Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Rental Options in Sapporo

Sapporo has a wide range of car rental companies, from international brands to local providers. Some of the most popular options include:

International Car Rental Companies:

Toyota Rent-a-Car: Reliable and widespread, with English support.
Nissan Rent-a-Car: Offers a variety of vehicles, including eco-friendly options.
Times Car Rental: Known for competitive pricing and convenient locations.
Hertz: Internationally recognized, with English-friendly services.
Budget Rent-a-Car: Offers affordable options and good customer service.

Local Car Rental Companies:

Nippon Rent-a-Car: A trusted Japanese company with a large fleet.
Eki Rent-a-Car: Conveniently located near train stations.
Orix Rent-a-Car: Offers a wide range of vehicles, including vans and SUVs.

Rental Locations:

New Chitose Airport: Most major rental companies have counters here, making it convenient for travelers arriving by air.
Sapporo City Center: Rental offices are located near major train stations like Sapporo Station and Odori Station.
Suburban Areas: If you’re staying outside the city, you’ll find rental offices in places like Otaru or Niseko.

2. Costs of Renting a Car

The cost of renting a car in Sapporo depends on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and season. Here’s a general breakdown:

Economy Cars (e.g., Toyota Yaris): ¥5,000–¥8,000 per day.
Mid-Size Cars (e.g., Toyota Corolla): ¥7,000–¥12,000 per day.
SUVs or Vans (e.g., Toyota Alphard): ¥10,000–¥20,000 per day.
Luxury Cars: ¥15,000–¥30,000 per day.
Optional Insurance: ¥1,000–¥2,500 per day (highly recommended).
ETC Card Rental: ¥300–¥500 per day (for toll roads).

Seasonal Variations:

Prices are higher during peak seasons, such as winter (December–February) for ski tourism and summer (July–August) for flower fields in Furano and Biei.

Discounts:

Many companies offer discounts for online bookings, early reservations, or multi-day rentals.

3. Procedures for Booking a Car

Booking a car in Sapporo is straightforward. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose a Rental Company

Compare prices and services online using platforms like Tabirai Japan, Nippon Rent-a-Car, or the company’s official website.
Check for English-language support if needed.

Step 2: Make a Reservation

Book online in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Provide details such as pick-up/drop-off locations, dates, and vehicle type.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documentation

You’ll need the following:

International Driving Permit (IDP): Required for most foreign visitors. It must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention and accompany your home country’s driver’s license.
- Note: Visitors from certain countries (e.g., Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan) can use a certified Japanese translation of their license instead of an IDP.
Passport: For identification purposes.
Credit Card: For payment and deposit.

Step 4: Pick Up the Car

Arrive at the rental office with your documents.
Review the rental agreement and inspect the car for any pre-existing damage.
Ask for an English GPS or use a smartphone navigation app like Google Maps or Navitime.

4. Driving Laws and Regulations in Japan

Driving in Japan requires adherence to specific rules. Here are the key points:

General Rules:

Drive on the Left: Japan follows left-hand traffic.
Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 40–50 km/h.
- Rural roads: 50–60 km/h.
- Expressways: 80–100 km/h.
Seatbelts: Mandatory for all passengers.
Drunk Driving: Strictly prohibited with zero tolerance.
Mobile Phones: Using a phone while driving is illegal unless hands-free.

Toll Roads:

Many highways in Hokkaido are toll roads. Renting an ETC card allows for automatic toll payments and discounts.

Winter Driving:

From November to March, roads in Sapporo and surrounding areas can be icy or snowy. Ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires (studless tires).
Drive cautiously and avoid sudden braking or acceleration.

5. Considerations for Touring Sapporo and Surrounding Areas

Sapporo is a gateway to many scenic destinations in Hokkaido. Here are some tips for planning your trip:

In Sapporo:

Parking: Parking in the city center can be expensive (¥200–¥500 per hour). Look for multi-story parking lots or coin-operated parking spaces.
Traffic: Traffic is generally light compared to Tokyo or Osaka, but it can get congested during rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM).

Day Trips from Sapporo:

Otaru (40 km, 1-hour drive):
- Famous for its canal, seafood, and glassware shops.
- Parking is available near the canal area.
Niseko (100 km, 2-hour drive):
- A popular ski resort with stunning mountain views.
- Roads can be snowy in winter; drive carefully.
Furano and Biei (140 km, 2.5-hour drive):
- Known for lavender fields and rolling hills.
- Best visited in summer (June–August).
Lake Shikotsu (50 km, 1-hour drive):
- A beautiful caldera lake with hot springs nearby.

Fuel Stations:

Most gas stations are full-service. Simply say “mantan” (満タン) to request a full tank.
Payment can be made via cash or credit card.

6. Recommendations for Exploring Sapporo by Car

Plan Your Route: Use a GPS or navigation app to avoid getting lost. Many rental cars come with GPS systems that accept phone numbers or map codes for destinations.
Check Weather Conditions: Hokkaido’s weather can change rapidly, especially in winter. Monitor forecasts and road conditions.
Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a phone charger for long drives.
Explore Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations: A car allows you to visit less accessible spots like the Blue Pond in Biei or the Shakotan Peninsula.

7. Cultural Tips for Driving in Japan

Politeness: Japanese drivers are generally courteous. Use your hazard lights briefly to say “thank you” when someone lets you merge.
Parking Etiquette: Avoid parking in unauthorized areas, as fines are steep, and your car may be towed.
Rest Stops: Expressways have excellent rest areas (SA/PA) with clean facilities, food, and souvenirs.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Sapporo is a convenient and flexible way to explore Hokkaido’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. By following the procedures, adhering to local driving laws, and planning your itinerary carefully, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable trip. If you need further assistance with planning your journey, feel free to ask!

Sapporo

Car Rentals