Renting a car in Japan can be a convenient and rewarding way to explore the country, especially if you're planning to visit rural areas or regions with limited public transportation. Interested? So, how to rent a car in Japan from A to Z?

The process is relatively easy, but there are a few important steps to keep in mind, like preparing your International Driving Permit (IDP), renting a car in advance and more. With a bit of preparation, renting a car in Japan can offer the freedom to explore hidden gems and scenic routes at your own pace, making your trip truly unforgettable.

Relax, Traveloka already made a list on how to rent a car in Japan for travellers so there’s no more confusion. You can plan your car rental while also planning your Japan itinerary too! So, wait no more and let’s dig in to these easy steps on how to rent a car in Japan!

Long before you’re going to Japan and finally rent a car there to get around the city, you should make sure that you have a proper license to drive. So, first thing first, you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP), obtained in your own country before arriving in Japan.

Some travellers from several countries like Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Taiwan, or South Korea, are able to drive with a certified Japanese translation of your national driver's license.

The translation must be done by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or your country's embassy in Japan.

It’s advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during Japan’s peak travel seasons like cherry blossom season (March–April) and autumn (October–November). This way, you’ll have more chances to get the car you need, whether you want a big-size car or prefer a smaller one. Or, whether you need to rent it with a driver or not.

To rent a car in Japan with Traveloka is actually super easy. You just need to follow these easy steps:

See? So easy, right? Now let’s learn more things to know on how to rent a car in Japan.

When you arrive in Japan and are going to pick up your car, they usually require you to show your valid driver license and IDP or Japanese translation and passport. You better prepare it for a faster picking up process.

A little tip from us: make time to inspect the car for any damage and report it to the rental company before driving off.

Are you driving by yourself? Is it your first time driving in Japan? Well, you should know some of Japan's driving rules before driving off too. It’s for your own comfort and safety.

In Japan, vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Be careful when you’re driving and always watch your speed limit. The speed limits that are safe in Japan are 50–60 km/h (31–37 mph) in urban areas, 80–100 km/h (50–62 mph) on highways.

You should also know that many highways in Japan are toll roads. You can pay with cash, credit card, or an ETC card (Electronic Toll Collection), which can be rented with the car.

Moreover, if this is your first time and you’re a little bit nervous, maybe you can consider your visit when the weather is drier and avoid snowy areas as driving there can be more challenging.

Anyway, if you don’t know the area, don’t be worried. You can use the GPS on your rented car. Even if your rented car doesn’t have a GPS, you can still use the one on your smartphone.

If you are driving around a little bit of a remote area, you should keep an eye for fuel stations as they are limited.

So, your holiday is finally finished! How do you feel? Now it’s time to return the car!

You must return the car to the designated drop-off location (that you pick on the booking process on Traveloka web or app). If it’s on the rental agreement, you should also return the car with a full tank of gas (make sure you learn about this on your booking process or ask right away to the rental provider when you pick up the car).

Please be on time to avoid late return fees. We know you don’t want to pay for the unnecessaries.

Japan is always an interesting country to explore, with numerous attractions spreading all across the area. We’re sure that your time in Japan with your loved ones will be well-spent.

You can browse everything on Traveloka, find tips and recommended places in Japan, and more information aside from how to rent a car in Japan (don’t forget to check the latest article about Supper Spots in Osaka!). Traveloka sure will be your best friend on travelling. Find the most suitable hotels, flights, and attraction tickets that come at a good price!