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Discover Car Hire in Japan

Take a driving adventure in north-east Asia. Nestled between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan lies a country with a population of over 126 million people, a beautiful culture, shopping to last a lifetime and every foodie’s dream - Japan is your next car hire destination. Be enchanted by the sophisticated lifestyle and unique surroundings including Buddhist temples, traditional gardens, spectacular cherry blossoms and not to mention the famous views of Mount Fuji.

Japan is filled with an endless amount of memorable experiences, so relax at an authentic bath house in Tokyo, eat until you’re full, shop til' you drop and visit as many karaoke bars as you can. There's no easier way to start ticking these places off your to-do list than by travelling through Japan with a hire car. We give you the benefit of traveling at your own pace, comfort and most importantly allowing you to feel the freedom of being in control.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire in Japan

 

Do I require an international driving permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is proof that you hold a valid drivers licence in your home country at the date of issue of the IDP. This should be carried with your domestic drivers licence. It is a very useful travel document and is required or recommended for many countries when hiring a motor vehicle.

When is the best time to visit Japan?

The best time to visit is between March and May or September to November. For more information on Japan, check out our Asia Helpful Links page.

What do I do if I wish to extend my hire whilst overseas?

Please contact the car rental company for a quote on the cost of the additional rental days. Be sure to ask for the total cost inclusive if insurance and taxes and make a note of the person who has advised the information.

In some instances the rental company will suggest you contact your Travel Agent or DriveAway to arrange for a new voucher to cover the extra days. Payment should then be made to DriveAway and a new voucher is issued and faxed overseas to cover the extension or new rental.

Experience Japan

Begin your driving experience with a car hire and collect from Narita International Airport. With so many places to go and things to do, your first stop should be to experience local Japanese culture and drive to the Buddhist temple of the Jodo-Shu sect in the city of Kamakura. The Kotoku-in temple dates back to the year 1252 and is well-known for the 'Great Buddha of Kamakura' that is on display, a bronze statue which is truly is a sight to see. Enter the temple grounds and find your inner peace.

Many people travel to Japan to discover the traditional and interesting cuisine such as the amazing street food, to the underground department stores known as depachika (clothing store up top, a takeaway restaurant in the basement), vending machine restaurants, and of course the best sashimi you will ever have. You can even visit the Tsukiji Fish Market where the famous tuna action takes place from around 5am-6am, and the wholesale market is open from 9am to the public. You may get peckish after a long drive and find yourself stopping for a quick bite to eat!

Japan is full of longstanding traditions such as the Japanese Gardens, Architecture, Calligraphy, festivals, ceremonies and of course the Kimono costume. Also well known in Japan are female entertainers known as Geisha whose skills include performing various Japanese arts such as classical music, dance, games and conversation, mainly to entertain male customers. Then dating back centuries is the history of the Samurai. From childhood, the Samurai were trained to self-discipline and sense of duty, together with the contempt for material goods and for the fear, the refusal of the pain and especially death. There is so much history to immerse yourself in and you can discover it all with your car hire in Japan.

Festivals and events are a standout activity for any time of the year!

Events and Festivals in Japan (to name a few):

  • Yuki Matsuri - Snow Festival
  • New Years Day - The 'Festival of Festivals'
  • Nebuta Matsuri - Lantern Floats
  • Awa Odori - Traditional Dance Festival
 

Along with all the bright and colourful festivals that Japan holds, the nightlife is amongst the best in the world. As you drive through the streets of Tokyo the city is filled with neon lights, karaoke bars and secret laneways hiding over 200 bars where some are only large enough to hold 3 people, some just play horror movies and others are only privy to the rich and famous. There are countless venues to visit and let your hair down to enjoy a night full of fun.

See all the sights and delights that Japan has to offer with your Car Hire from DriveAway! Use our online booking engine or call us.

Cities (To and From) Distance (Approx. km) Travel Time (Approx. hr)
Tokyo to Osaka 502 6.5
Kobe to Osaka 33.3 0.75
Kyoto to Fukuoka 641 8