Sapporo Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Sapporo

Renting a car in Sapporo offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily navigate to key attractions such as the serene Odori Park, perfect for family outings and outdoor experiences, or unwind at the Jozankei Hot Spring, known for its wellness and relaxation opportunities. The charming Otaru Canal is also within reach, providing a picturesque setting for leisure walks. A car allows you to conveniently visit the bustling Sapporo City Centre, where you can see the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower and Sapporo TV Tower. Additionally, taking a short drive to Otaru or Chitose opens up even more options, such as the scenic Lake Shikotsu and the natural beauty of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. If you're travelling with family or sports enthusiasts, managing your luggage and itinerary becomes hassle-free, letting you focus on enjoying your trip. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, a rental car enhances your journey through Sapporo and beyond.

Most popular car rentals in Sapporo

• Compact: The compact car is a popular choice for travellers in Sapporo, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families who appreciate the balance of space and manoeuvrability. Compact cars are well-suited for navigating the city's streets while providing the flexibility needed for exploring the beautiful region around Sapporo.
• Economy: An economy car is another highly booked option in Sapporo, also accommodating 5 travellers but with space for 2 medium suitcases. This type is perfect for those looking to travel light while enjoying the freedom to explore at their own pace. Economy cars offer a cost-effective solution for solo adventurers, couples, and families who want to make the most of their time in Hokkaido without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
• Mini: The mini car option is ideal for smaller groups, accommodating up to 4 travellers with space for 2 small suitcases. This option is excellent for solo travellers and couples seeking a compact vehicle that is easy to park and navigate through Sapporo's urban landscape. The mini car provides a convenient and efficient way to explore the city while managing luggage with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Sapporo

• Avis: Avis operates 1 rental location in Sapporo, making it a convenient option for travellers. Known for offering a selection of Economy and Midsize vehicles, Avis provides flexibility for exploring the area. Customers appreciate the reliability of their cars and the ease of managing bookings. With a focus on quality and service, Avis is a solid choice for your car rental needs in Sapporo.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo boasts 5 rental locations throughout Sapporo, making it easily accessible for visitors. This supplier is particularly popular for its Compact Van and Mini vehicles, catering to a variety of travel needs. Customers often highlight Alamo's quick pickup process and friendly staff, ensuring a pleasant rental experience. With well-maintained cars and a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, Alamo is a top choice for many travellers.
• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations in Sapporo, providing convenient options for car hire. Known for its Economy and Premium Van offerings, Budget caters to a wide range of group sizes and travel preferences. Travellers appreciate the competitive pricing and the ease of the rental process. Budget’s focus on delivering value while maintaining a good standard of service makes it a reliable option for exploring Sapporo and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Sapporo

• Sapporo City Centre: The vibrant heart of Sapporo, the City Centre offers an array of outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and a bustling city atmosphere. Key attractions include the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, the scenic Odori Park, and the iconic Sapporo TV Tower, all within proximity. The area is also rich in dining options, featuring restaurants, sweet treats, and local breweries, making it a perfect base for exploring the city's unique culture and attractions.
• Otaru: A charming city located close to Sapporo, Otaru is renowned for its picturesque scenery and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the beautiful Otaru Canal and enjoy the relaxing Asarigawa Hot Spring. The area is well-known for its delectable sweet treats and local distilleries, providing a delightful culinary experience. Otaru's unique blend of culture and nature makes it an ideal destination for families and those seeking scenic landscapes.
• Chitose: This city is perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway or outdoor adventure. Chitose is home to stunning landmarks such as Lake Shikotsu, which offers breathtaking scenery and various outdoor activities. The Shikotsuko Onsen provides a tranquil escape, while the Shikotsu-Toya National Park is ideal for nature enthusiasts. With a selection of local restaurants and wineries nearby, Chitose is a wonderful choice for a relaxing stay with plenty of exploration opportunities.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget reasons, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically have lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide 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: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's licence and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Sapporo

The best value period to rent a car in and around Sapporo is June, when prices are at their lowest and demand is quite low. Following June, September offers slightly low prices with average demand, making it another attractive option. April also sees average prices and demand, providing a balanced choice. In contrast, January stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand, while February remains similarly busy with average prices. March tends to see slightly lower prices but still experiences high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	20.7°F (-6.3°C)	Light Rain	Very Cloudy	High	Slightly High
February	21.6°F (-5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
March	29.7°F (-1.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	41.0°F (5.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
July	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
December	26.1°F (-3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High