{"id":333,"date":"2025-10-16T01:44:58","date_gmt":"2025-10-15T16:44:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/?p=333"},"modified":"2025-10-22T00:24:03","modified_gmt":"2025-10-21T15:24:03","slug":"how-to-rent-a-car-in-japan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/how-to-rent-a-car-in-japan\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Rent a Car in Japan: Step-by-Step Guide for Self-Drive Adventures"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\">Renting a car in Japan opens doors to remote landscapes, hidden rural towns, and scenic coastal drives not reachable by train. This step-by-step guide shows you <strong>how to rent a car in Japan<\/strong>, from booking to return, with practical tips, visuals, and links to real road trip itineraries to inspire your journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 1: Choosing the Right Rental Company<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10\">For visitors driving in Japan, it\u2019s best to go with <strong>major nationwide rental firms<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-stack u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\">\n<p><strong>These companies tend to offer:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Better support in case of breakdowns or accidents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Large vehicle inventories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>English or multilingual staff<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-0\">GPS \/ navigation with MAPCODE support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"798\" height=\"642\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_9492-e1760545676560.jpg\" alt=\"people at a rental car counter\" class=\"wp-image-337\" style=\"width:241px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_9492-e1760545676560.jpg 798w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_9492-e1760545676560-480x386.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_9492-e1760545676560-768x618.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 798px) 100vw, 798px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Leading Rental Car Brands in Japan<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"c-scrollHint sp_\"><span>\u30b9\u30af\u30ed\u30fc\u30eb\u3067\u304d\u307e\u3059 <i class=\"icon-more_arrow\"><\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<figure data-table-scrollable=\"sp\" class=\"wp-block-table is-all-centered td_to_th_ is-style-simple\"><table style=\"--table-width:1200px;\"><thead><tr><th>Rental Company<\/th><th>Coverage Area<\/th><th>Multilingual Support<\/th><th>MAPCODE Navigation<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Toyota Rent a Car<\/td><td>Nationwide<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nissan Rent a Car<\/td><td>Nationwide<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>ORIX Rent a Car<\/td><td>Nationwide<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Nippon Rent a Car<\/td><td>Nationwide<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Times Car Rental<\/td><td>Many major cities<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Budget (Japan)<\/td><td>Airport &amp; city hubs<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\">While smaller local shops might advertise slightly lower rates, the price difference rarely outweighs the security, service, and peace of mind of a large national provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 2: Reservation Tips &amp; Timing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-big_icon_good u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Book well in advance<\/strong>, especially during peak travel periods, such as Golden Week (end of April\/first week of May), summer, New Year&#8217;s (January 1st is a major holiday in Japan), and cherry blossom season\/when trees change for autumn.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure your documents are ready:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Valid <strong>passport<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Home country driver\u2019s license<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>International Driving Permit (IDP)<\/strong> under the 1949 Geneva Convention<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When comparing cars, always check <strong>daily rates, optional fees, and drop-off charges<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ready to make a reservation?<strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentalcars.com\/?adplat=100765851&amp;adcamp=&amp;adco=15525992&amp;affiliateCode=cjapac&amp;click_id=b6ad7f1ea96b11f0801e00130a1cb825\">Here&#8217;s a great site to use!<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-balloon u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\"><div class=\"c-balloon -bln-right\" data-col=\"green\"><div class=\"c-balloon__body -speaking -border-none\"><div class=\"c-balloon__text\">\n<p><strong>Before locking in dates&#8230; Check your desired route:<br><\/strong>Explore our <a href=\"\/itinerary\/9\">Hokkaido 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary<\/a> for nature escapes, or try the <a href=\"\/itinerary\/51\">Around Tokyo &amp; Mt. Fuji 5-Day Road Trip<\/a> for regional drives. These give you a better sense of how many days, distances, and stops you need.<\/p>\n<span class=\"c-balloon__shapes\"><span class=\"c-balloon__before\"><\/span><span class=\"c-balloon__after\"><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 3: Vehicle Pickup &amp; Inspection<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column\" style=\"flex-basis:80%\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-step is-style-small u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\" data-num-style=\"circle\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-step__item\"><div class=\"swell-block-step__number\"><span class=\"__shape u-col-main\" role=\"presentation\"><\/span><span class=\"__label\">STEP<\/span><\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__title u-fz-m\">Arrive at Airport\/Train Station<\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__body\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-step__item\"><div class=\"swell-block-step__number\"><span class=\"__shape u-col-main\" role=\"presentation\"><\/span><span class=\"__label\">STEP<\/span><\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__title u-fz-m\">Find Rental Counter<\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__body\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-step__item\"><div class=\"swell-block-step__number\"><span class=\"__shape u-col-main\" role=\"presentation\"><\/span><span class=\"__label\">STEP<\/span><\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__title u-fz-m\">Take a Shuttle to the Rental Office<\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__body\">\n<p>Shuttles are not necessary\/not available at train stations.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-step__item\"><div class=\"swell-block-step__number\"><span class=\"__shape u-col-main\" role=\"presentation\"><\/span><span class=\"__label\">STEP<\/span><\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__title u-fz-m\">Fill Out Documents &amp; Check ID<\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__body\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-step__item\"><div class=\"swell-block-step__number\"><span class=\"__shape u-col-main\" role=\"presentation\"><\/span><span class=\"__label\">STEP<\/span><\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__title u-fz-m\">Insurance Explanation &amp; Signing<\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__body\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-step__item\"><div class=\"swell-block-step__number\"><span class=\"__shape u-col-main\" role=\"presentation\"><\/span><span class=\"__label\">STEP<\/span><\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__title u-fz-m\">Vehicle Inspection &amp; Tutorial<\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__body\">\n<p>Things to ask about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Operation of <strong>lights, wipers, hazard flasher<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Location and mechanism to <strong>open fuel cap<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fuel type<\/strong> (regular, high-octane, or diesel)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Whether <strong>navigation is in English<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Where to input <strong>MAPCODEs<\/strong> \u2014 vital in rural Japan<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-step__item\"><div class=\"swell-block-step__number\"><span class=\"__shape u-col-main\" role=\"presentation\"><\/span><span class=\"__label\">STEP<\/span><\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__title u-fz-m\">Hit the road!<\/div><div class=\"swell-block-step__body\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5131.jpg\" alt=\"rental car counter\" class=\"wp-image-416\" style=\"width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5131.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5131-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5131-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_4611.jpg\" alt=\"shuttle bus\" class=\"wp-image-414\" style=\"width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_4611.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_4611-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_4611-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5142.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-417\" style=\"width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5142.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5142-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5142-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Rental-ETC-card.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-412\" style=\"width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Rental-ETC-card.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Rental-ETC-card-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Rental-ETC-card-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sticker-for-foreign-driver.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-413\" style=\"width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sticker-for-foreign-driver.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sticker-for-foreign-driver-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sticker-for-foreign-driver-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 4: Returning the Car &amp; Final Checks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Before Returning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"flex-basis:80%\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">\n<li><strong>Fill the fuel tank to \u201cfull\u201d<\/strong> (keep receipt)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remove <strong>personal items and trash<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10\">Return any rented <strong>ETC cards, child seats, or extras<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"853\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5936.jpg\" alt=\"japan gas station\" class=\"wp-image-230\" style=\"width:260px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5936.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5936-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/IMG_5936-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">At drop-off<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"flex-basis:80%\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">\n<li>Staff perform <strong>damage inspection<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Final charges are assessed (if any)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Key handoff and exit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"854\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-kampus-8815916.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-338\" style=\"width:271px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-kampus-8815916.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-kampus-8815916-480x320.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-kampus-8815916-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 5: Choosing Your Vehicle: Size &amp; Capacity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When selecting a car, always allow space for luggage. A simple guideline:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"c-scrollHint sp_\"><span>\u30b9\u30af\u30ed\u30fc\u30eb\u3067\u304d\u307e\u3059 <i class=\"icon-more_arrow\"><\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<figure data-table-scrollable=\"sp\" class=\"wp-block-table is-all-centered td_to_th_ is-style-simple\"><table style=\"--table-width:1200px;\"><thead><tr><th> <\/th><th>Vehicle Class<\/th><th>Max Seating<\/th><th>Ideal Passenger + Luggage<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"84\" class=\"wp-image-453\" style=\"width: 150px;\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-16634723.jpg\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-16634723.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-16634723-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-16634723-768x431.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><\/td><td>Compact Hatchback<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>2 adults + 2 suitcases<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"100\" class=\"wp-image-452\" style=\"width: 150px;\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-1007410.jpg\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-1007410.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-1007410-480x319.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-1007410-768x510.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><\/td><td>Sedan \/ Wagon<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>3 adults + 3 suitcases<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"150\" height=\"99\" class=\"wp-image-451\" style=\"width: 150px;\" src=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-215528.jpg\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-215528.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-215528-480x318.jpg 480w, https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pexels-mikebirdy-215528-768x509.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><\/td><td>Minivan \/ SUV<\/td><td>7<\/td><td>5 adults + 5 large bags<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\"><div class=\"swell-block-balloon u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\"><div class=\"c-balloon -bln-left\" data-col=\"green\"><div class=\"c-balloon__body -thinking -border-none\"><div class=\"c-balloon__text\">\n<p><strong>Formula<\/strong>: Realistic passenger count = Seating capacity minus 2 (for luggage space)<br><br><em>Also note: <\/em><strong>children legally require child seats<\/strong>, so each child still counts as one seat.<\/p>\n<span class=\"c-balloon__shapes\"><span class=\"c-balloon__before\"><\/span><span class=\"c-balloon__after\"><\/span><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 6: Optional Add-ons &amp; Insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Add-ons:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>ETC Card<\/strong> \u2014 for tolls on expressways\u3000<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Snow Tires \/ Chains<\/strong> \u2014 essential in winter regions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Child Seat<\/strong> \u2014 mandatory for children under 6<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-stack u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Insurance Coverage<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">To avoid surprises, going with <strong>full coverage<\/strong> is strongly recommended. If you need to cut costs, the <strong>NOC (Non-Operation Charge)<\/strong> <strong>Waiver<\/strong> is the only option that some can omit\u2014but that leaves you vulnerable if the car needs repairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\"><strong>What&#8217;s an NOC?<\/strong> If you get into an accident or damage your car, you&#8217;ll be charged an NOC, which is a fee to compensate the company for the loss of business they will experience while the car is being repaired (typically around 50,000 to 100,000 yen). If you pay for the NOC Waiver, you won&#8217;t have to pay the NOC if the vehicle is damaged (it is a form of insurance).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 7: One-Way Rentals &amp; Drop-Off Fees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can return your car at a different location than the pickup \u2014 but <strong>one-way fees vary widely<\/strong>.<br><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"c-scrollHint sp_\"><span>\u30b9\u30af\u30ed\u30fc\u30eb\u3067\u304d\u307e\u3059 <i class=\"icon-more_arrow\"><\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<figure data-table-scrollable=\"sp\" class=\"wp-block-table is-all-centered td_to_th_ is-style-simple u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\"><table style=\"--table-width:1200px;\"><thead><tr><th>Trip Type<\/th><th>Typical Cost<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Short, <\/strong>local<strong> drop-off<\/strong> (same area)<\/td><td>Often free or a few thousand yen<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cross-prefecture drop-off<\/td><td>Can match or exceed the base rental cost<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 8: Decide Where to Go<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once your car rental is sorted, it\u2019s time to decide <strong>where to drive<\/strong>. Here are a few itineraries we recommend:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/itinerary\/9\">Hokkaido 5-Day Road Trip Itinerary<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 perfect for nature lovers, wildlife, lakes, and open landscapes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"\/itinerary\/51\">Around Tokyo &amp; Mt. Fuji 5-Day Road Trip<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 ideal for first-time drivers who want to mix cities, mountains, and hot springs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/itinerary\/127\">Kansai First-Timer&#8217;s Tour<\/a> <\/strong>\u2014 perfect for road-trip newbies, hitting Kansai&#8217;s best spots: Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\">These itineraries show you daily stops, driving distances, lodging, and must-see attractions \u2014 helping you tailor your rental to the route you choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">Step 9: Pro Tips Before You Hit the Road<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-big_icon_good u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Drive on the <strong>left side<\/strong> of the road (remember this in every country switch!).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Speed limits<\/strong> are lower than many countries: 40\u201360 km\/h in urban zones, 80\u2013100 km\/h on expressways.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Many gas stations are <strong>full-serve<\/strong>, though \u201c\u30bb\u30eb\u30d5 (self)\u201d stations exist.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use <strong>MAPCODEs<\/strong> instead of addresses for accurate navigation, especially in rural areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep toll and parking cash handy \u2014 not all places accept cards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-20\">FAQs: Renting a Car in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"c-scrollHint sp_\"><span>\u30b9\u30af\u30ed\u30fc\u30eb\u3067\u304d\u307e\u3059 <i class=\"icon-more_arrow\"><\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<figure data-table-scrollable=\"sp\" class=\"wp-block-table is-all-centered td_to_th_ is-style-simple u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\"><table style=\"--table-width:1200px;\"><thead><tr><th>Question<\/th><th>Answer<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?<\/td><td>Yes \u2014 the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP is required for most foreign travelers.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Is driving difficult in Japan?<\/strong><\/td><td>Not particularly \u2014 roads are well maintained, signage is good, and major routes are clearly marked.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>What if I damage the car?<\/strong><\/td><td>With full insurance, you should be covered. If not, you may be liable. That\u2019s why full coverage is strongly recommended.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Can I rent a car for one way between regions?<\/strong><\/td><td>Yes, but one-way drop-off fees can be high (especially cross-prefecture) \u2014 always check in advance.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10\">In Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Renting a car in Japan is simpler than it first seems \u2014 as long as you book smart, inspect carefully, and plan your route. Start by choosing your itinerary, then pick your vehicle, and hit the road with confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ready to pick your route?<\/strong><br>Explore some of our curated itineraries now! All our routes elevate your road trip experience \u2014 no guesswork, just drive and enjoy. \ud83d\ude97\ud83d\udca8<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center u-mb-ctrl u-mb-30\"><span class=\"swl-inline-btn is-style-btn_normal green_\"><a href=\"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/explore-itineraries\"><strong><span class=\"swl-fz u-fz-l\">Explore Itineraries<\/span><\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Renting a car in Japan opens doors to remote landscapes, hidden rural towns, and scenic coastal drives not reachable by train. This step-by-step guide shows you how to rent a car in Japan, from booking to return, with practical tips, visuals, and links to real road trip itineraries to inspire your journey. Step 1: Choosing [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":430,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"swell_btn_cv_data":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-333","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drive-in-japan-guide"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/333","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=333"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/333\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":454,"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/333\/revisions\/454"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/430"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=333"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=333"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drivejapan.co.jp\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=333"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}