When it comes to traveling to Hiroshima, many visitors choose to take the Shinkansen (bullet train) or use trams and buses within the city. However, if you want to deeply explore this city rich in historical depth, natural scenery, and culinary specialties—as well as the surrounding areas—renting a car for self-driving offers the most flexible and efficient option. As a major transportation hub in western Japan, Hiroshima not only possesses profound historical and cultural significance but also serves as an ideal starting point for accessing the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and the historic town of Onomichi. Renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace and discover many hidden gems that are not easily accessible by public transportation.
Unique Advantages of Renting a Car in Hiroshima
The advantage of renting a car in Hiroshima lies in its geographic location. To the east, you can directly reach Onomichi's nostalgic port town and Senkoji Temple; to the south, it takes only 20 minutes to reach Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine; and to the north, you'll find serene mountain hot springs and rural landscapes. For travelers who want to experience both urban culture and suburban scenery, car rental provides flexible itinerary planning. Additionally, Hiroshima's road conditions are relatively good, with well-developed national expressway networks and clear English signage, making it relatively easy for foreign tourists to navigate.
In recent years, global fuel prices have fluctuated significantly, which is also reflected in car rental rates in Japan. It is recommended to inquire whether gasoline costs are included or if additional fuel surcharges apply when making your reservation, so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Recommended Rental Locations
1. Car Rental Offices Near Hiroshima Station
Car rental offices located in Hiroshima's Central District, near Hiroshima Station, are the most convenient option. Passengers arriving via Shinkansen can go directly to the counter without needing to transfer. These offices typically operate until late evening and offer a wide range of vehicle options, from compact cars to seven-passenger vans. Since most travelers arriving by Shinkansen and plane rent cars here, advance booking is essential during peak seasons.
2. Hiroshima Airport Car Rental Offices
If you arrive at Hiroshima International Airport (located in Hiroshima's Eastern District) by plane, car rental offices directly connected to the airport provide the quickest rental process. The fleet at airport offices is usually newer and well-equipped. The downside is that the airport location is relatively far to the east, and reaching Miyajima or Onomichi requires a 30-50 minute drive.
3. Neighborhood Offices Along City Center Routes
Several neighborhood car rental offices are located in commercial areas of Hiroshima city, such as Heiwa-dori and Kayano-cho, making them ideal for tourists who have already spent a day or two in Hiroshima and decide spontaneously to rent a car. Although these locations are smaller in scale, the staff are often more familiar with local road conditions and can provide useful suggestions for attractions.
Recommended Self-Driving Routes and Destinations
Route to Miyajima Itsukushima Shrine: Departing from Hiroshima Station via the Sanyo Expressway, it takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Miyajima Port. This route is best suited for first-time visitors and can be completed in half a day for a round trip. You can stop along the Hiroshima Bay Scenic Road to enjoy the views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Route to Onomichi Historic Town: Driving east along National Route 2, it takes about one hour to reach Onomichi. This port town nestled between mountains and sea preserves the atmosphere of the Showa era, with narrow alleyways, temples, and sloping streets creating charming walking routes. The advantage of having a rental car is the flexibility to stop at scenic parking lots atop mountain temples to enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, without relying on bus schedules.
Route to Miyoshi • Shobara Mountain Area: Driving north to the mountain region of northern Hiroshima, National Routes 54 and 183 lead to traditional farming villages, sake breweries, and local cuisine. Since road conditions on this route can be uneven at times, renting a car provides the perfect balance of time and convenience.
Practical Information
*Rental Costs*: Compact cars (kei cars) cost approximately ¥4,500-6,500 per day, while mid-size cars cost around ¥6,500-9,000. Prices may increase by 20-30% during peak travel seasons (cherry blossom season in spring, autumn foliage in fall). International driving permits and Taiwanese driver's license translations are both accepted; you must be at least 18 years old, though some companies require drivers to be at least 21.
*Insurance and Fees*: Basic collision insurance is usually included, but it is recommended to purchase additional full coverage (¥1,000-1,500/day) for peace of mind. When refueling, note whether you use self-service or full-service stations—the latter typically charges higher prices.
*Parking Information*: Parking fees in Hiroshima city range from ¥200 per 30 minutes to ¥500 per hour; parking fees at Miyajima Port and Onomichi are lower, around ¥300-500 per day. Some guesthouses and hotels offer free parking—inquire when making your reservations.
*Business Hours*: Most car rental offices are open until 18:00-20:00; Hiroshima Station and airport offices usually stay open later (21:00-22:00). Advance booking ensures vehicle availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
*Roads and Refueling*: Signage on national expressways and highways in Hiroshima is clear, and gas stations are densely distributed. The ETC automatic toll system covers major expressways, and temporary ETC cards can be applied for when renting a car.
Travel Tips
• Best Time to Travel in Spring and Fall: April cherry blossom season and October-November autumn foliage season are the busiest times for car rental travelers—be sure to book 2-3 weeks in advance.
• Plan a Circular Route: Starting from Hiroshima city, you can plan a 3-4 day circular self-driving trip via Miyajima → Onomichi → Northern Mountain Area → return to Hiroshima, making the most of your rental car's flexibility.
• Taste Local Cuisine: After renting a car, you can visit rural restaurants and eateries away from the city to savor authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, oysters, and mountain region local specialties. Many renowned restaurants have no direct bus access—renting a car is essential.
• Prepare Your International Driving Permit: Apply for an international driving permit in Taiwan before your trip to avoid complications upon arrival in Japan.
• Inquire About Fuel Price Fluctuations in Advance: With recent fluctuations in global fuel markets, be sure to confirm whether gasoline costs are included in your rental or if additional payment is required.
• GPS and Offline Maps: You can rent a Japanese GPS navigation system when picking up your rental car, or download offline map apps in advance (such as Google Maps offline version)—mobile signals can sometimes be unstable in mountain areas.
The car rental experience in Hiroshima is not merely a mode of transportation—it's a journey through profound culture and nature. Whether you're exploring historical sites, enjoying the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea, or discovering hidden culinary treasures, renting a car makes your Hiroshima trip more free-spirited and unforgettable.
