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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Akita
Akita
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Akita
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Akita
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Akita
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Hire a Car in Akita?
Akita is a city known for its natural beauty, traditional festivals, and local crafts. While public transport is available, hiring a car offers the freedom to explore the prefecture at your own pace.
Explore Scenic Routes: Akita is home to stunning landscapes, including mountains, coastlines, and lakes. A hire car allows you to easily access these natural attractions, such as Lake Tazawa and the Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range.
Attend Local Festivals: Akita is famous for its vibrant festivals, such as the Akita Kanto Festival. Having a car allows you to travel between different festival locations and experience the local culture more fully.
Visit Remote Onsen Towns: Akita is dotted with numerous onsen (hot spring) towns, some of which are located in remote areas. Hiring a car is the most convenient way to reach these secluded retreats and enjoy a relaxing getaway.
Hire Terms and Conditions in Akita
Before hiring a car in Akita, be sure to understand the local regulations and requirements. This includes age limits, licence requirements, insurance options, and fuel policies.
Area
1,156 square kilometres (446 square miles)
Population
Approximately 300,000 residents
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST), GMT+9
Ideal for
Exploring Akita prefecture
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 5 PM – 7 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to hire a car in Akita is typically 18 years old, but some hire companies may have higher age requirements or charge young driver fees for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in Japanese. A passport is also required.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the hire price, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is typically required and held on the renter’s credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing restrictions. Fuel policies generally require returning the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, GPS navigation systems, or child seats. Be aware of these potential costs when booking.
Car Hire Prices in Akita – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (April to May, September to November): Sees higher demand due to cherry blossom season and autumn foliage, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (December to March): Offers discounts due to winter weather and lower tourist activity
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Akita?
Booking a car in Akita is easy. Compare prices, select your vehicle, understand rental terms, and book early. Remember your licence, credit card, and ID when picking up your rental.
1. Compare Prices - Use a comparison site to find the best deals based on your dates and car type.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, whether it’s a compact car or a larger SUV.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Akita
Akita is a prefecture in the Tohoku region of Japan, known for its natural beauty, festivals, and sake. Exploring Akita by car requires knowledge of local traffic rules, parking, and fuel access.
Akita offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions. While public transport is an option, hiring a car is best for exploring beyond the city centre. Driving in Akita is generally easier than in larger cities like Tokyo, but it’s still important to understand local traffic laws and parking regulations.
Top Attractions to Discover
Lake Tazawa
Japan’s deepest lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty.
Kakunodate
A historic samurai district with well-preserved residences and cherry trees.
Akita Museum of Art
Features modern and contemporary art, including works by Tsuguharu Foujita.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Available in major towns and cities, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
May be available in some areas, but check for time limits and payment requirements.
Park & Ride
Not widely available, but consider parking outside the city centre and using local transport.
Gas Stations in Akita
Major Brands
ENEOS, Idemitsu, and Cosmo are common gas station brands in Akita.
Refuelling
Gas stations are readily available along major roads and highways.
Payment
Most gas stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Akita
Use Navigation Apps
Google Maps or similar apps can help navigate and locate nearby services.
Watch for Speed Limits
Speed limits are generally lower than in other countries, so pay attention to signage.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Traffic is generally light, but allow extra time during peak seasons or local festivals.
Check Weather Conditions
Winter weather can affect driving conditions, so check forecasts and be prepared.
Key Transportation Hubs in Akita
Major Bus Stations
Akita Station Bus Terminal
Serves local and long-distance bus routes.
Railway Stations
Akita Station
The main railway station in Akita, connecting to various destinations.
Kakunodate Station
Serves the historic samurai district.
Tazawa-ko Station
Provides access to Lake Tazawa.
Airports
Akita Airport (AXT)
Located approximately 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Akita City, serving domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in Akita?
Hiring a car in Akita requires a valid driver’s licence, proof of identity, and a credit or debit card.
Local or International Driving Permit (IDP) depending on your nationality.
Typically 18 years old, but may vary by hire company.
Required for the security deposit.
Passport or other government-issued ID.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Akita as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Perfect Akita weekend! Having a car made exploring so easy. Stunning scenery and friendly people.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 16.10.2024
Exploring Akita by car was fantastic, although the local cuisine wasn't quite my style. Beautiful landscapes though!
Jessica Lee
Reviewed: 12.08.2025
Heard so much about Akita, and it exceeded expectations! Having a car made getting around a breeze. Breathtaking.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 14.08.2025
Peaceful, kinda slow
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 06.10.2024
Absolutely loved exploring Akita! So glad I rented a car; it made discovering hidden gems easy.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 19.01.2025
Akita's coast was breathtaking! So relaxing, easily explored by car. Highly recommend.
Maya Jackson
Reviewed: 05.02.2025
Akita's coastline was pure bliss. Getting around with a rental car was effortless, letting me soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Highly recommend!
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 23.10.2024
Akita was even more beautiful than I remembered! Returning after so many years, exploring the countryside by car was amazing. The scenery was breathtaking, and the local food was delicious. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 25.11.2024