed. Cover photo: Oirase Gorge - OiraseGorge7015.jpg — lumoplank. CC0: http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Oirase_Gorge_-_OiraseGorge7015.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

13.3 km • 9 min

Biei hills to the Blue Pond

Link Biei’s open farmland with the wooded approach to Shirogane. Leave time for the flower gardens at Shikisai-no-Oka, a walk beside the Blue Pond, and the view of Shirahige Falls. This is a relaxed sightseeing ride with short walks at the stops; stay out of cultivated fields. Cover photo: Biei Blue-pond.jpg — MaedaAkihiko. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Biei_Blue-pond.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

30.3 km • 40 min

Irohazaka to Lake Chuzenji

Climb from Nikko through Irohazaka toward Akechidaira and Lake Chuzenji, then continue to Ryuzu Falls. The ascent uses the signed one-way mountain road. Park at each attraction before exploring on foot; a ropeway visit and waterfall walks can easily turn the drive into a half-day outing. Cover photo: Mount nantai and lake chuzenji.jpg — Uraomote yamaneko. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mount_nantai_and_lake_chuzenji.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

25.2 km • 46 min

Lake Inawashiro and Mount Bandai views

Trace the northern shore of Lake Inawashiro, linking Tenkyokaku, Nagahama and Tenjinhama. The attraction is the changing angle of Mount Bandai and the broad water, rather than a demanding mountain climb. Stop for short shore walks and leave time to visit the historic villa at Tenkyokaku. Cover photo: Lake Inawashiro view from Mt.Bandai.jpg — Stingfield. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lake_Inawashiro_view_from_Mt.Bandai.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

8.8 km • 8 min

Tottori’s dunes to Uradome coves

Link the Tottori Sand Dunes visitor area with the coves of the Uradome coast. Stop at the coastal boat terminal before continuing toward the beach at Iwami. The dunes and cliff paths are walking excursions; the drive provides a short connection between contrasting coastal landscapes. Cover photo: Uradome Coast.JPG — Mti. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Uradome_Coast.JPG Re-encoded; metadata removed.

14.1 km • 19 min

Southern Osaka’s temples and Takihata

Explore a quieter side of Osaka around Kawachinagano. Link Kanshinji with the Okukawachi Kuromaro-no-Sato roadside station and the wooded approach to Takihata Dam. Use the temple and visitor parking areas, and keep the final reservoir section at a careful pace through the hills. Cover photo: Takihata Dam2.jpg — KENPEI. CC BY-SA 3.0: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Takihata_Dam2.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

13.3 km • 25 min

Lake Tazawa shoreline circuit

Make a gentle circuit of Lake Tazawa, using Tazawako Resthouse as the lakeside start and finish. Stop at Goza-no-Ishi Shrine and the Tatsuko statue for contrasting views across the water. Keep the day flexible for a shore walk or a longer lunch beside the lake. Cover photo: Lake Tazawa in autumn 2022.jpg — 掬茶. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lake_Tazawa_in_autumn_2022.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

20.6 km • 20 min

Tsunoshima and Nagato’s sea views

Cross Tsunoshima Bridge for a stop by the lighthouse, then return to the mainland and continue to Motonosumi Shrine and Senjojiki. The route links turquoise-water views with a clifftop shrine and open grassland. Keep the bridge clear of stopped vehicles and use the designated viewpoints. Cover photo: Tsunoshima Bridge (32994549311).jpg — Raita Futo from Tokyo, Japan. CC BY 2.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tsunoshima_Bridge_(32994549311).jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

45.9 km • 51 min

Ajihaura to Oarai: the Pacific shoreline

Follow Ibaraki’s coast from Ajihaura past Nakaminato’s fish market to Oarai Isosaki Shrine. Make this a short coastal outing with a proper food stop and time to walk the shrine grounds. View the offshore torii from the designated shore area, away from the wave-washed rocks. Cover photo: Oarai Isosaki Shrine 01.jpg — Σ64. CC BY 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Oarai_Isosaki_Shrine_01.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

9.8 km • 17 min

Lake Biwa’s western shore

Follow the western side of Lake Biwa from Omi-Maiko toward Shirahige Shrine, Imazu and Makino. Mix waterside stops with the tree-lined road at Makino Pickland. View Shirahige’s offshore torii from the shrine’s designated viewing area and do not cross the busy road to reach the water. Cover photo: Bird in Sunrise (Lake biwa-Japan) - panoramio.jpg — Masoud Akbari. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bird_in_Sunrise_(Lake_biwa-Japan)_-_panoramio.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

31.9 km • 39 min

Fuji’s western lakes

Connect the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi with Saiko, Shoji and Motosu. The road alternates between lake views and forest, with several places to stop and look back toward Mount Fuji. Choose a clear day if mountain views matter, and make the lakeside walks part of the outing. Cover photo: Lake Shōji from north side 01.jpg — Davide Mauro. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lake_Sh%C5%8Dji_from_north_side_01.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

24.9 km • 26 min

Teradomari to Izumozaki coast

Follow the Sea of Japan from Teradomari’s fish-market area toward the old coastal town of Izumozaki. Take a food break before the sea-facing road and finish near the Tenryo-no-Sato roadside station. This itinerary keeps to the coast and does not use Yahiko Skyline. Cover photo: Teradomari Fish Market Street 20081013.jpg — Paul McMahon. CC BY 2.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Teradomari_Fish_Market_Street_20081013.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

20.3 km • 17 min

Nichinan coast: Aoshima to Udo

Follow the Pacific coast south from Aoshima, stopping at Horikiri Pass and Phoenix roadside station before Udo Shrine. The drive links headland views with the coast’s distinctive rock shelves. Aoshima and Udo are walking visits, so park in the signed visitor areas before exploring. Cover photo: Horikiri Pass Miyazaki 2016.JPG — ja:User:Sanjo. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Horikiri_Pass_Miyazaki_2016.JPG Re-encoded; metadata removed.

24.0 km • 38 min

Tobishima island roads to Mitarai

Cross from Kawajiri to the Tobishima islands and continue through Sannose and Kamikamagari toward Mitarai. Bridges, small ports and sheltered water give the route a different pace from a mainland drive. Finish in the historic harbour district on Osaki Shimojima and explore its lanes on foot. Cover photo: A town road of Yutakacho, Kure-shi, Hiroshima Mitarai.広島県呉市豊町御手洗の町道 - panoramio.jpg — 柳田亮. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_town_road_of_Yutakacho,_Kure-shi,_Hiroshima_Mitarai.%E5%BA%83%E5%B3%B6%E7%9C%8C%E5%91%89%E5%B8%82%E8%B1%8A%E7%94%BA%E5%BE%A1%E6%89%8B%E6%B4%97%E3%81%AE%E7%94%BA%E9%81%93_-_panoramio.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

33.1 km • 47 min

Southern Boso Flower Line

Follow the southern tip of the Boso Peninsula from Tateyama toward Sunosaki and Nojimazaki. Coastal stretches, seasonal roadside flowers and lighthouse walks give the outing its rhythm. Continue to Chikura for a relaxed finish; budget separate time for the walking paths around each cape. Cover photo: Nojimazaki Lighthouse (16536175400).jpg — hiroaki from Tokyo, Japan. CC BY 2.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nojimazaki_Lighthouse_(16536175400).jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

38.2 km • 51 min

Kushimoto’s capes and Kumano coast

Start at Shionomisaki, return to Kushimoto and follow the coast past Hashigui-iwa toward Nachikatsuura. The rock formations make a natural pause before the longer coast road. End in the fishing town for a walk and a meal, with the cape and shore paths explored on foot. Cover photo: Wakayama-A morning glow of hashigui-iwa-xl.jpg — photonakazy. CC BY 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wakayama-A_morning_glow_of_hashigui-iwa-xl.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

36.2 km • 29 min

Awaji’s west coast

Follow Awaji’s western shore from Hokudan toward Goshiki and Keinomatsubara, with an inland stop at Izanagi Shrine. The route combines small coastal settlements, sea views and a pine-backed beach finish. Arrive on the island separately; this itinerary begins after the mainland bridge crossing. Cover photo: Keino matsubara 01.jpg — Pinqui. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Keino_matsubara_01.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

37.5 km • 40 min

Toba’s Pearl Road to Shima

Leave Toba for Uramura and the sea views along Pearl Road. Take a proper pause at Toba Observatory before continuing toward Shima and Anorisaki. Fishing villages, wooded slopes and headlands make the drive varied; the lighthouse grounds are a walking stop at the end. Cover photo: Toba Tenbodai 5.jpg — tozanka. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Toba_Tenbodai_5.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

42.7 km • 1 hr 4 min

Matsushima Bay and Oku-Matsushima

Start by the waterfront in Shiogama and follow Matsushima Bay toward the quieter Miyato peninsula. Pause around Godaido before continuing to Oku-Matsushima. The Otakamori panorama requires a walk from the visitor area; leave extra time for the climb and the bay views. Cover photo: Matsushima Godaido 4.jpg — Tak1701d. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Matsushima_Godaido_4.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

23.5 km • 28 min

Aso’s northern rim and grasslands

Start near Aso Station and climb to Daikanbo before following the northern highland roads toward Senomoto. The route focuses on the caldera panorama and grasslands rather than the volcanic crater. Pause at the designated viewpoints and leave time for a short walk at Daikanbo. Cover photo: Daikanbō Lookout, Yamada, Aso, Kumamoto - Jul 9, 2011.jpg — t-mizo. CC BY 2.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Daikanb%C5%8D_Lookout,_Yamada,_Aso,_Kumamoto_-_Jul_9,_2011.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

33.6 km • 39 min

Venus Line: Shirakaba to Kirigamine

Take a focused highland drive from Lake Shirakaba to Kurumayama and Kirigamine. Stop at the visitor areas for walks and broad upland views instead of rushing to cover the whole Venus Line. This shorter selection leaves room for changing weather and a leisurely break in the grasslands. Cover photo: Venus Line 10.jpg — Douglaspperkins. CC BY 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Venus_Line_10.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

17.0 km • 28 min

Sakurajima’s lava coast

Start near Sakurajima’s visitor centre, climb to Yunohira and continue around the southern coast to Arimura and Kurokami. The stops reveal different sides of the volcano and its lava landscape. The ferry to Sakurajima is not included, and current volcanic access restrictions always take precedence over the saved route. Cover photo: Sakurajima Yunohira Observation Deck.JPG — At by At. CC BY-SA 3.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sakurajima_Yunohira_Observation_Deck.JPG Re-encoded; metadata removed.

30.5 km • 51 min

Itoshima’s sunset coast

Link Futamigaura’s offshore rocks with the beaches and headlands around Keya. Take the coast at a relaxed pace and finish near the Keya harbour visitor area. Cafes and beach walks can fill the rest of the outing; leave the narrow village lanes and private approaches clear. Cover photo: Futamigaura Beach from observation deck of Futamigaura Cemetery 1.JPG — そらみみ (Soramimi). CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Futamigaura_Beach_from_observation_deck_of_Futamigaura_Cemetery_1.JPG Re-encoded; metadata removed.

14.1 km • 21 min

Shonai Peninsula and Chichibugahama

Explore the shore around Takuma and the Shonai Peninsula before finishing at Chichibugahama. Pause near Shonai Hanto Olive Farm and the coastal village of Nio. The beach’s mirror-like reflections depend on tide and wind, but the peninsula and shore walks make a worthwhile outing in their own right. Cover photo: Titibugahama 01.jpg — Dokudami. CC BY-SA 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Titibugahama_01.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

21.7 km • 35 min

Hiruzen’s pasture roads

Make a gentle highland outing around Hiruzen, linking Kaze-no-Ie, Jersey Land and the Shiogama spring area. Open pasture views and food stops are the focus. Keep to the public roads and parking areas around the farms, leaving the spring and visitor paths for a walk. Cover photo: Hiruzen 01.jpg — Reggaeman. CC BY-SA 3.0: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hiruzen_01.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

12.4 km • 21 min

West Izu’s capes and coves

Follow the western Izu coast from Toi through Koganezaki and Dogashima to Matsuzaki. Make time for the cape paths and a look at Dogashima’s rock formations before the final town stop. The route rewards frequent breaks, especially when the low light reaches the west-facing shore. Cover photo: Hotels and cliff coast in Dogashima (2006).jpg — Darklanlan. CC BY 4.0: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hotels_and_cliff_coast_in_Dogashima_(2006).jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

25.7 km • 21 min

Motobu, Bise and Kouri’s blue water

Link Motobu’s waterfront with the shaded village of Bise, then cross Yagaji toward Kouri Island. Leave the vehicle in public parking for the Bise lanes and the beach at Kouri. The bridges are part of the drive, not stopping places; enjoy the water views from the signed pull-ins. Cover photo: Kouri-Beach.jpg — MaedaAkihiko. CC0: http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kouri-Beach.jpg Re-encoded; metadata removed.

27.2 km • 48 min