Rental Car Guide
Renting a car is super easy and convenient in Japan! In fact, because of how dense some of the major cities are, it is quite common for locals to rent a car for a trip somewhere.
Whether you're renting from a city, or taking the train first then renting from another prefecture, this guide will provide you with all the key things you need to know when it comes to renting a car in Japan.
Take a look at our Driving in Japan Guide for information on road rules, signs, parking & tolls and you'll be ready to hit the road in Japan in no time!
Driving in Japan Guide
Licence Requirements
Those who have a drivers licence from Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium or Monaco:
Drivers Licence
Japanese translation of drivers licence (can be obtained from the issuing authority of the driver's license or the embassy / consulate of that country in Japan or JAF)
Passport
Those who have a drivers licence from a country not listed above:
Drivers Licence
International Drivers Permit (issued by a certifying body in one of the signatory countries/territories of the Geneva Convention based on the format of the Geneva Convention)
Passport
Rental Car Providers & Rates
The main rental car companies in Japan are Toyota Rent a Car, Nissan Rent a Car, Nippon Rent a Car and Orix. Whilst we are not affiliated with any of these car companies, our personal recommendation is Toyota Rent a Car for their fees, locations and ease of use!
Rental car rates typically start from around ¥7,500 per 24 hour period for a compact car and will increase depending on the car type selected.
Fee & rates - things to note:
Rates generally include basic insurance, unlimited mileage and taxes
Most rental car companies provide the option to drop off the rental car at a different location, however there may be a fee for this
Rental car companies may require a credit card for authorisation upon pick up
ETC card (required for tolls) is generally additional (~¥330) so request this when picking up the rental car or booking online. Toll fees will be paid upon return
Additional fees apply if you return your car late or if you need to extend your rental time (subject to availability)
Car Types
Compact Cars (Hatchbacks) - 5 Seats
Ideal for couples. Small families may manage for shorter trips, however interior and luggage space may be limited
Standard Cars (Sedans/Touring) - 5 Seats
Ideal for small families and groups. More comfortable over longer distances, however luggage space may be limited
SUV - Seats 5
Ideal for families and groups. Comfortable over longer distances with ample luggage space for everyone
Minivan / Wagon - 6 to 7 Seats
Ideal for large families and groups. Comfortable over longer distances, ease of entry and ample luggage space for everyone
Insurance Options
Rental cars generally will come with basic insurance, however there are additional insurance options to consider which differ for each rental provider. The following key terms are commonly used relating to insurance options:
Exclusion of Liability Compensation System: These are fees / excess payable by the customer in the event of property damage or car damage
Non Operation Charge (NOC): This is a fee to compensate the rental provider in the event the car is non operational (i.e. due to accident, theft, breakdown or damage to the car) for business interruption
Petrol / Gasoline
All rental cars need to be returned with a full tank of petrol / gasoline and you will need to show the rental car attendant the receipt as confirmation. Petrol stations are available throughout Japan and can easily be found on Google Maps, however not all petrol stations are 24 hours. There are generally two different types of petrol stations across Japan:
Full Service (フル)
Self Service (セルフ)
Winter Tyres
Depending on when and where you are driving in Japan, winter tyres (studless tyres) may be needed. These tyres have deeper groves and are designed for driving on snow and ice.
If the location you are renting from is in an area that snows, there will be a period (generally from 1 December to 31 March) where the rental car shop will change all tyres to winter tyres, however it is best to confirm this with the rental car shop ahead of time and let them know where you intend to drive to.
Other Useful Tips
Rental car fees are generally charged in blocks of 24 hours so the price may be the same if you rent a car at 8am and return it at 8am the following day as opposed to 8pm the same day
Opening times and closing times can be quite busy so ensure you allow yourself enough time
Google Maps works quite well in Japan, however road signs may be different
Most in-car GPS can be set to English (ask the rental car company for assistance if required) and addresses can be searched by phone number (i.e. phone number of the restaurant or attraction you are driving to)
The base model rental car type may not come with cruise control so check with the rental car company if you require this
Some rental shops may offer a shuttle service (if they are not located within walking distance from a train station) which will require you to call when you have arrived at the nearest station