Japan Rail Pass or Car Rental? How to Choose & Where to Book
James Saunders-Wyndham
Table of contents:
When planning a trip to Japan, one of the most important decisions is how to get around. Should you buy a Japan Rail Pass for train travel or go for a car rental in Japan? With so many beautiful destinations to explore, from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto, making the right choice can save you both time and money. But it also depends on your travel style and itinerary.
Let's dive into the pros and cons, cost breakdowns, and real-life scenarios to help you make the best choice for your 2025 adventure.
1. Do You Need a Car in Japan?
The short answer: Only if you are planning to go out into the country.
If you’re looking to visit rural areas, remote temples, or scenic countryside spots (and I recommend that you do!), you will definitely need a car.
If you're planning to remain in the cities, you will NOT need a car. In the cities, you can use Japan’s public transportation system, which is one of the most efficient and reliable in the world. Trains are always on time, and the Shinkansen (bullet trains) are famous for their speed and comfort.
👉 Curious if a car is right for your trip? Check out rental car prices in Japan here
2. Japan Rail Pass: The Best Choice for City Hopping
If you’re only planning to only travel on the Golden Route (Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto), then you probably WON'T need to get a Japan Rail Pass. You can easily travel between those three cities for less than the cost of the JR Pass.
However, if you are looking to visit multiple Japanese cities, then I recommend getting the Japan Rail Pass. Especially if you are planning to travel to places like Hiroshima, Himeiji, and Kyushu Island. It makes hopping from city to city a breeze!
The Japan Rail Pass allows unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, local trains, and even some buses and ferries. It’s best for those planning to visit multiple major cities in Japan, as it saves both time and money.
👉 Ready to explore Japan by train? Get your Japan Rail Pass here
2.1. Benefits of the Japan Rail Pass:
- Unlimited Travel: Perfect for multi-city itineraries like Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka → Hiroshima.
- Cost-Effective: A 7-day JR Pass cost is ¥50,000 ($335), while individual Shinkansen tickets for the same route would exceed ¥55,000 ($370).
- Time-Saving and Convenient: Shinkansen bullet trains are punctual and travel at speeds of up to 300 km/h, ensuring you spend more time exploring and less time commuting.
- Comfort and Ease: No need to worry about parking, tolls, or navigation. The trains are spacious, with reserved seating available.
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3. Should I Rent a Car in Japan?
Renting a car in Japan can be a game-changer, especially if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Driving through the Japanese countryside is an experience in itself. It offers amazing views of mountains, coastlines, and traditional villages that are mostly not accessible by public transport.
From driving through the lavender fields of Furano in Hokkaido to discovering the hidden temples away from the Kyoto city crowds. Having your own wheels opens up a lot of sightseeing opportunities in Japan.
👉 Rent a car with Trip.com
3.1. Who Should Rent a Car in Japan?
- Families or Groups: Splitting rental and fuel costs among four or more travelers is more economical than buying multiple JR Passes.
- Rural Explorers: Areas like Hokkaido, Shikoku, and the Japanese Alps are best explored by car due to limited train connectivity.
- Road Trip Lovers: If you enjoy scenic drives, Japan offers breathtaking routes, like the Noto Peninsula or the Shimanami Kaido cycling and driving path.
- Luggage-Friendly Travel: More convenient for travelers with bulky luggage or families with kids.
3.2. Considerations for Car Rental in Japan:
- International Driver’s License: Required for most international visitors.
- Navigation: English GPS systems are usually available, but understanding basic Japanese road signs can be helpful.
- Tolls and Parking: Expressway tolls can add up quickly, and parking in cities can be expensive. Plan your budget accordingly.
- Driving Etiquette: Japanese drivers are polite, and traffic rules are strictly followed. Drive safely and respectfully.
- Japanese Traffic Laws: Find out some of the basics of traffic laws in Japan, so you don’t get yourself into trouble.
👉 Ready to hit the road with Rentalcar.com
4. Cost Comparison: Japan Rail Pass vs. Japan Rent a Car in 2025
| Expense | Japan Rail Pass | Japan Car Rental |
| Base Cost | 7-day: ¥50,000 ($335) | ¥6,600-12,000 ($45-90 USD) per day |
| Fuel Costs | N/A | ¥170/liter |
| Tolls in Japan | N/A | Tokyo to Hiroshima: ¥18,000 one way |
| Parking Fees | N/A | ¥800-2,000 per night |
| Flexibility | Fixed train schedules | Complete freedom to explore at your own pace |
| Best For | Solo travelers, couples, multi-city travel | Families, group travel, rural exploration |
| License | N/A | international driver's license |
5. Real-Life Scenarios: Which is More Cost-Effective?
5.1. Multi-City Exploration by Bullet Train (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima)
- Recommendation: Japan Rail Pass
- Why: Unlimited Shinkansen travel saves you money and hassle, especially if visiting multiple cities. For instance, traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima on individual tickets would cost over ¥55,000 ($370 USD).
- Pro Tip: Reserve your JR Pass before arriving in Japan to lock in current prices.
👉 Purchase your Japan Rail Pass here
5. 2. Rural and Scenic Travel by Car (Hokkaido, Shikoku, Tohoku)
- Recommendation: Car Rental
- Why: Flexible schedules, scenic drives, and easier access to remote destinations. For example, exploring the flower fields of Furano in Hokkaido or the coastal roads of Shikoku is far more convenient by car.
- Pro Tip: Book through Rentalcar.com for flexible pick-up and drop-off locations.
👉 Compare car rental prices - Trip.com vs RentalCars.com
5.3. Top Japan Tourist Attractions by Car and Train
- By JR Pass: Tokyo Tower, Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine, Osaka Castle, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
- By Car: Furano Flower Fields (Hokkaido), Shimanami Kaido (Shikoku), Mount Aso (Kyushu), Noto Peninsula (Honshu)
👉 Discover more with a Japan Rail Pass or Rentalcar.com
FAQs
Do you need a car in Japan?
If you’re exploring cities, no, you do not need a car. Public transport is excellent in Japan. Plus, the Japan Rail Pass covers all major routes. However, for rural or scenic routes outside of the cities, renting a car is highly recommended.
Is the Japan Rail Pass worth it?
The 7-day JR Pass costs ¥50,000, so it’s only worth it if you take multiple train trips. For short stays, individual tickets or flights may be cheaper.
Should I rent a car in Japan for a family trip?
If you want to get out of the city and explore rural Japan, then yes. Renting a car is ideal for families, providing flexibility and luggage space.
Can I combine the Japan Rail Pass with car rental?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend that you do this. Rent a car and drive around the areas that surround Mount Fuji. After that, start your JR Pass and use it to explore the west parts of Japan, e.g., Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Himeji.
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James Saunders-Wyndham
I've been immersed in Japanese culture and daily life for over 30 years and am proud to call Japan my home. Originally from Australia, my journey has taken me from teaching at Japanese universities to traveling extensively across the country, uncovering its hidden gems. As a web developer, I built Romancing Japan from the ground up to share these experiences with you. Whether it's the charm of old Kyoto, the pulse of Tokyo, or the tranquility of the countryside, I love helping others discover the magic of Japan—one story at a time.
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