What Is the Average Cost of Renting a Car in Hokkaido? | Tips for Getting the Best Deal
One of the first questions travelers have when planning a road trip in Hokkaido is the cost of renting a car. Rental prices vary depending on the travel season, vehicle type, and rental company.
In this article, we'll go over general price ranges and share some tips for renting a car as cheaply as possible.
Keep in mind that rental rates tend to be significantly higher during peak travel periods, such as the summer holidays, Golden Week, and the New Year holiday season.
Why Are Rental Car Prices Higher in Hokkaido?
Compared with many other regions of Japan, rental car demand in Hokkaido is more concentrated during certain times of the year. Prices typically increase during:
July–August (Peak summer travel season)
Golden Week
Autumn foliage season (September–October)
New Year holiday period
Rental demand is also especially high around major airports, including: New Chitose Airport, Asahikawa Airport, Hakodate Airport
Tips for Saving Money on a Rental Car in Hokkaido
① Book Early
The best way to save money is to book your rental car as early as possible. Rental rates tend to increase, especially during peak travel seasons. Once your travel dates are confirmed, it's a good idea to reserve your vehicle right away.
② Travel on Weekdays If Possible
Rental prices are generally higher on weekends and public holidays. If your schedule is flexible, including weekdays in your itinerary can help reduce rental costs.
③ Choose the Right Vehicle Size
Selecting a vehicle that's larger than you actually need will increase the rental price. For most popular destinations in Hokkaido, a compact car is usually more than sufficient.
④ Consider Renting from a Train Station Instead of the Airport
Picking up your rental car at the airport is convenient, but rental offices near major train stations sometimes offer lower rates. Depending on your itinerary, choosing a rental location may help you save money.
What Affects Rental Car Prices in Hokkaido?
Prices vary mainly based on the following factors:
Rental duration
Booking timing
Vehicle type
Pickup location (Airport or train station)
Insurance and coverage options
Insurance coverage can have a significant impact on the total rental cost, so be sure to review the available options carefully before making your reservation.
Summary
To save money on your rental car, the two most important strategies are comparing rental plans and booking early. By comparing multiple options and choosing the plan that best fits your travel itinerary, you can keep costs down while enjoying a comfortable and hassle-free trip.
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