Japan is famous for its efficient public transportation—especially the Shinkansen (bullet train). But for travelers seeking hidden hot springs, remote mountain villages, or scenic coastal drives, renting a car opens up an entirely different side of the country. From Hokkaido’s snowy wilderness to Kyushu’s volcanic landscapes, driving gives you the freedom to go beyond the train lines and tourist hubs.
In this guide on how to rent a car in Japan, we’ll cover everything from requirements to road rules, rental companies, and travel tips. By the end, you’ll feel confident planning your own Japanese road trip.
Why Renting a Car Can Be Useful
Renting a car isn’t necessary for Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, where public transit dominates. However, it becomes extremely convenient—and sometimes essential—for exploring rural and less accessible areas.
Advantages of Renting a Car in Japan
- Flexibility: Go at your own pace without worrying about train schedules.
- Access: Visit remote destinations like onsen towns, countryside ryokan, or national parks.
- Comfort: Carry luggage and travel with family or friends more easily.
- Scenic Routes: Drive along Japan’s coastlines, mountain passes, or cherry blossom roads.
When Renting a Car is Recommended
- Exploring Hokkaido: Vast distances and limited train service make driving the best option.
- Visiting Okinawa: Public transit is limited, and beaches are spread out.
- Touring Kyushu: Volcanoes, hot springs, and countryside are best reached by car.
- Day trips from major cities where trains don’t directly connect.
💡 Tip: Combine rail and driving. Use trains for long-distance travel, then rent a car locally for regional exploration.
Requirements to Rent a Car in Japan
Before you can rent a car in Japan, you must meet certain requirements.
1. Valid Driver’s License
- Foreigners need an International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
- Your IDP must be obtained in your home country before traveling.
- A valid driver’s license from your home country must also be carried with the IDP.
Exceptions:
- Drivers from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Taiwan, and Monaco can use their domestic licenses with an official Japanese translation.
2. Age Requirement
- Minimum age: 18 years old (legal driving age in Japan).
- Some companies may require drivers to be 20 or older for insurance reasons.
- Young driver surcharges may apply under 25.
3. Insurance Coverage
Rental companies include basic insurance, but upgrades are recommended.
- Mandatory Insurance:
- Liability insurance (JCI – Japanese Compulsory Insurance).
- Optional Insurance:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW).
- Non-Operation Charge (NOC) coverage for accidents or repairs.
💡 Tip: Always confirm what’s included before booking—cheap rentals may exclude CDW.
4. Identification
- Passport required for verification.
- Credit card (sometimes debit card) for deposit and payment.
Major Rental Car Companies in Japan
Japan has a wide range of rental providers, from international giants to local brands.
International Rental Companies
- Hertz Japan: Reliable and foreigner-friendly, partnered with Toyota Rent a Car.
- Avis Japan: Wide range of vehicles, English support.
- Budget Rent a Car Japan: Competitive rates, found in major airports.
Domestic Rental Companies
- Toyota Rent a Car: One of the largest, with extensive coverage across Japan.
- Nippon Rent-A-Car: Trusted local option, available at airports and city centers.
- Times Car Rental: Popular with locals, offers car-sharing services too.
- Orix Rent a Car: Affordable, with many vehicle sizes including vans.
Where to Rent
- Airports: Convenient for road trips starting right after landing.
- Train Stations: Common at Shinkansen stops for regional travel.
- City Centers: Available in downtown areas, but less practical for urban driving.
💡 Tip: Book online in advance—most major companies offer English websites with discounts for pre-booking.
Road Rules and Driving in Japan
Driving in Japan is straightforward once you learn the basics.
Driving Side
- Cars drive on the left side of the road.
- Driver’s seat and steering wheel are on the right side of the car.
Speed Limits
- Urban areas: 40 km/h
- Rural roads: 50–60 km/h
- Highways: 80–100 km/h
Speed cameras are common, and fines can be expensive.
Road Signs
- Most road signs use international symbols.
- Key signs are bilingual (Japanese and English), especially on highways.
Highways and Tolls
Japan’s expressway system is efficient but can be costly.
- Toll Roads: Fees are based on distance traveled.
- Payment Options:
- Cash at toll booths.
- Credit card at some tolls.
- ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card—highly recommended for convenience and discounts.
💡 Example: A Tokyo-to-Nagoya drive may cost around ¥7,000–¥9,000 in tolls.
Parking Rules
- Illegal parking is strictly enforced, with fines and towing.
- Paid parking lots are available near train stations and tourist spots.
- Hotels often provide parking (sometimes for an additional fee).
Fueling Up
- Gas Stations: Full-service and self-service available.
- Payment by cash or card.
- Gasoline types: Regular (red), Premium (yellow), Diesel (green).
Tips for Travelers Renting a Car in Japan
Making the most of your rental experience requires some preparation.
1. Use GPS Wisely
- Many cars come with GPS systems—request an English-language GPS when booking.
- Input phone numbers of destinations instead of addresses for accuracy.
2. Mind the Narrow Roads
- Rural and city roads can be extremely narrow. Compact cars are easier to manage.
- Avoid large vans unless necessary.
3. Avoid Rush Hours
- Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya have heavy traffic during morning (7–9 am) and evening (5–7 pm).
- Plan long-distance driving outside peak hours.
4. Consider Seasonal Conditions
- Winter in Hokkaido and Tohoku: Roads are icy, snow tires required.
- Autumn in Kyoto or Nikko: Roads can be congested with tourists.
- Golden Week and New Year: Expect crowded highways.
5. Save Money
- Use discount passes like the Hokkaido Expressway Pass or Kyushu Expressway Pass for unlimited toll usage.
- Compare rates across providers—domestic companies often cheaper than international ones.
- Return the car with a full tank to avoid refueling fees.
6. Alternative Options
If full rental isn’t needed:
- Car-sharing services like Times Car Plus (ideal for city trips).
- Day rentals for side trips from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka.
Example Road Trips with Rental Cars
Hokkaido
- Drive from Sapporo to Furano and Biei for flower fields in summer.
- In winter, explore ski resorts like Niseko.
Okinawa
- Rent a car in Naha and explore beaches, Churaumi Aquarium, and northern forests.
Kyushu
- Visit Beppu’s hot springs, Mount Aso’s volcanic crater, and Kagoshima’s Sakurajima volcano.
Japan Alps
- Explore Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.
Conclusion
Renting a car gives travelers the freedom to explore Japan beyond the train network. Whether you’re cruising through Hokkaido’s countryside, chasing sunsets in Okinawa, or discovering hidden onsen villages in Kyushu, driving unlocks unforgettable adventures.
In this guide to rent a car in Japan, we’ve covered requirements, major rental companies, road rules, toll systems, and travel tips. While Japan’s trains are legendary, sometimes the open road is the best way to truly experience the country’s beauty and diversity.
So next time you plan your trip, consider renting a car. With the right preparation, your Japanese road trip can be as smooth as the raked lines of a Zen garden.
👉 : Compare rental car prices in Japan here
👉 : Book rental cars near Tokyo airports
👉 : Find Hokkaido car rentals with English GPS