Your Gateway to Japan: Car Rentals at Narita Airport

You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) — your US license alone isn't sufficient. Get one from AAA before your trip (about $20). The IDP is valid for 1 year and must be carried alongside your original license. Without it, you legally cannot drive and rental companies will refuse to hand over the vehicle.

Plan for a serious adjustment period. Right-hand drive vehicles mean the steering wheel is on the right, and you'll be sitting on the wrong side for judging oncoming traffic. First-time left-side driving typically requires 2-3 days to feel comfortable. Take it slow, use a navigator, and avoid highways until you're confident. Pro tip: rental agencies in tourist areas often provide free orientation sessions.

Rent a car with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) device installed — this is non-negotiable for highway driving. Tolls are expensive: Tokyo to Osaka (500km) runs about ¥10,000-13,000 ($65-85). Without ETC, you pay at toll booths with cash or credit card, which causes massive delays. ETC cards (available at convenience stores and rest stops) let you zip through dedicated lanes. Many rentals include ETC as standard; ask when booking.

If you're staying in central Tokyo, leave the car at your hotel and use trains. Downtown parking runs ¥300-600 per 15 minutes ($2-4) and ¥2,000-4,000 per night at hotels. Street parking is extremely scarce. However, if you're exploring Mt. Fuji, Nikko, or the Japan Alps, a car is essential — just budget ¥1,000-2,000 daily for parking at tourist sites.

The minimum age is typically 21 years old, but drivers under 25 almost always pay a young driver surcharge of ¥3,000-5,000 per day ($20-35). Some luxury or specialty vehicles require drivers to be 25+. If you're under 25, factor this into your budget — it can add ¥140-245 to a week-long rental. No senior surcharges exist, but drivers over 70 may face additional insurance restrictions at some agencies.

For Tokyo proper: snow tires are rarely needed as the city rarely gets heavy snowfall. However, if you're heading to mountainous regions like Hakone, Mt. Fuji area, Nagano, or Hokkaido between November-March, studless snow tires are mandatory on certain routes — rental companies provide these on request for ¥3,000-5,000 per day. Check your planned route on Japan Road conditions websites before departure. Car rental agencies in winter-season tourist areas typically install snow tires automatically.