Driving in Japan opens up the countryside. But you need the right paperwork. We explain the International Driving Permit (IDP) rules.

Japan has an amazing train system, but the best hidden gems (like Hokkaido or Kyushu) are best explored by car. Here is how to rent a car in Japan as a foreigner.

The Golden Rule: The IDP

You CANNOT rent a car with just your home license. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.

• Crucial: It MUST be the 1949 convention. The 1968 Vienna convention is NOT VALID in Japan.
• Exceptions: Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium, Monaco. (You need an official translation instead of an IDP).

Where to Rent

• Toyota Rent a Car: The largest network. Reliable.
• Nippon Rent-a-Car: Good English support.
• Times Car Rental: Often cheaper.

Driving Rules

• Left Side: Japan drives on the left (like the UK/Australia).
• ETC Card: Rent an "ETC Card" with the car. This allows you to breeze through highway toll gates (which are expensive).
• Zero Alcohol: The limit is 0.00%. Do not drink a drop if driving.

Cost

• Compact Car: 6,000 - 8,000 JPY / day.
• Gas: Expensive (approx. 170 JPY / liter).
• Tolls: Very expensive (Tokyo to Kyoto is approx. 10,000 JPY in tolls).