Nagano Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Nagano

Renting a car in and around Nagano gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is especially beneficial for those seeking ski and adventure experiences, as you can visit nearby mountains without the constraints of public transport schedules. Key attractions such as Zenko-ji Temple and Togakushi Shrine are easily accessible, both offering rich cultural experiences just a short drive away. Additionally, the Nagano City Museum is perfect for families looking to engage with local history. You can also explore neighbourhoods like Togakushi, which features beautiful sites including Lake Nojiri, or Matsushiro, home to Matsushiro Castle and the Matsushiro Underground Imperial Headquarters. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit these popular destinations, making your trip to Nagano more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Nagano

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for travellers in Nagano, accommodating up to 5 people with space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for a balance of comfort and efficiency. With its manageable size, a Compact car allows for easy navigation through the scenic routes and bustling streets of Nagano while providing ample room for your luggage.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is another well-booked option in Nagano, offering seating for 5 travellers and the capacity to hold up to 3 large suitcases. Ideal for couples or families, this car provides extra comfort and space for passengers and their belongings. If you’re planning to explore the region with more gear, a Midsize car ensures a comfortable journey while accommodating your travel needs without compromising on style.
• Mini: The Mini car is a fantastic choice for those travelling light, accommodating up to 4 people with room for 2 small suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers or couples who prefer a more compact vehicle for their adventures in Nagano. With its nimble design, the Mini car makes navigating through tight spaces and enjoying the scenic routes around Nagano an effortless experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Nagano

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo provides a convenient rental location in Nagano, making it easy for travellers to access their vehicles. Known for its excellent customer service, Alamo specializes in Compact and Mini cars, which are perfect for navigating the city and surrounding attractions. With Alamo, you can enjoy the flexibility to explore Nagano at your own pace, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience during your trip.
• Hertz: Hertz also has a well-placed rental location in Nagano, offering a variety of vehicles to suit different needs. Popular for its Compact and Economy options, Hertz ensures that you’ll find a reliable car that fits your travel requirements. Their commitment to service excellence makes them a top choice for those looking to discover the beauty of Nagano and its surroundings without the hassle of public transport.
• Enterprise: With a rental location in Nagano, Enterprise focuses on providing a seamless car rental experience. Their Midsize and Mini vehicles are ideal for both solo travellers and families, offering comfort and space while you explore the region. Enterprise is known for its customer-centric service, making it a popular option for tourists looking to make the most of their time in Nagano.

Where to stay in and around Nagano

• Chikuma: Located 17 km away from Nagano, Chikuma offers a thrilling outdoor experience, especially for ski enthusiasts. The area features popular ski fields and resorts, making it a prime spot during the winter season. Nearby, you can explore the Nagano Prefectural Museum of History for a cultural holiday, or enjoy the scenic views at Joyama Historic Park and Arata-Jo Mountain Castle. For relaxation, visit the local onsens and hot springs. The local food scene includes breweries and wineries, providing excellent dining options.
• Togakushi: This neighbourhood around Nagano is known for its adventurous spirit, particularly for skiing and sports activities. Key attractions include the Togakushi Shrine, a significant cultural site, and the stunning Lake Nojiri, ideal for outdoor activities and romantic getaways. Zenko-ji Temple is also nearby, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich heritage. Togakushi is perfect for those looking to engage in sports during the winter months or explore historical sites throughout the year.
• Kurita: Situated close to Nagano, Kurita is another excellent neighbourhood for adventure seekers, especially skiers. The area boasts ski fields and resorts, making it a fantastic winter destination. Key points of interest include the Zenko-ji Temple and the Nagano City Museum, both suitable for cultural exploration. With local onsens and lakes nearby, visitors can also enjoy a relaxing experience after a day of outdoor activities. Dining options are available, catering to various tastes.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Nagano

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, take advantage of the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years of age may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Nagano

The best value time to rent a car in and around Nagano is July, when prices are at their lowest and demand is also quite low. This period allows for a more relaxed experience while exploring the area. April offers slightly low pricing with average demand, making it another good option. In contrast, June tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand as visitors flock to the region. January and February also experience high demand, contributing to elevated rental costs during those months.