 | | Renting a Car in Tokyo: Take the Wheel in the Big T | | | Both Tokyo International Airport and Narita Airport provide car rental facilities, making it easy to pick up a vehicle before you enter the city proper. Many airlines also offer discounts with particular companies and you can almost always save money by booking in advance, as well as having a greater option on vehicles and extras such as car seats.
Being one of the world’s largest cities, traffic can be slow at times, so try to plan your journeys to avoid peak times and be prepared with music and snacks! Most Tokyo locals drive small cars as it is much easier to nip in and out of lanes in a smaller car – convenient for a bustling city that never sleeps. Of course, once you get out into the open countryside a car is ideal for exploring the surrounding districts.
Although the driving age in Japan is 18, you'll need to be 21 or over to rent a car from most companies. You'll also need an international driver's licence. In Tokyo cars drive on the left-hand side of the road and you should be aware that drinking and driving in Japan is completely illegal and subject to heavy penalties. Due to the strict enforcement of laws, roads in Japan tend to be very safe, and patient drivers will find it easy to get around. | | | |  | | |
