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Explore the Scenic Drive from Tokyo to Osaka

Plan your one-way car rental journey with tips and insights for a smooth travel experience

Can I rent a car from Tokyo to Osaka?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Tokyo to Osaka. 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 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Payment methods include cash, credit cards, and deposit cards. Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported debit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old to rent a car.
  • 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 year(s). Accepted driving licence include:
    • Full driver's license issued in Japan
    • Taiwan Driving License in China + Japan Translation
    • Original driving licence + IDP( issued under the 1949 Convention)
    • Hongkong Driving License in China + IDP( issued under the 1949 Convention) or
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an International Driving Permit(IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.

    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: Payment methods include credit cards. Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old to rent a car.
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How much does renting a car from Tokyo to Osaka 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$ 216/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 262/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 392US$ 300-US$ 306US$ 647-US$ 746Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 419-US$ 458US$ 300-US$ 306US$ 784-US$ 942Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 419-US$ 434US$ 300-US$ 306US$ 784-US$ 861Large groups, long drivers

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee: Ensure you are aware of any applicable one-way drop-off fees when booking.
  • Route Planning: Plan your stops carefully to account for breaks, fuel, and attractions along the way.
  • Fuel Policy: Check the rental agreement for refueling policies to avoid charges.
  • Vehicle Availability: Verify that the desired vehicle type is available for a one-way rental.
  • Toll and Road Charges: Consider extra charges for toll roads and whether they are included in your rental.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early: Secure better rates and higher availability by booking your rental in advance.
  • Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with driving and parking regulations in urban and rural areas.
  • GPS Enabled Options: Opt for GPS-enabled vehicles or smartphones to navigate efficiently.
  • Travel Light: Pack efficiently to enjoy more passenger room and ensure no excess weight.
  • Understand Coverage: Review insurance options and understand the coverage before departure.
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 to avoid higher charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use recommended fuel types to ensure vehicle performance.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost for this route is approximately 160 JPY per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce drag.

Minimize the use of air conditioning to save fuel.

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Tokyo Parking

Parking costs in Tokyo range from 400 JPY to 800 JPY per hour.

Look for parking lots near train stations for convenience.

Use parking apps to find real-time availability.

Osaka Parking

Osaka parking typically costs 300 JPY to 700 JPY per hour.

Consider parking near major attractions for easy access.

Multi-story parking lots offer better security for vehicles.

Recommended Parking Apps

Times Parking app provides real-time parking availability.

Navitime offers detailed maps with parking options.

Park24 app allows users to book parking spaces in advance.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Driving Routes from Tokyo to Osaka:
Tōkai Route via Tōmei and Meishin Expressways
Highway Route 5.5-6 hours

This route takes you along the Tōmei and Meishin expressways, offering a fast and direct route with ample service areas.

Nagoya , Shizuoka , Hikone
Chūbu Scenic Route via Chūō Expressway
Scenic Route 7-8 hours

The Chūō Expressway traverses through mountainous regions, providing picturesque views and access to Mt. Fuji.

Kofu , Matsumoto , Lake Suwa
Coastal Route by National Route 1
Alternative Coastal Route 10-12 hours

A more relaxed journey, the coastal road takes you past beaches and fishing towns.

Odawara , Numazu , Lake Hamana
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Route Selection: Choose routes that match your preferences, whether they're direct expressways or scenic alternatives.

Fueling Stations: Plan stops at fueling stations, especially on less urban segments, as they can be sparse.

Vehicle Features: Check for GPS or navigation devices in your rental car for convenient travel.

Drive Timing: Avoid congestion by beginning your journey early in the day or during off-peak hours.

Scenic Views: Consider taking alternative routes to enjoy areas with notable scenery or landmarks.

Cost Agreements: Ensure that all pricing agreements, such as toll fees and one-way surcharges, are clear before renting the car.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Nippon Rent-A-Car$$HighNationwide Competitive rates , Support in English , Multiple pick-up and drop-off locations
Toyota Rent a Car$HighNationwide Flexible one-way rental options , High-quality vehicles , Eco-friendly car options
Times Car Rental$$MediumNationwide Membership discount programs , Convenient locations near train stations , 24/7 roadside assistance
Orix Rent-A-Car$$Medium to HighNationwide Wide choice of rental plans , Customer service in multiple languages , Availability of luxury vehicles
QEEQ

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

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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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

Important Details About Tokyo and Osaka Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers in Tokyo and Osaka operate from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.

Tokyo Rental Center Location:

Available near major train stations such as Tokyo Station and Shinjuku Station.

One-Way Drop-Off Rules:

Ensure to confirm the drop-off procedure when booking your vehicle.

Airport Transportation:

Shuttle buses available to/from Narita and Kansai Airports for certain rental centers.

Pro Tips for Tokyo Narita Airport(NRT) Car Rentals

Make a reservation in advance during peak travel seasons to ensure vehicle availability and check for one-way rental confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a car at one location (in this case, Tokyo) and drop it off at a different location (such as Osaka). This service is ideal for travelers who do not plan to return to their starting point.

Are there extra fees associated with a one-way rental?

Yes, most rental companies apply a drop-off fee for one-way rentals to cover the cost of returning the vehicle to its original location. The fee varies depending on the company and the distance between locations.

Can I return the car outside of regular business hours?

Many rental agencies offer flexible return options, including after-hours drop-off. It’s recommended to confirm this option during the booking process to ensure it's available at your destination branch.

Do I need an international driver’s license to rent in Japan?

Visitors typically require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by their home country along with their passport to legally drive a rental car in Japan. Verify requirements beforehand, as some exceptions apply based on your country of origin.

Are there toll roads between Tokyo and Osaka?

Yes, the route between Tokyo and Osaka includes toll highways. Rental agencies often provide ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) cards, making toll payments more straightforward.

Ready to Book Your Tokyo to Osaka Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ