Planning a trip to Japan often comes with a list of must-dos: riding the Shinkansen, exploring ancient temples, sampling sushi, and strolling through neon-lit city streets. But for travellers who want freedom, flexibility, and access to Japan’s rural gems, renting a car is one of the smartest choices you can make.

If you’ve found yourself Googling “how much to rent a car in Japan”, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of renting a car in Japan, the factors that affect pricing, tips to save money, and what you can expect when driving here.

Why Rent a Car in Japan?

Japan’s train network is world-class, but it doesn’t reach everywhere. Renting a car allows you to:

• Explore lesser-known areas like Hokkaido’s national parks, Kyushu’s hot springs, or the rural beauty of Shikoku.
• Travel at your own pace, without fixed schedules.
• Carry luggage more comfortably, especially if travelling with family.
• Visit multiple spots in a single day without worrying about train transfers.

For travellers arriving at Narita Airport or Haneda Airport, rental cars are easy to arrange through providers like Logistico, which offers competitive rates and English-friendly services.

Average Cost of Renting a Car in Japan

When asking “how much to rent a car in Japan”, the short answer is: it depends on several factors, including location, car size, rental duration, and season.

Here’s a general breakdown of average daily rates in 2025:

Note: These prices typically include basic insurance but not extras like GPS, ETC cards, or snow tires.

Factors That Affect Car Rental Prices in Japan

1. Season & Demand
   Prices increase during peak travel periods such as cherry blossom season (late March–early April), Golden Week (late April–early May), and New Year holidays.
2. Pickup Location
   Renting in major airports like Narita or Haneda can sometimes be slightly more expensive due to airport surcharges. However, these locations offer the best convenience.
3. Car Size & Type
   Kei cars (small, 660cc vehicles) are the cheapest option, while SUVs and luxury sedans are priced higher.
4. Rental Duration
   Weekly rentals often come at a discount compared to daily rates.
5. Insurance & Add-ons
   • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): ¥1,000–¥1,500 per day.
   • ETC Card Rental: ¥300–¥500 per day (for highway tolls).
   • Child Seats: ¥500–¥1,000 per day.

Example: How Much Does It Cost for a 5-Day Trip

Let’s say you land at Narita Airport and rent a compact car from Logistico for 5 days in early June:

• Base Rate: ¥7,000/day × 5 days = ¥35,000
• CDW Insurance: ¥1,200/day × 5 days = ¥6,000
• ETC Card Rental: ¥400/day × 5 days = ¥2,000
• Total (before fuel & tolls): ¥43,000 (~$300)

Fuel in Japan is currently around ¥170 per litre (~$1.15), and highway tolls vary depending on distance.

Driving in Japan: What You Need to Know

Before you start calculating how much to rent a car in Japan, make sure you meet the requirements:

• International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country, based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.
• Passport.
• Credit card for payment and deposit.

Traffic Tips:

• Drive on the left side of the road.
• Watch for narrow rural roads.
• Use ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) for smooth expressway travel.

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Japan

1. Book in Advance – Last-minute bookings during peak season can be up to 30% more expensive.
2. Pick Up & Drop Off at the Same Location – One-way rentals often include extra fees.
3. Choose Kei Cars for City Trips – They’re fuel-efficient and cheaper to rent.
4. Compare Providers – Companies like Logistico often offer online discounts for advance reservations.
5. Avoid Unnecessary Add-ons – If you have your own GPS (via smartphone), skip renting one.

Renting at Narita vs Haneda: Which is Better?

If you’re arriving in Tokyo, you might wonder whether to rent from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport.

• Narita Airport: Best if your trip includes Chiba, Ibaraki, or eastern Japan. Rental counters are right at the terminals.
• Haneda Airport: Convenient for central Tokyo, Yokohama, and Kanagawa areas. Generally, closer to the city, which can save on fuel and tolls.

With Logistico, both airports offer easy booking, English support, and a variety of vehicles at competitive rates.

Is Renting a Car in Japan Worth It?

If your trip focuses on major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, public transport is more efficient. However, for rural travel, scenic drives, or multi-stop itineraries, renting a car gives unmatched flexibility.

A rental car makes it possible to:

• See Mount Fuji from hidden viewpoints.
• Visit remote hot springs without multiple train and bus transfers.
• Carry ski gear or camping equipment without hassle.

Final Thoughts: How Much to Rent a Car in Japan

So, how much to rent a car in Japan? For most travelers, expect to pay between ¥6,000 and ¥12,000 per day depending on the car type, season, and location. With smart planning, early booking, and the right provider, you can enjoy the convenience of a rental without overspending.

Whether you’re landing at Narita or Haneda, Logistico offers a stress-free start to your journey with competitive rates, English-friendly service, and a variety of vehicles to suit your needs.

🚗 Book your Tokyo car rental with Logistico today and turn your Japan adventure into a smooth, flexible, and unforgettable experience.