Renting a car can be an excellent way to explore the sights of Osaka and the surrounding Kansai region. With a rental car, you can easily access famous attractions, scenic areas, and local neighborhoods at your own pace. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about renting a car for travel in Osaka.
How to Rent a Car in Osaka
Follow these key steps for a smooth rental car experience:
Compare Rental Companies
Research rates and policies across major rental chains and local outfits. Consider factors like:
- Price
- Vehicle options
- Pickup/dropoff spots
- Mileage, parking fees
- Insurance options
Popular brands include Toyota Rent-a-Car, Nippon Rent-a-Car, Times Car Rental, and international companies like Hertz and Avis.
Reserve Your Rental Car
Once you’ve chosen a company, book your car rental. Have info ready like:
- Pickup/dropoff dates
- Pickup/dropoff branches
- Vehicle type
- Navigation or child seat rentals
- Payment details
Reserve early for best availability and rates, especially during peak seasons.
Know Requirements
Common requirements for renting a car in Japan are:
- Valid driver’s license from your home country
- International Driving Permit strongly recommended
- Minimum age, typically 21-25
- Passport required
- Deposit with credit card
Pick Up the Rental Car
Go to the rental branch at the booked time. Finalize any paperwork and inspect the car thoroughly before driving off the lot.
Driving in Osaka
Here are some tips for navigating Osaka’s roads and highways:
Getting Used to Driving
- Use navigation apps like Google Maps
- Stay alert for bicycles and pedestrians
- Follow speed limits and signs closely
Osaka has heavy traffic and congested roads. Get comfortable with driving on the left side first. Useful tips:
Parking
Finding parking can be difficult in Osaka. Understand parking rules to avoid fines:
- Metered parking has limits on duration
- Public parking garages near major attractions
- Hotels may offer parking discounts
- Use coin-operated spots vs. automated ones
Tolls and Gas Stations
Pay tolls when using expressways. Rental cars have ETC card devices. Fill up at self-service gas stations like those run by JA and Inui.
Road Rules
Follow all rules and regulations:
- Drive on the left
- Legal alcohol limit of 0.03%
- Seatbelts mandatory
- Phone usage prohibited while driving
- Yield to pedestrians at crossings
Where to Rent a Car in Osaka
Major rental companies have branches across Osaka including:
Kansai International Airport
All major agencies have counters at KIX Airport’s arrival lobbies. Pickup right after landing for convenience. Offices open into the late evening.
JR Osaka Station
Rental desks inside the train station for easy access. Times Car Rental, Toyota, and Nippon branches located within the station complex.
Shin-Osaka Station
Access rental companies like Times Car Rental, Hertz, and Toyota near this major Shinkansen bullet train terminal.
Umeda Area
Many rental offices around Osaka’s central Umeda district near major hotels and transportation hubs.
Kobe and Nara Cities
Look for rental car pickup at Kobe Airport or Nara city outlets if starting your trip from these nearby cities.
Types of Rental Cars in Osaka
You’ll have various rental vehicle options based on your travel needs:
Compact Cars
Good for squeezing through tight spaces and parking. Models like Honda Fit, Toyota Tank, Nissan Dayz. Seats 4 passengers comfortably.
Standard Sedans
Midsize cars like Toyota Corolla, Nissan Note, Mazda Axela. Solid balance of space and fuel-efficiency. Ideal for 2-4 people.
Vans and Wagons
For groups or families. Toyota Hiace and Nissan Caravan can seat 7-8 with maximum luggage room. Easy access for strollers or wheelchairs.
Premium Vehicles
Luxury models like Lexus sedans, Audi wagons, BMW convertibles and sport cars. Higher rates but include extra services.
Kei Cars
Tiny compact cars best for driving in tiny villages or on narrow roads. Limited availability at standard rental companies.
FAQ About Renting a Car in Osaka
1. Is an International Driving Permit required?
Having an IDP along with your native license is highly recommended but not legally mandatory. Makes communication easier if stopped by police.
2. What insurance options should I consider?
Personal accident insurance provides coverage for injury. Optional collision damage waiver reduces liability for damage to the rental car.
3. Are rental cars equipped with GPS?
Most rental cars will have built-in GPS that provides turn-by-turn navigation and guidance in English. Confirm when booking.
4. Can I take the rental car on ferries or to other islands?
Yes, you can take your rental car on ferries to places like Shikoku or Kyushu with advance reservations. Inform rental company.
5. Are child seats available for rental?
Yes, reserve infant/child seats in advance, though inventory may be limited. There is an extra daily rental fee for car seats.
Conclusion
Renting a car can unlock easy access to all of Osaka, as well as side trips to Kyoto, Nara, Kobe and beyond. Booking the right car for your group size along with attentive driving will ensure an efficient and stress-free experience. You’ll have freedom to create your own Osaka itinerary.
