From United States
+1-8007618913
From Canada
+1-2897685366
From United Kingdom
+44-2035140670
From Japan
+81 3-4578-4029
From Argentina
+54-2657459025
From Chile
+56-226665927
From Colombia
+57-6017940262
From Mexico
+52-7449800692
From New Zealand
+64-99508740
From Peru
+51-17009061
From Switzerland
+41-445514539
From Thailand
+66-25088458
From Singapore
+65-31585008
From Australia
+61-1800-507-258
From Turkey
+90-850-390-7486
From Italy
+39-800729010
From Portugal
+351-304500663
From Brazil
+55-6140426960
From France
+33-970019487
From Israel
+972-23752163
From Germany
+49 6107 6353100
From China
+86-1089171020
From South Korea (Domestic calls only)
00308 491 0209
From other countries or regions
+1-8007618913
Live chat Email us Service Code: 9955736236
logo_img

Explore Japan with Ease

Effortlessly travel from Tokyo to Kobe with a convenient one-way car rental

Can I rent a car from Tokyo to Kobe?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Tokyo to Kobe. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for JP residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Japan national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 year(s).

    Notes: Accepted translation: Authorized Japanese Translation for driver's license issued in Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium, Slovenia, Estonia and Monaco.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: The minimum driving age is 18, and the maximum driving age is 80-99 depending on the rental policy.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (Only IDP issued under the 1949 Convention will be accepted. An IDP issued under the Paris Convention (1926), Washington Convention (1943), and Vienna Convention (1968) will not be accepted!)
    or
    • Original driving licence issued in Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Slovenia, Monaco, or Taiwan + Japanese Translation issued by JAF, foreign embassies, or consular offices in Japan.

    Notes: Accepted translation: Authorized Japanese Translation for driver's license issued in Switzerland, Germany, France, Taiwan, Belgium, Slovenia, Estonia and Monaco. *Driver's license, passport, and IDP must be issued in the same country.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: The minimum driving age is 18, and the maximum driving age is 80-99 depending on the rental policy.
requirements.image

How much does renting a car from Tokyo to Kobe cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 221/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 405US$ 312-US$ 318US$ 661Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 432-US$ 472US$ 312-US$ 318US$ 798-US$ 955Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 433-US$ 448US$ 312-US$ 318US$ 798-US$ 874Large groups, long drivers

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Additional charges may apply when dropping off the car in a different location than the pickup point.
  • Cross-Regional Restrictions: Certain agencies might limit travel to specific regions; confirm your route is allowed.
  • Refueling Policies: Understand whether the car should be returned with a full tank to avoid extra fees.
  • Vehicle Availability: Ensure the chosen rental services have available vehicles suitable for long distances.
  • Double-Check Rental Conditions: Review rental terms, including insurance options and permissible mileage limits.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Ensure Advance Booking: Reserve your rental car early for better vehicle availability and potentially lower prices.
  • Plan Flexible Travel Schedules: Allow extra time for drop-off procedures and potential delays.
  • Map Your Route in Advance: Identify refueling stops, rest areas, and potential attraction points along the way.
  • Pack Strategically: Consider luggage capacity and accessibility for a comfortable travel experience.
  • Understand Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the rental company’s assistance policies for roadside emergencies.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Plan refueling stops along the route to avoid running low on fuel.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along this route is approximately ¥160 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Drive at a steady speed to maximize fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

refueling-bg
Tokyo Parking

Parking in Tokyo can be expensive, with rates averaging ¥300-¥600 per hour.

Many parking lots operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Consider using parking apps to locate available spaces in real time.

Kobe Parking

Kobe offers various parking options, with rates around ¥200-¥500 per hour.

Look for parking near major attractions for convenience.

Some parking lots offer discounts for longer stays.

Recommended Parking Apps

Times Parking App: Provides real-time availability and rates.

Navitime: Offers parking lot search and reservation features.

Park24: A popular app for finding and booking parking in Japan.

parking-bg

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Key Routes between Tokyo and Kobe:
Tokyo to Kobe via Chuo Expressway
Expressway Route 6 hours 30 minutes

Travel along the Chuo Expressway offering speedy transit with scenic views.

Nagoya , Kyoto , Nara
Tokyo to Kobe via Tokaido Route
Historical Route 7 hours

Trace the historical trail connecting Tokyo and Kobe with cultural landmarks and preserved sites.

Shizuoka , Nagoya , Kyoto
Tokyo to Kobe via Coastal Route
Scenic Route 8 hours

Follow the scenic coastal route offering ocean views and charming seaside towns.

Yokohama , Atami , Himeji
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Right Vehicle: Select a car suitable for the trip's duration and size requirements. Compact cars are ideal for city areas, while SUVs are suitable for longer hauls.

Know the Route: Familiarize yourself with the planned route, rest stops, and fuel stations to avoid inconveniences.

Leverage Navigation Tools: Use GPS or navigation apps to update live traffic and optimize the route.

Refuel Before Expressways: Some expressway segments lack frequent gas stations, so it's crucial to refuel in urban areas.

Prepare for Tolls: Keep cash or electronic toll cards handy as Japan's expressways have frequent toll booths.

Plan Scenic Stops: Make time for scenic breaks or side-trips along notable landmarks during your journey.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Guidance on selecting companies, focusing on those with one-way rental services from Tokyo to Kobe.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Nippon Rent-A-Car$$Extensive selection of compact, luxury, and SUVsHigh, with nationwide presence Competitive pricing , 24/7 customer support , Zero one-way fee promotions
Toyota Rent-a-Lease$Wide selection, including hybrid optionsStrong coverage in urban and regional areas Eco-friendly option availability , Affordable insurance packages
Nissan Rent-A-Car$$$Comprehensive fleet of Nissan vehicles, from economy to premiumGood presence at major stations and airports Simple booking process , Great condition vehicles
Times Car Rental$$Balanced mix of types and sizesModerate coverage across urban zones Flexible pricing plans , Well-maintained vehicles
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

companies-img1
Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

companies-img2
Best Rates

Compare across providers

companies-img3
24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

companies-img4
Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Details about Rental Car Centers in Tokyo and Kobe

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers in Tokyo and Kobe operate from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Confirm with your chosen company.

Pickup and Dropoff Locations:

Rental offices are conveniently located near Tokyo train stations and at Kobe Port.

Shuttle Services:

Free shuttle services are provided from major transit hubs to rental locations.

Parking and Vehicle Return:

Ensure to return the vehicle in the same condition as received. Dropoff locations are available city-wide.

Pro Tips for Tokyo Narita Airport(NRT) Car Rentals

Book your rental vehicle well in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a rental car in one location, such as Tokyo, and drop it off at another, like Kobe. This can be convenient for travelers not returning to their starting point.

Are there additional fees for one-way car rentals between Tokyo and Kobe?

Many rental companies charge a one-way rental fee to cover the cost of returning the vehicle to its original location. The exact amount depends on the rental company and terms of service.

What documentation do I need to rent a car in Japan?

You'll typically need a valid driver's license, an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in Japanese, and a credit card for payment and deposit purposes.

How long does it take to drive from Tokyo to Kobe?

The drive from Tokyo to Kobe typically takes around 5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and the specific route chosen. Factors such as rest breaks and toll roads can affect this duration.

Can I choose any drop-off time in Kobe?

Drop-off times are generally determined during the rental car reservation process. Rental locations usually have specific office hours, but some offer after-hours drop-off services; always confirm ahead of time with your provider.

Ready to Book Your Tokyo to Kobe Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ