Planning an Epic Japan Road Trip: Renting Cars and Driving Tips
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Time to read 5 min
IN THIS ARTICLE
Why Road Trip Through Japan? Renting a Car in Japan: What You Need to Know What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Japan? Where to Rent a Car Tips for Picking the Right Vehicle Understanding Japanese Road Rules 1. Drive on the Left 2. Speed Limits 3. Road Signs 4. No Right Turn on Red 5. Pedestrian Priority Parking and Gas Stations Parking Fueling Up Best Scenic Drives in Japan 1. Hokkaido’s Eastern Loop 2. The Izu Skyline (Shizuoka) 3. Noto Peninsula (Ishikawa) 4. The Venus Line (Nagano) Tips for an Enjoyable and Safe Road Trip Use a GPS (in English) Rest Stops Are Awesome Plan Your Route Carefully Respecting Japanese Road Culture Exploring Iconic Sights by Car Final Thoughts
There’s something uniquely liberating about hitting the open road—and doing it in Japan adds a whole new level of discovery. While Japan is renowned for its efficient public transit, there's a certain magic in taking the wheel and exploring the country on your own terms. From rugged coastlines to serene mountains and countryside villages untouched by time, driving in Japan offers the kind of flexibility and spontaneity that trains simply can’t.
If you're an American planning a road trip through Japan, you’ll need more than just Google Maps. This comprehensive guide covers everything from renting a car and understanding local road rules to cultural nuances and hidden-gem destinations. Let’s get you road trip ready.
Why Road Trip Through Japan?
While most first-time visitors stick to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka via shinkansen (bullet train), renting a car opens up a completely different Japan. Think rural hot spring towns in Hokkaido, scenic coastal drives in Kyushu, or exploring the Nakasendo Trail towns of central Honshu at your own pace.
A road trip allows you to:
Visit off-the-beaten-path villages and natural wonders
Skip train station transfers and tight timetables
Travel as a family or group without the stress of public transport
Stop wherever and whenever—whether it’s a roadside ramen shack or a hidden waterfall
Renting a Car in Japan: What You Need to Know
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Japan?
International Driving Permit (IDP) – Americans must obtain a 1949 Geneva Convention IDP (not the 1968 version) before arriving in Japan. You can get it through AAA or AATA. Bring your valid U.S. driver’s license too.
Passport – You’ll need this at pickup.
Credit Card – Most rental companies require one for deposits.
Where to Rent a Car
Top rental companies include:
Toyota Rent a Car
Nippon Rent-A-Car
Times Car Rental
Nissan Rent a Car
You can also use aggregators like Rentalcars.com or ToCoo! to compare prices and find English-language support.
Tips for Picking the Right Vehicle
Compact cars are best for solo travelers or couples, especially in rural areas where roads are narrow.
Minivans or station wagons are ideal for families or groups with luggage.
If you're heading into mountainous regions, opt for 4WD .
Pro Tip: Always request an ETC card (Electronic Toll Collection) when renting. It simplifies paying tolls on highways.
Understanding Japanese Road Rules
Driving in Japan isn’t difficult, but it does require adapting to a few key differences:
1. Drive on the Left
Japan drives on the left side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right. It may take a few minutes to adjust, but muscle memory kicks in quickly.
2. Speed Limits
Urban areas: 30–50 km/h
Highways: 80–100 km/h
Be cautious—speed cameras are common and fines are hefty.
3. Road Signs
Many signs include English, but some don't. Familiarize yourself with key signs before you go—especially those for stop (止まれ), no entry (進入禁止), and yield (徐行).
4. No Right Turn on Red
Unlike the U.S., turning right on a red light is not allowed in Japan unless a green arrow specifically permits it.
5. Pedestrian Priority
Always yield to pedestrians, especially at crosswalks, even if there's no signal.
Parking and Gas Stations
Parking
Japan is strict about parking. You’ll often need a "parking certificate" to even own a car in cities. For travelers, this means you must park in legal spots or risk fines and towing.
Coin-operated lots are everywhere in cities and are user-friendly.
In the countryside, you’ll often find free parking at tourist spots.
Fueling Up
Gas stations are usually full-service, though self-service is growing. Staff may even clean your windshield and guide you out with a bow. Know these terms:
Regular (レギュラー)
High-octane (ハイオク)
Diesel (軽油)
Avoid diesel unless you’re sure your rental requires it—using the wrong fuel is a costly mistake.
Best Scenic Drives in Japan
Now, let’s talk about where to go. Here are some stunning drives worth building your trip around:
1. Hokkaido’s Eastern Loop
From Sapporo to Lake Akan and Shiretoko Peninsula, this drive is a dream for nature lovers—think wild foxes, volcanic lakes, and Japan’s best seafood.
2. The Izu Skyline (Shizuoka)
This mountain drive offers panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay. It’s particularly stunning in spring when cherry blossoms bloom. Planning around sakura season ? Check out The Ultimate Guide to Cherry Blossom Festivals Across Japan to time it just right.
3. Noto Peninsula (Ishikawa)
Far off the beaten path, this coastal route lets you drive on Chirihama Beach itself and enjoy traditional fishing villages with little tourist traffic.
4. The Venus Line (Nagano)
A highland drive through alpine meadows, art museums, and misty lakes—perfect in summer or fall foliage season.
Tips for an Enjoyable and Safe Road Trip
Use a GPS (in English)
Most rentals offer built-in GPS systems, but be sure to request English language settings. Alternatively, Google Maps works well with Japanese addresses if you have a mobile SIM or Wi-Fi device.
Rest Stops Are Awesome
Highway rest stops, known as "Service Areas" , are a cultural experience of their own. You’ll find gourmet regional snacks, clean bathrooms, and even dog parks.
Plan Your Route Carefully
Driving through Tokyo or Osaka is not recommended unless necessary. These megacities have heavy traffic and expensive parking. Use them as bookends and pick up your car just before heading out.
Respecting Japanese Road Culture
Japan is known for its orderly and considerate driving culture. Honking is rare and aggressive driving is frowned upon.
Use your hazard lights to say “thank you.”
Let others merge with a polite wave.
Don’t eat while driving—it’s not illegal, but it’s culturally inappropriate.
Speaking of etiquette, understanding the broader social rules will make your trip smoother. You’ll want to read up on 10 Cultural Faux Pas and How to Avoid Them in Japan to avoid unintentional missteps—on and off the road.
Exploring Iconic Sights by Car
Driving to major attractions gives you flexibility to beat the crowds or explore alternative routes. One standout destination is Mount Fuji. While you can see it from afar, driving there lets you explore multiple trailheads, lakes, and viewpoints.
For planning help, check out The Complete Guide to Visiting Mount Fuji: Routes, Hikes, and Insider Tips .
Other worthwhile road-trip-friendly destinations include:
Takayama and Shirakawa-go (Alpine villages)
Koya-san (Buddhist monastery town)
Aso-Kuju National Park in Kyushu
Final Thoughts
A road trip through Japan is more than just a way to get around—it’s a journey through culture, history, cuisine, and nature at your own rhythm. It rewards the curious traveler who’s willing to venture beyond the train lines and into the country’s hidden corners.
With the right preparation, a valid IDP, and a solid route plan, you’ll experience Japan in a way few tourists ever do. Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms, coastal cliffs, or the quiet hum of a mountain temple at dawn, the road is calling—and in Japan, it’s beautifully paved.
Safe travels. Or as the locals say— 気をつけて (ki o tsukete) .
