Essential experience for true travellers. Explore Japans nature to the fullest with no preparation needed. - We had a fantastic experience with SATO-IRO. The concept of providing an opportunity to experience the Japanese nature and countryside with maximum flexibility seems new in Japan, but is done well here with minimal fuss. Picking up the camping car was almost too easy and we were on the road within 5 minutes of meeting the guys from SATO-IRO. I’d recommend asking any questions you have about anything before you leave for your journey, especially if you’re new to driving in Japan, because once you leave the pick up station, you’re on your own and free to go where you want! The car we got drove real nice, even with a solid tent attached to the roof. It felt safe and remarkably agile for its size. Again if you’re new to Japanese driving, make sure you figure out the navigation system before you embark. It ended up taking us most of the afternoon getting to the campground with a couple of slow stops along the way, including a stop at the recommended supermarket which is stocked up with groceries ideal for camping. The campground was epic. Situated alongside a stream in a quiet valley, it was a great place to escape the chaos for a while. There’s a big cabin near the entrance where you check in and stock up with firewood; which also has a great bar with craft beers and natural wines which we made the most of. It closes at 5pm on week nights though so if you want to chill at the bar, make sure you arrive early! Setting up the rooftop tent took a bit of time and experimentation but the instruction manual provided helped us navigate our way to an awesome setup that was remarkably comfortable seeing as you’re sleeping on the roof of a car. The rest of the equipment supplied by SATO-IRO was of premium camping quality and we had everything we needed including an overhead tarp, cooking utensils, lamps, fireplace etc. We were provided with extra warm sleeping bags as well which were essential for the -8 degree November nighttime and apart from keeping us cosy, kept us alive. A tasty breakfast was included in our package and was served in the big cabin using local produce, served alongside great coffee. Packing the camping gear away the next morning was super easy due to the folding system of the tent and thanks to a wet bag provided to stuff the overhead tarp into. Even with a slow start to the morning, we were able to fit a lovely hike up a nearby mountain with amazing views of the dominating Yatsugatake mountain range as well of the majestic Mt Fuji far off in the distance, before being back in Tokyo by 5pm. Although the price might seem a bit steep to begin with, it is well worth it as it is an experience not commonly available to the standard traveller and when taking into consideration all the costs involved, including rental car, toll, camping fees and equipment, not to mention experience, it’s not bad. To be able to get out of Tokyo, off the beaten path and enjoy the nature of Japan with such freedom and with minimal preparation is a great opportunity for anyone coming to Japan. Highly recommended.

Immerse yourself in the Japanese country side. - Very nice concept that gives access to the Japanese country side in a way you wouldn’t be able otherwise, renting a fully equipped car with all the camping gear. We arrive at the car pick up spot at 10am and in less than 10minutes we were already on our way to Yamanashi. On the way to the camping we stopped at a few scenic spots and at the local supermarket to stock on plenty of seasonal local product for dinner. At the camping check in was also very fast and they had ready for us a bunch of wood for the fire and all the tools you need to cook. It’s a semi free camping area so you can choose we’re to camp. We found a very nice parcel of grass under the trees and right next to the river. Took us 20min to set up camp, and all camping equipment provided is very cute and useful. At the camping they also have very nice hot showers and a very nice little bar/cafe with good vibes, craft beers and natural wine. Sometimes they also do festivals and music events. In the morning breakfast was also provided at the cafe. There is also plenty of activities to do in the area, hiking trails, farms, beautiful scenery and gorgeous mountains Overall a great experience. A very nice, easy and free of hassle chance to explore that side of Japan in a couple days while you are in Tokyo.