Car rental in Tokyo

You don't need a car inside Tokyo. Trains are faster, and parking is expensive. A rental makes sense when you're leaving the city for Hakone, the Fuji lakes or Nikko, especially with family or luggage. In November 2026, listings started from about US$35 a day, but budget for tolls, fuel and parking as well.

When a car is worth it

Hakone and Lake Ashi. Scenic mountain roads, including the Ashinoko Skyline, link viewpoints and hot spring towns that take several transfers by public transport. Allow about two hours each way from Tokyo.

Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes. A car lets you move between lakes and viewpoints at your own pace, and it's about two hours from Tokyo without heavy traffic. Mount Fuji is often clearer in the morning.

Nikko. Allow about two to two and a half hours. The Irohazaka road and Lake Chuzenji are lovely in autumn, but leaf season brings long queues, so start early.

The Boso Peninsula. The Aqua-Line crosses Tokyo Bay by tunnel and bridge, with a rest stop at Umihotaru in the middle, and leads to beaches and quiet coastal roads.

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 Narita or Haneda if you're heading straight out, or at a branch on the side of Tokyo you're leaving from. This avoids driving through the 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. The nationwide tourist pass is no longer sold, so ask about any regional passes for your route.

Traffic and parking. Avoid leaving Tokyo on Saturday mornings and returning on Sunday evenings. Check whether your hotel has parking and what it costs, as many central hotels charge extra or have none.

Winter. Mountain routes can be icy from about December to March. Ask for winter tyres or chains if you're heading to higher ground.

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.