Renting a Car in Tokyo: A Practical Guide for Travelers

Drivers can easily pick up vehicles at major transit hubs, including Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, and central railway stations.

Renting a car in Tokyo gives you the freedom to explore beyond the capital's dense rail network. While Tokyo itself is a massive metropolis of about 9,733,276 residents with excellent public transit, a rental car is highly practical for traveling to surrounding regions. This guide covers the essential rules for driving in Japan, including license requirements, toll road changes, and winter driving conditions. We look at the top pickup locations, from Narita and Haneda airports to central hubs like Shinjuku and Ueno. With providers like DiscoverCars offering confirmed coverage in the city, finding a suitable vehicle is straightforward. Before setting off, make sure you understand the local traffic regulations, such as the strict zero-alcohol policy and the transition of the Metropolitan Expressway to electronic toll collection (ETC) systems.

L'essentiel

Driving in Tokyo requires strict adherence to local laws. First, foreign driver's licenses are only valid for driving in Japan for one year from your landing date, which must be confirmed by the immigration stamp in your passport. You must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally operate a vehicle.

Japan enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol; drivers must not consume any alcohol before driving.

Navigating Tokyo's roads also requires preparation for tolls. In FY2026, Tokyo's Metropolitan Expressway (Shutoko) will feature 134 ETC-only entrances. At these specific entrances, cash and credit card payments are not accepted, meaning you will need an ETC card installed in your rental vehicle to pass through.

If you plan to drive outside Tokyo into snowy areas like Hokkaido, Tohoku, or the Japanese Alps, winter tires are essential. This is especially true from November to March, so ensure you request them from your rental provider when booking.

Prices and Booking

When planning a car hire in Tokyo, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure the best rates and vehicle availability. Rental companies like DiscoverCars offer confirmed coverage across Tokyo, allowing you to compare options online before your trip.

While base rental prices vary depending on the vehicle class and season, you should also factor in additional costs. These include toll fees for the Metropolitan Expressway and the rental fee for an ETC card, which is practically mandatory due to the 134 ETC-only entrances active in FY2026. If you are traveling between November and March and heading north or into the mountains, remember to budget for winter tires. Booking these add-ons early ensures the rental agency has the equipped vehicle ready at your chosen pickup point.

Where to Pick Up Your Vehicle

You can arrange to rent a car in Tokyo at several convenient locations depending on your arrival plans. For those flying into the region, pickup points are available directly at Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) and Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND). Collecting your vehicle at the airport is often the most convenient option if you plan to head straight out of the city.

If you prefer to start your road trip after spending a few days in the city center, you can choose from multiple downtown pickup points. Key locations include Tokyo Shinjuku City, Tokyo Ebisu, and the Tokyo Ueno Railway Station. Picking up your car at a railway station allows you to easily transition from the Shinkansen or local trains to your rental vehicle.

Tips for Driving Out of Tokyo

Leaving the metropolis of Tokyo behind opens up scenic routes across Honshu. However, driving out of the city requires careful route planning. Be prepared for heavy traffic when exiting Tokyo via the Metropolitan Expressway, and ensure your vehicle is equipped with an ETC card to navigate the 134 ETC-only entrances smoothly.

If your journey takes you toward the Japanese Alps or northern regions like Tohoku between November and March, winter tires are a safety necessity. Always check the weather forecast for your destination, as mountain passes can experience sudden snowfall. Finally, keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road in Japan, and speed limits are strictly enforced.

Where to go by car

Tolls: rates vary by country and route segment — check current pricing before you go.