Nagano Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Nagano

Renting a car in Nagano offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. Whether you are interested in cultural experiences at Zenko-ji Temple or Togakushi Shrine, or wish to delve into history at the Nagano City Museum, having a car makes these destinations easily accessible.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture into nearby neighbourhoods such as Togakushi, which features stunning sites like Lake Nojiri, and Kurita, home to multiple cultural landmarks. If you plan to enjoy the ski and adventure sports that Nagano is known for, having your own transport can simplify your journey to various ski resorts. This convenience appeals to families, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience the rich culture of Nagano without the constraints of public transport schedules. By renting a car, you ensure a smooth and enjoyable exploration of the beautiful Nagano region.

Most popular car rentals in Nagano

• Compact: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for solo adventurers, couples, or families. Its manageable size makes navigating the streets of Nagano easy, while still offering enough space for luggage. Compact cars are particularly suitable for those who enjoy a more urban driving experience while having the flexibility to explore various attractions at their own pace.
• Mini: Ideal for solo travellers or couples, the Mini car can comfortably seat 4 passengers and can hold up to 2 small suitcases. Its compact dimensions make it perfect for city driving, where parking can be limited. The Mini offers a practical solution for those looking for an economical option that still provides the freedom to explore Nagano with ease.
• Midsize: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases, the Midsize car is particularly well-suited for couples or families needing extra room. This option provides a balance between comfort and practicality, allowing for a more spacious interior while still being manageable for driving around Nagano. The added luggage capacity is ideal for those planning longer trips or carrying more equipment.

Top rated car suppliers in Nagano

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Nagano, known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles. With a focus on compact and mini cars, Alamo provides a practical option for those looking to navigate the city and surrounding areas comfortably. Customers often commend the cleanliness of the cars and the ease of the return process, making it a reliable choice for your car rental needs.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental options. With a selection that includes compact cars and compact SUVs, it caters to a variety of preferences and needs. Travellers appreciate the helpful staff and smooth check-in process, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Enterprise is an excellent choice for families or those requiring extra space while exploring Nagano.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental is well-regarded for its straightforward rental process and focus on compact vehicles. With a convenient location in Nagano, it allows travellers to easily access their rentals and start their adventures. Customers often highlight the efficiency of the service and the quality of the cars, making National a solid option for those looking to explore the region with ease.

Where to stay in and around Nagano

• Chikuma: Located 17 km from Nagano, Chikuma is ideal for those seeking ski, adventure, and outdoor experiences. The area boasts numerous ski fields and resorts, making it a prime spot during the winter season. Nearby attractions include the Nagano Prefectural Museum of History, which offers cultural insights, and Joyama Historic Park, perfect for family outings. Don’t miss the local onsens and hotsprings for relaxation after a day of adventure.
• Togakushi: Situated around Nagano, Togakushi is a neighbourhood rich in sports and adventure activities. It is renowned for its ski fields and lifts, attracting winter sports enthusiasts. Key points of interest include the Togakushi Shrine, which provides a cultural experience, and Lake Nojiri, offering beautiful scenery for outdoor lovers. The area is also known for its breweries, providing a taste of local flavours.
• Kurita: Also located near Nagano, Kurita is another great option for ski and adventure lovers. The proximity to ski resorts makes it an attractive destination in the winter months. Visitors can explore cultural sites like the Zenko-ji Temple and the Nagano City Museum, which is suitable for family-oriented visits. The neighbourhood is also home to various dining options, allowing travellers to enjoy local cuisine.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Nagano

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Nagano

The best value period to rent a car in and around Nagano is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. June also offers a good opportunity, as it has low demand and slightly low prices. The months of January and February see high demand and average prices, making them busier times for rentals. However, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
February	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
March	37.4°F (3.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
September	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
October	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	34.2°F (1.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average