Matsumoto Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Matsumoto

Renting a car in Matsumoto offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful 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 ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a romantic getaway. Key attractions like Matsumoto Castle and Kappa Bridge are conveniently located in the area, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and history. Additionally, the Matsumoto Performing Arts Center provides a cultural hub for those interested in the arts.

A rental car also opens up opportunities to visit popular destinations such as Kamikochi, known for its stunning natural scenery, or Azumino, just 15 km away, where you can explore the Daio Wasabi Farm and Kokuei Alps Azumino Park. Shirahone, another nearby city, features Hirayu Onsen and the Shinhotaka Ropeway. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, having a car ensures you can maximize your sightseeing experience without relying on public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Matsumoto

• Midsize: This option accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for couples or families looking to explore Matsumoto comfortably while having enough room for luggage. The midsize car provides a perfect balance of comfort and practicality for your road trip.
• Compact: The compact car is suitable for 5 travellers, allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is versatile, making it a great fit for solo travellers, couples, or families. Compact cars are easy to manoeuvre, making them suitable for navigating Matsumoto’s streets while providing flexibility for your travel plans.
• Mini: Ideal for up to 4 travellers, the mini car accommodates 2 small suitcases, making it a perfect choice for solo travellers or couples. Its size is convenient for city driving in Matsumoto, allowing for easy parking and getting around while keeping your travel lightweight and manageable.

Top rated car suppliers in Matsumoto

• Alamo Rent A Car: With a convenient rental location in Matsumoto, Alamo is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility. Most bookings are for Midsize and Compact vehicles, making it easy to navigate the scenic routes and attractions around the city. Alamo provides a seamless rental experience, allowing you to manage your luggage effortlessly and adjust your travel plans as needed, ensuring a comfortable journey during your stay in Nagano Prefecture.
• Enterprise: Also featuring a rental location in Matsumoto, Enterprise is known for its customer-friendly service. The most booked vehicle type with this supplier is Compact, ideal for exploring the charming surroundings of Matsumoto. With a focus on convenience and reliability, Enterprise makes it simple to pick up your rental and hit the road, enhancing your travel experience in this beautiful region of Japan.

Where to stay in and around Matsumoto

• Kamikochi: Renowned for its stunning valley scenery, Kamikochi is perfect for travellers seeking outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Explore popular attractions like the Shinhotaka Ropeway, ideal for families, and Kappa Bridge, a modern marvel. For relaxation, visit Hirayu Onsen, a hotspring offering wellness benefits. This area is best enjoyed in the warmer months when outdoor activities flourish, and the natural beauty is at its peak.
• Azumino: Located 15 km from Matsumoto, Azumino is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor pursuits. Ideal for a romantic getaway or scenic adventures, highlights include the Daio Wasabi Farm and Kokuei Alps Azumino Park, a national park perfect for exploration. Don’t miss the iconic Matsumoto Castle, which adds a touch of culture to your stay. This area is particularly lovely in spring and autumn, showcasing vibrant natural colours.
• Kakeyu Onsen: Nestled in the Matsumoto area, Kakeyu Onsen is a charming village offering a blend of wellness and cultural experiences. Visitors can indulge in the local onsen and explore attractions like the Matsumoto Performing Arts Center and the Matsumoto City Museum of Art. The serene atmosphere is ideal for those seeking relaxation and cultural enrichment, making it a great choice year-round.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to access lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This could also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to 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 generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also work—just ensure that 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 extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs 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 prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.