Car Hire Narita Airport — Your Gateway to Tokyo and Beyond

Landing at Narita Airport puts you about 60 kilometres from central Tokyo, and having your own rental car transforms what could be a long shuttle ride into the start of your Japanese adventure. Narita is Japan’s busiest international gateway, serving millions of travellers each year who come to explore everything from Tokyo’s neon-lit streets to the serene temples of Nikkō and the hot springs of Hakone.

Renting a car at Narita gives you the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist trail. While the Narita Express and airport limousine buses are convenient for reaching central Tokyo, they don’t take you to the countryside onsens, the coastal areas of Chiba, or the historic towns that dot the Kanto region. With a rental car, you can experience Japan at your own pace.

Picking Up Your Rental Car in Narita

Narita Airport has two terminals, and both offer car rental services from major providers including Toyota Rent a Car, Nissan Car Rental, Orix, and Times Car Rental. The rental counters are located in the arrival halls of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with the actual car parks a short shuttle bus ride away.

International visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country driving licence. Japan recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, which covers most countries including Australia, the UK, and the USA. Make sure to arrange your IDP before leaving home, as it cannot be obtained in Japan.

Most rental desks operate from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, matching flight schedules. If you’re arriving on a late-night flight, check whether your rental company offers after-hours pickup. Some provide key boxes for late arrivals who have pre-arranged their booking.

Where to Go with Your Rental Car from Narita

Tokyo Central (60 km) — Drive into the heart of Japan’s capital via the Shuto Expressway. Having a car lets you explore neighbourhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa at your own pace. Parking in Tokyo can be expensive, so plan ahead and use coin-operated parking lots or hotel parking.

Nikkō (150 km) — The UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines of Nikkō are a 2.5-hour drive from Narita. The famous Tōshō-gū Shrine and the surrounding national park offer a perfect escape from the city.

Kamakura and Enoshima (100 km) — This coastal area combines historic temples with beach culture. Visit the Great Buddha, wander through the bamboo groves of Hase-dera, and enjoy fresh seafood by the sea.

Mount Fuji and Hakone (150 km) — Drive towards Japan’s iconic mountain for stunning views and relaxing hot springs. The Fuji Five Lakes region offers driving routes with some of the best photo opportunities in Japan.

Chiba Countryside (30–50 km) — Explore the rural side of Chiba Prefecture, from the strawberry farms of Katori to the coastal views around Kujukuri Beach. These areas are difficult to reach by public transport but perfect for a road trip.

Tips for Driving in Japan

Japan drives on the left, which is straightforward for visitors from Australia, the UK, and other left-hand traffic countries. Speed limits are generally 40 km/h in urban areas, 50–60 km/h on regular roads, and 80–100 km/h on expressways. Expressways are toll roads, and costs can add up quickly—budget around ¥30 per kilometre.

Navigation is easier than you might think. Most rental cars come with English-language GPS systems, and smartphone apps like Google Maps work perfectly in Japan. Road signs on major routes are bilingual, showing Japanese and English.

Fuel stations are plentiful, though smaller countryside stations may close early or be unmanned. Full-service stations (where attendants fill your tank) are common and excellent for visitors who don’t speak Japanese—just say “full, please” and they’ll handle the rest.

One important rule: pedestrian crossings are sacred. Drivers must stop for pedestrians at marked crossings, and Japanese pedestrians often step out without looking, trusting that cars will stop. Be extra cautious near schools and residential areas.

Book through our search above to find the best car hire deals at Narita Airport and start your Japanese road trip adventure.