Car rental in Osaka

You don't need a car in Osaka. Trains and the subway reach nearly everything, and driving in the centre is slow and parking is expensive. A rental makes sense for trips beyond the city, such as Awaji Island, Koya-san or the Wakayama coast, especially with family or luggage. In November 2026, listings started from about US$14 a day, but budget for tolls, fuel and parking as well.

When a car is worth it

Awaji Island. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge carries the expressway across the strait to the island, with sea views, beaches and local produce on quiet coastal roads. Allow about an hour and a half from Osaka.

Koya-san. Allow about an hour and a half to two hours. The final climb is narrow and winding, and parking fills up at busy times, so go early. The autumn colours are lovely, but the road can be busy.

The Wakayama coast. Shirahama's beaches and the rocky coast beyond are about two to two and a half hours away, a long day trip that works best with an early start.

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 Kansai Airport if you're heading straight out, or at a branch near the station on the side of Osaka you're leaving from. This avoids 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 around Osaka are busy and 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. Traffic around Osaka is heavy on weekday mornings and evenings and on long holiday weekends. Many central hotels charge for parking or have none, and car parks in the city are expensive, so check before you book.

Mountain roads. Koya-san sits high in the mountains and roads there can ice up in winter. Ask for winter tyres or chains if you're going in the colder months.

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.