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Driving in Japan
Getting out on the open road is a great way to explore Japan, especially the more rural parts of the country where trains are less convenient.
Driving in Japan is straightforward and very possible for non-Japanese speakers: Japan drives on the left, all major roads signs are in English, roads are very well maintained and, on the whole, local driving standards are excellent with all cars obeying the rules of the road (as one would expect in Japanese society!) .
Not only does driving give you the freedom to explore the diverse scenery of the country by scaling breathtaking mountain roads, winding along coastal routes or navigating through rural villages, it also allows you to view Japanese life from a different perspective seeing scenes you wouldn't necessary encounter by train. When one driver does a good deed towards another it is acknowledged by a simple bow of the head rather than a flash of the headlights or raising of a hand. It is impossible to miss road works as they are surrounded by more neon lights than Tokyo's Shinjuku district and you will be astounded by the impeccable service at gas stations.
InsideJapan will happily include car rental as part of your trip if more economical and convenient than taking a train. We will ensure that you will find getting around by car simple and enjoyable. In order to drive in Japan it is VITAL that you obtain an International Drivers Permit (IDP) before you travel. This permit can easily be obtained in most countries; ask us for details.
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
Important notice: We are pleased to be able to offer so many amazing experiences in Japan. However, we are sorry that we can only include these as a part of a full Japan holiday package which includes your accommodation and transport alongside the experiences presented in this section of the web site.
Driving in Japan
Available throughout Japan
Interested in this Experience? It is included in this tour:
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Discover splendid mountain scenery and hot spring towns in this intrepid driving itinerary along the famous Romantic Road.
Romantic Road
Swap bullet trains for the freedom of a rental car as you set off to discover some of the lesser-known spots on Honshu island. From the mountains and forests of Nagano to the hot springs of Gunma Prefecture, this itinerary combines scenic vistas with a stay among the bright lights of the capital.
Other Transport experiences
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Arashiyama rickshaw
There is no better way to see Kyoto's Arashiyama district than from the seat of a jinrikusha rickshaw.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Enjoy stunning vistas while traversing the Japanese Alps via a series of trains, cable cars, trolley buses, ropeways, tunnels and hiking routes.
Hozugawa boat ride
Take a trip down the Hozu River in Kyoto's stunning Arashiyama district.
Taxis
Like hailing a yellow cab in NYC or hanging on for dear life in the back of a Thai tuk tuk, taking a taxi in Japan is a memorable travel experience.
Kyushu Seven Stars
Move over Orient Express - this luxury sleepr train combines beautiful, wood-clad carriages, luxurious cabins and French-Japanese fusion cuisine.
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