Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Car in Japan
Renting a car in Japan is one of the best ways to explore the countryside, rural onsen towns, and areas that public transport simply doesn't reach. The process is straightforward, the roads are well-maintained, and GPS navigation is widely available — but there are some important rules and cultural nuances to understand before you get behind the wheel.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit?
Yes — in most cases. Japan accepts International Driving Permits (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention. Before you travel, check whether your country's license qualifies. Notable exceptions include licenses from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, Estonia, Slovenia, and Taiwan, which have special bilateral agreements with Japan.
Your IDP must be accompanied by your original national driving license at all times. An IDP alone is not valid.
Driving Rules in Japan
- Drive on the left side of the road — the steering wheel is on the right.
- Speed limits are strictly enforced: typically 60 km/h on regular roads, 100 km/h on expressways.
- Zero tolerance for drunk driving — even passengers can be penalized if the driver is drunk.
- Using a phone while driving is illegal, even at a red light.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Toll roads (高速道路) are common and costs can add up on longer trips.
Where to Rent a Car in Japan
Major car rental companies operating in Japan include:
- Toyota Rent a Car — largest network, most locations, English support available.
- Nippon Rent-A-Car — competitive pricing, good city coverage.
- Times Car Rental — popular for city short-term rentals.
- Orix Rent a Car — often well-priced with online booking discounts.
- Budget / Hertz — international brands with Japan operations.
Most major rental companies have English-language websites and staff at tourist-heavy locations such as airports.
What Does Car Rental Cost in Japan?
| Vehicle Type | Approx. Daily Rate |
|---|---|
| Economy / K-Car (軽自動車) | ¥4,000 – ¥6,000 |
| Compact Sedan | ¥6,000 – ¥9,000 |
| SUV / Minivan | ¥9,000 – ¥15,000 |
| Premium Vehicle | ¥15,000+ |
Prices are approximate and vary by season, location, and provider. Fuel and tolls are additional costs.
Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience
- Book in advance, especially during Golden Week, Obon, and New Year — vehicles sell out fast.
- Opt for a ETC card (electronic toll collection) — it saves time at toll booths and is available from most rental companies.
- Check the insurance options carefully. Basic CDW is usually included, but a supplementary NOC (non-operation charge) waiver is worth considering.
- Fill up before returning — gas stations near airports tend to be more expensive.
- Parking in cities can be costly; use coin parking (コインパーキング) lots which are widely available.
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Apple Maps) as a backup to the in-car GPS, which is often Japanese-only.