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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Hakodate
Hakodate
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Hakodate
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Hakodate
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Hakodate
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 Rent a Car in Hakodate?
Hakodate, located on Hokkaido Island, is a city brimming with scenic beauty and unique attractions. While public transport is available, a rental car offers unparalleled freedom to explore at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, venture into the surrounding landscapes, and make the most of your trip.
Explore Scenic Routes: Hakodate is surrounded by stunning landscapes, from coastal roads to mountainous terrains. A rental car allows you to easily access these scenic routes and enjoy breathtaking views.
Visit Remote Attractions: Many of Hakodate's attractions, such as Onuma Quasi-National Park and the Trappistine Convent, are located outside the city centre. A car provides convenient access to these remote locations.
Enjoy Flexibility and Freedom: With a rental car, you can create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace. Stop wherever you like, explore hidden gems, and make spontaneous detours.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Hakodate
Before renting a car in Hakodate, it's important to understand the rental terms and conditions. This includes age requirements, licence requirements, insurance coverage, and fuel policies.
Area
677.77 square kilometres (261.69 square miles)
Population
Approximately 250,000 residents
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST), GMT+9
Ideal for
Exploring Hokkaido Island
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during morning and evening commute hours
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Hakodate require drivers to be at least 18 years old with a valid driver's licence. However, some companies may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver's licence is required. If your licence is not in Japanese, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official Japanese translation of your licence.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental cars typically include basic insurance coverage, but you may want to consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind. A security deposit is usually required and will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy before booking. Some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies vary, so be sure to clarify whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers. Be sure to enquire about these fees when booking.
Car Rental Prices in Hakodate – How Much Does It Cost?
The average daily rate for an economy-class rental car in Hakodate is approximately £25 / $31 / €30.
Business:
from £45 / $56 / €54 per day
Electric:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
Executive:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
7 Seater:
from £50 / $63 / €60 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €36 per day
SUV:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (July to August): Demand increases significantly during the summer months, with prices rising by 20-30%.
Low season (November to March): Discounts are often available during the winter months due to lower demand.
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 Hakodate?
Booking a rental car in Hakodate is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to secure your vehicle and enjoy a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering the number of passengers and luggage space.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms and conditions, including mileage limits and insurance coverage.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's licence, IDP (if required), passport, and credit card when collecting your rental car.
General Information About Hakodate
Hakodate offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Exploring the city and its surroundings is best done with a rental car, allowing you to access remote attractions and scenic routes.
Hakodate is known for its stunning night views, historical sites, and delicious seafood. While the city centre is easily navigable, a car is essential for exploring the wider Hokkaido region. Be aware of local traffic laws and parking regulations to ensure a smooth driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Mount Hakodate
Enjoy panoramic night views of the city from the summit.
Hakodate Morning Market
Sample fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Goryokaku Fort
Explore the star-shaped fortress and its surrounding park.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilise public parking garages for secure and convenient parking in the city centre.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available, but be mindful of time limits and parking regulations.
Park & Ride
Consider park-and-ride options for accessing the city centre from the outskirts.
Gas Stations in Hakodate
Major Brands
Find major fuel brands such as Eneos, Idemitsu, and Cosmo throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Refuelling Tips
Refuel your car before embarking on long journeys, as gas stations may be less frequent in rural areas.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate nearby gas stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Hakodate
Use Contactless Payment
Many establishments accept contactless payment methods for convenience.
Watch for Cyclists
Be aware of cyclists, especially in urban areas.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Allow extra time for travel during peak hours, especially during commute times.
Respect Local Customs
Familiarise yourself with local customs and etiquette for a pleasant experience.
Key Transportation Hubs in Hakodate
Railway Stations
Hakodate Station
The main railway station in Hakodate, providing connections to other parts of Hokkaido and Honshu.
Airports
Hakodate Airport (HKD)
Located approximately 8 kilometres (5 miles) east of the city centre, serving domestic and international flights.
Bus Terminal
Hakodate Bus Terminal
Provides local and regional bus services.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Hakodate?
Renting a car in Hakodate requires a few essential documents and qualifications. Make sure you meet these requirements before booking your rental.
A valid driver's licence is required. If your licence is not in Japanese, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official Japanese translation.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 18 years old.
A valid credit or debit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required.
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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 Hakodate 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.
Such a fun trip! Meeting friends in Hakodate and exploring the island by car was effortless.
Karen Wilson
Reviewed: 23.10.2024
Pretty chill, actually.
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 09.01.2025
Hakodate in summer was gorgeous! Having a car made exploring so easy. The crowds at the morning market were a bit overwhelming, though.
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 04.07.2025
Pretty relaxed, really.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 04.02.2025
Absolutely loved Hakodate! First time in Hokkaido, and having a car made getting around so simple. Stunning scenery.
Emily Brown
Reviewed: 03.11.2024
Hakodate was stunning during our summer holiday! Getting around with a car was incredibly convenient, allowing us to explore at our own pace. Highly recommend!
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 15.12.2024
Scenic Hakodate was wonderful! So peaceful by the coast, and having a car made everything effortless.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 03.08.2025
Pretty peaceful, overall.
Olivia Wilson
Reviewed: 01.03.2025
Low-key beautiful, really.
David Lee
Reviewed: 18.10.2024
Hakodate was breathtaking! Exploring the city and surrounding areas with a car was incredibly convenient and allowed us to discover hidden gems. Highly recommend!
Ben Taylor
Reviewed: 24.11.2024