Nagoya Car Rental Self-Drive Tour: Explore Central Japan's Freedom Journey

Your complete transport guide for Japan, with routes, fares, and practical tips.

For more recommendations, see the full guide.

Nagoya, the heart of central Japan's economy, serves as an excellent starting point for self-drive tours thanks to its unique geographical location. Situated between Tokyo and Osaka, Nagoya is not only a Shinkansen hub but also a gateway to the central Japanese mountains, hot spring towns, and coastal scenic areas. Unlike tourism that relies on public transportation, renting a car lets you explore the pristine scenery of the Northern Alps, the gassho-zukuri village of Shirakawa-go, and the sacred sites of Ise-Shima at your own pace.

Key Highlights of Renting a Car in Nagoya

Nagoya is home to Chubu Centrair International Airport, approximately 45 minutes from the city center. Multiple car rental services inside the airport offer direct vehicle pickup, allowing international visitors to start their self-drive journey without additional transfers. Additionally, there are numerous rental locations around Nagoya Station, convenient for travelers arriving by Shinkansen.

From Nagoya, the expressway network is well-developed. Head north to reach Shirakawa-go and Takayama; head south to explore Ise Shrine and coastal destinations; go east to Suruga Bay; or venture west to Lake Biwa. This radial road network makes it possible to tour multiple regions within a week. Nagoya experiences distinct seasons, with cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage, and snow scenery in winter each offering unique charm. Renting a car allows you to flexibly adjust your itinerary to chase seasonal changes. The Japanese car rental market is highly competitive, and as a major hub, daily rental rates in Nagoya typically range from ¥5,500-¥12,000 (compact to mid-size vehicles), with multi-day discount packages available.

Recommended Self-Drive Destinations

1. Shirakawa-go Gassho Village and Takayama Old Town

Approximately 2.5 hours drive from Nagoya. Shirakawa-go preserves traditional Japanese gassho-zukuri farmhouses, famous for winter snowscapes, but spring and autumn's tranquility make it ideal for savoring the village's character. The nearby town of Takayama retains Edo-era street scenes, with sake breweries, pickle shops, and cafes along the old street inviting leisurely strolls. The advantage of self-driving is the ability to stop at will along winding mountain roads to capture scenic views. ZIP 501-4627 Gifu Prefecture, Ono District, Shirakawa Village

2. Ise Shrine and Shima Coast

About 90 minutes south of Nagoya. Ise Shrine is Japan's oldest and most sacred shrine. Drive around the Shima Peninsula for breathtaking coastal views, where Ama diving culture, fresh seafood, and pearl farming create a unique local character. ZIP 516-0023 Mie Prefecture, Ise City, Uji Museum Town

3. Gero Hot Springs and Hida Country

Located in the Hida region, famous for therapeutic hot spring waters. Surrounded by mountains with morning mist, drive to stay at a traditional hot spring ryokan and enjoy kaiseki cuisine and open-air baths. The nearby Hida Furukawa area preserves Edo-era post town charm. ZIP 509-2206 Gifu Prefecture, Gero City, Yunoshima

4. Suruga Bay and Izu Peninsula

Head southeast from Nagoya, where Suruga Bay presents a magnificent dialogue between Mount Fuji and the bay. The Izu Peninsula is known for hot springs, cherry blossoms, and beaches, with numerous coastal road attractions. Self-driving makes it easy to switch between small fishing villages. ZIP 413-0011 Shizuoka Prefecture, Atami City

5. Lake Biwa Western Shore and Omihachiman

About 90 minutes west lies Japan's largest freshwater lake. Drive along the western shore with lake and mountain scenery accompanying you, passing through historic city Hikone and cultural town Omihachiman. Renting a car allows you to discover hidden attractions that are difficult to reach by public transportation. ZIP 523-0808 Shiga Prefecture, Omihachiman City

Practical Information

*Transportation and Rental Locations*

Multiple car rental company service counters are available in the Chubu Centrair Airport terminal; several locations within 2km radius around Nagoya Station (ZIP 450-0002 Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City, Nakamura Ward, Meieki 4-chome).

*Cost Reference*

Daily rental: ¥5,500-8,000 (compact) to ¥7,000-12,000 (mid-size); gasoline approximately ¥170-190/liter, fuel consumption 7-10 liters per 100km; expressway tolls: Nagoya to Tokyo ¥11,650, Nagoya to Osaka ¥6,650. Full coverage insurance strongly recommended (¥1,000-2,000/day).

*Operating Hours and Documents*

Most rental services operate until 20:00, airport locations until 23:00. Required documents: valid passport, international driver's license, credit card (for deposit and insurance).

*Fueling and Parking*

Expressway rest areas available every 50-80km; city parking ¥200-500/hour.

Travel Tips

Japanese expressways have a speed limit of 100km/h; narrow mountain roads require caution. Winter mountain areas may experience heavy snowfall requiring winter tires. During spring cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, parking at popular attractions is limited; departing early in the morning is recommended. During peak seasons, book rental cars 1-2 weeks in advance. Use Google Maps and Yahoo! Japan Transit for route planning; offline maps are recommended for areas with unstable mountain signals. Illegal parking may result in fines; use official parking lots near attractions. Gas stations typically close at 20:00; applying for ETC passes makes expressway travel more convenient. Carry emergency supplies (flashlight, spare tire, warning triangle, etc.); rental companies usually provide these.