Hokkaido Prefecture car hire

Compact (Toyota Corolla Axio or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Hokkaido Prefecture.

Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

Hiring a car in Hokkaido Prefecture offers you the perfect way to get around and visit the local area. Hiring a car lets you take your journey into your own hands, as you get the freedom to decide where you go and when you depart. You can travel door to door and stop off at any of the fabulous sights that you would like to see. Hiring a car may also be more comfortable than travelling on public transport, getting you there faster and more relaxed, as you and any of your travel companions can hang out and not have to worry about speaking quietly, like you are expected to do on trains and buses.

Driving in Hokkaido is easier than other parts of Japan, as there is generally less traffic, and fewer traffic lights. The roads are wide and there are few road accidents or speeding incidents compared to the busier parts of Japan. The busiest city is Sapporo, which is famous for its nightlife and its parks, but you may also want to go and visit Niseko, which is a famous area for skiing. If you are travelling in winter, you will need to comply with all the local laws, including snow tyres and/or four-wheel drive.

You will need to be at least 18 years old to hire a car in Hokkaido Prefecture and the rest of Japan. There may be a surcharge applied to drivers under the age of 25. You will need to show the hire company an International Driver’s Permit when you arrive to pick up the car, and showing only your original driving licence will not be enough to get the keys to your car. You cannot get your International Driver’s Permit in Japan, so you will need to organise this before you arrive.