Japan’s public transport is world-famous for a reason. Bullet trains (shinkansen) connect cities at a speed of 320 km/h (200 mph). You can cross the country in barely more time than it takes to finish your ekiben, or train-station bento box. 

Yet as soon as you want to go into the more remote areas of Japan, whether for skiing, hiking, surfing, or just to discover rural ways of life, you’ll need a car. 

Renting a car in Japan as a foreigner is absolutely possible. But depending on where you’re from, how long you’re staying, and how much you want to spend, it can get complicated. 

I’ve spent two seasons in Japan, and managed to rent a car for around 350USD a month both times. Here is my guide for finding a car to rent in Japan, and how to avoid some common mistakes. 

Why Rent a Car in Japan? 

If you plan on sticking to major tourist centres and cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, a car is likely to be more of a hindrance than a help. These places are well-connected, and you can easily get around by train. But if you have plans to discover more remote parts of the country, you’ll need a car.

For example, you’ll likely need a car if you want to: 

• Try out quiet ski resorts and try out the famous Japow 
• Explore the lesser-known islands of Hokkaido or Shikoku
• Do a road trip, like the Romantic Road Trip (highly recommend). 
• Stay long-term in the countryside

Plus, Japan has its own specific type of car, called a Kei car. They are small, boxy, adorable, and so fun to drive, especially on mountain roads. So driving in Japan can be a joy in and of itself. 

How to Rent a Car in Japan as a Foreigner

Finding a car for rent in Japan can be frustrating. Many local rental companies are hesitant to deal with foreign customers, mainly due to language barriers and insurance concerns. Most websites don’t offer English booking systems. Others simply won’t accept non-Japanese licenses without very specific paperwork.

That said, you have two main options:

International Rental Companies: Easy, But Expensive

If you want the simplest experience, stick with international or major Japanese chains that cater to foreigners. These are especially easy to find at the airport or in Tokyo. 

Pros:

• English-language booking
  
• Clear IDP policies
  
• Airport pickup options
  
• Reliable insurance coverage
  

Cons:

• Higher prices
  
• Less flexibility for long-term rentals
  

Expect to pay anywhere from ¥6,000–¥12,000 per day for a standard compact car, depending on location and season.

If you’re visiting for a short trip and want minimal stress, this is the safest option. Booking is the best place to search for offers.

Cheap Kei Car Rentals: Affordable and Great — But Harder to Find

If you’re staying longer (a month or more), you might want to look into kei cars (軽自動車).

Kei cars are small, lightweight Japanese vehicles designed for lower taxes and fuel costs. They’re perfect for narrow rural roads and significantly cheaper to rent. 

You’ll often need to go via a local car rental company, and staff who may never have dealt with IDPs and foreign clients before. I’ve had good experiences with the company 100 Yen Rent a Car, but it isn’t guaranteed that they will accept renting to a foreigner. 

You may find:

• Lower daily rates
  
• Monthly discounts
  
• Better fuel efficiency
  
• Easier parking
  

However:

• Many smaller rental agencies operate only in Japanese
  
• Some require in-person paperwork
  
• Communication can be tricky
  
• Websites may not be indexed well in English search
• Some refuse to rent to people with IDPs. 

To find these companies, search for レンタカ (rentaka) on Google Maps.

It is worth noting that you can’t buy a car in Japan if you are not a resident, so long-term rental might be your only option if you are spending a while in the country. 

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan as a Foreigner 

Here is what you need to rent a car in Japan as a foreigner: 

International Driving Permit (IDP) 

The Japanese take this seriously. You 100% need this document to rent a car. It is a small booklet delivered in your home country, with translations of your driving license in several languages. 

You need to obtain this before arriving in Japan. In some countries, you must apply in person at a physical office. Sometimes you get it the same day, sometimes it takes months.

Japan does not accept digital IDPs.

Other Documents to Bring

• Your passport
• Your home country license
• A credit card is sometimes required

Exceptions (License Conversions)

Citizens from certain countries — including Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan — can use an official Japanese translation of their license instead of an IDP. These translations are typically issued by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF). You can apply online here. 

Rules change frequently, so check official guidance before traveling.

Tips for Driving in Japan

Driving in Japan is generally calm and straightforward, but here are a few things to bear in mind: 

• Drive on the left.
• Speed limits are generally lower than in Europe or the US (30 kmh in towns, 100kmh on expressways, 60kmh everywhere else).
• Toll roads are common (budget extra).
• Parking in cities is expensive.
• You must not drink and drive. Japan has a zero-tolerance policy. 

Japan Winter Driving Tips

If you’re driving in winter in Japan, especially in snowy regions like Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps, extra caution is required. 

• Request winter tires (usually mandatory in snowy areas).
• Consider snow chains.
• Watch for black ice.
• Allow extra time — rural snow clearing can be slow.
• Keep fuel topped up in remote areas.
• Avoid driving in snowy areas in winter if you aren’t used to it. Storms are frequent, and road surfaces can be very slippery and unpredictable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Rental in Japan

Can you rent a car in Japan as a foreigner?

Yes. Foreigners can legally rent a car in Japan as long as they have the correct documentation — usually a valid passport, a home country driver’s license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) or official translation (depending on nationality).

Is it expensive to rent a car in Japan?

It depends. Short-term rentals from major chains can cost ¥6,000–¥12,000 per day. However, long-term rentals or smaller kei cars can significantly reduce the daily rate. We paid around 350USD per month for our cars, with full insurance coverage.

What do I need to rent a car in Japan?

Most foreigners need a passport, their original driver’s license, and an IDP (International Drivers Permit). Some nationalities can use a certified Japanese translation instead. A credit card is usually required.

Is renting a car in Japan worth it?

In cities, no. Public transport is faster and cheaper. But in rural Japan — coastal regions, mountains, countryside towns — renting a car is often the only practical way to explore independently.

Can you rent a car in Japan without an international license?

Usually no. If your country is not on Japan’s approved translation list, you must have an International Driving Permit. Without it, rental companies will refuse service.

Should I hire a car in Japan?

If your itinerary includes rural areas, national parks, ski resorts, or small towns, yes. If you’re staying in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, you probably don’t need one.

Are toll roads expensive in Japan?

Yes, tolls can add up quickly, especially on expressways. Many rental cars offer ETC (electronic toll cards) that simplify payment, but you’ll still pay the charges at the end of your rental.

Do rental cars in Japan come with insurance?

Basic insurance is usually included, but it often has a deductible. You can purchase additional coverage to reduce liability. Always check what is covered before signing.

Is it difficult to drive in Japan?

Not particularly. Roads are well-maintained, and signage often includes English. The biggest adjustment for many visitors is driving on the left side of the road.

Can I rent a car in Japan for a month?

Yes. Many companies offer monthly rates, and this can be far cheaper than paying daily prices. Smaller local agencies sometimes provide better long-term deals than large international chains, but some won’t rent to people without a Japanese driver’s license.