Japan is known for its efficient train system, but if you’re planning to explore rural areas, small towns, or scenic routes, renting a car can be the best option. That’s where Times Car Rental Japan comes in—a trusted name in Japan’s mobility sector offering convenient and affordable car rental services across the country.
With more than 400 locations, including major airports and cities, Times Car Rental gives travelers the freedom to explore Japan on their own schedule. This guide covers why Times is a popular choice, how to rent a car, what documents are needed, and essential tips for driving in Japan.
Why Rent from Times Car Rental?
Times Car Rental is part of the Park24 Group, a leading mobility company in Japan. Known for its large network, well-maintained vehicles, and multilingual service, Times is ideal for both domestic and international travelers.
Their locations are spread across the country, from Tokyo and Osaka to Hokkaido and Okinawa. Times offers a variety of vehicles—compact cars for city travel, hybrid cars for fuel efficiency, and minivans for family trips. Most vehicles come with GPS navigation, and some support English or multilingual interfaces, making it easier for tourists to navigate.
Pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees, and online booking is simple through their official website. Times also offers ETC card rentals (used for paying highway tolls), which is especially helpful for travelers taking long-distance drives.
How to Rent a Car in Japan with Times
Renting a car with Times is straightforward, even for first-time visitors. Here’s what you need:
Required Documents:
- Valid driver’s license from your home country
- International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention
- Passport
Make sure your IDP is valid throughout your trip, as Japan doesn’t accept every version. The permit must be presented along with your original license.
Booking Process:
- Visit the Times Car Rental website and choose your pickup location, dates, and car type.
- Select any add-ons such as child seats, ETC card, or snow tires (depending on the season).
- Complete your reservation online. You can also cancel or change your booking with ease.
When you arrive at the rental office, staff will check your documents and explain the car’s features, such as GPS and toll systems. The process usually takes about 15–20 minutes.
Vehicle Options and Features
- Times Car Rental offers several car categories to suit different travel needs:
- Compact Cars (e.g., Toyota Yaris): Easy to drive and park, great for solo travelers or couples.
- Sedans (e.g., Toyota Corolla): Ideal for longer trips with luggage.
- Minivans (e.g., Toyota Noah): Perfect for families or groups.
- Hybrid Cars (e.g., Toyota Prius): Eco-friendly and fuel-saving.
- Luxury Cars (e.g., Lexus): Premium options for business or leisure.
All vehicles include automatic transmission, air conditioning, airbags, and clean interiors. Most cars are equipped with a GPS system and an ETC card reader, which makes highway travel much easier.
Tips for Driving in Japan
- Driving in Japan is smooth and safe, but a few things are essential to know before hitting the road:
- Drive on the left side of the road.
- Speed limits are strictly enforced: typically 40–60 km/h in cities and 80–100 km/h on expressways.
- Zero tolerance for alcohol—never drink and drive.
- Use legal parking spots. Illegal parking can result in fines or towing.
- Navigation: Ask for an English GPS or use Google Maps with mobile internet or Wi-Fi.
Toll roads are common on expressways. Renting an ETC card is highly recommended. It lets you pass through toll gates without stopping, and the charges are automatically calculated.
Top Locations of Times Car Rental
Times Car Rental operates in all major cities and tourist destinations. Popular rental spots include:
- Tokyo (Haneda & Narita Airports)
- Osaka (Kansai Airport)
- Hokkaido (New Chitose Airport)
- Fukuoka Airport
- Naha Airport (Okinawa)
- Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Nagoya stations
They also support one-way rentals, so you can return the car at a different location—ideal for road trips across regions.
Times Car Plus: A Bonus for Long-Term Travelers
In addition to regular rentals, Times offers a car-sharing service called Times Car Plus. It’s great for residents or long-stay travelers who only need a vehicle for a few hours. Cars can be reserved via an app and picked up from Times Parking locations across the country. Rates are hourly, and fuel is included.
This service is perfect for short trips or city errands. While it’s more common among locals, visitors staying in Japan for several weeks may find it useful as well.
Customer Experience and Reputation
Times Car Rental is widely praised for its clean cars, smooth pickup process, and helpful staff. Reviews from international travelers often highlight:
- Simple online booking
- Reliable vehicles
- English-speaking staff at major branches
- Fair fuel and damage policies
Their official website is available in English and other languages, making the whole process easier for non-Japanese speakers.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to explore Japan beyond the usual train routes, Times Car Rental Japan is a smart, reliable choice. With hundreds of convenient locations, various vehicle types, and excellent support for foreign travelers, it stands out as one of the most trusted car rental companies in the country.
Whether it’s a weeklong road trip or a quick getaway, Times gives you the flexibility to travel your way. Just make sure to bring your International Driving Permit, book in advance, and follow local driving rules for a safe and smooth experience.
