Your Perfect Japan Rugby World Cup Road Trip

The Japan Rugby World Cup 2019 is approaching fast, and we couldn’t be more excited about Japan hosting this epic sporting event. We know your top priority is attending each of the matches, but to make your trip even better we’ve outlined a bunch of cool attractions to experience in each of the twelve confirmed hosting cities where the matches are taking place throughout the event.

Tokyo

The city that will surprise, delight and possibly shock you at times with how incredibly different it truly is. There will be plenty to see and do here and we recommend simply parking up your motorhome and wandering the city streets. You’ll find incredible shopping and sightseeing at every turn and flavoursome local cuisine to fill your bellies before rugby matches. If you’re wanting more, we’ve created an epic Tokyo Round Trip itinerary. Games will be held at Tokyo Stadium.

Sapporo City

Located on the main island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is surrounded by picturesque mountain backdrops. Take the time to wander through Odori Park, quench your thirst at the Sapporo Beer Museum and wherever you go in Japan - sample the local ramen. Games will be held at Sapporo Dome.

Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama City

When visiting Yokohama City, check out the Enoshima Shrine: a mountaintop landmark made up of three amazing shrines. Take the short drive out there as it’s located on Enoshima Island which is about forty minutes from the mainland. Make it a day trip and hit up the Enospa Hot Springs, an onsen resort where you can relax those tired muscles in the mineral rich pools. Games will be held at International Stadium Yokohama.

Osaka Prefecture, Higashiosaka City

Higashiosaka is the gateway to the ancient Silk Road, as well as the cultural core of Japan. It’s relatively small but still packs a punch, housing the oldest Buddhist Temple in Japan and its very own Osaka Castle. Did you know this city invented instant noodles and cup of noodles? Higashiosaka even has a curry bun delicacy which is shaped like a rugby ball. They also have the very first conveyor belt sushi shop which is still in business. Games will be held at Hanazono Rugby Stadium.

Aichi Prefecture, Toyota City

This is the industrial birthplace of Toyota Motor, one of the most recognizable brands in the world! With a number of interesting museums, including the Toyota Automobile Museum, you’ll learn all about the history of its namesake. If you’re craving a little nature, drive out in your motorhome rental to the nearby Aichi-Kogen Quasi-National Park which is famous for its deep red autumnal maple leaves. Games will be held at the City of Toyota Stadium.

Saitama Prefecture, Kumagaya City

Get your cultural fix and visit some cool temples! We recommend the famous Menuma Shodenzan Kangi-in temple with its freshly restored colours. For those who want to venture out of the city, the Studio Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is incredible and don’t leave Kumagaya without trying Gokabo which is a delicious sweet treat. Games will be held in Kumagaya Stadium.

Iwate Prefecture, Kamaishi City

This city by the sea hosts the cultural Kamaishi Festival which is taking place during October 2019 at the same time as the Rugby World Cup. Visitors will be able to see traditional tiger dancing and sample local delicacies (the city is famous for its fresh seafood). Games will be held at Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium.

Fukuoka Prefecture, Fukuoka City

Where the city meets mountains - Fukuoka is diverse, compact and oozing a cool vibe that we’re loving. The food scene is not to be missed here, and pork tonkatsu ramen is something you’ll never know you needed until you try it. Games will be held at Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium.

Kobe City

Soak your bones at Arima - the oldest hot springs in Japan, before heading off to one of the many sake breweries. Identified by its famous Kobe beef, you would be silly to not taste this fine meat before leaving. Games will be held at Kobe Misaki Stadium.

Shizuoka Prefecture

Hello, lush landscapes! Shizuoka Prefecture will be a sight for tired urban eyes with its greenery and easy access to the famous Mt Fuji. If you’ve got enough time (and courage) we dare you to climb it! You can’t leave Shizuoka without visiting a green tea farm and having a cup or two. This city is a big producer of tea leaves as the climate is perfect for tea cultivation. Games will be held at Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa.

Oita Prefecture

Nature lovers, this is for you! You’re going to love Oita with its lush forests, volcanic landscapes and hot onsens ready for soaking. Notice a theme throughout this holiday? Rugby, scenery, food and mineral springs. We don’t think you’ll be complaining. Games will be held at Oita Stadium.

Kumamoto Prefecture, Kumamoto City

You’ll be pleased to know Kumamoto’s nickname is Forest City, for the wonderfully wooded areas around the urban outskirts. As always, we believe in balance when it comes to city vs. nature and a nearby national park worth checking out is Mount Aso, a huge active volcano, home to an ancient caldera. Just check for geothermal activity before you go. Games will be held at Kumamoto Stadium.

What better way to make the most of your Rugby World Cup 2019 tour than in the comfort and ease of your own Japan motorhome rental. It’s important to book in the vehicle you want now to ensure you get what you’re looking for.