How to Rent a Car in Japan: Find the Best Car Rental
- Students
- Working Holiday
The last renewal day｜
- Facebook（）
- Twiter
- LINESend this page by LINE
Contents
- Why Renting a Car in Japan is a Great Choice
- Driver's Licenses Required for Foreigners to Rent a Car in Japan
- How to Rent a Car in Japan: A Guide for Foreigners
- Top Car Rental Companies in Japan with Foreign Language Support
- Key Tips for Foreigners Renting and Driving a Car in Japan
- What to Do if You Have a Car Accident While Driving a Rental Car in Japan
Why Renting a Car in Japan is a Great Choice
Benefits of Car Rental in Japan
Visit More Tourist Destinations
Renting a car in Japan allows you to reach popular tourist spots like Hokkaido and Okinawa, where public transportation can be limited. Instead of wasting time waiting for trains or buses, you can explore these areas at your own pace and maximize your sightseeing experience.
Enjoy Greater Flexibility
A car rental offers you the freedom to travel anywhere in Japan whenever you want. You can easily change your travel plans on the go, giving you the flexibility to enjoy a personalized journey and make spontaneous stops along the way.
Choose the Car You Want to Drive
With a rental car, you can select the model and size that best suit your needs or mood, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for a road trip through Hokkaido or Okinawa.
Top Car Rental Companies in Japan with Foreign Language Support
Budget Car Rental is an American car rental company with 130 locations across 38 prefectures in Japan. They offer a wide selection of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets, from compact cars and kei cars perfect for solo travelers or small groups, to spacious vans for 7 to 10 passengers, and fuel-efficient eco-friendly cars. They also provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and minibuses that can seat up to 27 people. By booking in advance, you can even bring along pets like dogs or cats. A notable benefit is the absence of drop-off fees when returning the car to a different location within the same prefecture, making it a convenient option for car rentals in Japan.
Budget Car Rental includes standard insurance and coverage with all rentals, offering unlimited liability for personal injury and property damage at no extra cost. Coverage for vehicle damage is covered up to the current market value per incident, and personal injury compensation can reach up to JPY 30 million per person, providing more extensive coverage than most other car rental companies in Japan. The website is available in English, Traditional Chinese, and Korean, making it easy for international tourists arranging a car rental in Japan. Whether you're planning a road trip in Okinawa or Hokkaido, Budget Car Rental offers a reliable and convenient solution for your travel needs.
With Klook Car Rental, you can easily search, compare, and book car rentals from over 10 companies in Japan, including Times Car Rental, Nissan Rent-A-Car, and TOYOTA Rent a Car. Whether you’re planning a self-drive adventure in Okinawa or Hokkaido, Klook Car Rental offers a wide range of car models and rental plans, helping you find the best option for your trip. Payment is flexible, allowing you to use a credit card, LINE Pay, or choose from 42 different currencies worldwide. If you opt for prepayment, you can even select your preferred currency.
Their multilingual customer support, available in English, Chinese, and more, ensures a hassle-free car rental experience for international travelers in Japan. To accommodate any changes in your travel plans, Klook Car Rental offers free cancellation options, so you can adjust your itinerary without worry. In popular destinations like Okinawa and Hokkaido, Klook also provides some of the most competitive car rental rates (prices may vary depending on availability). For convenience, affordability, and reliability, Klook Car Rental is an excellent choice for exploring Japan by car.
Driver's Licenses Required for Foreigners to Rent a Car in Japan
| International Driving Permit (IDP) | If you have an International Driving Permit, you can rent a car and drive in Japan. However, this does not apply to residents of Taiwan, Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, and Monaco. |
|---|---|
| Foreign Driver's License | If you have a driver's license from Taiwan, Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, or Monaco, you can drive in Japan. You must carry the original license, an official Japanese translation of it, and your passport. (*Note: Self-translated documents are not accepted; the translation must be issued by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). |
| Japanese Driver's License (for foreign residents in Japan) | If you have been in Japan for more than a year, you can no longer drive with an International Driving Permit. Long-term residents should convert their foreign license to a Japanese driver's license to continue renting a car in Japan, whether exploring Okinawa, Hokkaido, or other regions. |
How to Rent a Car in Japan: A Guide for Foreigners
Applying for a Driver's License Valid in Japan
Before driving in Japan, check whether you need an international driver's license or a Japanese translation of your home country’s license, depending on your nationality. Be sure to obtain any necessary documents in advance to avoid any problems.
Check Your Driver’s License and Required Documents
Make sure your driver’s license, passport, and credit card are all valid for use in Japan. Since most car rental companies in Japan require payment by credit card, ensure you have a valid one ready.
Book Your Rental Car
Use a car rental website to book a car for your trip.
* Note: If you are traveling with children under six years old, make sure to reserve a child or baby seat in advance.
* Note: If you need to cancel your reservation, be sure to contact the car rental company directly.
Prepare Maps, Phone Numbers, and Map Codes for Japan
Car navigation systems in Japan primarily use Japanese characters, phone numbers, destination categories, and map codes to search destinations. Although most rental cars are equipped with GPS, it’s a good idea to have maps and map codes prepared in advance, especially when traveling to places like Okinawa and Hokkaido.
Complete the Car Rental Process in Japan
After arriving in Japan, visit the rental company to complete the rental process. Inspect the car for any damage, check its equipment and condition, and familiarize yourself with the navigation system.
Return the Rental Car
Return the car at the scheduled time to avoid additional charges.
* Note: If you are running late, contact the rental location immediately, as extra fees may apply for late returns. Also, be sure to refill the fuel tank before returning the car. If you don’t, the rental company may charge for fuel at their rates. Keep the refueling receipt, as some companies may require proof.
Recommended Websites for Renting a Car in Japan
A popular car rental website in Japan, known for partnering with reputable and reliable companies. You can easily switch to the English page from the menu in the top right corner and make convenient online reservations. Service counters are located at major Japanese airports, and free shuttle services to nearby locations allow you to pick up your rental car as soon as you arrive. Choose from a wide range of rental cars, including compact cars, sports cars, and luxury vehicles, to suit any budget. Enjoy competitive pricing and a variety of insurance and coverage options. A 24-hour emergency hotline is available in English, Chinese, and Korean, giving you peace of mind for your journey, whether you're exploring Okinawa, Hokkaido, or any other destination in Japan.
With numerous car rental branches throughout Japan, including extended hours at Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, and Kansai International Airport, you can rent a car without worrying about time constraints. The website is available in English, Chinese, and Korean, making it easy to find locations, check car availability, and compare rental rates. All rental cars are non-smoking, making them perfect for family vacations or trips with children, whether you are exploring Okinawa, Hokkaido, or other destinations in Japan.
Take advantage of great deals from OTS Rent-A-Car, ORIX Rent-A-Car, Toyota Rent-A-Car to find the best plan for your needs. Special pages for the Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Okinawa areas allow you to conveniently compare and book car rentals all in one place. The website is user-friendly, allowing you to search by airport, map, station, or landmark.
You can make online reservations from the English page. For an additional fee, GPS navigation in English, Chinese, or Korean can be selected (advance reservation required). Some locations also offer ETC card rentals when paying by credit card. At the Okinawa Naha Airport First Branch, there's a gas station conveniently located on-site, making it easy to return your rental car. Highly recommended for Nissan enthusiasts.
Key Tips for Foreigners Renting and Driving a Car in Japan
- Japan uses right-hand drive.
- Drive on the left side of the road, while pedestrians walk on the right side. Always keep your car on the left.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, including those in the back seats (pregnant women are exempt).
- Pedestrians always have the right of way. Be especially cautious at crosswalks and stop if pedestrians are present.
- A child seat is required when transporting children under six years old.
- Avoid aggressive lane changes or overtaking.
- Use the car horn sparingly.
- Some rental cars may have a foot-operated parking brake.
- Never drink and drive. Japan has very strict penalties for drunk driving.
- Always park in designated parking areas and avoid illegal parking.
What to Do if You Have a Car Accident While Driving a Rental Car in Japan
If you have a car accident while driving a rental car in Japan, first move your car to a safe location and turn on the hazard lights. Then, check for any injuries. If someone is injured, call an ambulance immediately (dial 119).
Regardless of the severity of the accident, you must report it to the police (dial 110). When the police arrive, they will issue an "Accident Certificate," which is required for insurance procedures, so be sure to obtain it. Next, contact the rental car company’s emergency hotline and report the accident details. Follow the company’s instructions to complete the necessary procedures. If you are not confident in your Japanese, consider using an interpretation service or requesting foreign language support from the rental car company. Whether you’re exploring Okinawa or Hokkaido, understanding these steps will help you stay safe while driving in Japan.
TipsJapanese Traffic Signs
We have selected and introduced some Japanese traffic signs that are often misunderstood.
School Ahead
| 日文 | English |
|---|---|
| 返却場所 | Return location |
| 駐車場 | Parking lot |
| 月極駐車場 | Monthly parking lot |
| ガソリンスタンド（GS） | Gas station |
| ハイオク | High-octane (premium) gasoline |
| レギュラー(regular) | Regular gasoline |
| 軽油 | Diesel |
| セルフ | Self-service |
| 給油は何を入れますか？(kyu yu wa na ni wo i re ma su ka） | What type of fuel should I use? |
| 滿タンにしてください。(man tan ni shi te ku da sa i） | Please fill the tank. |
| ナビは英語に切り替えられますか？(navi wa eigo ni ki ri ka e ra re ma su ka） | Can the navigation system be switched to English? |
| 保険に加入していますか？(ho ken ni ka nyu shi te i ma su ka） | Is insurance included? |
