Japan is one of the world's fastest growing travel destinations, and with the Tokyo Olympics taking place this summer, the land of the rising sun is set to rise in popularity too.

While capital city Tokyo mixes neon-lit skyscrapers, whirring computer arcades and traditional tea houses, there's much more to explore beyond.

And when it comes to getting around, driving in Tokyo is a surprisingly good option. Hiring a car is relatively straightforward. - some suppliers don't even require a security deposit - and with cars driving on the left-hand side of the road, Brits will feel right at home.

Here are some easy road trips in the city, and further afield.

1. Rainbow Bridge

As its name suggests, this suspension bridge crossing northern Tokyo Bay to the lively Odaiba district is a dazzling sight to behold. There are several car parks surrounding the bridge, meaning you can easily park up and explore nearby.

Odaiba is known for its high-tech entertainment. Enjoy the world's first digital art museum at the Mori Building, the latest virtual reality at Tokyo Joypolis and the robots at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.

Drive time: Located just 15 minutes from the centre of Tokyo, this is a good journey to ease yourself into Japan's roads. You'll need to visit after dark to see the bridge light up.

2. Kamakura City

This coastal town, located just an hour's drive outside of Tokyo, is perfect for a day trip adventure. Sometimes referred to as the Kyoto of Eastern Japan, it's a hive of cultural attractions, with multiple temples and historical monuments, not to mention expansive sandy beaches.

Driving to Kamakura from Tokyo is the fastest, cheapest and simplest way to get there, plus you'll get some great views along the way. With all the road signs written in both Japanese and English, there's no need to worry about directions getting lost in translation either.

Drive time: 1 hour from Tokyo.

3. Shibuya Crossing

Famous for being the busiest intersection in the world, this iconic crossing has featured in Hollywood films such as Fast And Furious, Lost In Translation, and Battle Royale. Walking across it is one thing, but what if you were to drive over it?

Fortunately, it's rarely congested and easy to navigate. Plus, there's no need to be concerned about the volume of pedestrians, since they all know to wait their turn - even though they always get right-of-way on Japanese roads.

Drive time: Located within Tokyo itself. Allow 20 minutes for driving the intersection.

4. Fujiyoshida

Just over 100km from Tokyo, this beautiful city is situated at the foot of Mount Fuji. The mighty, world-famous peak will dominate your view for most of the journey, but once you arrive there's also plenty to see.

Walk up the seemingly never-ending 400-plus steps to the Chureito Pagoda for sweeping views and an Instagram-favourite shot of the pagoda, the mountain and, if in season, the cherry blossom.

Drive time: 1.5 hours from Tokyo.

5. Harajuku

Tokyo's pop culture hotspot is packed with colourful - and often cartoonish - characters. The outfit viewing alone is worth the journey: spot girls in pigtails, goths in leathers and various interpretations of manga heroes.

Driving down Omotesando Avenue will provide you with the best vantage point to observe the offbeat fashion parades. Shaded by zelkova trees, it's lined with boutiques and quirky cafes. There are also several green spaces nearby if the urban drama gets too much.

Drive time: Just a 25-minute drive from the centre of Tokyo.

How to plan your trip

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