Car Rentals in Japan from $33.70/day: Enjoy 8% Off

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Requirements for Japan Car Rental

1. Valid Passport

2. Driver's License

• International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention(Travelers can drive up to 1 year in Japan with the IDP).
• Authorized Japanese translation of your foreign driver's license if your country is not part of the 1949 Geneva Convention.

3. Age Requirements

The minimum age to rent a car in Japan is typically 18 years old, but this can vary depending on the rental company. Some companies may require drivers to be at least 20 or 21 years old, and there may be additional fees or restrictions for drivers under 25.

4. Credit Card

Most car rental companies in Japan will require a credit card for payment and to hold as a security deposit. Make sure your credit card has sufficient funds and is accepted internationally.

Special Note👀

• Remember that driving is on the left side of the road, and most road signs are in Japanese, although many also include English.
• Consider renting a car with a GPS navigation system, preferably one that offers multilingual support.
• If you plan to drive in rural areas or during the winter, you may need a car equipped with snow tires or four-wheel drive.

How Much is a Rental Car in Japan?

*The price of renting a car in Japan can vary widely depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, time of year, rental company, and additional services or insurance.

Various Models of Rental Cars in Japan

Trip.com offers a wide range models of rentals cars to customize visitors' need, including Toyota, Nissan, Suzuki, Honda, Daihatsu, etc.

Toyota car rental offers several common models, such as Toyota Roomy Specific Model, Toyota Raize Specific Model, Toyota Prius Specific Model, Toyota corolla touring Specific Model, Toyota Voxy or Similar, etc.

Nissan car rental also offers some common models, including Nissan Note or Similar, Nissan Note E-power or Similar, etc.

How to Rent a Car in Japan?

Booking the Car

Picking Up the Car

• When you go to pick up your car, you'll need to present your passport, credit card, driver's license, and IDP.
• The staff will explain the rental agreement, insurance, and any other services. Make sure you understand the terms before signing.

Inspecting the Car

Before you drive off, inspect the car for any existing damage and ensure it is noted on the rental agreement to avoid any disputes when returning the car.

Returning the Car

• Make sure to return the car on time and with the agreed-upon fuel level to avoid additional charges.
• The staff will inspect the car for any new damage, which could result in extra fees if you didn't opt for full coverage insurance.

Japan Car Rental Insurance

When renting a car in Japan, it's important to understand the insurance options available to you. Here's a table of the typical insurance types and coverage:

*It's important to carefully read the rental agreement and understand the extent of the coverage, the excesses, and any exclusions.

Tips for Japan Car Rental

1. Book in Advance

It's generally cheaper and more convenient to book your rental car in advance. You can do this online through various rental car websites or travel agencies.

2. Navigation Systems

Most rental cars come with a GPS navigation system. Make sure it's set to English (if you need it) before you leave the rental office.

3. Understand Traffic Rules

Familiarize yourself with Japanese traffic rules. Remember that in Japan, people drive on the left side of the road, and the driver's seat is on the right side of the car.

4. Tolls

Many expressways in Japan are tolled. You can pay with cash or a credit card, but it's more convenient to use an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) card, which you can rent with your vehicle.

5. Fuelling

Gas stations in Japan offer full service and self-service stations. Many stations operate 24/7, and the cost of regular gasoline is approximately US $1.11 (170 yen) per liter. High octane gas and diesel are also available. Payments can be made by cash or credit card. At full-service stations, attendants guide customers and may offer additional services like cleaning the dashboard or taking out the trash. At self-service stations, instructions are in Japanese, but help is available if needed. If paying by cash, the change machine might be separate or inside the station building.

When you rent a car, it will usually come with a full tank of gas, and you're expected to return it full.

6. Parking

Parking in large city is expensive and .difficult to find a spot. Visitors can find free parking lots in small towns, countryside, and hotels outside large cities. Some parking lots in national parks or near tourist attractions charge a flat fee, as do urban hotels. Japan also has unique parking lots, such as elevator parking lots where cars are stored in towers, and parking lots with low barriers that block in each vehicle until the parking fee is paid.

Parking fees are usually charged on an hourly basis, although some parking lots offer fixed rates for full-day parking.

7. Emergency Numbers

Keep a note of emergency numbers, such as the rental company's roadside assistance and the universal emergency number in Japan (110 for police, 119 for fire and ambulance).

8. Return Policy

Be clear on the car return policy, including the time and location for returning the vehicle. Late returns might incur additional charges.

9. Safe Driving on Snow and Ice

Your car MUST be equipped with Winter Tires if you are driving to areas with icy or snowy roads. Depending on the amount of snow that has fallen, cars without snow tires may be prohibited on driving on some roads.

Benefits of Renting a Car in Japan

Renting a car in Japan can be a fantastic way to explore the country, especially in areas where public transportation is not as accessible or frequent. Here are some benefits of renting a car in Japan:

• 1. Flexibility: Having a car allows you to travel at your own pace and change your itinerary without being tied to train or bus schedules.
• 2. Access to Remote Areas: Some of Japan's most beautiful spots are difficult to reach by public transport. A car gives you the freedom to explore these hidden gems.
• 3. Comfort and Privacy: Enjoy the privacy and comfort of your own space, especially if you're traveling with family or in a group.
• 4. Luggage Convenience: A car allows you to easily store and transport your luggage without the hassle of carrying it through crowded train stations.
• 5. Cost-Effective for Groups: If you're traveling in a group, renting a car and splitting the cost can be more economical than purchasing individual train tickets, especially for long distances.

Who is Less Suitable to Rent a Car in Japan?

Renting a car in Japan can be a great way to explore the country, especially in areas where public transportation is less accessible. However, certain visitor groups might find it less suitable to rent a car in Japan:

1. Visitors not comfortable with driving on the left

In Japan, driving is on the left side of the road, which can be challenging for those accustomed to driving on the right. If you're not confident in your ability to adapt to this change, renting a car might not be the best option.

2. Visitors staying in major cities

Cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have excellent public transportation systems. Driving and parking in these areas can be expensive and challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking. For city-based visitors, public transport might be more convenient and cost-effective.

3. Visitors on a tight budget

Renting a car, paying for tolls, fuel, and parking can add up to a significant expense. For budget travelers, using public transportation such as buses and trains might be a more economical choice.

4. Short-term visitors

If you're only visiting for a short period and plan to stay in areas well-served by public transportation, the cost and hassle of renting a car might not be worth it.

Must-Visit Self-Driving Cities in Japan

Nara

As the first permanent capital of Japan, it has many historic treasures, including the Todai-ji Temple housing a giant Buddha statue, and the Nara Park, known for its friendly free-roaming deer.

Sapporo

The capital of Hokkaido, famous for its beer, skiing, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival featuring enormous ice sculptures.

Fukuoka

A vibrant city known for its ancient temples, beaches, and modern shopping malls, including the Canal City Hakata complex. It's also the gateway to the Kyushu island.

Nagasaki

A city with a complex history, known for its beautiful night views, historic buildings, etc.

Okinawa

The main island of the Okinawa Prefecture, known for its unique Ryukyu culture, subtropical climate, and beautiful beaches.