Otsu Car Rental

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Top Car Deals in Otsu

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, JPN
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, JPN
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, JPN
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, JPN
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Otsu car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Otsu

Renting a car in Otsu offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic scenic experiences. Otsu is home to several key attractions, including Mount Hiei and Enryakuji Temple, both perfect for cultural experiences. Additionally, Ogoto Onsen provides a tranquil hot spring retreat for relaxation.

Beyond Otsu, a rental car allows for convenient day trips to popular destinations. Kyoto, located just 15 km away, boasts famous sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Moriyama, only 6 km from Otsu, features attractions such as Lake Biwa Bridge and Sagawa Art Museum. Having your own vehicle ensures you can visit these sites without the constraints of public transport, making your journey more enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you are travelling with family or seeking a romantic getaway, renting a car in Otsu enhances your travel experience significantly.

Where to stay in and around Otsu

  • Ogoto: A serene neighborhood located around Otsu, Ogoto is perfect for those seeking a wellness and cultural experience. The area is renowned for its onsen and hotsprings, ideal for relaxation. Nearby attractions include the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace and Heian Shrine, both suitable for culture enthusiasts. For outdoor lovers, Mount Hiei offers stunning views, making it a great destination year-round, particularly in the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
  • Moriyama: Situated 6 km from Otsu, Moriyama is a charming city that offers a picturesque outdoor experience. Visitors can explore scenic landmarks such as Lake Biwa Bridge and the Sagawa Art Museum. The area's onsen and hotsprings provide excellent relaxation options. Nature lovers will appreciate the local ski fields during the winter months, while the spring and autumn seasons offer beautiful landscapes for outdoor activities.
  • Kyoto: Just 15 km away from Otsu, Kyoto is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history and culture. Ideal for family and business-themed experiences, this city is home to iconic attractions like the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, and Kinkaku-ji Temple. With numerous shopping areas and markets, Kyoto offers a vibrant culinary scene, making it a fantastic base for travellers looking to explore both the city and nearby areas.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for warm weather, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are usually more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under 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 might provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the 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 shield you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Otsu?
Fun road trip adventures in Otsu await, with daily car rental rates starting from as little as . That's based on prices found within the past seven days.
What happens if I need to cancel my Otsu car reservation?
Subject to the cancellation policy, you could receive your money back. Many prepaid rentals offer a complete refund if you advise us at least six hours prior to collecting the car. Need to know more? If you can't find the answer in your confirmation, our Customer Service Portal is always accessible.
Where can I go on a road trip from Otsu?
There's lots on offer in Otsu, but head farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Book a set of wheels and you can roam around the greater area at your own speed. Add these fantastic drives to your itinerary:
  • You'll discover Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and lots more interesting sights in Osaka. From Otsu, it's 56 kilometres away.
  • Why not enjoy all that's on offer in Nagoya too? Top sights in this buzzing city include Nagoya Castle. Nagoya is 88 kilometres from Otsu.
  • Joshin'etsu-kogen National Park is around 322 kilometres from Otsu and is one of the region's most beautiful nature spots. Go for a walk around and enjoy the fresh air.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Otsu with Expedia?
Browse our fantastic selection of car rentals, check out customer recommendations and compare prices from leading brands. In a few easy clicks, Expedia will help you track down the best deal on your wheels. Got a flight or hotel booking? Add on your Otsu car rental and save even more.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Otsu?
The minimum age to rent a car in Otsu is 18. A young driver surcharge applies, so check before booking and factor in possible additional costs. There could also be restrictions on the sorts of cars that can be rented by young drivers. For instance, some companies will only rent out economy, compact and medium-sized cars to less-experienced motorists. Rules vary between companies, so be sure to read the fine print.
What do you need to rent a car in Otsu?
Most rental companies will need these two things — a valid driver's licence and credit card. If you decide to opt out of the supplier's insurance plan, proof of other coverage may also be needed. Read your policy so you know what to bring when it's time to collect your car.
What side of the road do you drive on in Otsu?
You'll be driving on the left-hand side of the road in Otsu. This means that the steering wheel and other controls are also on the other side to what you're used to. Set aside ample time to familiarize yourself with your new wheels before taking off.
What is the cheapest car rental in Otsu?
We looked into prices over the last seven days and found that the cheapest daily rate was . The next best price for rental vehicles in Otsu was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Otsu?
Expedia makes it easy to pick up a quality long-term car rental in Otsu. Just click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip details and explore your possibilities.
Where can I find an Otsu car rental if I am younger than 25?
Whether or not you can rent a vehicle if you're under 25 years in Otsu often depends on the rental company you select. Some places have a surcharge for drivers aged between 21 and 24 years, whereas other companies may not apply any extra costs for this age range. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of your selected rental company to escape unnecessary costs at the rental desk.

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