This guide aims to provide clear, practical answers to these and other questions, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Japan. At the end, you will also find a summary with all essential information for quick reference.
Yes, Spanish travelers can legally drive in Japan with the proper documentation. Ensure you have the required IDP and meet the age and payment requirements.
Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + IDP (issued under the 1949 Convention)
• Hongkong Driving License in China + IDP (issued under the 1949 Convention)
• Taiwan Driving License in China + Japan Translation
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, JCB, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 75 years old to rent a car.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore a variety of car rental options in Japan, including renowned international firms and reliable local agencies.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Hertz
Locations:
11Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
514Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
1153Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Nissan
Locations:
3542Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and eco-friendly options
Europcar
Locations:
362Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business rentals
Avis
Locations:
138Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking reliable service with various vehicle options
Hertz
Locations:
378Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
Locations:
361Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
IX Rental
Locations:
22Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and short-term rentals
Hello Rent a Car
Locations:
3Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local excursionsChoosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey to Japan.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Japan
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most travelers from ES prefer automatic for Japan's urban areas
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and different transmission types
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your Spanish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals in Japan
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Tokyo, Osaka, KyotoMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Hokkaido, Kyushu, ShikokuSUV/Convertible with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Okinawa, Hakone, Mount Fuji area
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
Japan is renowned for its scenic drives and vibrant cities. Travelers can explore iconic routes such as the Shikoku Pilgrimage or enjoy city loops in Tokyo and Osaka, offering a blend of culture and modernity.
To legally drive in Japan, you'll need basic insurance coverage, but additional protections are recommended to avoid significant expenses in case of incidents. Insurance policies can vary, so understanding your options is crucial.
Covers damages to the rental car in case of collision or theft.
Protects you from financial loss due to theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers damages or injuries caused to third parties and their property.
Provides coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Japan. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Renting a car in Japan as a traveler from Spain can be cost-effective with the right strategies. Timing, company, and rental agreements play a crucial role in ensuring you get the best value for your money.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Japan.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
Spanish and Japanese traffic regulations differ in aspects such as driving side, signage language, and speed limits, but share common practices like mandatory seatbelt use and restrictions on mobile phone usage.
Driving Side
Drive on the left side of the road
Drive on the right side of the road
Signage Language
Signs primarily in Japanese with some English translations
Signs primarily in Spanish
Speed Limits
Urban: 40 km/h, Highways: 100 km/h
Urban: 50 km/h, Highways: 120 km/h
Roundabouts
Yield to vehicles coming from the right in roundabouts
Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free use only
Hands-free use only
Seatbelt Laws
Mandatory for all occupants
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
Parking prohibited on sidewalks and near intersections
Similar parking restrictions apply
