Tokyo Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Tokyo

Renting a car in and around Tokyo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for families or those seeking outdoor and entertainment experiences. Key attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland®, a perfect destination for family fun, and the iconic Tokyo Skytree, which provides stunning city views, are easily accessible by car. You can also visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this tourist precinct. Additionally, neighbourhoods like Shinjuku, with its beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Ginza, known for its shopping and cultural sites, are within reach. Having a rental car simplifies trips to these popular destinations, allowing you to explore at your leisure without relying on public transportation. Whether you’re travelling with family or looking to enjoy outdoor adventures, renting a car enhances your Tokyo experience by providing convenience and ease of travel.

Most popular car rentals in Tokyo

• Compact: The Compact car option is a highly popular choice among travellers in Tokyo. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and can handle up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal selection for solo adventurers, couples on a romantic getaway, or families looking to explore the city. With its manageable size, the Compact allows for easy navigation through Tokyo's bustling streets while providing ample space for luggage.
• Economy: Another frequently booked option is the Economy car, which also accommodates 5 travellers but with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for those travelling alone, couples, or small families. Its fuel efficiency and smaller size make it a practical choice for navigating the urban environment of Tokyo, ensuring that you can travel comfortably without breaking the bank.
• Mini: The Mini car option is ideal for smaller groups, accommodating up to 4 travellers with space for 2 small suitcases. This option suits solo travellers and couples looking for a compact vehicle that is easy to park and manoeuvre in the busy city. The Mini offers an efficient and fun way to explore Tokyo while allowing for flexible travel plans, making it a popular pick for those seeking a more intimate driving experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Tokyo

• Avis: Avis operates one rental location in Tokyo, making it a convenient option for travellers. Known for its efficient service, Avis primarily offers Economy and Standard vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the bustling city. Customers appreciate the ease of managing their bookings and the quality of the cars available, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore Tokyo at their own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo boasts over 15 rental locations throughout Tokyo, providing extensive accessibility for travellers. This supplier is particularly popular for its Compact and Mini vehicles, which are perfect for city driving. Customers often highlight Alamo's quick pickup process and friendly staff, enhancing their overall rental experience. With a well-maintained fleet and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Alamo is an excellent choice for flexibility during your trip.
• Sixt: Sixt has three rental locations within Tokyo, offering a range of vehicles that cater to different needs. Their most booked options include Compact and Midsize cars, which are well-suited for urban driving. Sixt is recognized for its competitive pricing and the quality of its vehicles, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable experience for renters. With a focus on customer service, Sixt makes it easy for travellers to enjoy their adventures in and around Tokyo.

Where to stay in Tokyo

• Shinjuku: Shinjuku is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences. It features shopping malls and centres that cater to all tastes. Key attractions include the tranquil Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, perfect for a relaxing day in nature, and the iconic Tokyo Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. Shinjuku is also close to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, a must-see tourist precinct. With various restaurants and breweries nearby, this area is ideal for those looking to enjoy both shopping and dining.
• Taito: Taito is a culturally rich neighbourhood that appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore Ueno Park, an expansive urban park featuring scenic landscapes and historical sites. The area is also home to the remarkable Tokyo Skytree, providing breathtaking vistas of Tokyo, and the historic Sensoji Temple, a significant cultural landmark. With numerous shopping options and cafes, Taito offers a blend of cultural exploration and leisure, making it a great choice for travellers.
• Shibuya: Shibuya is a lively neighbourhood renowned for its youthful energy and urban experiences. The famous Shibuya Crossing is a central tourist precinct that showcases the bustling spirit of Tokyo. Nearby, visitors can find the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine, an excellent spot for cultural discovery. Shibuya also boasts numerous shopping areas and eateries, including sweet treat shops and local distilleries, ensuring a delightful experience for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

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

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 drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak 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 good 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 be restricted. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals follow a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Alternatively, some may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just make sure to return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the 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 provides peace of mind if unexpected situations arise during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Tokyo

The best value period to rent a car in and around Tokyo is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. January also offers a quieter experience, with slightly high prices but lower demand. Following this, March tends to be the most expensive month, with both prices and demand rising. April and May continue this trend, maintaining slightly high prices and demand. June through August see moderate prices and average demand, while September brings slightly high prices again with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average