Northern Kyoto Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Northern Kyoto

Renting a car in Northern Kyoto offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking cultural and outdoor experiences, having a car allows you to visit key attractions with ease. For instance, the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple is only 10 km away, while the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace and the romantic Nijō Castle are within 13 km and 14 km, respectively. Additionally, nearby neighborhoods like Kurama and Takao, located just 5 km and 7 km away, provide further opportunities to experience the rich culture and scenic beauty of Northern Kyoto. You can seamlessly navigate between popular destinations, including the bustling metropolis of Kyoto, which features attractions like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple. By renting a car, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local sights and experiences without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals around Northern Kyoto

• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Compact car comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers along with 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for navigating the streets of Northern Kyoto, allowing for easy parking and manoeuvrability while keeping fuel costs low.
• Economy: The Economy car is another excellent choice for groups of up to 5 travellers. It can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo adventurers or couples looking to explore the beautiful Northern Kyoto region. Its economical fuel efficiency makes it a cost-effective option for your travels.
• Midsize: If you require more space for luggage, the Midsize car is a great option. It accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples or families. The added room ensures a comfortable ride as you explore the scenic attractions around Northern Kyoto.

Top rated car suppliers around Northern Kyoto

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travellers in Northern Kyoto, located 17 km from the area. Known for its efficient service, Hertz offers a range of vehicles ideal for exploring the picturesque landscapes and attractions at your own pace. The most booked options include Economy and Compact Van cars, providing flexibility and comfort for your journey. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Hertz ensures a smooth rental experience for all types of travellers.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is well-regarded for its customer-friendly service and convenient rental process. Situated 17 km from Northern Kyoto, Alamo offers Compact and Mini vehicles, perfect for navigating the charming streets and scenic routes of the region. Travellers appreciate the cleanliness and reliability of Alamo’s cars, making it a dependable choice for those looking to explore Northern Kyoto with ease and comfort.
• Enterprise: Enterprise is another excellent option for car rentals in Northern Kyoto, with a location 17 km away. This supplier is celebrated for its attentive customer service and a wide selection of vehicles, including Compact and Midsize options. Enterprise is known for its smooth check-in process, making it an ideal choice for families and solo travellers alike who want to enjoy the freedom of exploring Northern Kyoto and its surroundings without hassle.

Where to stay around Northern Kyoto

• Northern Kyoto: This area offers a serene environment ideal for those seeking a family or culture-themed experience. Visitors can explore nearby historic landmarks such as the Kinkaku-ji Temple, renowned for its stunning architecture and gardens. Northern Kyoto also provides access to local onsen, perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
• Shimogyo Ward: Located 16 km from Northern Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward is vibrant and bustling, making it suitable for family, city, and business-themed experiences. Attractions like Kyoto Tower offer modern vistas, while Umekoji Park invites outdoor enthusiasts. The area is well-served with restaurants and public markets, enhancing the local culinary experience.
• Central Kyoto: Situated 12 km away from Northern Kyoto, Central Kyoto serves as a hub for family and business travellers alike. Key highlights include the majestic Nijō Castle and the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace, both rich in culture. The area also boasts a variety of shopping areas and restaurants, making it a convenient base for exploring Kyoto's many offerings.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Northern Kyoto

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance is likely to yield lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to 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 most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid 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 Northern Kyoto

The best value period to rent a car in Northern Kyoto is October, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately high. This month offers great options for travellers. Nearby, February is another quiet time, with slightly low prices and moderate demand. June through August also present average pricing and demand, making them reasonable choices. However, April is typically the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, followed closely by May, which sees similar trends.