Global Major Cities Guide

Options for renting vehicles for transport in Kobe and surrounding areas, including driving tips.

The cost of renting a car in Kobe depends on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the service provider. Below is a general breakdown:

Economy Cars (e.g., Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit): ¥5,000–¥8,000 per day
Mid-Size Cars (e.g., Toyota Corolla, Nissan Note): ¥7,000–¥12,000 per day
SUVs or Minivans (e.g., Toyota Alphard, Nissan Serena): ¥10,000–¥18,000 per day
Luxury Cars (e.g., Lexus, BMW): ¥15,000–¥30,000 per day
Additional Costs:
- Insurance: ¥1,000–¥2,500 per day (optional but recommended)
- GPS (if not included): ¥500–¥1,000 per day
- ETC Card Rental (for toll roads): ¥300–¥500 per day

Discounts are often available for longer rentals (e.g., weekly or monthly rates).

Renting a car in Kobe is straightforward, but it’s important to plan ahead. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Some of the most reliable car rental companies in Kobe include:

Toyota Rent-a-Car: Known for its extensive network and English-friendly services.
Nippon Rent-a-Car: Offers a wide range of vehicles and competitive pricing.
Times Car Rental: Convenient locations near train stations and airports.
Orix Rent-a-Car: Good for long-term rentals and eco-friendly options.
Budget Rent-a-Car: Affordable and reliable.

You can book online through their websites or via third-party platforms like Tabirai Japan or Nippon Rent-a-Car International.

Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (spring cherry blossom season, summer, and autumn foliage season).
Specify if you need extras like an English GPS, child seats, or an ETC card for toll roads.

Most rental offices are located near Sannomiya Station, Shin-Kobe Station, or Kobe Airport.
Inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure all requested extras are included.

Return the car to the same location or a different branch (if allowed by the company).
Ensure the fuel tank is refilled to the level specified in the rental agreement (usually full).

To rent a car in Kobe, you’ll need the following:

International Driving Permit (IDP):
- Japan requires an IDP based on the 1949 Geneva Convention. Ensure you obtain this from your home country before arriving in Japan.
- If you’re from Belgium, France, Germany, Monaco, Switzerland, or Taiwan, you can use a certified Japanese translation of your driver’s license instead of an IDP.
Passport:
- Required for identification purposes.
Credit Card:
- Most rental companies require a credit card for payment and deposit purposes.
Driver’s License:
- Your original, valid driver’s license from your home country.

Driving in Japan is highly regulated, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules:

Drive on the Left: Japan follows left-hand traffic.
Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 40–50 km/h
- Highways: 80–100 km/h
Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
Drunk Driving: Strictly prohibited (zero tolerance).
Use of Mobile Phones: Prohibited while driving unless using a hands-free device.
ETC System: Many highways and toll roads use the ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) system. Renting an ETC card is highly recommended for convenience.

Most road signs are in Japanese and English, but it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with common symbols.

Parking in Kobe can be challenging in busy areas like Sannomiya or Motomachi. Use paid parking lots, which cost around ¥200–¥500 per hour or ¥1,000–¥2,000 per day.
Avoid illegal parking, as fines are steep, and your car may be towed.

Traffic Conditions: Kobe’s roads are generally less congested than larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka, but traffic can build up during rush hours (7:30–9:30 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM).
Narrow Streets: Many residential streets in Kobe are narrow, so drive cautiously.
Mountain Roads: If you plan to visit Mount Rokko or Arima Onsen, be prepared for winding mountain roads. Drive slowly and use low gears when descending.
Weather Considerations: Kobe rarely experiences snow, but if you’re visiting in winter and heading to mountainous areas, check if snow tires are needed.

While Kobe has an excellent public transportation system, renting a car is beneficial for exploring the following areas:

Mount Rokko and Rokko Garden Terrace:
- Public transport options are limited, and a car allows you to explore the area at your own pace.
Arima Onsen:
- A famous hot spring town located about 30 minutes from Kobe by car.
Himeji Castle:
- Located about 1 hour west of Kobe, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is easier to reach by car if you want flexibility.
Awaji Island:
- Connected to Kobe by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, this island is perfect for a day trip by car.
Tamba Sasayama:
- A historic town with samurai residences and traditional architecture, about 1.5 hours from Kobe.

Politeness: Rental staff are typically very polite and may bow when greeting you. It’s customary to bow in return.
Cleanliness: Japanese rental cars are meticulously cleaned. Return the car in good condition.
Punctuality: Be on time when picking up or returning the car.
Language Barrier: While some rental offices have English-speaking staff, it’s helpful to know basic Japanese phrases or use a translation app.

Plan Ahead: Book your car rental in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Use GPS: Request an English GPS or use a smartphone app like Google Maps or Waze.
Drive with Caution: Follow all traffic rules and be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists.
Explore Beyond Kobe: Renting a car is ideal for visiting nearby attractions that are not easily accessible by train or bus.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and enjoy a smooth driving experience in Kobe, Japan. Safe travels!