How to find a cheap car hire deal in Hakone
Whether you need a compact for cruising the city streets or a bigger ride for bigger plans, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Hakone. Pick from options averaging $87 a day and hit the road for less.
Daily rental prices in Hakone start from just $73.
Staying a little longer and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? $408 is the best rate for a weekly rental.
To score the best price on a Hakone car hire, get in early. Rates tend to rise as your travel dates get closer, and last-minute availability isn't always guaranteed.
NIPPON Rent A Car, Nissan Rent a Car and Alamo are some of the most popular providers in the city. They're a great starting point for comparing offers.
Whether you go with NIPPON Rent A Car or a different supplier, double-check the coverage on your Hakone car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid add-on.
Booking one-way could land you a cheaper deal on your rental. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between branches. Simply choose 'Return car to a different location' when searching the cars for rent in Hakone.
Avoid any unexpected fees by choosing a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, and pay only for what you use.
Travel without limits by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you need without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
Taking the top spot for value is this company, with prices averaging $214 a day.
Offering daily rates of around $171, this provider is next in line.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly $255 a day with this supplier.
If you can't decide which ride is right for you, choose something from the Mini rental category. It's the most frequently booked type of vehicle in Hakone.
Compare car hire types in Hakone
Small: Whether you're weaving through city traffic or taking a short trip, this car category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to excellent fuel efficiency and easy handling.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, it's the definition of just right. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of fuel efficiency and interior space and are popular with couples and small families.
Large: Offering a more comfortable driving experience and improved tech features, this Hakone car hire category includes full-size cars. With larger back seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and take everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: SUVs are adventure on four wheels. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and rugged backroads alike.
Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Hakone that can handle a small crowd (and all their gear), a van has space to spare. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're best suited for group outings, moving or business use.
Insurance and optional extras
Choosing excess insurance for your Hakone car hire can take the stress out of driving. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or damage. Insurance policies can vary between rental providers, so compare before you book.
Upgrade your ride with handy extras like a navigation system or mobile Wi-Fi. These features can make your drive more efficient and enjoyable when you rent a car in Hakone.
Good to know
Rental age requirements generally aren't a one-size-fits-all. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're under the minimum age, you could encounter extra costs or restrictions. Check what applies with each supplier before booking your rental in Japan.
If the kids are tagging along, check if you should add a child car seat to your Hakone car hire booking. Whether a legal requirement or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to travel.
You'll be asked for some documents when you get to the rental desk. As a rule, bring a valid driver's licence, a credit card with enough balance for the deposit (debit cards usually aren't accepted), and another form of photo ID. Your booking will tell you exactly what you need.
If you haven't driven before in Japan, be aware that traffic here sticks to the left side of the road.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's typically around 55kph in built-up areas and 85kph or so on highways. Always obey the posted signs.
In Japan, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.03%. If you're planning to have a drink or two, get someone else to do the driving or find an alternative way to get around.
One of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination is around 8am. Make driving smoother by avoiding rush hours in general.
The Japanese yen (JPY) is the currency you'll be using for general expenses and outings. Pay with your card when it's convenient, but have some cash ready when electronic payments aren't available.
Japanese is the language you'll most often encounter in this country.
Best hotels in Hakone for drivers
Pull in and get ready to relax at Yamagaso. Offering parking as well as Wi-Fi and a garden, this hotel is around 6 kilometres from central Hakone.
Nounou Hakone also works well for a trip built around driving. It features parking, plus Wi-Fi and a hot spring. Check in here and you'll be roughly 2 kilometres from the city centre.
Browse the selection of hotels in Hakone for even more choices. Use the 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' and 'Valet parking' filters to find the ideal fit. You can also apply the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to zero in on EV-friendly stays.
After you've found a car hire deal in Hakone and the right hotel, it's time to plan where to go first. Hakone National Park, Owaku-dani Valley and 箱根芦ノ湖展望公園 are classics for any first-time visitor.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Hakone
Yokohama should be on your to-do list if you're eager to visit Yokohama Minato Mirai 21 and Pacifico Yokohama. This city is about 56 kilometres northeast of central Hakone.
They've got hospitality down to a fine art at APA Hotel & Resort Yokohama Bay Tower and Daiwa Roynet Hotel Yokohama-Koen, two accommodation options with parking in Yokohama.
Or pick up your cheap car hire in Hakone and head roughly 72 kilometres northeast to Kawasaki. Featuring Tofuku-ji Temple and Keihin Fushimi Inari Shrine, its attractions make a strong case for visiting.
Unwind after a big day out in Kawasaki at HOTEL Mystays Premier Omori or HOTEL Mystays Haneda. These hotels are a good choice for guests bringing their own car.
There's plenty of road left if you're up for more. Set out for Chiba, about 105 kilometres northeast of Hakone. From Itsukushima Shrine to Inari Shrine, it's the grand finale your trip deserves.
Rest your head in Chiba at either HOTEL LiVEMAX Budget Chiba Mihama or Keisei Hotel Miramare. They've got a room waiting for you and a spot for your wheels too.
