Japan car rentals
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Cheap car rentals in Japan
Top tips for renting a car in Japan
- While public transportation inside and between cities is usually efficient, there are some areas of the country where it is greatly beneficial to have a rental car—Hokkaido, for example, or the beaches of Okinawa (not to mention the Mt. Asu volcano) are all best accessed by road.
- Japan has an extensive system of toll roads, which can be paid for in many different ways. Besides the regular cash and credit card payment booths, drivers who rent a car in Japan can add an Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) device on to their rental; some companies like Toyota Rent a Car even include them as standard. This allows you to pass through the toll system without paying on the spot. All tolls are added together and paid to the rental company when the car is returned.
- The law in Japan states that children under 6 must be restrained in an age-appropriate car seat in the rear seats of the vehicle. Car hire agencies generally have baby and child seats for different age categories, which can be booked in advance for an additional fee. Nippon Rent-A-Car, for example, charges approximately ¥540 ($5) per seat per day.
- While cross-border car rentals are not permitted in Japan, rental agencies have no problem with drivers visiting the different Japanese islands by car ferry. These ferries are a popular way of traveling from island to island but can be quite expensive. In the case of a very long sea journey (e.g., to Rebun or Sado), it may in fact be cheaper to drop off your car at the ferry port and pick up a new one on the other side.
- Book your rental car in Japan at least 3 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Economy rental cars in Japan are around 38% more expensive than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Japan
What is the most popular rental car in Japan?
Economy (Class Economy Car or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Japan.
How can I find car rentals near me in Japan?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
What is driving like in Japan?
Driving conditions in Japan are generally very good, with roads well maintained and a large network of highways that crisscross the country. Roads are usually efficient and smooth. In Japan, traffic drives on the left, and it is important to note that there is a zero-tolerance policy on drinking and driving, with hefty fines or even deportation used to counter offenses.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Japan?
To rent a car in Japan, drivers must be at least 18 years of age. With the exception of a few European countries like Germany and Belgium, whose citizens may submit their domestic driving license with an official Japanese translation, it is essential to have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Japan. A credit card will also be required.
How much does petrol cost in Japan?
Petrol prices in Japan are comparable to those in Europe but considerably higher than in the USA: expect to pay around ¥150 ($1.40) for a liter of gas, equivalent to around $5.29 for a gallon. Most petrol stations offer the option of self-service (menus in Japanese only) or full-service, in which case it may be helpful to know a few Japanese words. Payment is usually accepted in cash or credit card.
What are the speed limits in Japan?
Several different speed limits are enforced in Japan, all of which are clearly posted. As a general rule, the limit in urban areas is 40 km/h (25 mph), while side streets are limited to 30 km/h (18 mph). Open roads are usually limited to 50 or 60 km/h (31 or 37 mph), while expressways and highways carry speed limits of 80 to 100 km/h (49 to 62 mph).
Car rental directory
Toyota Rent a Car car rental locations in Japan
1492 Locations
ORIX Rent a Car car rental locations in Japan
886 Locations
Nippon Rent-A-Car car rental locations in Japan
805 Locations
Nissan Rent-A-Car car rental locations in Japan
532 Locations
Times car rental locations in Japan
505 Locations
keddy by Europcar car rental locations in Japan
336 Locations
Europcar car rental locations in Japan
321 Locations
Shouqi car rental locations in Japan
228 Locations
Hertz car rental locations in Japan
225 Locations
Sunnycars car rental locations in Japan
145 Locations
National car rental locations in Japan
123 Locations
Alamo car rental locations in Japan
111 Locations
Good to know
Most popular car type | Economy |
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