Sapporo Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Sapporo

Renting a car in Sapporo provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel plan that suits your preferences. This is particularly beneficial for families or those planning outdoor and sports-related activities. Many key attractions are easily accessible, such as Odori Park, which offers a family-friendly urban park experience, and Jozankei Hot Spring, perfect for relaxation and wellness. You can also visit the picturesque Otaru Canal for a scenic stroll.

Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to explore popular destinations like Sapporo City Centre, where you can see the Sapporo Clock Tower and Sapporo TV Tower. A short drive to Otaru lets you experience its charming canal and hot springs, while Chitose offers beautiful spots like Lake Shikotsu and Shikotsuko Onsen. Renting a car allows you to navigate these attractions and enjoy the diverse experiences Hokkaido has to offer without the limitations of public transport.

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 offers a reliable car rental option with one convenient location in Sapporo. Travellers often choose Avis for its selection of Economy and Compact cars, making it an ideal choice for those looking for affordability and efficiency while exploring the city and its surroundings.
• Alamo Rent A Car: With over five rental locations in Sapporo, Alamo Rent A Car provides excellent accessibility for those needing a vehicle. This supplier is particularly popular for its Compact Vans and Mini cars, catering to families and groups who require extra space while enjoying their Hokkaido adventure.
• Europcar: Europcar features a rental location in Sapporo, offering a selection that includes Premium Vans and Economy cars. This supplier is well-suited for travellers seeking a higher level of comfort or those on a budget, ensuring everyone can find a suitable vehicle for their journey.

Where to stay in Sapporo

• Sapporo City Centre: The vibrant heart of Sapporo, this neighbourhood offers an exciting blend of outdoor, family, and city-themed experiences. Key attractions such as the Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, and Sapporo TV Tower are within easy reach. Enjoy shopping, skiing, and local food options, including delightful restaurants and breweries. With its proximity to onsens and parks, Sapporo City Centre is an excellent base for your adventures year-round.
• Otaru: Known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities, Otaru is a charming city located close to Sapporo. The picturesque Otaru Canal is a must-see, while the Asarigawa Hot Spring provides a relaxing retreat. Explore local sweet treats and distilleries while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere. Otaru is especially beautiful in the winter months when the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland.
• Chitose: This city offers a romantic and scenic getaway near Sapporo. Chitose is home to the serene Lake Shikotsu and the soothing Shikotsuko Onsen, perfect for outdoor wellness and relaxation. The nearby Shikotsu-Toya National Park invites adventure seekers to explore its natural beauty. With its charming wineries and restaurants, Chitose is an ideal destination for couples looking to escape to nature at any time of the year.

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're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise 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 based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to find lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also impact renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the most convenient option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often incurs a surcharge; however, 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 unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in the event of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that include unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

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. Following closely are May and June, which also offer slightly low prices and average demand. As the year progresses, July tends to see slightly high prices and high demand, while January and February are the most expensive months, with high demand making rentals pricier during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	20.7°F (-6.3°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	High	Slightly High
February	21.6°F (-5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
March	29.7°F (-1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	41.0°F (5.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
May	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
July	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
October	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	26.1°F (-3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average