Global Major Cities Guide

Yokohama has a variety of car rental companies, ranging from international brands to local providers. Here are some popular options:

Toyota Rent-a-Car: Reliable and widely available, with English support.
Nissan Rent-a-Car: Offers a range of vehicles, including eco-friendly options.
Hertz: Internationally recognized, with English-friendly services.
Times Car Rental: Known for competitive pricing and convenient locations.

Nippon Rent-a-Car: A trusted Japanese brand with a large fleet.
Ekiren: Offers budget-friendly options, often located near train stations.
ORIX Rent-a-Car: Provides a variety of vehicles, including vans and luxury cars.

Rental offices are typically located near major train stations (e.g., Yokohama Station, Shin-Yokohama Station) and airports (e.g., Haneda Airport, which is close to Yokohama).

The cost of renting a car in Yokohama depends on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and additional services. Below is a general breakdown:

Economy Cars: ¥5,000–¥8,000 per day
Mid-Size Cars: ¥8,000–¥12,000 per day
SUVs or Vans: ¥12,000–¥20,000 per day
Luxury Cars: ¥20,000+ per day
Additional Costs:
- GPS (English-enabled): ¥500–¥1,000 per day
- Child seats: ¥500–¥1,000 per day
- ETC card rental (for toll roads): ¥300–¥500 per day

Discounts: Many companies offer discounts for online reservations, long-term rentals, or off-peak seasons.

Reservation:
- Book online through the rental company’s website or via third-party platforms like Tabirai or Japan Experience.
- Specify your pick-up and drop-off locations, dates, and any additional services (e.g., GPS, child seats).
Pick-Up:
- Arrive at the rental office with the required documents (see below).
- Review the rental agreement and inspect the car for any pre-existing damage.
Drop-Off:
- Return the car to the designated location (can be different from the pick-up point for an additional fee).
- Ensure the fuel tank is refilled unless you’ve opted for a pre-paid fuel plan.

To rent and drive a car in Yokohama, you must meet the following requirements:

International Driving Permit (IDP):
- Visitors must have an IDP based on the 1949 Geneva Convention, issued in their home country.
- IDPs are valid for one year and must be accompanied by your original driver’s license.
Japanese Translation of License:
- If you’re from countries like Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Taiwan, or Monaco, you can use your home country’s license with an official Japanese translation (available through JAF - Japan Automobile Federation).
Age Requirement:
- Most companies require drivers to be at least 18 years old, though some may have a minimum age of 21 or 25 for certain vehicles.

Rental companies in Yokohama typically offer the following insurance options:

Basic Insurance (Included):
- Covers third-party liability and property damage.
- May have a deductible (e.g., ¥50,000–¥100,000).
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW):
- Optional add-on to waive the deductible for damage to the rental car.
- Costs around ¥1,000–¥2,000 per day.
Supplemental Insurance:
- Covers personal injury, theft, or roadside assistance.
- Costs around ¥500–¥1,000 per day.

Tip: Always confirm what is included in the insurance package and consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind.

Driving in Japan can be different from other countries. Here are key rules to follow:

Drive on the Left:
- Japan follows left-hand traffic, and the driver’s seat is on the right side of the car.
Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 40–50 km/h
- Highways: 80–100 km/h
Toll Roads:
- Many highways are toll roads. Use an ETC card for automatic payment or pay manually at toll booths.
Parking:
- Parking is strictly regulated. Use designated parking lots, which typically cost ¥200–¥500 per hour.
Traffic Signs:
- Most signs are in Japanese and English, but familiarize yourself with common symbols.
Alcohol Limit:
- Japan has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving.

Politeness:
- Japanese drivers are generally polite and patient. Avoid honking unless absolutely necessary.
Navigation:
- Use a GPS with English support or a smartphone app like Google Maps. Addresses in Japan can be complex.
Fueling:
- Gas stations are either self-service or full-service. Full-service attendants will assist you with refueling and payment.
Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 110
- Ambulance/Fire: 119

Yokohama is a great base for exploring nearby attractions. Here are some recommended destinations:

Within Yokohama:
- Minato Mirai 21: A waterfront area with shopping, dining, and the iconic Landmark Tower.
- Sankeien Garden: A traditional Japanese garden with historic buildings.
- Yokohama Chinatown: The largest Chinatown in Japan, perfect for food lovers.
Day Trips from Yokohama:
- Kamakura (30 minutes): Famous for the Great Buddha and serene temples.
- Hakone (1.5 hours): Known for hot springs, scenic views of Mt. Fuji, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
- Enoshima (45 minutes): A small island with beaches, shrines, and stunning ocean views.
- Mt. Fuji Five Lakes (2 hours): Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Seasonal Destinations:
- Ashikaga Flower Park (Spring): Famous for its wisteria blooms.
- Nikko (Autumn): Stunning fall foliage and UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Plan Ahead: Traffic in Yokohama can be heavy during peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM). Avoid driving during these times if possible.
Fuel Policy: Most rentals require you to return the car with a full tank. Keep an eye out for gas stations near your drop-off location.
Language Barrier: While many rental offices have English-speaking staff, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Japanese phrases or use a translation app.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and explore Yokohama and its surroundings with ease. Safe travels!

Yokohama