Nagano Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Nagano

Renting a car in Nagano offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for those looking to visit key attractions such as Zenko-ji Temple, a cultural gem located within the city, or Togakushi Shrine, nestled in the scenic Togakushi neighborhood. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and make spontaneous stops along the way, enhancing your travel experience. Families can visit the Nagano City Museum, which caters to cultural interests, without the hassle of public transport schedules. You can also venture to nearby areas like Kurita and Matsushiro, where you can explore additional sites like Matsushiro Castle and the Matsushiro Underground Imperial Headquarters. Having a car allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and participate in adventure sports, particularly in the winter months when skiing is popular. This convenience makes renting a car an ideal choice for anyone wanting to fully experience the sights and activities in and around Nagano.

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: Known for its convenient location in Nagano, Alamo Rent A Car provides flexibility for travellers looking to explore the region. With a focus on Compact and Mini vehicles, Alamo is a popular choice for those who prefer efficient and easy-to-manage options. This supplier ensures a hassle-free experience, making it ideal for navigating the scenic routes and attractions around Nagano.
• Hertz: Another top choice in Nagano, Hertz offers a well-regarded selection of vehicles, particularly their Compact and Economy options. The single rental location in the area makes it easy for visitors to pick up and drop off their vehicles. With a commitment to customer service, Hertz helps ensure that your journey through Nagano and its surroundings is as smooth as possible.
• Enterprise: With a reputation for reliability, Enterprise has a rental location in Nagano that caters to various driving needs. Their most popular vehicles include Midsize and Mini options, perfect for families or solo travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Enterprise emphasizes customer satisfaction, making it a solid choice for those planning to explore the beautiful landscapes of Nagano Prefecture.

Where to stay in and around Nagano

• Chikuma: Located 17 km away from Nagano, Chikuma is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and skiing experiences. Enjoy the nearby ski fields and resorts during the winter season. Attractions such as the Nagano Prefectural Museum of History and Joyama Historic Park, alongside relaxing onsen and hotsprings, make this city a great cultural and recreational stop. Don't miss the local food and drinks scene featuring breweries and wineries.
• Togakushi: Situated around Nagano, Togakushi offers an exciting blend of skiing and cultural exploration. The area is known for its ski fields and lifts, making it perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Key highlights include the historic Togakushi Shrine and the scenic Lake Nojiri, ideal for outdoor activities and romantic getaways. Visitors can also indulge in local cuisine at nearby breweries, enriching their stay with flavours unique to the region.
• Kurita: Also located in the vicinity of Nagano, Kurita provides an excellent setting for adventure and sports lovers. With access to various ski fields and resorts, it’s a top choice during the winter months. Explore cultural sites such as the Zenko-ji Temple and the Nagano City Museum, which are suitable for family visits. Nearby onsen and dining options enhance the overall experience, making Kurita a well-rounded destination for travellers.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most convenient option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure the car is returned empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind if unexpected situations arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning 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 car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Nagano

The best value period to rent a car in and around Nagano is July, when prices are lower and demand is at its quietest. This month offers excellent opportunities for those looking to explore without the crowds. April also presents a good option, with slightly low prices and average demand. In contrast, June tends to be the most expensive month, often accompanied by high demand. Following June, August has average prices and demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
February	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
March	37.4°F (3.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
April	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
August	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	34.2°F (1.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average