Arriving at Kansai International Airport (KIX) opens up wonderful opportunities to explore Osaka and the surrounding regions. Renting a car is a convenient way to see Japan at your own pace, but it’s important to be prepared for the car pickup process, especially regarding documents, payment, and local driving features. This information will help you make the rental process as simple and enjoyable as possible.
Most car rental companies have their counters directly at Kansai Airport. They are usually located in the arrival area, often with clear signage. After collecting your luggage, look for signs indicating “Rental Cars” or the names of specific companies. Some companies may offer shuttle services to remote rental locations, so check this information in advance.
The following car rental companies are usually represented at Kansai Airport: Nippon Rent-A-Car, Toyota Rent a Car, Nissan Rent a Car, Hertz, Avis, and others. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to SUVs and luxury cars. Here are a few popular options:
| Economy | 25 – 40 EUR |
| Compact | 35 – 50 EUR |
| Mid-Size | 50 – 70 EUR |
| SUV | 80 – 120 EUR |
| Luxury | 150+ EUR |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and availability.
To rent a car in Japan, you usually need the following documents: a valid driver's license (an international driving permit may be required depending on your country), a passport, and a credit card for the deposit. The minimum driver's age is usually 21, but some companies may set higher requirements. The deposit is blocked on your credit card and returned after returning the car undamaged. Make sure you have sufficient free credit limit on your card.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car resulting from a collision. Theft insurance protects against car loss. Pay attention to the excess amount – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. Ask the company representative about the possibility of reducing the excess for an additional fee.
Driving in Japan has its own features. Traffic is left-hand, so be careful. Highways are often toll roads, and special cards or cash are used to pay for passage. Parking can be expensive, especially in cities. The speed on highways is usually limited to 80-100 km/h, and in residential areas – 40-50 km/h. Be attentive to local traffic rules and respect other drivers.
It depends on your country. Check the requirements for your country before your trip.
Usually, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and Japanese Yen are accepted.
This is the amount you will pay yourself in case of damage or theft of the car.
Usually, this is prohibited. Clarify this issue with the rental company.
Use special cards (ETC) or cash.
Parking is available in shopping centers, near subway stations and on the streets, but it can be expensive.
Immediately notify the police and the car rental company.
Yes, the rental price usually includes VAT.
Yes, but this usually involves an additional fee.
You may be charged an additional fee for the delay.
Definitely! Carefully inspect the car for damage and record it in the documents.