Driving from Nikko - Matsumoto- Mount Fuji

hi all

We plan to drive from Narita to Nikko (stay 2 nights in Nikko), and then drive from Nikko to Matsumoto (stay 2 nights in Matsumoto) and then drive to Mount Fuji and then back to Tokyo.

Is it dangerous to drive in middle of March from Nikko to Matsumoto? do we need winter tyres? is it a very long drive? how long is the drive from Nikko to Matsumoto? should i stay over one night in Karuizawa, rather than drive straight to Matsumoto?

if anyone has any recommendations or tips about my planned driving trip, please kindly let me know.

many thanks in advance.

Mabel

1)
Depends on weather condition.
http://www.jma.go.jp/en/week/
http://www.jma.go.jp/en/amedas/000.html?elementCode=4
If falling heavy snow or after snow covered will be iced very dangerous even wearing winter tyres.
https://youtu.be/EAi0fes4OC4 (This is not in Japan but)
Watch also live cams.
http://www.bussanshokai.com/camera/index.shtml
http://nikko.4-seasons.jp/live/camera.shtml
http://www.ktr.mlit.go.jp/nagano/live/live_top.html

2)
Yes, Snow season overed yet.
And don't forget ETC card rent,too. (for major toll roads discount)

3)
Google Map knows.
https://goo.gl/maps/veKxmubaETE2
Total distance is no different until "Penang" as oneway see below.
https://goo.gl/maps/xtf3L5nHj1E2

4)
That route plan needs "oneway drop off fee" plus.
(NRT is NOT "Tokyo" as address)
Read carefully Car Rent web guides and FAQ.

If first time drive in Japan read traffic rules and basics all.
http://www.hkd.mlit.go.jp/topics/toukei/chousa/h20keikaku/e/e_all.pdf
Traffic rules is same as traffic law.

Mt.Fuji access toll roads are not full open until 5th station in this periods.
Seems open until 4th station when no iced.

Many thanks for your valuable tips!!
its much appreciated.