Car rental in Hiroshima

You don't need a car in Hiroshima. Trams cover the city, and Miyajima is reached by train and ferry. A rental makes sense for the Seto Inland Sea coast and islands, especially with family or luggage. In November 2026, listings started from about US$42 a day, but budget for tolls, fuel and parking as well.

When a car is worth it

Shimanami Kaido. Bridges link a chain of islands across the Seto Inland Sea from Onomichi, about an hour and a half from Hiroshima, towards Shikoku. Bridge tolls add up, and it makes a long day trip, so start early.

Iwakuni. About an hour away, the wooden arched Kintai Bridge crosses the river below a hilltop castle, with a quiet old town nearby.

Tomonoura. A small harbour town of old streets and lanterns on the coast near Fukuyama, about an hour and a half to two hours away. It combines well with Onomichi.

Before you book

Your licence. Japan accepts international permits issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, not the 1968 Vienna one. Drivers from some places, including Taiwan, may need an official Japanese translation of their licence instead. You must arrange this before you travel, so confirm with the rental company what your licence requires. Bring your passport and original licence as well.

Where to collect the car. Pick up at a branch near Hiroshima Station or at the airport if you're heading straight out, so you avoid driving through the busy centre.

Insurance. Check what the basic cover excludes. Many companies add a non-operation charge if the car needs repair, and optional cover can reduce it.

Extras. Reserve a child seat if you need one, as young children must use one by law. Ask for an ETC card and an English navigation system.

Driving in Japan

The basics. Traffic drives on the left. Drink-driving rules are very strict, so don't drink at all if you're driving. Stop fully at railway crossings and stop signs.

Tolls. Expressways are comfortable, but tolls add up quickly. An ETC card lets you use the dedicated lanes without stopping. Ask the rental company how tolls are settled.

Traffic and parking. Central Hiroshima is busy at rush hour, and many hotels charge for parking or have none, so check before you book. Coastal and island roads are narrow in places, and car parks near popular sights can fill up at weekends.

Winter. Mountain roads inland and north of the city can be icy from about December to March. Ask for winter tyres or chains if you're heading that way then.

Returning the car. Most rentals expect a full tank, so allow time to refuel near the branch and to check the car with the staff.