Arriving at Hokkaido Airport and planning to explore Wakkanai and beyond? Renting a car offers fantastic freedom, but the pickup process, costs, and driving conditions in Japan have a few nuances. This guide will walk you through what to expect, from finding your rental desk to navigating local roads.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main terminal building, often near the baggage claim area. Follow the signs for ‘Rental Cars’ or ‘Car Rental’ – they are usually quite clear. Most companies offer a shuttle service to the actual car pickup location, which may be a short drive from the terminal. Expect a bit of paperwork upon arrival, even if you pre-booked online. Be prepared to present your documents and review the rental agreement carefully.
Several companies typically operate at Hokkaido Airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. You’ll generally find options from major international providers, as well as some local Japanese companies. Common choices include economy cars for solo travelers or couples, compact cars for easy city driving, and larger sedans or SUVs for families or those planning to explore more remote areas. Luxury vehicles are also available, though less common. Here’s a general idea of what you might find:
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy | $30 - $50 |
| Compact | $40 - $60 |
| Intermediate | $50 - $70 |
| Standard | $60 - $80 |
| SUV | $80 - $150 |
| Luxury | $150+ |
Prices change by season and availability.
To rent a car in Japan, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license from your home country (an International Driving Permit is often required, depending on your nationality – check the specific requirements before you travel). The minimum age is usually 21, though some companies may have higher age restrictions, especially for certain vehicle classes. A credit card in the renter’s name is required for the deposit, which can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the car and insurance options. Debit cards are rarely accepted for the deposit.
Rental agreements will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself, while Theft Protection covers theft or vandalism. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for paying in the event of a claim. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the daily rental cost. Carefully consider your existing auto insurance coverage and whether it extends to rentals in Japan. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to explain the different options clearly.
Driving in Japan is generally safe and well-organized. Roads are well-maintained, but can be narrow in some areas, especially in rural Hokkaido. Toll roads are common, and an electronic toll collection system (ETC) is widely used – you can often rent an ETC device with your car. Parking can be expensive in cities, and finding a space can sometimes be challenging. Speed limits are generally lower than in many other countries; typically 50-60 km/h in urban areas and 80-100 km/h on highways. Remember that traffic drives on the left side of the road.
It depends on your nationality. Many countries require an IDP in addition to your driver’s license. Check the Japanese embassy or consulate website for specific requirements.
A major credit card in the renter’s name is almost always required for the deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted.
If you have CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), it will cover damage to the car, but usually with an excess. You’ll be responsible for paying the excess amount.
Yes, most rental companies offer GPS navigation systems as an add-on. You can also use smartphone navigation apps.
Toll roads are common. You can pay with cash, or rent an ETC device for automatic toll collection.
In Japan, traffic drives on the left side of the road.
Yes, but you’ll need to declare the additional driver at pickup and they’ll need to meet the same requirements as the primary driver.
Late returns usually incur extra charges, often calculated per hour or day.
Parking can be challenging and expensive in cities. Rural areas generally have more available parking.
Carefully inspect the car for any existing damage and document it with the rental agent before driving away.
Yes, almost all rental cars in Japan have automatic transmissions.
Deposit amounts vary, but expect to pay several hundred to over a thousand USD, depending on the car and insurance.