Car Rentals in Hiroshima

Renting a car in Hiroshima is the ultimate solution for travelers looking to discover the city and its stunning surroundings. While the city center is easy to navigate, a private vehicle allows you to reach picturesque coastal towns and rural hidden gems that are difficult to access via public transport.

With a rental car, you can effortlessly drive to historic landmarks, explore lush national parks, and relax along the Sea of Japan coast—all while saving on taxi fares and sticking to your own schedule.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Hiroshima?

The cost of renting a car in Hiroshima fluctuates based on the season, the vehicle class, and the duration of your rental.

Factors Influencing Rental Prices:

Seasonality: During the cherry blossom season (Sakura), peak autumn foliage, and national holidays (like Golden Week), demand surges, driving up prices.
Vehicle Type: Compact models are the most budget-friendly, while mid-size sedans, SUVs, and minivans command a higher daily rate.
Rental Period: Long-term rentals are more economical, as the daily rate typically decreases for bookings of a week or more.
Optional Extras: Full insurance coverage, child seats, GPS navigation, and additional driver permits will add to the final total.

Estimated Rental Rates in Hiroshima (Per Day)

Car Class	Low Season (1–3 Days)	Low Season (7+ Days)	High Season (1–3 Days)	High Season (7+ Days)
Economy	$35 – $45	$30 – $40	$45 – $60	$40 – $50
Mid-size	$50 – $65	$45 – $60	$65 – $80	$60 – $75
SUV / Crossover	$75 – $90	$70 – $85	$90 – $110	$85 – $100
Minivan	$90 – $110	$85 – $105	$110 – $130	$100 – $120

Note: High season in Hiroshima typically falls during spring (Sakura), November (Autumn colors), May, and the New Year holidays. Low season includes January–February (post-holidays), June, and September.

Requirements for Renting a Car in Hiroshima

To pick up your rental car, you will need to provide the following documents:

Driver’s License: A valid national license accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official Japanese translation (depending on your home country).
Passport: Your physical passport with the Japanese entry stamp is required.

Age & Experience: Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 20 or 21 years old with a minimum of 1–2 years of driving experience. These requirements can vary slightly depending on the specific vehicle category.

Driving in Hiroshima: What to Expect

Driving in Hiroshima is relatively straightforward, even for first-timers in Japan. However, keep these local tips in mind:

Keep to the Left: Japan follows left-hand traffic rules. The steering wheel is on the right, which can feel unusual at first. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the indicator and wiper stalks before heading into city traffic.
Tight Spaces & Parking: Roads in historic districts can be narrow. Always use official parking lots; most are automated and charge by the hour. Avoid street parking at all costs to prevent heavy fines.
Share the Road: Be mindful of cyclists, who often share the roadway. Pedestrians strictly have the right of way—always stop for them at crossings.
Speed Limits: City limits are usually set at 40 km/h (approx. 25 mph) and are even lower on residential side streets.
Toll Expressways: If you are heading out of the city toward the coast or Yamaguchi Prefecture, expect to use toll roads. You can pay with cash or a credit card, though many rental cars come equipped with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card reader for convenience.

Where to Pick Up Your Rental Car in Hiroshima

For maximum convenience, you can arrange to collect your vehicle at Hiroshima Airport (HIJ), at major train stations in the city center, or even have it delivered to your hotel.

We recommend booking your car online in advance. This ensures a wider selection of vehicles, lower rates, and a much faster pickup process compared to walk-in rentals.