The thought of exploring Japan by car can excite anyone.
The freedom to travel at your own pace, stopping to take in the sights and enjoy the local culture, makes it a fantastic way to see the country.
Narita, known for its international airport, is also a gateway to many beautiful and scenic destinations.
This blog will explore the top 10 scenic drives near Narita.
10 Must-Experience Scenic Driving Routes Near Narita
1. Narita to Choshi Coastline
The Narita to Choshi Coastline drive is perfect for those who love the ocean.
Starting from Narita, this route takes you through the lush countryside before reaching the dramatic coastline of Choshi.
The drive is about 1.5 hours and is filled with beautiful views.
The highlight of this route is the Choshi Fishing Port, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
The Inubosaki Lighthouse offers stunning ocean views.
This route is ideal for a relaxing day out, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.
2. Narita to Mount Tsukuba
The Narita to Mount Tsukuba drive is a must if you prefer mountains to the sea.
This drive takes about 2 hours and leads through charming rural areas to Mount Tsukuba’s twin peaks.
The mountain is famous for its unique shape and offers several hiking trails for those who want to stretch their legs.
On the way, you can visit the Tsukuba Space Center to learn about Japan’s space exploration efforts.
The views from the top of Mount Tsukuba are breathtaking, especially in the autumn when the leaves change color.
3. Narita to Nokogiriyama (Mount Nokogiri)
The Narita to Nokogiriyama route is another fantastic option for nature lovers.
This drive, about 1.5 hours long, takes you to Mount Nokogiri, known for its rugged cliffs and stunning views of Tokyo Bay.
The highlight of this trip is the Nihon-ji Temple, home to one of Japan’s most giant stone Buddha statues.
The temple grounds are extensive and offer several walking trails with panoramic views.
The drive itself is scenic, with winding roads and beautiful countryside vistas.
4. Narita to Kashima Jingu Shrine
The Narita to Kashima Jingu Shrine drive is perfect for a journey that combines natural beauty and cultural heritage.
This route takes about 1 hour and brings you to one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Shinto shrines.
The shrine is surrounded by ancient forests, making the whole area feel serene and mystical.
The drive is straightforward and enjoyable, with plenty of spots to stop and take photos.
If you’re a sports fan, remember to explore the nearby Kashima Soccer Stadium.
5. Narita to Kujukuri Beach
Beach lovers will enjoy the Narita to Kujukuri Beach drive.
This route takes about 1 hour and leads you to one of Japan’s longest beaches.
Kujukuri Beach stretches for 60 kilometers and is perfect for a day of sun, sand, and surf.
The beach is relatively undeveloped, offering a more natural and peaceful experience.
There are also several seafood restaurants along the coast where you can enjoy fresh local dishes.
The drive itself is pleasant, with coastal views and ocean breezes.
6. Narita to Sawara (Little Edo)
The Narita to Sawara drive is a must for a taste of traditional Japan.
Sawara, also known as Little Edo, is about 30 minutes from Narita and offers a glimpse into Japan’s past.
The town is famous for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings and canals.
Stroll through the historic streets, visit the old merchant houses, and take a boat ride along the canals.
This short drive is packed with history, making it a perfect half-day trip.
7. Narita to Lake Kasumigaura
The Narita to Lake Kasumigaura drive offers beautiful lake views and a peaceful escape from the city.
This route takes about 1 hour and brings you to Japan’s second-largest lake.
The lake is surrounded by parks and walking paths, making it ideal for a relaxing day out.
You can rent a bicycle and ride around the lake or take a boat tour to enjoy the scenery from the water.
There are also several spots for fishing and picnicking.
The drive is scenic, with views of the lake and surrounding countryside.
8. Narita to Ushiku Daibutsu
The Narita to Ushiku Daibutsu drive is perfect for those interested in cultural landmarks.
This route takes about 1 hour and leads you to one of the tallest statues in the world.
The Ushiku Daibutsu is a 120-meter-tall statue of Buddha set in beautiful gardens.
The statue is impressive up close, and you can even go inside to learn about its construction and Buddhist teachings.
The surrounding gardens are peaceful and include a small zoo and flower garden.
The drive is simple and well worth the visit.
9. Narita to Boso Flower Line
Flower enthusiasts will love the Narita to Boso Flower Line drive.
This route takes about 2 hours and runs along the southern coast of the Boso Peninsula.
The road is famous for its flower fields, especially in the spring when they bloom.
The drive offers stunning coastal views and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the flowers.
There are also several charming seaside towns along the way where you can enjoy local cuisine and hospitality.
10. Narita to Katori Jingu Shrine
The Narita to Katori Jingu Shrine drive is a great way to explore one of Japan’s oldest shrines.
This route takes about 40 minutes and brings you to a beautiful and historic Shinto shrine surrounded by nature.
The shrine is peaceful and less crowded than some of the more famous ones, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection.
The drive is scenic, with views of forests and rice fields.
Wrapping Up
Exploring scenic car journeys in Japan from Narita offers a variety of experiences, from coastal drives to mountain roads and from historic towns to peaceful lakes.
Each route provides unique sights and activities, making finding a trip that suits your interests easy.
When planning your trip, consider the best car for road trips. Comfort, fuel efficiency, and space for luggage are essential factors. You can rent such cars from Narita Rent A Car.
Renting a reliable car will ensure that your ride is simple and fun.
These best drives around Narita are just a few of the many beautiful routes you can explore in Japan.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, these drives offer something for everyone.
