Sapporo Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Sapporo

Renting a car in Sapporo allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites such as Odori Park, which provides a great urban outdoor experience, or rejuvenate at the Jozankei Hot Spring, perfect for wellness and relaxation. The convenience of having your own car makes it simple to navigate to popular destinations like Otaru, known for its picturesque canal and charming scenery, or Chitose, where you can discover the beautiful Lake Shikotsu and Shikotsu-Toya National Park. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families, as a rental car provides ample space for strollers and luggage, making travel more comfortable. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, sports experiences, or family-friendly activities, having a car enables you to tailor your travel plans without relying on public transportation schedules. Sapporo's roads are straightforward, ensuring you can maximize your time exploring the city's offerings and nearby attractions without hassle.

Most popular car rentals in Sapporo

• Compact: The compact car option is ideal for accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile choice for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to navigate the city and surrounding areas. Its size makes it perfect for city driving, allowing you to manoeuvre through busy streets and find parking with ease, all while enjoying the flexibility to explore Sapporo at your own pace.
• Economy: The economy car is another popular choice, comfortably seating up to 5 travellers and offering room for 2 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families who want an efficient vehicle that is easy on the budget. With its economical fuel consumption, the economy car allows you to explore Sapporo and nearby attractions without breaking the bank, making it a practical and cost-effective rental option.
• Midsize: For those needing a bit more space, the midsize car is a fantastic option, accommodating up to 5 travellers and providing room for 3 large suitcases. This is especially advantageous for couples or families with more luggage or gear. The midsize car offers a comfortable ride, making it suitable for longer journeys around Sapporo and ensuring you have enough space for everyone and their belongings, enabling you to travel with ease and comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Sapporo

• Avis: Avis operates 1 rental location in Sapporo, making it a convenient option for travellers. Renowned for its efficient service, Avis offers a selection of vehicles that cater to various needs, with Economy and Compact cars being the most booked choices. This supplier is ideal for those looking for a reliable and straightforward rental experience, perfect for exploring Sapporo at your own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: With over 5 rental locations in the Sapporo area, Alamo Rent A Car provides excellent accessibility and a wide range of vehicle options. Popular choices among customers include Compact Vans and Mini vehicles, making it a great choice for families or groups. Alamo is known for its quick pickup service and friendly staff, ensuring a pleasant rental experience for all travellers.
• Europcar: Europcar has 1 rental location in Sapporo, offering a selection of Premium Vans and Economy cars that are well-suited for various travel needs. Customers appreciate Europcar for its quality vehicles and efficient service. The simplicity of their rental process makes it a great option for those looking to enjoy the sights of Sapporo without any hassle.

Where to stay in Sapporo

• Sapporo City Centre: Ideal for those looking for a vibrant urban experience, Sapporo City Centre offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy the scenic Odori Park, the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo TV Tower, all within close proximity. The area is also dotted with various restaurants and breweries, making it a great spot for food enthusiasts. The best time to visit is during winter for skiing or summer for outdoor activities.
• Otaru: Known for its picturesque scenery and charming canals, Otaru is perfect for a family-friendly getaway. Explore the Otaru Canal and indulge in local sweet treats and distilleries. The Asarigawa Hot Spring provides a relaxing escape, while the nearby Shin Nihonkai Ferry offers adventurous opportunities. Otaru is particularly lovely in the spring and autumn months, showcasing beautiful natural landscapes.
• Chitose: A romantic destination surrounded by stunning nature, Chitose features attractions like Lake Shikotsu and the Shikotsuko Onsen for a serene retreat. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which is ideal for adventure seekers and lovers of scenic views. The area's wineries and gourmet restaurants add to its allure. Late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit for optimal scenery.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, use the filters on Expedia to locate the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, 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—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience it offers can make it worthwhile.
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 unexpected costs and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Sapporo

The best value period to rent a car in and around Sapporo is April, when both prices and demand are low. May and June follow closely, offering slightly low prices with average demand. In contrast, January and February are the most expensive months, characterized by high demand and slightly high prices. As spring transitions into summer, prices can fluctuate, while July tends to see a rise in both demand and rates.