【Includes Car Rental Guide and Recommended Road Trip Routes】Discover the Ultimate Freedom of Driving in Japan!
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While Japan's public transport is incredibly efficient, renting a car offers the perfect way to uncover hidden treasures and follow your own schedule. It's an ideal option, especially if you're traveling with friends or family, as sharing the rental costs can be more budget-friendly than relying on trains and buses! But what should you know before renting a car in Japan? Don't worry; this article has got you covered. Read on to get all the tips you need for an unforgettable Japanese road trip adventure!
How to Snag the Best Car Rental Deals?
Booking a car rental online is usually the way to go! Not only is it more affordable than renting on the spot, but it also lets you pick the exact car you want ahead of time. Make sure to shop around and compare prices and options from different companies to score the best deal!
Recommended Car Rental Companies in Japan
When it comes to renting a car in Japan, you've got plenty of options. But it's not just about the price – you should also think about the types of vehicles, service quality, and how many branches they have. Here are some top-rated and super convenient choices:
- Toyota Rent a Car: This is a subsidiary of Toyota, known for its well-kept cars, wide selection, and top-notch service. It might be a bit pricier, but it's worth it.
- AVIS: A global brand you can trust for quality vehicles. Plus, they have a user-friendly Chinese website and great customer service.
- Times Car Rental: This nationwide chain has a huge variety of cars and lots of branches. They also offer more budget-friendly prices.
- Orix Rent a Car: Known for its stellar reputation, Orix often has great promotional deals going on.
- Nippon Rent a Car: With tons of branches and long operating hours – some even 24/7 – it's perfect if you're arriving late at night.
- Regional Car Rental Companies: In places like Hokkaido and Okinawa, local companies might offer better rates. Check out OTS Rent a Car, Sky Rent a Car, and Honda Car Rental.
Looking to rent a car for your travels? Klook has got you covered! Just enter the city where you need a car, along with the rental period and type of vehicle, and you'll be all set to find the perfect ride for your journey.
For car rentals in Japan, check out Klook Japan Car Rental: 【Click Here】
Must-Have Documents for Renting a Car
- A valid Hong Kong Driver's License
- An International Driving Permit (IDP, which you can get through the Hong Kong Transport Department)
- Your Passport
- A Credit Card (to cover rental fees and the deposit)
ETC Card and Highway Pass
Imagine breezing through toll booths without stopping – that's the magic of the ETC card! It makes highway travel a breeze with automatic toll payments. Now, if you're planning a long road trip, the Highway Pass is your best friend. It gives you unlimited access to certain highways, which means you save both time and money. Pick the option that suits your travel plans best!
Four Must-Visit Destinations in Japan for a Road Trip: Insider Tips
Hokkaido: Majestic Nature and Breathtaking Scenery
Hokkaido is famous for its stunning natural beauty, luring travelers with its vibrant summer lavender fields and picturesque winter snowscapes. Hitting the road is the perfect way to see Hokkaido, giving you the freedom to explore remote areas that public transportation can't reach.
Must-See Spots: Furano for its stunning lavender fields, Biei for the picturesque Patchwork Road, Shiretoko for its World Heritage Site status, and Sapporo for vibrant urban scenery.
Ideal Road Trip: Start your adventure in Sapporo, making your way through the beautiful landscapes of Furano and Biei. Continue on to the breathtaking Shiretoko Peninsula before looping back to Sapporo. This classic Hokkaido route is best enjoyed over at least 7 days to fully take in the sights. If you're pressed for time, consider shorter trips like Sapporo to Furano and Biei or Sapporo to Shiretoko. Don't forget to book your accommodations early, especially during peak travel seasons.
Fuji Five Lakes Area: Get Up Close and Personal with Mount Fuji's Grandeur
Nestled around the iconic Mount Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes region is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, each lake boasting its own distinct charm and vibe. Embarking on a self-driving tour is the perfect way to hop from one lake to the next, all while hunting for those picture-perfect views of Mount Fuji.
Must-See Spots: Lake Kawaguchi (boat tours, Mt. Fuji cable car), Lake Yamanaka (camping, cycling), Lake Saiko (serene lake), Lake Shoji (Mt. Fuji reflections), Lake Motosu (stunning views).
Driving Itinerary Tips: Make Lake Kawaguchi your central hub and explore the five lakes by circling around them. You can go either clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on your travel style. It's best to visit two lakes a day so you have plenty of time to soak in the scenery and snap some lakeside photos. Most attractions have parking, but keep in mind that spaces can fill up quickly during peak times, so plan ahead.
Arashiyama, Kyoto: Where Ancient Traditions Meet Tranquil Bamboo Groves
Just a short trip from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a must-visit destination known for its breathtaking bamboo forests, historic temples, and serene atmosphere. By opting to drive, you can sidestep the crowded tourist areas and truly immerse yourself in the magical beauty of Arashiyama.
Must-Visit Spots: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Nonomiya Shrine, Jojakko-ji Temple.
Driving Tip: Parking can be a bit tricky in the Arashiyama area due to the limited parking spaces. It's best to leave your car at the Arashiyama Parking Lot and then explore on foot or hop on the Arashiyama Electric Railway. Plan to spend at least half a day, if not a full day, soaking in the beauty of this historic area. Keep in mind that the roads here are quite narrow, so take it slow and drive carefully.
Shikoku: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Mountains and Seas
Shikoku Island is a treasure trove of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural history. From its towering mountains to its pristine beaches, there's so much to see and experience. The best way to truly immerse yourself in all that Shikoku has to offer is by embarking on a self-drive tour. This gives you the freedom to explore even the most remote and hard-to-reach spots that public transport just can't get to.
Must-Visit Spots: You can't miss Dogo Onsen, the oldest hot spring in Japan. For a bit of a workout, climb the steep stone steps of Kotohira Shrine. If you're into adventure, try gorge rafting at Ooboke and Koboke. And don't forget to soak in the stunning views along the Pacific coastline at Cape Muroto.
Self-Driving Route Tips: Shikoku Island is pretty expansive, so it's best to pick a main route. You could do a loop around the island or dive deep into one specific area. Tailor your trip based on what interests you and how much time you've got. It's a good idea to plan your route ahead and book your stays, especially during the busy seasons. Keep in mind, the mountain roads can be tricky, so drive carefully!