Car rental in Sapporo

Sapporo is a place where a car is genuinely useful, though not inside the city. The subway and trams cover the centre easily, while Hokkaido's lakes, hot spring towns and farmland are far apart and served by infrequent trains and buses. In November 2026, listings started from about US$19 a day, but budget for tolls, fuel and parking as well.

When a car is worth it

Otaru. A canal town on the coast, about an hour away. Trains are quick too, so a car is worth it mainly if you add the coastal road and stops along it.

Lake Toya and Noboribetsu. Allow about two hours to Lake Toya and about an hour and a half to Noboribetsu's hot springs and volcanic valley. Together they make a full day or an overnight trip.

Lake Shikotsu. A deep, clear caldera lake about an hour from the city, with quiet shoreline roads.

Biei and Furano. Rolling farmland and flower fields lie about two and a half hours away, spread over roads that buses reach only slowly. The fields look best in summer.

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 New Chitose Airport if you're heading straight out, or at a branch near the station on the side of Sapporo 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 are tolled, and an ETC card lets you use the dedicated lanes without stopping. Ask whether a regional expressway pass could cover your route.

Traffic and parking. Central Sapporo has paid car parks, and many hotels charge for parking or have none, so check before you book. Distances in Hokkaido are long and petrol stations can be far apart in the countryside, so refuel early. Deer and foxes can cross roads, especially at dawn and dusk.

Winter. Snow can arrive from around November and last until about April. Ask for winter tyres, and allow extra time for icy roads, poor visibility and short days. If you've never driven on snow or ice, consider public transport or a tour instead.

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.