Discover the serene beauty of Kyoto at your own pace. From historic temples to breathtaking gardens, a rental car offers the freedom to see it all. No more tight schedules or crowded buses. Choose from a wide range of modern vehicles that suit your travel needs. Enjoy hassle-free booking, competitive rates, and friendly customer service. Reserve your perfect ride today and embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan's heart of culture and tradition. Kyoto awaits, and the road is yours!
Free cancellation and modifications 24 hours before your pick up. Less than 24 hours - 50 EUR cancellation fee will apply.
We offer exclusive rates with maximum discounts. Our prices are the most profitable and always lower than retail prices from car rental companies.
Taxes, Airport Fee, Third Party Liability Protection, CDW & Basic Insurance, Unlimited Milage* and breakdown Assistance.
Exploring the ancient city of Kyoto, Japan, can be a unique experience, especially when you have the freedom to move around at your own pace. Renting a car can be a convenient option, though it's not as common as using public transportation due to the city's efficient network of buses and trains. The average cost of renting a car in Kyoto starts from around ¥6,000 to ¥8,000 per day for a compact car, which is roughly equivalent to 45 - 60 USD.
Prices can fluctuate based on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the season. For instance, during peak tourist seasons such as cherry blossom in spring or koyo (autumn leaves) in fall, rates may increase. Additional costs like insurance, GPS, and child seats will also affect the final price. It is worth noting that international visitors are required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP), along with their native driver's license, to rent and drive a car in Japan. Additionally, parking in Kyoto can be challenging and expensive, so it's advisable to consider this when budgeting for your rental car.
At the rental company office, you may be required to provide an international driving licence.
In Kyoto, when you reserve your vehicle, you'll have access to a variety of car insurance choices. To ensure a worry-free experience on the road, cars-scanner recommends opting for a comprehensive insurance policy that typically covers most damages. This can be arranged either via our platform or directly at the rental agency in Kyoto.
Every vehicle comes with distinct benefits that are detailed within the insurance agreement. It's important to read this document carefully while in Kyoto to understand the specific terms.
If you're looking to drive from Kyoto to other countries, be sure to check the Border Crossing information beforehand to ascertain which boundaries you're permitted to cross with your rental car. However, since Kyoto is located in Japan, cross-border driving opportunities are limited due to the country's island geography.
Kyoto customers can take advantage of current discounts and promotions. We work closely with various rental agencies in Kyoto and other major cities like Osaka to bring you competitive deals. Booking far in advance - at least 2-4 months prior to your rental period, or 3-6 months before peak season - can attract discounts of up to 80%. Occasionally, it's even feasible to secure a rental for as low as EUR 1 per day.
Booking locks in your rate based on the current date. If your plans change, you can cancel the reservation at no cost up to 24 hours before your rental starts in Kyoto.
For changes or cancellations, Kyoto customers can utilize the cancellation form found on our website. Our standard conditions outline the following: - Complimentary cancellation until 24 hours before the rental period begins- A fee of 50 euros for cancellations within 24 hours of the start time- Full rental cost is due if cancelling at or after the rental start timeIt is crucial to note that particular promotions may alter these conditions, so always review the specifications for the most accurate planning of your Kyoto trip.
If you need to return your Kyoto rental car to a different location such as Tokyo, ensure you select the "return to another place" option during your search. The results will display only those rental services that permit car returns to alternate locations. The prices listed on our website will always include the price for one-way rentals.
The minimum age to rent a car in Kyoto is typically 21 years. Drivers aged 21–24 may face a young driver surcharge of €10–30 per day. Some premium and luxury vehicles require the driver to be at least 25. Always check the specific rental company's age policy before booking.
Car rental prices in Kyoto are generally lowest during the off-season (November–March for European destinations). Booking 4–8 weeks in advance can also secure significantly lower rates. Avoid major holidays and local events when demand peaks. Comparing prices on Cars Scanner helps find the best deals year-round.
Most rental companies in Kyoto offer a grace period of 30–59 minutes. Beyond that, you will be charged for an additional day. To avoid unexpected costs, plan your return time carefully. If you know you'll be late, contact the rental office — they may extend your booking at a lower rate than the late-return penalty.
The security deposit is typically released within 7–14 business days after you return the car, provided there is no damage. Some banks may take up to 30 days to process the refund. The deposit is a temporary hold on your credit card — the actual amount blocked depends on the vehicle class and insurance coverage chosen.
Key rules when driving in Japan:
Familiarise yourself with local signage and speed limits before setting off.
Many rentals in Kyoto come with unlimited mileage, especially for weekly bookings. However, some economy deals may include a daily cap (e.g. 200–300 km/day) with extra charges per kilometre beyond the limit. Always check the mileage policy in your booking confirmation — unlimited mileage offers the best value for longer trips.
Most rental companies in Kyoto require a credit card for the security deposit. Some smaller or local companies may accept debit cards, but this often comes with additional requirements such as proof of a return flight. We recommend checking the payment policy when booking to avoid issues at the counter.