Travellers Autobarn Japan is the Japan branch of the well-known Australian campervan rental company. Based in Narita, Chiba, close to Narita International Airport, the company focuses on budget-friendly campervans and English-friendly support for international road trippers.
We spoke with Travellers Autobarn Japan about launching in Japan, what makes its service different, and why a campervan can be a practical way to discover Japan beyond the usual train routes.
Can you briefly introduce your company and tell us where you are based in Japan?
We are Travellers Autobarn Japan, a branch of the well-known Australian campervan rental company. We specialize in providing budget-friendly and functional campervans for road trippers.
Our main operations are based in Narita, Chiba, right near Narita International Airport, the gateway to Japan, which makes it incredibly convenient for travelers to start their journey immediately after landing.
What inspired you to start a campervan rental company, and when did you start the business?
Travellers Autobarn was originally founded in Australia in 1993. Recognizing the growing demand for van life in Asia, we launched our Japan operations in 2023.
We would love to make Japan's stunning countryside accessible to everyone, not just those who can navigate complex train systems.
What types of campervans do you offer, and which one would you recommend for someone renting a campervan in Japan for the first time?
We offer a variety of vehicles to suit different needs. Our 3-seater KUGA Campervan is built on a Hiace base but features a high-top roof of 2.9 meters, allowing you to stand up inside comfortably.
The CHUBBY, also Hiace-based, is compact and easy to navigate on Japan's narrower roads while still providing a spacious and comfortable interior. We also offer 7-seater station wagons, which are convenient for families or those who want to sleep in their vehicle.
For first-timers, I highly recommend the Hiace-based models. They offer a perfect balance of living space and ease of driving.
What do you think differentiates your company from others?
Our no-hidden-costs approach and international DNA. Unlike many local rentals, we provide free unlimited kilometers and 24/7 roadside assistance, which is essential for peace of mind.
Since we are part of a global brand, our booking process and support are fully optimized for English speakers, making the entire experience seamless for international tourists.
We also offer no young driver fees and long-term rental discounts. Our location is just 15 minutes from Narita Airport, and with our easy quote and booking system, you can finish your booking in five minutes if there is availability.
Do you mainly serve Japanese travelers or international visitors? For international travelers, which countries are most common among your customers?
While we do serve local travelers, our main customers are international visitors. We see a lot of adventurers from Europe and Oceania, and increasingly from the Taiwan market.
We love seeing such a diverse range of people exploring the real Japan.
How long do people usually rent a campervan for? What are some of the most popular destinations or road trips among your customers?
The average rental is about 10 to 14 days, though many go for 21-day grand tours. Popular routes include the scenic Hokkaido loop in summer and the Golden Route between Tokyo, Fuji, and Kyoto.
Recently, more travelers are exploring hidden gems like the Tohoku region, Shikoku, and Kyushu for a more authentic, less crowded experience.
Do you personally have a favorite place in Japan to explore by campervan and why?
Personally, I love the Tohoku region in the north. You can experience mysterious nature and Japan's ancient history, and there are many hot springs, or onsens, to enjoy. It is the perfect area to explore freely by car.
I also love the Fuji and Izu areas, as well as Nagano.
What is your best advice for travelers renting a campervan in Japan for the first time?
I recommend using Michi-no-Eki, or roadside stations, to stay overnight comfortably and affordably while traveling. For bathing, sento public bathhouses and super sentos are highly recommended.
You can also make your trip very comfortable by utilizing the food from convenience stores. Make sure to prepare for seasonal weather, whether heat or cold, and while it is good to research your route in advance, the real fun comes from the spontaneous discoveries you make along the way.
Do you have a memorable or funny story from a customer?
One of our most unforgettable memories is of a couple traveling the world who got engaged during their road trip in Japan this past summer.
We were surprised and incredibly honored that they chose our campervan to spend such a monumental moment in their lives. We have also seen many couples choosing us for their honeymoons lately, and it truly feels like a road trip is the perfect way to deepen the bond between two people.
What was the most unusual road trip someone did with your vans?
The most impressive trip was a couple who spent eight months traveling all over Japan. Their epic journey spanned the entire country, from the Tohoku region in the north to the southern reaches of Kyushu, including Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki.
They focused on hiking through hidden gems and remote areas that are completely inaccessible by train. Seeing them discover parts of Japan that even we locals did not know about was a testament to the true freedom that a long-term campervan rental provides.
Have you seen any travel trends change since you started the business? Is the number of travellers growing over time?
In recent years, the "live like a local" travel style has definitely been on the rise. We have seen a significant increase in workation travelers, people working remotely while exploring, as well as those who prioritize private, uncrowded spaces.
As a result, the number of travelers choosing van life has been growing steadily year after year.
How easy is it to book a campervan with you, and how far in advance should people plan?
Getting on the road is incredibly smooth. Our seamless online booking system allows you to complete your reservation in about five minutes.
We are also conveniently located just 15 minutes from Narita International Airport. The ease of being able to start your adventure without any stress immediately after arriving in Japan is something our customers highly value.
Which season would you recommend for people to do their adventure?
Every season is wonderful, but we especially recommend late spring to summer and late autumn to winter.
Late spring to summer is when Japan's greenery is incredibly lush. Driving through the vibrant, sparkling forests is a fantastic feeling. It is the perfect time for mountain and seaside camping, as well as experiencing summer festivals and fireworks displays.
Late autumn to winter is also a beautiful time. In areas south of Kanto, near Tokyo, you can enjoy autumn leaves until mid-December. Winter is the season when the air is crisp and Mt. Fuji looks its most stunning with a fresh cap of snow.
There are also ski resorts accessible even with a 2WD vehicle, not to mention the joy of hopping between hot springs and enjoying seasonal winter delicacies.
Are there any new services or expansions planned in the future that customers may be excited about?
To keep up with our growing community of travelers, we are currently expanding our fleet.
Our friendly staff is constantly brainstorming and working hard every day to improve our services and help you create unforgettable memories in Japan. We invite you to come and enjoy your own unique Japanese road trip with Travellers Autobarn Japan.
For travelers landing at Narita and looking for a quick way to start a Japan road trip, Travellers Autobarn Japan offers a practical and English-friendly option. Unlimited kilometers, 24/7 roadside assistance, long-term rental discounts, and simple online booking are especially helpful for first-time campervan travelers.
If you are planning your own journey, you can also browse our list of campervan rentals in Japan, read our guide on renting a van in Japan, and check our tips on places to stay with a camper in Japan.