Car Hire in Japan

Some rental agreements come with mileage limits, while others offer unlimited mileage. Make sure to review the mileage policy to avoid unexpected fees.

Many rental companies require payment by credit card and may not accept debit cards. If you only have a debit card, check the rental company's payment policies in advance and look for suitable options.

Research fuel prices in the area where you'll return the vehicle. Filling up at a local station may be cheaper than paying for fuel through the rental company, especially if they charge higher rates.

Ensure that you have a valid driving licence with at least one year of driving experience. If you are a foreign driver travelling to Japan, an international driving permit may be required. Remember, hire rates can be higher for drivers under 25 or over 70

When renting a car, understand the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy means you return the car with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' means you return it with the same level of fuel. Full-to-Full is often more cost-effective.

Decide whether to rent a GPS or use your smartphone for navigation; consider data costs if using mobile.

In Japan, car hire options are billed on a daily basis. Renting for over 24 hours will incur a charge for an additional day, so be sure to plan your hire duration to avoid extra costs.

If you plan to share driving, check if the rental company allows a second driver and whether there are additional fees. Some companies offer free second driver options under certain conditions.