Car Hire Kochi Airport — Gateway to Shikoku’s Pacific Coast

Kochi Airport serves one of Japan’s most scenic and least-visited regions. Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, offers everything from the 88-temple Buddhist pilgrimage route to stunning Pacific coast drives, from dramatic gorges to hilltop castles with panoramic ocean views. And with public transport limited outside the cities, a rental car is practically essential for exploring.

The airport sits about 15 kilometres east of Kochi city, positioned to serve the prefecture’s capital and the surrounding countryside. This is rural Japan at its most atmospheric—fishing villages, terraced rice fields, and roads that hug the coastline with the Pacific stretching to the horizon.

Picking Up Your Rental Car at Kochi Airport

Car rental counters are located in the small terminal’s arrival area. Operators include Toyota Rent a Car, Nippon, and local providers. The compact nature of this regional airport means pickup is straightforward—the rental lot is adjacent to the terminal.

International visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Australia, the UK, the USA, and most European countries participate. Arrange your IDP before departure—it cannot be obtained in Japan.

Counter hours typically run from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, reflecting the airport’s limited flight schedule. If arriving on a late flight, confirm after-hours arrangements when booking.

Where to Go with Your Rental Car from Kochi Airport

Kochi City (15 km) — The prefectural capital features one of Japan’s original castles, a lively Sunday market, and the birthplace museum of samurai revolutionary Sakamoto Ryoma. The drive takes about 20 minutes.

Katsurahama Beach (25 km) — This crescent-shaped beach framed by pine trees and a dramatic coastline is one of Japan’s most famous scenic spots. A statue of Sakamoto Ryoma overlooks the Pacific.

Niyodo River (40 km) — Known for its impossibly clear blue water, the Niyodo offers swimming, rafting, and scenic drives through forested valleys. The “Niyodo Blue” is legendary among photographers.

Oboke and Koboke Gorges (70 km) — These dramatic river gorges offer boat rides, hiking trails, and some of Shikoku’s most spectacular scenery. The drive takes about 90 minutes through mountain roads.

Shimanami Kaido (80 km) — Drive to the port town of Sukumo and explore the island-hopping route across the Seto Inland Sea. Cyclists love this route, but driving lets you access the best viewpoints.

Tips for Driving in Shikoku

Shikoku follows Japan’s left-hand traffic rules. Speed limits are 40–50 km/h on regular roads, with expressways allowing up to 80 km/h. The island has a limited expressway network, so most travel is on scenic but slower roads.

Mountain roads in Shikoku can be narrow and winding, especially routes to the gorges and pilgrimage temples. Take your time and use passing bays when local traffic approaches from behind. The views are worth the slower pace.

Fuel stations are less common than on the main island of Honshu. Fill up in Kochi city before heading into rural areas. Many countryside stations are small family operations that close by 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM.

Navigation in rural Shikoku can be challenging. GPS systems in rental cars help, but smartphone coverage can be spotty in mountain areas. Download offline maps before venturing far from the cities. The 88 Temple Pilgrimage route is well-marked with stickers and signs.

The Pacific coast weather can be dramatic—sunny mornings can give way to afternoon squalls. The typhoon season (August to October) brings the strongest storms. Check weather forecasts before coastal drives during these months.

Parking is generally easy in Kochi and at tourist sites. The castle has a dedicated car park, and beaches offer free parking. In rural areas, small lots are usually available near temples and attractions.

Book through our search above to secure car hire at Kochi Airport and discover Shikoku’s wild beauty at your own pace.