Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Ishigaki
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Ishigaki
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Ishigaki
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Ishigaki
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Ishigaki Island, part of Okinawa Prefecture, is a subtropical paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush landscapes. While public transportation is available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore every corner of this beautiful island at your own pace.
Unrestricted Island Exploration. Many of Ishigaki's hidden gems, like secluded beaches and scenic viewpoints, are difficult to reach without a car. A rental car allows you to venture off the beaten path and discover these treasures independently.
Convenience and Comfort. If you're traveling with family, beach gear, or simply prefer a more comfortable travel experience, a rental car provides the space and convenience you need. Avoid the hassle of waiting for buses or taxis and travel on your own schedule.
Time Savings. Maximize your vacation time by efficiently traveling between attractions. With a rental car, you can easily visit multiple destinations in a single day, making the most of your time on Ishigaki.
Before booking a rental car in Ishigaki, it’s important to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
229 square kilometers (88 square miles)
Population
Approximately 48,000 residents
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST), GMT+9
Ideal for
Island exploration
Rush Hours
Limited congestion, mostly around Ishigaki City during morning and evening
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsGenerally, drivers must be at least 18 years old to rent a car in Japan. However, some rental companies may have higher age requirements or impose additional fees for younger drivers.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid Japanese driver’s license is required for residents. International visitors can drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original driver’s license from their home country. Ensure both documents are valid during the rental period.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but it's advisable to consider additional coverage options for greater protection. A security deposit is typically required and held on the renter’s credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMost rentals offer unlimited mileage, allowing you to explore the island without worrying about distance restrictions. Fuel policies vary, but returning the car with a full tank is common to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like additional drivers, child seats, or GPS navigation systems. Be sure to clarify any extra costs before finalizing your booking.
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
Peak season (July to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
To ensure a smooth and economical rental experience in Ishigaki, follow these steps.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison platforms to find the best deals from various rental companies. Consider factors like insurance, mileage, and customer reviews.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs and group size. Compact cars are ideal for navigating narrow roads, while SUVs offer more space and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies. Understand the fuel policy to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower rates and better vehicle availability by booking well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking early can save you significant money.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, International Driving Permit (if required), passport, and credit card to pick up your rental. Inspect the car for any existing damage before driving off.
Ishigaki is a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture. Understanding local regulations can enhance your travel experience, particularly if renting a car to explore beyond the main city.
Ishigaki, the second-largest island in Okinawa Prefecture, offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush mountainous landscapes. Driving is the best way to explore its diverse attractions, but awareness of local conditions is crucial. While congestion is minimal compared to larger cities, be prepared for narrow roads and occasional delays.
Top Attractions to Discover
Kabira Bay
Famous for its stunning turquoise waters and pearl cultivation.
Tamatorizaki Observatory
Offers panoramic views of the island's coastline.
Yonehara Beach
Known for its white sand and excellent snorkeling.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Available in Ishigaki City and near popular tourist spots. Look for signs indicating parking areas.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, but it's essential to observe local regulations and time limits.
Park & Ride
Not widely available, but parking near major attractions is generally accessible.
Gas Stations in Ishigaki
Major Brands
Look for gas stations from major chains like Eneos, Idemitsu, and Cosmo Oil.
Refueling
Most gas stations are full-service, where attendants will assist with refueling. Self-service stations are less common.
Location
Gas stations are primarily located along main roads and in Ishigaki City.
Useful Tips for Visiting Ishigaki
Driving Etiquette
Japanese drivers are generally courteous and follow traffic rules. Be patient and respectful on the road.
Narrow Roads
Many roads outside Ishigaki City are narrow and winding. Drive cautiously and be prepared to yield to oncoming traffic.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are typically 40-50 km/h in urban areas and 60 km/h on highways. Adhere to posted speed limits.
Contactless Payment
While some establishments accept credit cards, having cash is useful for smaller shops and restaurants.
Airports
New Ishigaki Airport (ISG)
Also known as Painushima Ishigaki Airport, it serves as the main gateway to Ishigaki Island, connecting to major cities in Japan and some international destinations.
Ferry Terminals
Ishigaki Port
Offers ferry services to other islands in the Yaeyama archipelago, including Taketomi, Iriomote, and Kohama.
Bus Terminals
Ishigaki Bus Terminal
Located in Ishigaki City, it provides local bus services to various parts of the island.
Renting a car in Ishigaki is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to meet certain requirements before you can hit the road. Here’s what you’ll need:
If you are a resident of Japan, you will need a valid Japanese driver’s license. International visitors must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original driver’s license from their home country.
A valid passport is required as proof of identity, especially for international visitors.
A major credit card in the renter's name is typically required for the security deposit. Some rental companies may accept debit cards, but this is less common.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 18 years old, though some may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Ishigaki as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Stunning beaches, easy island exploration. Pure relaxation.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 01.05.2025
Pretty chill vibe.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 16.11.2024
Ishigaki's beauty unfolded effortlessly. Having a car made exploring so much easier, discovering hidden gems along the way.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 09.08.2025
Pretty relaxed, overall.
Ben Carter
Reviewed: 21.05.2025
Pretty laid-back, overall.
Alex Wilson
Reviewed: 04.06.2025
Island life in Ishigaki was bliss! Exploring the coast at my own pace, with the freedom of a car, made for perfect relaxation.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 12.01.2025
Ishigaki was incredible! So much freedom exploring at our own pace.
Kai Peterson
Reviewed: 22.10.2024
Island time in Ishigaki was perfect! Having a car made everything so easy, and the beaches were breathtaking.
Ava Lee
Reviewed: 23.02.2025
Ishigaki was a highlight of our road trip. Exploring the island by car was effortless and so rewarding.
Jenna Thompson
Reviewed: 29.09.2024
Pretty chill, overall.
Noah Garcia
Reviewed: 16.04.2025
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Ishigaki was paradise! Getting around with a rental car was a breeze, leaving plenty of time to relax on those stunning beaches. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 15.08.2025