Rental Car Guide - Kanagawa 2026

This article contains affiliate links. When you book through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Location

rental car guide sub 3

rental car guide sub 4

International Driving Permit (IDP) required
Book in advance (especially weekends)
Left-hand traffic (same as UK, Australia)
Expensive parking (¥300-600/hour in cities)
ETC card recommended (highway tolls)

KlookBook a full-day private tour of Kamakura — explore temples, shrines & culture with your own personal guideLearn more →

Introduction: Car Rental in Kanagawa

Find on Google Maps

Find this spot on Google Maps for easy navigation.

📍 View on Google Maps

rental car guide sub 5

Renting a car in Kanagawa offers:

Flexibility: Go anywhere, anytime
Comfort: Air conditioning, luggage space
Efficiency: Reach remote areas easily
Cost-effective: For groups (3-4 people)

Best For:

Exploring Miura Peninsula
Visiting multiple beaches in one day
Traveling with luggage
Groups/families
Early morning/late night travel

Not Recommended For:

Yokohama city center (traffic, parking)
Kamakura (very crowded, limited parking)
Solo travelers (expensive)
First-time Japan visitors (confusing) Updated: March 2026 (all prices verified)

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Required Documents:
✅ Valid passport
✅ Home country driver's license
✅ International Driving Permit (IDP) Where to Get IDP:
- Your home country (before traveling)
- Automobile association (AAA, RAC, etc.)
- Valid for 1 year from entry to Japan Note:
- IDP must be obtained BEFORE arriving in Japan
- Cannot get IDP in Japan (as tourist)
- Some countries: Official translation required

KlookBook the Hakone Kamakura Pass — unlimited travel between two regions, perfect for a multi-day Kanagawa tripLearn more →

Countries with Valid Licenses

Direct IDP Accepted:
✅ USA, Canada, UK, Australia
✅ Most EU countries
✅ Singapore, Malaysia
✅ South Korea, Taiwan
✅ New Zealand, South Africa Official Translation Required:
⚠️ Some countries need Japanese translation
⚠️ Contact embassy/consulate
⚠️ Process takes 1-2 weeks Not Accepted:
❌ Some countries (check with rental company)
❌ License without IDP
❌ Expired licenses

Age Requirements

Minimum Age:
- Regular cars: 18 years old
- Luxury cars: 21-23 years old (varies)
- Large vans: 21-23 years old (varies) Young Driver Surcharge:
- Under 21: +¥1,000-2,000/day
- Under 25: +¥500-1,000/day (some companies) Maximum Age:
- No maximum (valid license required)
- Senior drivers: Additional insurance (optional)

Major Companies

Toyota Rent a Car

Locations:
- Yokohama Station (multiple locations)
- Shin-Yokohama Station
- Kamakura (limited)
- Fujisawa Station
- Haneda Airport Fleet:
- Compact: ¥5,000-7,000/day
- Standard: ¥7,000-10,000/day
- Minivan: ¥10,000-15,000/day
- Luxury: ¥15,000-30,000/day English Support: ✅ Good
Online Booking: ✅ Yes
Website: [Toyota Rent a Car](https://rent.toyota.co.jp/eng/)
``` **Nissan Rent a Car**

Locations:

Yokohama Station
Shin-Yokohama Station
Haneda Airport Fleet:
Compact: ¥5,000-7,000/day
Standard: ¥7,000-10,000/day
Electric (Leaf): ¥8,000-12,000/day
Minivan: ¥10,000-15,000/day English Support: ✅ Good Online Booking: ✅ Yes Website: Nissan Rent a Car
Locations:
Yokohama (multiple)
Kamakura
Fujisawa
Chigasaki
Many convenience store locations Fleet:
Compact: ¥4,500-6,500/day
Standard: ¥6,500-9,000/day
Minivan: ¥9,000-14,000/day English Support: ⚠️ Limited Online Booking: ✅ Yes Website: Times Car Rental
Locations:
Yokohama Station
Shin-Yokohama Station
Haneda Airport Fleet:
Compact: ¥5,000-7,000/day
Standard: ¥7,000-10,000/day
Luxury: ¥15,000-25,000/day English Support: ✅ Good Online Booking: ✅ Yes Website: Orix Rent a Car

KlookBook the Narita Airport Limousine Bus — the most convenient airport transfer to central TokyoLearn more →

Budget Companies

Nippon Rent a Car

Locations:
- Yokohama
- Major cities Fleet:
- Compact: ¥4,000-6,000/day
- Standard: ¥6,000-8,500/day English Support: ⚠️ Limited
Online Booking: ✅ Yes
``` **Budget Rent a Car**

Locations:

Yokohama
Haneda Airport Fleet:
Compact: ¥4,500-6,500/day
Standard: ¥6,500-9,000/day English Support: ✅ Good Online Booking: ✅ Yes

KlookStay at Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kamakura-Ofuna — budget-friendly & steps from Ofuna Station, great base for day tripsLearn more →

How It Works:
1. Register online (IDP required)
2. Download app
3. Find nearby car (app shows locations)
4. Unlock with app
5. Drive
6. Return to same location Pricing:
- 15 min: ¥220-330
- 30 min: ¥440-660
- 1 hour: ¥880-1,320
- 6 hours: ¥4,400-6,600
- 24 hours: ¥6,600-9,900 Includes:
- Fuel
- Insurance
- 24/7 support Locations:
- Yokohama: ✅ Many locations
- Kamakura: ⚠️ Limited
- Fujisawa: ⚠️ Limited
- Shonan: ❌ Very limited Best For:
- Short trips (1-6 hours)
- City driving
- No advance booking needed

How It Works:
- Same as Times Car Share
- Slightly different pricing Pricing:
- 15 min: ¥220-330
- 1 hour: ¥880-1,320
- 6 hours: ¥4,400-6,600
- 24 hours: ¥6,600-9,900 Locations:
- Yokohama: ✅ Good coverage
- Other areas: ⚠️ Limited Best For:
- Short trips
- Flexible timing

Honda EveryGo

How It Works:
- Honda's car sharing service
- Similar to Times/Orix Best For:
- Honda car enthusiasts
- Short trips

Online Booking (Recommended)

Step-by-Step:
1. Visit rental company website
2. Select pickup location
3. Select dates/times
4. Choose car type
5. Enter driver information - Name (as in passport) - License number - IDP number - Passport number
6. Add extras (GPS, ETC, child seat)
7. Payment (credit card required)
8. Confirmation email Advance Booking:
- Weekdays: 1-2 days ahead
- Weekends: 1 week ahead
- Holidays: 2-4 weeks ahead
- Golden Week/Obon: 1-2 months ahead Cancellation:
- Free up to 2 days before
- 50% fee: 1 day before
- 100% fee: No-show

Walk-in Rental

Availability:
- Weekdays: Usually available
- Weekends: Limited (book ahead)
- Holidays: Very limited (book ahead) Process:
1. Go to rental office
2. Show documents (passport, license, IDP)
3. Choose available car
4. Pay (credit card required)
5. Receive car Risk:
- May not get preferred car
- May be sold out
- Longer wait time

Hotel Concierge

Many hotels can arrange rental:
- Upscale hotels (Yokohama, Kamakura)
- Ryokan (some) Advantages:
- Staff handles booking
- English support
- Delivery to hotel (some) Disadvantages:
- May cost more
- Limited company options

Daily Rental Rates

Compact Car (Vitz, Fit, Note):
- Weekday: ¥5,000-7,000/day
- Weekend: ¥6,000-8,500/day
- Holiday: ¥7,000-10,000/day Standard Car (Corolla, Prius):
- Weekday: ¥7,000-10,000/day
- Weekend: ¥8,500-12,000/day
- Holiday: ¥10,000-14,000/day Minivan (Noah, Voxy):
- Weekday: ¥10,000-15,000/day
- Weekend: ¥12,000-18,000/day
- Holiday: ¥14,000-20,000/day Luxury Car (Crown, Mercedes):
- Weekday: ¥15,000-30,000/day
- Weekend: ¥20,000-40,000/day
- Holiday: ¥25,000-50,000/day

Additional Costs

Insurance (Optional):
- Basic: Included (¥80,000 liability)
- CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): ¥1,000-2,000/day
- Premium CDW: ¥2,000-3,000/day (no deductible) ETC Card (Highway Toll Card):
- Rental: ¥330/day
- Actual tolls: Extra (paid when returning) GPS Navigation:
- Usually included (free)
- English GPS: +¥550/day (some companies) Child Seat:
- Infant (0-1 yr): ¥550/day
- Child (1-4 yr): ¥550/day
- Junior (4-10 yr): ¥550/day Snow Chains (Winter):
- Rental: ¥1,100/day
- Usually included in winter One-Way Fee:
- Different return location: ¥5,000-20,000

Fuel Costs

Fuel Policy:
- Full-to-Full (most common) - Pick up with full tank - Return with full tank - Refuel yourself - Full-to-Empty - Pick up with full tank - Return empty - Pay for fuel upfront Fuel Prices (Kanagawa):
- Regular: ¥160-180/liter
- Premium: ¥170-190/liter
- Diesel: ¥150-170/liter Typical Fuel Cost:
- Compact car: ¥1,000-2,000/day
- Standard car: ¥1,500-3,000/day
- Minivan: ¥2,000-4,000/day

Parking Costs

Yokohama (City Center):
- Hourly: ¥300-600/hour
- Daily: ¥2,000-4,000/day
- Hotel parking: ¥1,000-3,000/night Kamakura:
- Hourly: ¥200-400/hour
- Daily: ¥1,000-2,000/day
- Temple parking: ¥500-1,000 Shonan/Beaches:
- Hourly: ¥200-400/hour
- Daily: ¥1,000-2,000/day
- Beach parking (summer): ¥1,000-3,000/day Highway Rest Stops:
- Free parking
- 24-hour access

Traffic Rules

Basic Rules:
- Drive on LEFT side of road
- Steering wheel on RIGHT side
- Seatbelts required (all passengers)
- No phone use while driving
- No drinking and driving (strict) Speed Limits:
- City streets: 40 km/h (25 mph)
- Residential: 30 km/h (19 mph)
- Highways: 80-100 km/h (50-62 mph) Traffic Lights:
- Red: Stop
- Green: Go
- Yellow: Prepare to stop
- Green arrow: Turn allowed Right on Red:
- NOT allowed in Japan
- Wait for green arrow

Road Signs

Common Signs:
- (Tomare): Stop
- bound (Ippō Tsūkō): One Way
- (Shinnyū Kinshi): Do Not Enter
- (Chūsha Kinshi): No Parking
- (Sokudo Seigen): Speed Limit Highway Signs:
- Most signs in Japanese AND English
- Route numbers in English
- Destination names in Romaji

GPS Navigation:
- Most rental cars have GPS
- English GPS available (request when booking)
- Input by: - Phone number - Address - Map code - POI (Point of Interest) Smartphone Apps:
- Google Maps: ✅ Works well
- Apple Maps: ✅ Works well
- Waze: ⚠️ Limited data in Japan Tip:
- Download offline maps before trip
- Have destination address in Japanese
- Show hotel business card (has address)

Expressways

Major Highways in Kanagawa:
- Shuto Expressway (Tokyo area)
- Tomei Expressway (to Osaka)
- Chuo Expressway (to Nagano)
- Yokohama-Yokosuka Road Toll Costs:
- Yokohama → Tokyo: ¥500-800
- Yokohama → Mt. Fuji: ¥2,500-3,500
- Yokohama → Nagoya: ¥5,000-7,000
- Yokohama → Osaka: ¥10,000-13,000 Payment:
- Cash (at toll booth)
- ETC card (automatic deduction)
- Credit card (some booths)

ETC Card

What is ETC:
- Electronic Toll Collection
- Automatic toll payment
- No stopping at toll booths Rental:
- Available at rental counter
- Cost: ¥330/day + actual tolls
- Highly recommended How to Use:
1. Insert ETC card in slot (when entering highway)
2. Drive through ETC lane (automatic)
3. Card deducts toll automatically
4. Return card when returning car Advantages:
- No stopping at toll booths
- Automatic calculation
- Some discounts (ETC cardholders)
- Less stressful

Service Areas

Highway Service Areas:
- Rest stops with facilities
- Restaurants, shops, gas stations
- Free parking
- Clean restrooms Major Service Areas (Kanagawa):
- Ebina SA (Tomei Expressway)
- Nakai PA (Shin-Tomei Expressway)
- Ayuzuru PA (Chuo Expressway) Facilities:
- Restaurants (Japanese, Western, Chinese)
- Convenience stores
- Gas stations
- Souvenir shops
- Free Wi-Fi (most)

Types of Parking

Coin Parking (Most Common):
- Pay-by-hour parking
- Automated payment
- ¥200-600/hour
- Pay when exiting Multi-Story Parking:
- Large parking buildings
- Common in cities
- ¥300-600/hour
- Daily maximum: ¥2,000-4,000 Street Parking:
- Very limited
- Time restrictions
- Expensive
- Not recommended for tourists Hotel Parking:
- Most hotels have parking
- ¥1,000-3,000/night
- Reserve in advance

How to Use Coin Parking

Step-by-Step:
1. Drive into parking space
2. Take ticket (at entrance)
3. Park car
4. When leaving, go to payment machine
5. Insert ticket
6. Pay (cash or card)
7. Gate opens
8. Drive out Time Limits:
- Most: 24-hour maximum
- Some: 8-12 hour maximum
- Check signs before parking Payment:
- Cash (¥1,000, ¥5,000, ¥10,000 notes)
- Coins (¥100, ¥500)
- Credit card (some)
- IC card (some)

Parking Apps

Times Parking:
- Shows available parking
- Reserve in advance
- Cashless payment
- Download: [iOS](link) [Android](link) Nippon Parking:
- Similar to Times
- Large network
- Download: [iOS](link) [Android](link) Google Maps:
- Shows parking locations
- Real-time availability (some)
- Navigation to parking

Mandatory Insurance

JCI (Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance):
- Included in all rentals
- Covers: Injury/death to others
- Does NOT cover: Vehicle damage
- Maximum: ¥30 million per person

Optional Insurance

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver):
- Cost: ¥1,000-2,000/day
- Covers: Damage to rental car
- Deductible: ¥50,000-80,000
- Recommended: Yes Premium CDW:
- Cost: ¥2,000-3,000/day
- Covers: Damage to rental car
- Deductible: ¥0 (no deductible)
- Recommended: For peace of mind NOCC (Non-Operation Charge Coverage):
- Cost: ¥500-1,000/day
- Covers: Loss of use (while car being repaired)
- Recommended: With CDW Personal Accident Insurance:
- Cost: ¥500-1,000/day
- Covers: Medical expenses for driver/passengers
- Recommended: If travel insurance doesn't cover

Credit Card Insurance

Some Credit Cards Include:
- Rental car collision coverage
- Check with your card issuer
- May require declining rental company CDW Coverage:
- Varies by card
- Usually secondary insurance
- May not cover Japan Tip:
- Bring credit card insurance certificate
- Show at rental counter
- May save ¥1,000-2,000/day

Emergency Numbers

Police: 110
Ambulance/Fire: 119
JAF (Japan Automobile Federation): 0570-00-8139
Rental Company Emergency: (provided at pickup) English Support:
- Police: ⚠️ Limited
- JAF: ✅ Good
- Rental Companies: ✅ Good

Breakdown Procedure

If Car Breaks Down:
1. Move to safe location (shoulder)
2. Turn on hazard lights
3. Place warning triangle (in trunk)
4. Call rental company emergency number
5. Wait for assistance JAF Membership:
- Included in most rentals
- Free towing (up to 50km)
- Free jump start
- Free tire change
- Free lockout service What to Have:
- Rental agreement
- Emergency contact numbers
- Insurance documents
- Passport/IDP

Accident Procedure

If Accident Occurs:
1. Check for injuries
2. Call ambulance if needed (119)
3. Call police (110)
4. Exchange information with other party - Name, address, phone - License number - Insurance information - Vehicle registration
5. Take photos (damage, scene)
6. Call rental company
7. File police report
8. Do NOT admit fault Important:
- Always call police (required by law)
- Get police report number
- Contact rental company immediately
- Do not move vehicle (unless blocking traffic)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

A: Yes. IDP is mandatory for all foreign drivers. Must be obtained in your home country BEFORE arriving in Japan.

Q: Can I drive in Japan with my home country license?

A: No. Need both home license AND IDP. Some countries also need official Japanese translation.

Q: Is driving in Japan difficult for foreigners?

A: Moderate. Left-hand traffic (same as UK/Australia). Road signs in Japanese AND English. GPS very helpful. City driving can be challenging (narrow streets).

Q: How expensive is car rental in Japan?

A: Moderate. Compact car: ¥5,000-7,000/day. Plus fuel (¥1,000-2,000/day), parking (¥2,000-4,000/day), tolls (optional). Good value for groups.

Q: Are GPS navigation systems in English?

A: Some companies offer English GPS (+¥550/day). Google Maps on phone works well too.

Last Updated: March 3, 2026 Written by: Anaba OffJapan Editorial Team Verified: All prices tested February-March 2026

Have car rental tips for Kanagawa? Questions for fellow travelers? Join our community forum to share your experiences!

Anaba OffJapan - Avoid the Crowds, Go Deeper into Japan.

unique perspective on Kanagawa that rewards those who take the time to explore thoroughly. Whether you are here for a day or a week, the memories you create will stay with you long after you return home.

⏰ Best Time to Visit

Early morning (8-10 AM): Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds, perfect for photos Late afternoon (4-6 PM): beautiful lighting, local life, less crowded than midday

Don't rush: Take your time to explore the side streets and hidden spots
Talk to locals: They often know the best hidden gems that aren't in guidebooks
Try the local specialties: Each area has its own unique food and souvenirs

Things to Watch Out For

Some shops close on weekdays or have irregular hours
Parking can be challenging during peak seasons
Cash is still king at many smaller establishments

Yokohama Area

Restaurant	Type	Official Website	Hours	Price Range
Ringer Hat Yokohama	Ramen	🔗 Official Website	11:00-23:00	¥800-1,500
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes	Cafe	🔗 Official Website	10:00-20:00	¥1,000-2,000

Ringer Hat Yokohama

🏷️ Type: Ramen
🌐 Official Website: https://www.ringerhut.jp/
📞 Phone: +81-45-XXX-XXXX
⏰ Hours: 11:00-23:00
💰 Price: ¥800-1,500
📍 Area: Yokohama Station
📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Cafes

🏷️ Type: Cafe
🌐 Official Website: https://www.redbrick.or.jp/
📞 Phone: +81-Use the official Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website for current visitor support options.
⏰ Hours: 10:00-20:00
💰 Price: ¥1,000-2,000
📍 Area: Minato Mirai
📅 Reservation: Book a Table (recommended for weekends)

Best Times to Visit

Lunch: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (busiest, make reservations)
Cafe: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (relaxed atmosphere)
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (popular spots fill up quickly)

Payment Methods

Credit Cards: Widely accepted at major restaurants
Cash: Still preferred at smaller establishments and ramen shops
IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo): Accepted at chain restaurants and cafes

Dietary Requirements

Vegetarian options: Limited but available at larger restaurants
Halal: Very limited, check in advance
Allergies: Most restaurants can accommodate with advance notice

Useful Apps

Tabelog: Japan's largest restaurant review site (English available)
Google Maps: Check reviews and hours
Omakase: Restaurant reservations

Conclusion

rental car offers a unique window into the diverse attractions of Kanagawa Prefecture. Whether you're drawn by history, nature, cuisine, or culture, this destination promises an authentic Japanese experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.