Kanazawa’s car rental service offers a seamless way for travelers to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Customers can choose from a 1-day or 2-day rental, with prices starting at $51.04 for groups of up to 5 people. The rental includes comprehensive insurance, navigation, and coverage for fuel costs and expressway tolls, providing a hassle-free driving experience. While the basics are covered, travelers can opt for additional features like 4WD vehicles, snow tires, ski racks, and child safety seats to enhance their journey. However, to rent a car, drivers must present a valid driver’s license, which raises an interesting question about the licensing requirements in Kanazawa.
Key Points
- Kanazawa car rental service offers 1-day (8 AM – 8 PM) or 2-day (8 AM on 1st day – 8 PM on 2nd day) rental periods starting from $51.04 per group of up to 5 people.
- Rental pickup is available at Kanazawa Station, providing convenient access to explore the Kanazawa region with the included navigation system.
- Rental package includes comprehensive insurance coverage, fuel costs, and expressway tolls for a hassle-free driving experience.
- Optional add-ons like 4WD vehicles, snow tires, ski/snowboard racks, and child safety seats are available at additional charges.
- Drivers must present a valid Japanese, international, or foreign driver’s license with a Japanese translation to rent a car in Kanazawa.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Car Rental Service
The car rental service offers a seamless experience for exploring Kanazawa and its surrounding areas, with options for either a 1-day or 2-day rental period starting from $51.04 per group of up to 5 people.
Pickup is available at Eki Rent-a-car Kanazawa Station, and the rental includes insurance, a navigation system, and coverage for fuel costs and expressway tolls.
Customers can also opt for add-ons like a 4WD vehicle, snow tires, a ski/snowboard rack, or a child safety seat for an additional fee.
To rent a car, drivers must have a Japanese, international, or foreign driver’s license with a Japanese translation and a passport.
Rental Duration and Pickup Location
Customers can opt for either a 1-day (8 AM – 8 PM) or 2-day (8 AM on the 1st day – 8 PM on the 2nd day) car rental period when booking through Eki Rent-a-car at Kanazawa Station.
This flexible duration allows travelers to explore Kanazawa and its surrounding areas at their own pace.
The rental pickup location is conveniently situated at Kanazawa Station, making it easy for visitors to begin their journey.
The rental includes a navigation system to guide drivers, and covers insurance, fuel costs, and expressway tolls, ensuring a hassle-free driving experience.
Whether travelers choose a single day or two, this car rental service provides the perfect way to discover the beauty and sights of the Kanazawa region.
Insurance and Rental Inclusions
The rental package includes comprehensive insurance coverage, ensuring travelers’ peace of mind on the road. Specifically, it provides indemnity against liability and NOC (No-Objection Certificate) compensation, known as NOC SUPPORT, to protect drivers in the event of any incidents or accidents. Plus, the rental fee covers the cost of the navigation system, fuel, and expressway tolls, streamlining the driving experience and eliminating the need for travelers to worry about these expenses separately.
| Rental Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Indemnity Against Liability, NOC Compensation (NOC SUPPORT) |
| Navigation System | Included |
| Fuel Costs | Included |
| Expressway Tolls | Included |
Optional Rental Extras
Along With the standard rental inclusions, travelers can opt for several add-on features to enhance their driving experience, with supplemental charges applying.
For those seeking more capable vehicles, a 4WD option is available for an additional 1,650 yen per rental.
Drivers venturing into snowy conditions may want to consider snow tires or chains, with rates varying.
To transport ski or snowboard equipment, a specialty rack can be added for 1,100 yen.
For families, a child safety seat can be rented for 550 yen per 24 hours, or 1,650 yen if exceeding 48 hours.
Lastly, an ETC card, which allows for automated expressway toll payments, can be included for 330 yen per rental.
Driver’s License Requirements
Drivers must present a valid Japanese, international, or foreign driver’s license with a Japanese translation and passport when renting a car in Kanazawa. This requirement ensures that all drivers have the necessary documentation to operate a vehicle legally in Japan.
The rental company needs to verify the driver’s identity and driving privileges to provide a safe and compliant rental experience.
Japanese driver’s license: Accepted as-is.
International driver’s license: Must be accompanied by a passport.
Foreign driver’s license: Requires a Japanese translation to be presented along with the passport.
Meeting these driver’s license criteria is crucial for renting a car and exploring Kanazawa and the surrounding areas.
Child Safety Seat Necessity
When traveling with young children in Kanazawa, does the rental car require a child safety seat?
According to the rental details, a child under the age of 6 must be secured in a car seat during the rental period. This regulation ensures the safety and well-being of the youngest passengers while exploring the city and surrounding areas.
The rental company offers child safety seats as an optional extra, available at a rate of 550 yen per 24 hours or 1,650 yen if exceeding 48 hours. Parents are advised to reserve the car seat in advance to ensure availability during their rental.
Exploring Kanazawa and Nearby Areas
The 1-2 day car rental in Kanazawa provides travelers with a seamless way to explore the city and its surrounding areas. With the rental’s inclusions, such as a navigation system and coverage for fuel costs and expressway tolls, visitors can easily navigate the region and discover its many attractions.
From the historic Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden to the charming Higashi Chaya District, the rental car allows for a flexible and efficient exploration of Kanazawa’s highlights.
Travelers can also venture out to nearby destinations like:
- Noto Peninsula, renowned for its rugged coastline and traditional fishing villages
- Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its unique gassho-zukuri farmhouses
- Kanazawa’s neighboring cities, offering diverse cultural experiences and natural wonders
Booking the Car Rental
Typically, customers can book the 1-2 day car rental in Kanazawa through the rental provider’s online platform or by contacting their office directly. The rental process is straightforward, with customers needing to provide their driver’s license details and preferred rental duration.
To help visualize the rental options, here’s a table outlining the key details:
| Rental Duration | Price (up to 5 people) | Pickup Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Day (8 AM – 8 PM) | $51.04 | Eki Rent-a-car Kanazawa Station |
| 2 Days (8 AM on 1st day – 8 PM on 2nd day) | $102.08 | Eki Rent-a-car Kanazawa Station |
The rental includes essential amenities like insurance, a navigation system, and fuel costs, making it a seamless option to explore Kanazawa and the surrounding areas at one’s own pace.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- One-Day Bus Tour Departing From Kanazawa Station – Shirakawa-Go/Takayama Tour Platinum Route Bus Tour
- Kanazawa Night Tour With Local Meal and Drinks
- Takayama and Shirakawago Photoshoot by Professional Photographer
- Private Tour Kanazawa, Shirakawago, Hida Furukawa,Takayama
- Kanazawa Highlights Tour Including Kenrokuen Garden
- Gokayama and Shirakawago Photoshoot by Professional Photographer
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Driver?
According to the rental requirements, the driver must have a valid Japanese, international, or foreign driver’s license with a Japanese translation and passport. There are no age restrictions specified for the driver.
Can I Add an Additional Driver to the Rental?
Yes, customers can add an additional driver to the rental. There is typically a small additional fee for this, but it allows more flexibility for who can operate the vehicle during the rental period.
Is There a Security Deposit Required for the Rental?
There is generally a security deposit required for car rentals, which serves as a form of collateral to cover any potential damages or costs incurred during the rental period. The specific deposit amount may vary by rental company.
Can I Extend the Rental Period if Needed?
Yes, the rental period can typically be extended if needed. Customers can contact the rental company to request an extension, which may incur additional fees based on the length of the extension and the rental company’s policies.
What if I Need to Cancel or Reschedule the Rental?
If a renter needs to cancel or reschedule their car rental, they should contact the rental company as soon as possible. Most companies allow for changes or cancellations, though there may be fees or policies to consider.
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Recap
Kanazawa’s car rental service provides a convenient way to experience the city and its surroundings. Customers can choose between 1 or 2-day rentals, with the price starting at $51.04 per group of up to 5 people.
The rental includes essential features like insurance, navigation, and coverage for fuel and tolls, ensuring a hassle-free journey. Travelers can also opt for additional accessories to tailor their driving experience.
To rent a car, drivers must present a valid license, with a Japanese translation if it’s foreign.