What You Need to Know About Japanese Road Signs and Traffic Laws
Renting a car in Japan can be an exciting way to explore the country, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls. We’ve gathered a few tips to help you have a smooth and stress-free car rental experience. Here’s how you can avoid the most frequent mistakes when renting a car in Japan.
🚗 Mistake: Forgetting to bring your International Driver’s Permit (IDP), or assuming that your home country’s driver’s license is enough.
✅ Solution: Before you rent a car, make sure you have an IDP if you’re a foreign visitor. An IDP is required for most car rentals in Japan, especially if you’re not from a country that has a reciprocal agreement with Japan. Always check the rental company’s requirements ahead of time.
🚗 Mistake: Skipping insurance or not fully understanding what’s covered.
✅ Solution: Insurance is essential when renting a car. Many rental agencies offer basic insurance, but it may not cover everything (like damage to the car’s underside or tires). Always ask about optional insurance for extra coverage, such as collision damage waivers (CDW) or theft protection.
🚗 Mistake: Not being aware of Japan’s extensive toll roads and how to pay for them.
✅ Solution: Japan has an advanced toll system, and you’ll encounter toll roads often. Many rental cars come with an ETC card, a prepaid electronic toll collection card. Make sure to ask the rental company if the car has one. If not, you’ll need to pay tolls manually or buy an ETC card at convenience stores or highway service areas.
🚗 Mistake: Overlooking Japanese traffic laws or failing to recognize local road signs.
✅ Solution: Japan has strict traffic laws, and it’s essential to familiarize yourself with them. For example, Japan drives on the left side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. You should also be aware of speed limits, which are generally 60 km/h in cities and 100 km/h on expressways. Road signs are mostly in Japanese, but international symbols are often used, so it’s worth learning a few key ones before you hit the road.
🚗 Mistake: Renting a car that isn’t suitable for your journey or group size.
✅ Solution: Make sure you choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs. If you’re visiting rural areas or driving in the mountains, consider renting a 4WD or SUV. For city driving, a compact car may be more efficient and easier to park. If you’re traveling with a group or family, a larger vehicle or van will provide more comfort.
🚗 Mistake: Not considering parking availability and costs, especially in major cities.
✅ Solution: Parking in Japan’s larger cities (like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto) can be challenging and expensive. Before heading out, plan your parking in advance. Look for parking lots or coin-operated parking (which is common in Japan), and check the cost per hour. Also, remember that many residential areas or shopping districts require special permits for parking.
🚗 Mistake: Not understanding the car’s fuel policy and returning it without enough gas.
✅ Solution: Most rental cars in Japan follow a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you’ll receive the car with a full tank of gas and need to return it full. Always check the fuel level when you pick up the car and make sure to refill it before returning. Japan has plenty of gas stations, and many are open 24/7.
🚗 Mistake: Assuming you won’t need a GPS or map.
✅ Solution: Even if you’re familiar with navigating by car, Japan’s road network can be tricky for first-time visitors. GPS navigation is essential, especially in rural areas where road signs may not be in English. Some rental cars come with English-language GPS systems, but you should always check before picking up your vehicle. Alternatively, download a reliable mapping app on your phone.
🚗 Mistake: Not double-checking the car rental details, like the pick-up location or hours.
✅ Solution: Always confirm the pick-up and drop-off locations, as well as the operating hours of the rental office. Some locations may have different hours, especially during holidays, and failing to return the car during office hours could result in additional fees. It’s also a good idea to confirm your reservation details (e.g., car type, insurance, etc.) beforehand.
At Logistico Japan, we strive to make your driving experience in Japan as smooth as possible. 🚗✨ We offer a wide selection of vehicles, 24/7 customer service, and support to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch. Whether you’re exploring the cities or embarking on a scenic road trip, we have the perfect car for your journey.
Renting a car in Japan can be a fantastic way to explore the country, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure that your experience is enjoyable and hassle-free. By planning ahead, understanding the rules, and preparing for the road ahead, you’ll be able to focus on the beauty of Japan without any worries.
Ready for your next road trip? Contact Logistico Japan today to book your car rental! 🚗💨 We’ll help you every step of the way. Safe travels! 🇯🇵
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