Car rental in Nagoya

You don't need a car in central Nagoya. The subway and trains cover the city, and parking is expensive. A rental makes sense for the mountain villages and shrines to the north and east, especially with family or luggage. In November 2026, listings started from about US$22 a day, but budget for tolls, fuel and parking as well.

When a car is worth it

Shirakawa-go. The thatched farmhouse village is about two and a half hours away by expressway. The village is best seen on foot, with parking in car parks at its edge, which fill up on weekends and in autumn.

Takayama. An old town in the mountains, about two and a half to three hours away. It combines well with Shirakawa-go on a two-day trip.

Magome and Tsumago. Two preserved post towns on the old Nakasendo road, about an hour and a half to two hours away. Roads between them are narrow and winding, and a car makes the two easy to combine.

Ise. The shrines of Ise are about two hours away. A car also lets you add the coast at Futami and the Shima peninsula.

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 near Nagoya Station or at Chubu Centrair 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 Nagoya is busy at rush hour, and many hotels charge for parking or have none, so check before you book. Avoid heading into the mountains on holiday Saturday mornings, and returning on Sunday evenings.

Winter. Heavy snow is common around Shirakawa-go and Takayama from about December to March, and roads can ice up. Ask for winter tyres or chains, check conditions first, and consider public transport if you aren't used to snow.

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.