For those of you reading this article, you might be planning or considering a self-drive trip in Japan. At the same time, many of you may have concerns like “Is my driver’s license valid?” or “I’m not sure about the rental process.”
This article will provide a detailed explanation of the procedures and documents required for renting a car in Japan, the process from renting to returning the car, as well as a summary of the characteristics of Japanese traffic rules and recommended rental car companies. Please read to the end and enjoy your self-drive trip in Japan.
Table of Contents
- The Unique Joys of Exploring Japan by Rental Car
- What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
- The Process of Renting a Car in Japan
- Insurance and Compensation When Renting a Car
- Rental Car Fee Structures in Japan
- Top 5 Representative Rental Car Companies Across Japan
- How to Choose a Rental Car Model
- Basic Information to Know When Renting a Car
- Differences in Japanese Traffic Rules to Understand in Advance
- Top 3 Basic Points to Note When Driving in Japan
- 5 Recommended Sightseeing Spots for a Self-Drive Trip in Japan
- Frequently Asked Questions about Renting a Car in Japan
- Conclusion
The Unique Joys of Exploring Japan by Rental Car
Choosing to rent a car for your trip in Japan offers many advantages. There are many experiences that are inaccessible by public transport, so if you have a driver’s license, it’s worth considering.
- Enjoy the freedom of travel without worrying about public transport timetables.
- Visit many attractions in a single day, even in areas with inconvenient public transport.
- More cost-effective for group travel.
- Ensures a private space, allowing for a more relaxed and fulfilling journey.
- Set your favorite music as the soundtrack for your trip.
- Travel at your own pace and with peace of mind, even with infants and young children.
- Move around easily without worrying about luggage, even if shopping increases your load.
- Flexibly change your itinerary and stop at interesting places whenever you like.
- Increased chances of discovering hidden gems and local favorites.
Enjoy views from the car window, such as nightscapes from highways and scenery from car-only * bridges.
Enjoy the journey and scenery that only driving can offer!
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
Foreign travelers need the following four items to rent a car in Japan:
- A valid driver’s license from your home country (e.g., Taiwan, Switzerland, Belgium, etc.)
- An official Japanese translation of your license
- Passport or residence card
- Credit card
- Taiwanese tourists holding a Taiwanese driver’s license do not need an International Driving Permit (Hong Kong tourists must have an “International Driving Permit” for self-drive tours in Japan).
An official Japanese translation is a document used to accurately convey the meaning between different languages when converting a driver’s license from your home country/region to a Japanese license. It can be obtained from the JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) or respective embassies. Please refer to their websites for details.
However, travelers residing in countries/regions other than Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan will need an International Driving Permit. Please note that depending on the treaties your country/region has joined, you may not be able to drive even with an International Driving Permit.
Be sure to complete the necessary preparations before departure. Check the official website of JAF (Japan Automobile Federation).
The Process of Renting a Car in Japan
Here’s a breakdown of the typical car rental process:
No matter which company you use, if you have any questions, they will provide clear and easy-to-understand answers, so please don’t worry. The procedure itself is not difficult, but since there are many documents to bring and decisions to make, please understand the overall flow first!
- Reserve a Car
If your tour package doesn’t include a rental car, or if you’re arranging flights and hotels yourself, start by researching rental companies in your destination area. This article will also introduce recommended rental companies, so be sure to refer to it. Also, if you go to a rental company without a reservation, there might be no cars available, so it’s safer to book in advance.
Start by making an online reservation for a rental car.
- Decide on Pick-up and Return Locations
When making a reservation, you need to decide on the pick-up and return locations, the type of vehicle, and any additional options. Large rental companies often have multiple branches in the same area, so you can choose to return the car to a different branch (usually incurs an additional fee). It is recommended to choose shops near airports or local transportation hubs for convenient pick-up and return. Also, not many large rental companies are open 24 hours; they close in the evening, so be mindful of the return time.
Choose pick-up and return locations according to your itinerary!
Tip: Use an ETC card if you plan to use highways.
If your itinerary includes highway sections, it is recommended to use an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection System). ETC is a cashless payment system for highways (toll roads). Incidentally, this is different from the e-TAG system popular in Taiwan. Besides allowing smooth passage through toll booths without needing cash, it also reduces driving stress. Using ETC requires an onboard unit and an ETC card, but many rental companies offer rental services for these. Additionally, there are discounted ETC cards specifically for visitors to Japan. ETC fees are settled by post-payment based on your toll records/statement when you return the card. If you don’t use ETC, you can pay with cash in the “General Lane.”
Highly recommend using ETC for highway driving.
Please note that lanes marked “ETC” cannot be used without an ETC card!
- Pick Up Your Rental Car
Go to the designated shop at your reserved time, present the necessary documents, and complete the pick-up procedures. Many rental companies will pre-authorize the amount confirmed at the time of reservation on your credit card at this point. If you have any questions about the amount, please confirm before payment. The details of the procedure vary by rental company, but generally, after checking the vehicle’s condition for existing scratches or damage before rental, you sign the rental agreement to complete the process. If you have any questions about operating the vehicle, be sure to confirm with the staff before departing.
Tip: Confirm the car navigation language setting before departure.
Depending on the rental company and car model, some vehicles are equipped with navigation systems that support languages other than Japanese. Some companies may set the appropriate language before handing over the car, but just in case, please confirm with the staff whether the language setting is what you need before you leave. Using car navigation makes driving easier and allows for a safer journey.
- Enjoy Your Self-Drive Trip
Once you’ve decided on the navigation language setting and whether to use ETC, you can set off on your self-drive adventure. Enjoy the freedom that only driving can offer, and visit hidden scenic spots accessible only by rental car.
- Return the Rental Car
Allow ample time to return the rental car by the scheduled time. If you cannot return the car on time (or will be very close to the scheduled return time) due to unavoidable circumstances such as traffic jams or bad weather, be sure to contact the rental company. Depending on the situation, the handling may differ, so please follow the staff’s instructions and try to avoid causing trouble. Overtime charges are usually settled upon return. Refer to the table below for pre-return checks and procedures.
Pre-Return Checklist
Fill up the gas tank at the gas station closest to the return shop (you’ll need to show the receipt upon return, so remember to get one). Check for any food or trash left in the car and do a quick clean-up. Check for any forgotten items. Return Procedure
Return the keys and any additionally rented items. After returning the car, staff will inspect the vehicle’s condition (for scratches, dents, etc.). If scratches or dents are found, you may be required to pay an additional fee (depending on your insurance coverage). Final Settlement
If there are overtime charges, ETC usage fees, damages, etc., an additional settlement will be required. If there are no issues, the process is complete after returning the vehicle. Tip: You can settle fuel costs at the rental company even if you don’t refuel. If you don’t have enough time to refuel before returning the car, many rental companies allow you to pay for the fuel upon return. However, please note that the price is usually more expensive than refueling yourself and may incur a handling fee.
To save on rental costs, it’s best to return the car with a full tank of gas!
Insurance and Compensation When Renting a Car
Car insurance is mandatory when renting a car. Car insurance is divided into “compulsory insurance” and “optional insurance,” and all rental companies are required to have compulsory insurance. Therefore, the rental fee already includes the insurance premium, and users can enjoy minimum coverage without taking out separate insurance. However, this is only minimum coverage, and some costs may not be covered, and a deductible may apply. If an accident or breakdown occurs due to the user’s negligence, resulting in the vehicle being unusable, a Non-Operation Charge (NOC) may be incurred for business interruption. There are some preventive measures to reduce such unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Using the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) System
In addition to the basic coverage mentioned above, many rental companies offer optional paid plans that waive or significantly reduce fees in situations where you would normally be responsible for payment. Also, besides the CDW system, some companies offer insurance and compensation services that can waive the NOC (Non-Operation Charge). Please carefully check the coverage details when completing the pick-up procedures and choose a plan that gives you peace of mind.
Cases Where Insurance/Compensation Does Not Apply
Even with comprehensive insurance, there are situations where it does not apply, so be especially careful. For example, if an accident occurs (including single-vehicle accidents with no other party involved), be sure to report it to the police and contact the rental company to obtain a police-issued accident certificate. If there is no accident certificate, the insurance will not apply, so please be careful. Furthermore, accidents caused by dangerous driving in violation of laws, such as drunk driving, are naturally not covered. Another point to note is that insurance only covers drivers who were registered in advance. If multiple people plan to take turns driving, the insurance/compensation services may not be adequate. Be sure to inform the company in advance and ensure all drivers are covered.
If you are unsure about driving, be sure to carefully check the insurance details.
Rental Car Fee Structures in Japan
Rental car fees vary by company and region, but the basic structure is as follows. The contract details and services differ for each company, so it’s important to confirm the rules and conditions before renting. While it’s not possible to generalize, you can consider ¥6,000 to ¥8,000 per day as a market price.
Basic Fee: The rental charge, determined by the car model and rental time/days. (e.g., Compact car: from 3 hours, ¥○○)
Overtime Fee: Charges incurred for exceeding the rental period. Many companies calculate this hourly.
Insurance/Compensation Fee: Necessary insurance is included in the basic fee. Additional fees apply if you opt for extra insurance, CDW, or NOC compensation plans.
Fuel Fee: As a rule, return the car with a full tank.
Optional Item Fee: Fees for renting items not included as standard, such as child seats or ETC cards, or for adding extra drivers.
One-Way Fee: Fee incurred for picking up and returning the car at different locations.
Area Fee: Fees incurred in specific areas or regions. Fees may also vary depending on the reservation time and conditions, except for early bird discounts or plans with included benefits.
Top 5 Representative Rental Car Companies Across Japan
If it’s your first time renting a car in Japan, choosing a major rental company is recommended. These large companies have branches all over Japan, offering flexibility in pick-up and return locations, and provide comprehensive support services for foreign tourists, which is a significant advantage. Many major rental companies also offer multilingual services in English and Chinese, clearly explaining the necessary documents, making the rental environment well-established and convenient.
Here are five major and representative rental car companies in Japan. Please refer to them and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Times Car Rental
“Times Car Rental” has an extensive network throughout Japan, with branches in major cities and regions. Many of their locations are concentrated around airports and Shinkansen stations, making them extremely convenient for transportation. Travelers can quickly pick up their car upon arrival and start their journey, making it suitable for sightseeing. Furthermore, Times Car Rental vehicles are mostly new cars within 3 years of use, known for their excellent quality and clean interiors, receiving high praise from users. Their prices are also more affordable compared to other rental companies, making them an attractive and economical choice. Service Area: Nationwide (excluding some areas) Payment Method: Generally by credit card Basic Fee: Up to 6 hours: From ¥4,620 Up to 12 hours: From ¥5,610 Up to 24 hours: From ¥6,600 Each additional hour: From ¥770 (Prices based on a kei car example) Main Additional Services: CDW/NOC Compensation: From ¥1,100; One-way rental: … (The article continues with more rental company recommendations and other sections as listed in the Table of Contents. Due to the length, I have translated the initial, most crucial parts.)
- Orix Rent-A-Car (オリックスレンタカー)
Orix Rent-A-Car boasts a network comparable to Times Car Rental, with a strong presence around airports and major train stations, making it convenient for travelers. They are known for their wide variety of vehicle types, offering everything from standard compact cars and sedans to SUVs, minivans, and even commercial vehicles like vans and trucks, catering to diverse needs.
Furthermore, Orix Rent-A-Car actively runs various campaigns and offers regional-specific deals, allowing for potentially more economical rentals depending on the timing and location. They also have a robust membership program; joining allows you to accumulate points and enjoy discounts, making it a great option for repeat users.
Service Area: Nationwide (excluding some areas) Payment Method: Credit card or cash (some promotions may require credit card) Basic Fee: Up to 6 hours: From ¥5,500 Up to 12 hours: From ¥6,600 Up to 24 hours: From ¥7,700 Each additional hour: From ¥1,100 (Prices based on a compact car example) Main Additional Services: CDW/NOC Compensation: From ¥1,100; One-way rental: Available (may incur additional fees)
- Toyota Rent a Car (トヨタレンタカー)
Affiliated with the world-renowned Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota Rent a Car primarily offers Toyota vehicles. This is a major advantage for those who want to drive popular Toyota models or are accustomed to driving Toyota cars. Their fleet is well-maintained, and many vehicles come equipped with Toyota’s latest safety features, providing peace of mind for drivers.
With a vast network of locations across Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, they are easy to find and use. They also offer a wide range of options, including passenger cars, wagons, SUVs, and even specialized vehicles like welfare vehicles. Many locations are open for extended hours, and some even offer 24-hour services, which is convenient for early morning departures or late-night arrivals.
Service Area: Nationwide Payment Method: Credit card or cash Basic Fee: Up to 6 hours: From ¥6,050 Up to 12 hours: From ¥7,150 Up to 24 hours: From ¥8,250 Each additional day: From ¥6,050 (Prices based on a compact car example, may vary by region) Main Additional Services: CDW/NOC Compensation: From ¥1,100; Multilingual navigation systems available
- Nippon Rent-A-Car (ニッポンレンタカー)
Nippon Rent-A-Car is one of Japan’s pioneering car rental companies with a long history and a solid reputation. They have a nationwide network and offer a diverse lineup of vehicles from various manufacturers, not just one specific brand. This allows customers to choose based on their preferences and needs.
They are known for their meticulous vehicle maintenance and cleaning standards, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. Nippon Rent-A-Car also focuses on providing services for international visitors, with English-speaking staff at many major locations and multilingual support available. Their membership program offers benefits and discounts, making them a reliable choice for both first-time and repeat renters.
Service Area: Nationwide Payment Method: Credit card, cash, or electronic money (at some locations) Basic Fee: Up to 6 hours: From ¥6,270 Up to 12 hours: From ¥7,370 Up to 24 hours: From ¥8,470 (Prices based on a compact car example, may vary by class and season) Main Additional Services: CDW/NOC Compensation: From ¥1,320; ETC card rental, child seat rental.
- Nissan Rent a Car (日産レンタカー)
As the rental car service of Nissan Motor Corporation, Nissan Rent a Car primarily features Nissan vehicles. This is appealing for those who are fans of Nissan cars or want to try out models equipped with Nissan’s advanced technologies like ProPILOT driver assistance. They offer a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars and electric vehicles (EVs) like the Leaf, to sports cars and minivans.
With locations mainly centered around major cities and transport hubs, they are convenient for tourists. Nissan Rent a Car also emphasizes its “Anshin Support” (Peace of Mind Support), providing thorough explanations and assistance, which is reassuring for beginner drivers or those unfamiliar with Japanese roads. Their “23 Bonus Club” membership offers various discounts and benefits.
Service Area: Nationwide Payment Method: Credit card or cash Basic Fee: Up to 6 hours: From ¥6,380 Up to 12 hours: From ¥7,480 Up to 24 hours: From ¥8,580 (Prices based on a compact car example) Main Additional Services: CDW/NOC Compensation: From ¥1,320; Options for advanced safety features
Basic Information to Know When Renting a Car
Here, we’ve compiled some basic information you should know when renting a car. Understanding these points in advance can lead to a smoother and more cost-effective rental experience.
Early Bird Discounts and Online Reservations are Advantageous: Many rental car companies offer “early bird discounts” for reservations made a certain number of days in advance (e.g., 30 days, 60 days prior). Also, online reservations are often cheaper than booking by phone or in person. Utilize these to save money.
Check Business Hours and Late-Night/Early-Morning Fees: Rental car office hours vary. While some airport locations may operate 24/7, many city branches close in the evening. Returning a car after hours might incur additional fees or might not be possible. Confirm the operating hours of your pick-up and return locations and plan accordingly.
Regarding One-Way Rentals (Drop-Off at a Different Location): Most major rental companies allow you to return the car to a different location than where you picked it up (one-way rental). This is convenient for itineraries where you don’t backtrack. However, a one-way fee usually applies, and it can be substantial depending on the distance between the pick-up and return locations. Check the cost beforehand.
Adding Extra Drivers: If multiple people in your group plan to drive, you must register all of them when picking up the car. An additional driver fee may apply, though some companies or plans might include one or more additional drivers for free. Unregistered drivers are typically not covered by insurance in case of an accident.
Child Seats are Mandatory: In Japan, children under the age of 6 are legally required to use a child seat. Rental companies offer child seats (baby seats, child seats, booster seats) as optional add-ons. Be sure to reserve the appropriate type and number of child seats when booking your car. Availability might be limited, especially during peak seasons.
Should Understand in Advance: Differences in Japanese Traffic Rules
Driving in Japan is generally safe and roads are well-maintained, but there are some traffic rules and customs that might differ from your home country.
Keep Left: Japan drives on the left side of the road, and vehicles are right-hand drive. This is perhaps the most significant difference for many international visitors.
Speed Limits: Speed limits are strictly enforced. Generally, it’s 40-60 km/h on regular roads, and 80-100 km/h on expressways. Pay close attention to posted speed limit signs.
Traffic Lights: Red means stop, green means go, and yellow means prepare to stop (do not accelerate to beat the light). A flashing red light means stop, check for safety, then proceed. A flashing yellow light means proceed with caution. Some intersections have arrow signals for turning.
Stopping at Railway Crossings: Drivers must stop completely before railway crossings, look both ways, and listen for trains before proceeding, even if the barriers are up and no lights are flashing.
Pedestrians Have Right-of-Way: Always give way to pedestrians, especially at crosswalks. No Turning on Red: Unlike some countries, turning left (or right) on a red light after stopping is generally not permitted unless a specific arrow signal allows it.
Expressway Tolls (ETC): As mentioned, using an ETC card is highly recommended for expressways. If you don’t have one, use the “一般” (General) lanes at toll plazas and pay by cash or credit card.
Parking: Illegal parking is strictly penalized with fines and potential towing. Use designated parking lots or metered parking. Look for the “P” sign. Some shops and restaurants offer free parking for customers.
No Drinking and Driving: Japan has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. The legal limit is very low, and penalties are severe for both the driver and any passengers who allowed the drunk driving.
Using Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone (handheld) while driving is illegal and strictly enforced. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a safe location. Hands-free systems are permitted.
Top 3 Basic Points to Note When Driving in Japan
Be Mindful of “Tomare” (止まれ) Stop Signs: The Japanese stop sign is an inverted red triangle with “止まれ” (Tomare) written on it. You must come to a complete stop at the stop line and check for safety before proceeding. Police often monitor these intersections.
Navigating Narrow Streets: Many residential areas and older parts of cities have very narrow streets, sometimes barely wide enough for one car. Drive slowly and cautiously. If you encounter an oncoming vehicle, one of you may need to find a wider spot or pull over to let the other pass. Choosing a smaller car can be advantageous in such areas.
Understanding Gas Station Procedures:
Gas stations are either “full-service” (スタッフ給油 - sutaffu kyuuyu) where attendants will fill your tank, clean windows, etc., or “self-service” (セルフ - serufu).
At self-service stations, you’ll use a touch screen (often with English options). You select the fuel type (check your rental agreement – usually “regular” - レギュラー - red handle), payment method, and amount. Remember to touch the static electricity discharge pad before fueling. Fuel types and pump handle colors were mentioned earlier (Regular: Red, Premium: Yellow, Diesel: Green). Ensure you use the correct fuel.
Conclusion
Renting a car in Japan opens up a world of possibilities for a more flexible and in-depth travel experience. While there are procedures and rules to be aware of, proper preparation and understanding will make the process smooth. By choosing the right car, understanding insurance, and familiarizing yourself with Japanese driving etiquette, you can embark on an unforgettable self-drive adventure, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the stunning scenery Japan has to offer at your own pace. Drive safely and enjoy your trip!