Your Ultimate Guide to Driving while Travelling in Japan

As a car lover myself, the first thing I thought to myself when I moved to Japan was, ‘I’ve got to try going on scenic road trips here’. The romantic red leaves, the vibrant sakura, and the never-ending coastlines. From knowing almost nothing about how or where to start, I have now driven at least 50+ hours on road trips by myself. In this blog, I wanted to share all the tips I have on how to get started with driving while you’re travelling in Japan, and share some scenic routes and destinations you can try out next time you are here!

Why Drive in Japan?

You might think Japan has an efficient and developed public transportation system that can get you anywhere. Whilst this is true in the bigger cities, to get to the more remote and authentic places, especially where the natural landscapes are, it is often quite impossible to get there just by public transportation. Either you spend at least 6 hours trying to get to the destination, or you risk missing a bus that only comes every 1 to 2 hours.

As well as being more convenient for discovering rural areas, driving in Japan is such a pleasant experience. Drivers in Japan are incredibly polite and have good manners, roads and highways are well maintained, and the joy you find driving across a picturesque hillside or along the breezy coast is incomparable. Especially when you drive past one of the roadside stations (道の駅), a resting area along the highways in Japan that usually comes with a store that sells very local snacks, produce, souvenirs, and food. Driving in Japan guarantees new surprises everywhere and will be nothing like your typical city trip.

Now, it all sounds amazing, but driving in Japan does come with its requirements and challenges. And of course, you should be a civilized driver and learn the etiquette and rules before you hit the roads here. Let’s sort these things out before we depart, shall we?

Converting Your Driver’s License

According to the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), visitors from countries that issue International Driving Permits (IDPs) under the 1949 Geneva Convention can drive in Japan for up to one year using their IDP along with their valid home country license. For example, if you hold a driver’s license from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and some other recognized countries, you can apply for an IDP in your home country and bring both your IDP and your home country’s driving license to the car rental company.

However, travellers from countries like Germany, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan must obtain an official Japanese translation of their license, which can be arranged through JAF. After you have obtained the translation of your license, you need to bring your original license and the translated version with you to the car rental company.

For the detailed list of countries and procedures, remember to visit the JAF’s official website.

Car Rental Options

When renting a car in Japan, travellers have access to a variety of options from both domestic and international companies. Major Japanese rental agencies such as Toyota Rent a Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Nissan Rent a Car, ORIX Rent-A-Car, and Budget Rent a Car operate numerous outlets nationwide, including at major airports and train stations. These companies offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars (K cars) to larger vans, to suit different travel needs. As a beginner, I recommend going for these well-established companies due to their customer support system and reliability. Also, try renting at airports or train stations, as it is highly likely that English assistance will be available.

Don’t forget to reserve your car in advance online. Car rentals are not only popular amongst tourists, but locals often rent cars for work, travel, and other purposes too. I have personally seen travellers arrive at the rental company, only to be told that there were no cars available that day. Make sure to check out the rental company’s website and make a reservation at the location where you want to pick up your car beforehand.

Driving Rules: The Basics

Now, you may already know that in Japan, the driver’s seat is on the right, and we drive on the left side of the road. But that’s not going to be enough for you to drive here; you need to familiarize yourself with the road signs, as they can be very different from the rest of the world. This JAF website provides a pretty solid foundation of the common signs and the traffic lights that you are going to see while you are driving here. And please, whenever you come across a stop sign (止まれ) or train tracks (踏切), come to a full stop before you proceed! Make sure you have these memorized!

Driving Rules: Turning Left

Unlike some countries where turning left on a red light is permitted after stopping, in Japan, left turns on red are strictly prohibited, unless accompanied by a green arrow signal or a specific sign indicating permission (常時左折可). Additionally, drivers must always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks when making a left turn, ensuring that the crosswalk is clear before proceeding. It’s also important to be mindful of cyclists, as they often travel on the left side of the road. I cannot tell you how many times a cyclist would zoom out of a crosswalk, especially at night. You should also stay within your lane when turning left and avoid cutting corners, which can be very dangerous. Stay vigilant!

Driving Rules: Highway Tolls

Japan’s highway network is predominantly toll-based, with fees varying depending on the distance travelled and vehicle type. Payment methods include mainly cash and the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system. The ETC system allows for automatic toll payment without stopping at toll booths, but you need to have the required machine and card on your car. While many rental cars come equipped with ETC devices, they are not always available. So, make sure to confirm this when arranging your rental. If not, it is always safe to stop at the cash booth instead, which shows 一般 on the sign and is usually green in color.

Getting Gas

The rental company usually expects you to return with a full tank, so make sure to check which type of fuel your car needs before getting gas. For most rental cars, it should be regular gasoline, which is usually indicated by the red nozzle. Gas stations in Japan are either full-service or self-service (where you will see the word セルフ in the station). At full-service stations, attendants will handle the refueling process for you. In this case, you can just say “レギュラー、満タンでお願いします” (Regular, Mantan de Onegaishimasu – meaning, regular gas, full tank please) to the attendant handling the process for you. Also, at full-service stations, they will often offer to wipe your window for you for free as well! On the other hand, at self-service stations, you’ll need to operate the pump yourself. This process is pretty similar to the rest of the world, with you choosing the gas type and amount on the machine, paying for it, and pumping. Last but not least, make sure to refuel closer to the return station and keep the receipt to show to the rental company.

Parking

When you visit different places, some may provide parking spots, but if you are just navigating in cities, it is very likely that you will need to park in one of the urban parking lots. It is important to make sure not to drive into the wrong one, because that would cost you a lot of money! In urban areas, coin parking is prevalent. These facilities typically charge by the hour, with some offering a maximum daily rate. Additionally, in many coin parking lots, you will see a distinctive feature that is the flap-lock mechanism. Upon parking, a metal plate beneath the vehicle rises, securing the car in place by preventing it from moving forward. This system ensures that vehicles remain stationary until the parking fee is settled. To retrieve your car, locate the payment machine, enter your parking space number, and pay the displayed amount. Once the payment is processed, the metal plate will lower, allowing you to safely exit the parking spot.

If you see the word 月極駐車場, meaning monthly parking spaces, they are generally not for you and are reserved for long-term use.

Other Manners

One common courtesy in Japan is, if another driver allows you to merge or gives way, it’s customary to flash your hazard lights twice as a gesture of thanks. Similarly, when navigating narrow streets or encountering oncoming traffic, Japanese drivers often use subtle hand waves to communicate and show appreciation. Patience is highly valued as honking is very rare and typically reserved for emergencies, so it’s best to avoid using your horn unnecessarily.

Scenic Routes in Kansai

Now, after all that, you might be thinking, is it worth it to memorize all those rules? And I am here to tell you, ABSOLUTELY. I was also a little intimidated in the beginning, but after hitting the road and visiting the lesser-seen parts of Japan, enjoying the freedom of being behind the wheel, I would definitely recommend travellers to try it out in a heartbeat. As I live in Kyoto, here are three of the easier but rewarding routes that I recommend in Kansai for your first drive in Japan.

Coastal Beauty of The San’in Coast Drive

One route I personally enjoy is the drive along the San’in Coast, starting from Tottori and extending through the scenic Sea of Japan coastal areas. This journey showcases dramatic cliffs and the renowned Tottori Sand Dunes, Japan’s largest sand dunes. Along the way, travelers can visit Uradome Coast, known for its rugged rock formations and crystal-clear waters, making it a great stop for photography or short hikes. The drive continues through Kinosaki Onsen, a famous hot spring town perfect for a relaxing break.

Rural Kyoto to Miyama

Another drive starts in the mountains of northern Kyoto, in Miyama. This place is known for its thatched-roof houses, preserving the look of Japan’s rural past. Driving through Miyama’s countryside, you can stop at the Miyama Folk Museum to learn about the traditional architecture and enjoy locally sourced meals. (The Miyama milk is a must-try here!)

Sea and Sky with Tango, Ine, and Amanohashidate

The Tango Peninsula offers a scenic coastal drive with hidden beach views. You can explore the Kyoga-Misaki Lighthouse, one of Japan’s northernmost lighthouses, before heading to Ine, a traditional boathouse fishery village. The route then ends at Amanohashidate, which is known as one of Japan’s “Best Three Scenic Views.”

If you enjoy driving and you want to explore Japan, unlike anything you have ever seen before, you really have to give driving a go. I know it might be scary at first, but I promise you it is worth it. Japan is one of the best places to drive in. Once you familiarize yourself with these rules and, at the end of the day, become a safe and vigilant driver, you will see the rewards of going on road trips in Japan. You can thank me later!

Featured Photo Credit: Catherine Chong

Now that you’re ready to drive across Japan, reach out to our team of Travel Specialists to help you plan your route and find some hidden gems to explore!