If you’re a camping enthusiast and a rider, you’ve probably heard of “Doshinomori Campground.” Nestled in nature, this campsite is perfect for solo campers and those new to camping. In this post, I’ll cover everything from the ride to the campground, what to do once you arrive, and tips for beginner campers!
Basic Information about Doshinomori Campground
Doshinomori Campground is easily accessible by motorcycle or car and offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. In this section, we provide essential information such as how to get there, key features of the campground, pricing details, and other useful tips to help you make the most of your visit to Doshinomori Campground.
Accessing Doshinomori Campground
- Access Information: Doshinomori Campground is located in Doshi Village, Yamanashi Prefecture, and is easily accessible by motorcycle. It’s about a two-hour ride from central Tokyo, with a popular winding road for riders, Route 413 (Doshimichi), leading directly to the campsite.
- Highlights Along the Way: On the ride, you’ll pass scenic streams and the popular roadside station “Michi-no-Eki Doshi,” which makes for a great rest stop or meal break. The views along Doshimichi are beautiful, with mountains and rivers enhancing the joy of touring.
Address: 10041 Doshi Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture 402-0223
Open: Year-round (limited water access during winter)
Water availability: Mid-April to mid-November
Check-in: 9:00 AM
Check-out: Strictly by 12:00 PM
Phone: 080-444-2440 (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
Unscheduled closures: Check the official website calendar for closure and busy period updates.
Website:https://doshinomori.jp/
Features of Doshinomori Campground
- Spacious Free Camping Area:Doshinomori Campground operates on a no-reservation, free-camping basis, meaning you can pitch your tent anywhere. There’s a lot of freedom to choose your spot, and riverside areas are especially peaceful and popular. Arrive early to secure a prime location.
- Natural Environment:Surrounded by rich greenery and a flowing stream, the campsite offers a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. Camping by the stream with the soothing sound of water is incredibly calming.
- Facilities:The campsite has several cooking areas and toilets with the necessary amenities. Coin-operated showers are also available for freshening up during your stay. There are vending machines on-site, so you won’t have to worry about running out of drinks. The setup makes it beginner-friendly.
Note:
Toilets do not provide toilet paper, so it’s a good idea to bring your own. It is available for purchase at the administration building if needed.





Camping Fees at Doshinomori
One of the biggest draws of Doshinomori Campground is its affordability, especially for solo campers and motorcyclists. For motorcycle campers, a one-night stay costs just 1,300 yen (800 yen per person plus 500 yen for the bike). Compared to campsites accessible from Tokyo, this is a great deal.
Since it’s a free-camping site with no need for reservations, it’s an easy choice for beginners. Given the available facilities, it offers excellent value for money.
Administration Building | Staff Come Around for Checks | Busy Period | |
---|---|---|---|
Adult (3 years and older) | ¥800 | ¥1,000 | Same Prices |
Car | ¥1,000 | ¥1,000 | ¥2,000 (¥1,500) |
Motorcycle | ¥500 | ¥500 | ¥1,000 (¥750) |
Bicycle | Free | Free | Free |
Camper | ¥1,000 | ¥1,000 | ¥2,000 (¥1,500) |
Important:
You can pay the fees either at the administration building or when the staff come around for checks. It’s recommended to first find a campsite and then register at the administration office.
Prohibited
- No open fires (fire pits are allowed).
- No vehicle access between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
- No unauthorized use of drones or other remote-controlled flying devices.
Camping Preparation and Useful Information
To fully enjoy your camping experience, proper preparation is key. In this section, we provide useful tips for making your stay at Doshinomori Campground as comfortable as possible, even for beginners. We also include information on nearby grocery stores, bathing facilities, and other helpful resources. Make sure to get everything ready so that your first camping experience goes smoothly!
Tips for Beginner Campers
- Essential Gear:When motorcycle camping, a tent, sleeping bag, and mat are must-haves, along with a compact stove, camping pot (cook set), and a foldable chair for added comfort. Since nights at Doshinomori can get chilly, even in spring or fall, don’t forget to bring warm clothing.
- Buying Food:It’s a good idea to stock up on food before arriving at the campsite. The nearby roadside station offers fresh local produce and specialties, perfect for cooking at the campsite. Since campfires are allowed here, you can also enjoy some outdoor cooking.
- Caution:As Doshinomori is a natural setting, it gets dark quickly at night, so bring a headlamp or lantern. There are also wild animals in the area, so be mindful of leaving food unattended.
Recommended Grocery Stops
Once you enter Route 413 (Doshimichi), there are no supermarkets or convenience stores, so it’s best to shop before getting on the road.
If Coming from Sagamiko:
Address: 363-1 Mikage, Midori-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0159
Phone:042-780-7388
Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
If Coming from Yamanakako:
Address: 865-5 Yamanaka, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0501
Phone: 0555-73-8711
Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Nearby Bathing Facilities
After a day of camping at Doshinomori, you might want to relax in a hot bath or onsen. Here are two nearby options:
Address: 7501 Doshi Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture 402-0212
Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Phone: 0554-52-2384
Website: https://www.doshinoyu.jp/
Address: 3888 Tsubaki, Doshi Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Winter: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM)
Phone: 0554-20-4500
Website: https://benitubakinoyu.com/
The Appeal of Solo Camping
The greatest appeal of solo camping lies in the freedom it offers. You can move at your own pace and enjoy your time without worrying about others, which is a unique luxury of solo camping. At Doshinomori Campground, you can fully immerse yourself in a quiet, natural environment, enjoying your time to the fullest.
Here, you can relax by listening to the chirping of birds and the flowing river, and experience the simple joy of gazing at a campfire. Cooking your own meal adds to the atmosphere, making it feel like the best feast you’ve ever had.
At night, you can sit by the fire under a sky full of stars, spending peaceful, quiet moments away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Solo camping offers a precious opportunity to reconnect with yourself, and the freedom and comfort it provides make it a refreshing experience for both mind and body.
Conclusion
Doshinomori Campground is the perfect spot for solo camping, offering a peaceful, natural environment. Its easy access and popularity among riders make it a great destination for those who want to enjoy a motorcycle touring camp. Plan your next solo camping trip to Doshinomori for a truly relaxing getaway!