Renting a Car in Japan

Published on : 27/04/2026
by : Clément

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Car rental
＠https://hire2you.co.uk CC BY-NC 4.0

Renting a car is ideal for exploring places that are not accessible by public transport. Japan Experience tells you how to get around Japan!

Driving in Japan

To drive in Japan, you will need an official translation of your driving license. For licenses issued in France, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan, a translation from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) is all you need, by submitting an online request before printing the documents you'll receive by e-mail. If you hold a license issued by another country, you will need an International Driving Permit based on the 1959 Geneva Convention (the 1968 Vienna Convention is not recognized in Japan).

In all cases, you must carry with you the original of your national license, the printed translation and your passport. A car rental agency may refuse to give you the keys, even for a reservation paid for in advance, if you do not have these three documents with you.

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Traffic regulations

Japanese traffic rules are very similar to those in the West, with one exception: unlike in most countries, traffic flows on the left. But don't panic: the well-designed signs and junctions make it easy to adapt.

Generally speaking, Japanese drivers are courteous and respectful of traffic rules. All signs are translated into the Latin alphabet, so you'll have no trouble finding your way around.

The speed limit is between 30 and 50 km/h in built-up areas, and up to 120 km/h outside. Note that pedestrians always have priority and that the blood alcohol limit is 0g.

Panneau STOP — STOP sign
＠Wikimedia Commons

Parking in the city is generally chargeable and can be expensive, costing up to 500 yen an hour in the busiest areas. Paid parking lots are often equipped with blocking systems, which prevent you from leaving the car without going through the parking meter. Free parking is available, however, especially outside the cities.

The authorities are strict about illegal parking. Patrols patrol the city, and fines can be as high as 18,000 yen.

For further details, please consult our complete guide to driving in Japan :

All the details of the Highway Code : // A Comprehensive Guide to Driving in Japan

Car rental

There are many car rental agencies in Japan, both in and out of town, with varying rates and services. The big names like Toyota Rent-a-Car, Nissan Rent-a-Car and Nippon Rent-a-Car offer services in English, making it easier for foreign travelers to get around. Special mention must be made of Niconico Rent-a-Car, which is very practical for small budgets! For short-term rentals, Times Rent-a-Car is a good option, offering rates by the quarter-hour.

Prices vary widely depending on the day, season and location of the agency. Note that the earlier you book, the better the rates. In Tokyo, you should expect to pay around 10,000 yen a day for a compact city car, including insurance. Almost all cars in Japan are equipped with automatic gearboxes, making them easy to handle.

Reservations can be made online or directly at the agency. We advise you to book in advance to avoid any availability problems, especially during the high season (cherry blossom season, New Year, Golden Week, etc.).

There are vehicles to suit all tastes and budgets. The best practicality/price ratio remains versatile city cars, such as the classic Toyota Yaris, with its low fuel consumption, 5 seats and all-terrain capability. Daily rates for this type of vehicle can be as low as 10,000 yen per day, outside the high season and with advance reservations.

For a more spacious vehicle, you can find all types of sedans for 15,000 yen per day, SUVs from 20,000 yen and even more specialized vehicles, such as utility or sports models at higher prices.

For sports car enthusiasts, specialized rental agencies offer, by the hour or by the day, all the iconic models from Japanese manufacturers, perfect for an unforgettable night out on the streets of Tokyo! Beware, however, that prices are quite high and can vary greatly from one agency to another.

Insurance and options

Every rental includes compulsory basic insurance (third-party liability). Various supplementary insurances are available, including comprehensive packages that cover almost everything. Note that what is considered "negligence" is almost never covered (loss of keys, misfuelling, etc.). In the event of an incident, all vehicles are equipped with a dashcam.

A GPS is often integrated into the vehicle. If not, you can request one in English, usually at no extra cost.

We strongly recommend that you take out the ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) option, available for a small supplement of around 500 yen for the entire rental period. Some stretches of freeway are not passable without this system. ETC gives you the peace of mind to drive wherever you want, and to pay the full amount when you return to the agency at the end of your rental.

Trafic au Japon — Traffic in Japan
＠cheng on Pexels

Return

You will be asked to fill up the tank before returning to the agency. As everywhere, there are two types of fuel: regular/unleaded petrol ("レギュラー") and diesel ("軽油"). The type of fuel to put in the vehicle will be indicated on the papers you will be given. In town, a pump attendant will be at your service at most service stations. Otherwise, you'll have to help yourself. Occasionally, the pump will give you a ticket to enter into a machine to pay separately. Cards and cash are generally accepted. Remember to keep the receipt, as you'll be asked to present it as proof when you return the vehicle.

If you've opted for electronic toll collection, you'll pay the full toll when you return to the agency. Finally, after a quick check of the vehicle's condition by the staff, you can return the keys and finalize the operation by signing the return document.