Introduction - Why Drive?
Driving in Japan opens a world of adventure that can’t be accessed by public transport, letting you explore hidden gems at your own pace.
It’s common to meet people in Tokyo who have never driven a car. For a city of 35 million people, I’m glad they catch the train! This reliance on public transport is true for most of Japan’s 13 large cities with 1 million residents. But if you happen to be planning a trip outside of those (and I highly recommend you do!), you may start finding yourself at a loss trying to get around using public transport.
I was in Sakata (A city most Australian’s know due to the jingle for the Rice Crackers), and wanted to visit Kamo Aquarium, a 30-minute drive. However, there was no direct public transport, turning it into a 2 hour trip each way – on a service that only ran every 2 hours!
Times like this, call for renting a car.
Types of Rental Cars
As well as familiar sedans (Prius, Civic) Japan offers a few unique vehicles. Kei cars, known for their compact size and efficiency, are perfect for narrow city alleys. Hybrid options are common, offering fuel savings, while luxury seekers can rent supercars for an unforgettable drive through scenic areas like Mt Fuji, starting at around $1000 per day.
Booking a Rental Car
You’ll need to be 18, have a driving licence, and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) that you can pick up from your local automobile association (such as RACV, NRMA, etc.) for around $50.
I recommend checking my Online Travel Hub for a list of local rental companies, which will save you some money compared to western rental companies who act as a middleman.
Prices include the mandatory insurance. Something I’ve learnt is to check my travel insurance, as mine will refund any excess, so I have no need to upgrade the insurance through the rental company.
Be aware of language barriers in remote locations. Have google translate ready to help you fill in forms, or to translate a conversation in real time.
ETC cards
Most expressways in Japan are toll roads. Asking for an ETC card (Electronic Toll Collection Card), when you pick up the car gives you a discount, and avoids having to stop at the toll booth and find enough coins (learn from my mistake!).
Driving in the Snow
Japan’s North, and West Coast, get the heaviest snow fall on the planet. It’s no wonder it’s the highlight of many Australian skiers and snowboarders snowy careers, but it can make driving during winter (late December through to early April) treacherous, no matter what your experience with driving in snow. Renting a car in a snowy region will come equipped with snow tires, but ask in advance if you’re picking up a car elsewhere, and planning on driving into the snowy areas.
Road Rules
Driving in Japan means adhering to local rules: drive on the left, understand the signage (red triangles for stop, white with red borders for give way), and know that no light at traffic signals means stop. Speed limits are usually 100km/h on expressways and 60km/h elsewhere, unless signposted differently. Alcohol tolerance is virtually zero, child seats are mandatory for under 12, and using a phone without a hands-free setup is illegal.
Parking & Filling Up
City parking can be challenging, with specific signs indicating no stopping (red circle with cross), no parking (red circle with diagonal line), and parking restrictions (blue sign with "P"). Petrol stations vary between full service and self-service, so be prepared for either experience. Always check the fuel policy when picking up the car, the last time I rented a car in Japan I was told not to refill it, as it was included in the price.
Safety Tips
Be aware of an increased number of cyclists and scooters on your left, particularly when turning into driveways, and watch for pedestrians that emerge from between stationary vehicles.
Finally, come to a complete stop in front of train tracks, and ensure that there is room for you on the other side of the intersection, before proceeding.
Conclusion
I always try to explore Japan on my own when I get the chance. That means picking up my IDP, and packing a handsfree cradle so I can use Google Maps to help me navigate!
I hope you’ve found this information helpful, and straightforward. Please use the Contact Us form below if you have any questions – not only am I happy to help, but by asking you’ll help me improve this information for others in future. Please visit my other blogs for other useful, straightforward, information that will help you on your next Jouney2Japan.
Finally, if you haven’t already, please visit and save my Online Travel Hub. This includes links to the rental companies I recommend in Japan, and other helpful resources.
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