Tokyo Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Tokyo

Renting a car in Tokyo offers a practical way to explore the city's many attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. This is especially beneficial for families or those seeking outdoor and entertainment experiences. Key attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland®, a fantastic theme park, and the iconic Tokyo Skytree, a modern tower with stunning views, are conveniently accessible by car. You can also visit popular destinations like Shinjuku, featuring the serene Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Shibuya, home to the bustling Shibuya Crossing. The upscale district of Ginza, known for its shopping and cultural sites, is within easy reach as well. By renting a car, you eliminate the need to navigate public transportation, making it simpler to enjoy everything Tokyo has to offer, whether you're travelling with children or exploring the city's vibrant neighbourhoods. Embrace the freedom and convenience that a rental car provides for a memorable trip in and around Tokyo.

Most popular car rentals in Tokyo

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for travellers in Tokyo, accommodating up to 5 individuals along with up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for an efficient way to navigate the bustling city. Its manageable size makes it perfect for urban driving, while still offering enough space for luggage, ensuring a comfortable and flexible travel experience.
• Economy: The Economy car is another favourite among tourists, also catering for 5 travellers but accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for those who value fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness without sacrificing comfort. Whether you're a solo explorer or part of a couple or family, the Economy car provides a versatile option to enjoy the sights of Tokyo with ease.
• Mini: The Mini car is an excellent choice for those travelling in smaller groups, comfortably fitting up to 4 travellers along with up to 2 small suitcases. This compact option is particularly well-suited for solo travellers or couples looking for a nimble vehicle to navigate Tokyo’s busy streets. Its smaller size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre, providing a stress-free driving experience in the vibrant city.

Top rated car suppliers in Tokyo

• Avis: With a strong presence in Tokyo, Avis operates one rental location, making it a convenient option for travellers seeking flexibility. This supplier is particularly popular for its Economy and Standard vehicles, catering well to those who want efficient and reliable transportation. Renting from Avis allows you to explore Tokyo and its surroundings at your own pace, while managing your luggage with ease.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo stands out with over 10 rental locations across Tokyo, offering extensive accessibility for tourists. This supplier is well-regarded for its Compact and Mini Van options, which are ideal for small groups or families. With Alamo, you can enjoy a smooth rental experience and the freedom to navigate Tokyo's attractions comfortably and conveniently.
• Enterprise: With more than 5 rental locations in Tokyo, Enterprise provides excellent convenience for travellers. Known for its selection of Compact Vans and Midsize vehicles, this supplier is perfect for those who need a bit more space without sacrificing manoeuvrability. Enterprise's strong presence in the city ensures that you can easily pick up your vehicle and begin your adventure in and around Tokyo with minimal hassle.

Where to stay in Tokyo

• Shinjuku: An energetic neighbourhood known for its family-friendly and outdoor experiences, Shinjuku offers a vibrant shopping mall centre and a multitude of dining options, including restaurants and breweries. Key attractions such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a serene urban park, are perfect for a city escape. The iconic Shibuya Crossing and the modern Tokyo Tower are also nearby, providing excellent sightseeing opportunities within a short distance.
• Taito: Taito is a culturally rich area that appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The bustling shopping areas and cafes cater to all tastes. Explore Ueno Park, a beautiful urban park ideal for relaxation, or visit the Tokyo Skytree, a modern tower that offers panoramic views of the city. Sensoji Temple, a historic site, adds a cultural touch to your visit, making Taito a well-rounded choice for your stay.
• Shibuya: Known for its dynamic city vibe, Shibuya is a fantastic neighbourhood for families and those seeking an outdoor city experience. The area features a lively shopping scene and a variety of restaurants, including sweet treat shops and alcohol distilleries. Must-visit sites include the famous Shibuya Crossing, the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine, and the ever-impressive Tokyo Tower, all easily accessible within a short distance.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you identify the best match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a suitable 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—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just make sure to return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports; however, it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
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 offers peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
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 Tokyo

The best time to rent a car in and around Tokyo is May, when prices are at their lowest and demand is manageable. March also offers slightly lower prices and average demand, making it a decent shoulder month. In contrast, September tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining low. While June usually experiences lower demand, it doesn't offer the same value as May, leaving it as a quieter option for rentals. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
July	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
September	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
October	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average