How to find a cheap car hire deal in Tokyo
Whether you need a small car for zipping through the city streets or a bigger ride for bigger plans, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Tokyo. Choose from options averaging $148 a day and travel your way for less.
December is the cheapest month to rent a car in Tokyo. With average daily rates of $69, you're cruising toward real savings.
Here's your inside scoop on when to book. Three weeks in advance gives you the best shot at finding a cheap rental car in Tokyo.
Rent your wheels from JDM Rent a car, Nissan Rent a Car or Airport Car Hire. These are some of the most reliable providers offering car hire deals in Tokyo.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Tokyo car hire policy, whether you book with JDM Rent a car or a different supplier. Some companies treat it as an optional extra instead of bundling it in.
Booking one-way could snag you a cheaper rate on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between branches. Simply click 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for rent in Tokyo.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Tokyo with a full tank, so you pay only for what you use. You won't get hit with overpriced refueling charges either.
Travel without limits by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you like without paying more.
If your travel plans involve jetting into Tokyo, you might like to skip the trip into the city and book one of the car rentals in Haneda Airport instead. Or check out the selection of car rentals in Narita International Airport if that's where your flight arrives.
Compare car hire types in Tokyo
Small: Whether you're zipping around busy cities or simply planning a quick trip, a cheap rental car in Tokyo from this category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Medium: A top choice when you need something that's easy to manoeuvre but with a few more features. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a bit of extra room compared to smaller options.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this Tokyo car hire category. Also known as full-size, they have the engine size to match the journey. The extra legroom and comfort make them an excellent choice for families and groups of friends.
SUV: When adventure calls, an SUV answers. It's your ultimate road trip companion, ready for highways, country roads, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also come with extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Tokyo makes short work of heavy loads and large groups. They're roomy, hardworking, and ready to take on any task.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers your out-of-pocket costs if your Tokyo car hire is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Just remember that insurance policies vary between providers, so make sure you understand exactly what's offered.
Make driving easier when you rent a car in Tokyo by adding a few nifty extras. Think things like a GPS unit to make wrong turns a thing of the past, or reverse cameras that give you confidence when parking.
Good to know
Rental age requirements aren't the same everywhere. Companies can set their own policies, and if you're under the minimum age, you could pay extra and face some limits. Check the specific rules for each supplier before booking your rental in Japan.
Travelling with kids? Car seat regulations vary by location, and the correct setup may depend on their age, weight and height. Confirm whether you need to add one to your Tokyo car hire reservation.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Tokyo
Don't leave town without ticking off some of the city's top attractions, like Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Station. Snap up a car hire deal in Tokyo and then start sketching out your sightseeing game plan.
Take your time getting to know Tokyo by staying at Shinjuku Washington Hotel or Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku.
Yokohama has to be on your itinerary if you're eager to visit Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 and Pacifico Yokohama. This city is about 31 kilometres south-west of central Tokyo.
HOTEL Mystays Yokohama and Yokohama Royal Park Hotel are comfortable accommodation options in Yokohama.
Add Kawasaki to your holiday plans too. Pick up your cheap car hire in Tokyo and drive roughly 18 kilometres south-west to explore highlights such as Cherry Blossom Trees of Asao River and Tofuku-ji Temple.
Futakotamagawa Excel Hotel Tokyu and Richmond Hotel Premier Musashikosugi are comfy places to stay in Kawasaki if you're in town for a while.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Hamamatsu, roughly 209 kilometres south-west of Tokyo. Kick things off at Itsukushima Shrine, then take your time exploring Tenno Inari Shrine.
