Top Cheap Car Rental Companies In Japan

Nov 17, 2025 by Alex Braham 40 views

Planning a trip to Japan and looking for affordable transportation? Exploring Japan by car can be an amazing experience, offering the freedom to discover hidden gems and scenic routes at your own pace. But, like any savvy traveler, you're probably on the hunt for the cheapest car rental options. No worries, guys! This article will guide you through the top cheap car rental companies in Japan, helping you find the best deals and make the most of your adventure without breaking the bank.

Why Choose a Rental Car in Japan?

Before diving into the list, let's quickly touch on why renting a car in Japan is a fantastic idea. Japan's public transportation is undoubtedly efficient, but it might not always be the most convenient or cost-effective option, especially if you're planning to visit rural areas or travel with a group. With a rental car, you can:

Explore Beyond the Cities: Venture into the countryside, discover charming villages, and witness breathtaking landscapes that are often inaccessible by train or bus.
Enjoy Flexibility and Freedom: Create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace, stopping whenever and wherever you like.
Save Time and Effort: Avoid the hassle of navigating complex public transportation systems, especially when traveling with luggage or children.
Reduce Travel Costs for Groups: Splitting the cost of a rental car among a group can often be cheaper than purchasing individual train tickets.

Top Cheap Car Rental Companies in Japan

Alright, let's get down to business! Here are some of the top contenders for cheap car rental companies in Japan, known for their competitive prices, reliable service, and wide selection of vehicles. It's always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before making a decision, so do your homework and find the best fit for your needs.

1. Toyota Rent a Car

Toyota Rent a Car is a highly reputable and widely available option in Japan, known for its extensive network of locations and well-maintained fleet of vehicles. They often offer competitive rates, especially if you book in advance or take advantage of special promotions. Toyota Rent a Car provides a diverse selection of vehicles, from compact cars perfect for navigating city streets to larger vehicles suitable for families or groups. One of the significant advantages of choosing Toyota Rent a Car is the reliability associated with the Toyota brand. Their cars are generally well-maintained, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience. This can be particularly important when driving in unfamiliar areas or during longer road trips. Additionally, Toyota Rent a Car often has multilingual support available, which can be a great help for foreign tourists who may not be fluent in Japanese. Booking with a company that offers assistance in your native language can make the rental process much easier and less stressful. They also have options like the Toyota Safety Sense, which includes features like pre-collision systems and lane departure alerts, enhancing the overall safety of your journey. Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions, such as early bird specials or discounts for longer rental periods, to maximize your savings. With its strong reputation, reliable vehicles, and widespread availability, Toyota Rent a Car is definitely a solid choice for anyone looking for a cheap and hassle-free car rental experience in Japan. Consider Toyota Rent a Car for a reliable and convenient option, especially if you prefer a well-known brand.

2. Nippon Rent-A-Car

Nippon Rent-A-Car is another major player in the Japanese car rental market, offering a wide range of vehicles and a solid reputation for customer service. They frequently have competitive prices, especially if you book in advance or compare rates with other companies. Nippon Rent-A-Car distinguishes itself with its commitment to customer satisfaction and a comprehensive network of rental locations throughout Japan. Whether you're arriving at a major airport or exploring a smaller city, you're likely to find a Nippon Rent-A-Car branch nearby. This extensive network makes it easy to pick up and drop off your rental car, no matter where your travels take you. They cater to a wide range of needs and preferences, offering everything from compact cars ideal for city driving to spacious vans perfect for family trips. Their fleet includes hybrid vehicles for eco-conscious travelers and luxury cars for those seeking a more comfortable and stylish ride. Nippon Rent-A-Car also offers various insurance options to protect you in case of accidents or damages, ensuring that you have peace of mind throughout your journey. Their customer service is generally praised for its efficiency and helpfulness, with staff often going the extra mile to assist customers with their needs. They also provide detailed maps and travel information to help you navigate Japan's roads with confidence. By booking in advance and taking advantage of any available discounts or promotions, you can secure an even better deal. With its broad selection of vehicles, commitment to customer service, and convenient rental locations, Nippon Rent-A-Car is definitely a strong contender for those seeking a cheap and reliable car rental in Japan. Consider Nippon Rent-A-Car for its extensive network and focus on customer service.

3. Times Car Rental

Times Car Rental, formerly known as Mazda Rent-A-Car, is known for its user-friendly online booking platform and often offers attractive discounts, particularly for members of their loyalty program. Times Car Rental has gained popularity for its emphasis on convenience and affordability. One of the standout features of Times Car Rental is its user-friendly online booking platform, which allows you to easily search for available cars, compare prices, and make reservations. The platform is designed to be intuitive and straightforward, making it easy to find the perfect rental car for your needs. They have a diverse fleet of vehicles, ranging from compact cars perfect for navigating city streets to larger SUVs suitable for exploring Japan's scenic countryside. They also offer specialized vehicles, such as vans with wheelchair accessibility, catering to the needs of travelers with disabilities. Times Car Rental also provides a variety of insurance options to protect you in case of accidents or damages, giving you peace of mind throughout your rental period. If you become a member of their loyalty program, you can unlock even more benefits, such as exclusive discounts, priority booking, and access to special promotions. Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts and promotional codes that can further reduce the cost of your rental. Times Car Rental has a growing network of rental locations throughout Japan, making it easy to pick up and drop off your car at convenient locations. With its user-friendly booking platform, focus on affordability, and growing network of rental locations, Times Car Rental is definitely worth considering when searching for cheap car rentals in Japan. Check out Times Car Rental for its easy online booking and potential discounts.

4. Orix Rent a Car

Orix Rent a Car is a well-established company with a wide selection of vehicles, including eco-friendly hybrid cars. They frequently offer discounts for online bookings and early reservations. Orix Rent a Car has built a strong reputation for its reliability, affordability, and commitment to customer satisfaction. With a wide selection of vehicles to choose from, including eco-friendly hybrid cars, Orix Rent a Car caters to a diverse range of needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a compact car for city driving or a spacious SUV for exploring the countryside, you're likely to find the perfect vehicle in their fleet. Orix Rent a Car places a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility, offering a variety of hybrid vehicles that can help you reduce your carbon footprint while exploring Japan. These eco-friendly cars are not only better for the environment but can also save you money on fuel costs. Booking online through the Orix Rent a Car website often unlocks discounts and promotions, making it even more affordable to rent a car. They also offer discounts for early reservations, so it's always a good idea to book your rental car in advance to secure the best possible price. Orix Rent a Car has numerous rental locations throughout Japan, making it easy to pick up and drop off your car at convenient locations. Their customer service is known for its professionalism and helpfulness, with staff readily available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. With its focus on affordability, environmental responsibility, and customer satisfaction, Orix Rent a Car is a great option for travelers looking for a cheap and reliable car rental in Japan. Consider Orix Rent a Car for its eco-friendly options and potential online booking discounts.

Tips for Getting the Best Car Rental Deals in Japan

Okay, now that you know the major players, here are some insider tips to help you snag the best possible deals on your rental car:

Book in Advance: The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing a lower rate. This is especially true during peak seasons like Golden Week, cherry blossom season, and summer holidays.
Compare Prices: Don't settle for the first quote you get. Use online comparison websites to check prices from multiple rental companies and find the best deal.
Look for Discounts and Promotions: Many rental companies offer discounts for online bookings, early reservations, or membership in their loyalty programs. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to save money.
Consider Off-Airport Locations: Rental locations at airports tend to be more expensive than those in city centers. If you're willing to take a train or bus to a nearby location, you might be able to save some money.
Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, try adjusting them slightly to see if you can find lower rates. Sometimes, renting a car on a weekday can be cheaper than renting on a weekend.
Check Insurance Coverage: Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage before you hit the road. You can either purchase insurance from the rental company or use your existing travel insurance policy.

Essential Things to Know Before Driving in Japan

Before you jump behind the wheel, here are a few essential things to know about driving in Japan:

International Driving Permit (IDP): If you're not a resident of Japan, you'll need an International Driving Permit to legally drive in the country. Make sure to obtain your IDP in your home country before you travel.
Driving Side: In Japan, you drive on the left side of the road.
Traffic Laws: Familiarize yourself with Japanese traffic laws before you start driving. Speed limits are generally lower than in other countries, and seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Road Signs: Many road signs in Japan are in Japanese, so it's helpful to learn some basic Japanese phrases or use a translation app to understand them.
ETC Card: If you plan on using toll roads, consider getting an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card. This will allow you to pass through toll booths smoothly and often receive discounts.
Parking: Parking can be challenging and expensive in major cities. Look for designated parking areas and be prepared to pay a fee.

Final Thoughts

Renting a car in Japan can be a fantastic way to explore the country at your own pace and discover hidden gems that are off the beaten path. By doing your research, comparing prices, and following these tips, you can find cheap car rental options and make the most of your Japanese adventure. So, buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy the ride!