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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Karuizawa
Karuizawa
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Karuizawa
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Karuizawa
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Karuizawa
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
Why Rent a Car in Karuizawa?
Karuizawa is a beautiful mountain resort town, offering stunning natural landscapes and various attractions. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
Explore Scenic Routes. Karuizawa is surrounded by picturesque mountains, forests, and lakes. With a rental car, you can easily access scenic drives like the Venus Line and discover hidden gems along the way.
Visit Multiple Attractions. Karuizawa boasts attractions such as the Shiraito Falls, the Stone Church, and the Harunire Terrace. A rental car allows you to efficiently visit these sites without being limited by bus schedules.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities. From hiking and cycling to golfing and skiing, Karuizawa offers numerous outdoor activities. Having a car makes it easy to transport equipment and reach trailheads or ski resorts.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Karuizawa
Before renting a car in Karuizawa, it's important to understand the local regulations and requirements. This includes age limits, license requirements, insurance policies, and potential extra fees.
Area
Approximately 156 square kilometers (60 square miles)
Population
Around 20,000 permanent residents, significantly higher during peak seasons
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST), GMT+9
Ideal for
Exploring scenic routes and natural attractions
Rush Hours
Limited traffic congestion, but expect delays during peak tourist seasons
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Karuizawa require drivers to be at least 18 years old with a valid driver's license. Some companies may have additional restrictions for drivers under 21.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver's license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in Japanese. Always carry your passport for identification.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card until the car is returned undamaged.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMost rentals offer unlimited mileage, but confirm this when booking. Fuel policies generally require you to return the car with the same amount of fuel as when you picked it up.
5. Additional FeesExtra fees may apply for optional add-ons like GPS navigation systems, child seats, or additional drivers.
Car Rental Prices in Karuizawa – How Much Does It Cost?
The average daily rate for an economy-class car rental in Karuizawa is around £30 / $38 / €36 per day, but prices can vary depending on the season and availability.
Business:
from £45 / $57 / €54 per day
Electric:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Classic:
from £25 / $32 / €30 per day
Executive:
from £55 / $70 / €66 per day
7 Seater:
from £65 / $82 / €78 per day
Automatic:
from £40 / $51 / €48 per day
SUV:
from £48 / $61 / €58 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (July to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to summer holidays and festivals.
Low season (November to March): Enjoy discounts of up to 15-20% during the winter months, excluding holidays.
*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 Karuizawa?
Booking a car in Karuizawa is easy, but following a few key steps ensures a smooth experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online car rental 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.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure the best rates and availability by booking your rental car well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Present your driver's license, passport, and credit card at the rental counter to collect your vehicle.
General Information About Karuizawa
Karuizawa is a popular resort town in Nagano Prefecture, known for its beautiful natural scenery and pleasant climate. Driving is a convenient way to explore the area, but it's important to be aware of local traffic rules and parking regulations.
Karuizawa is a charming town with a mix of modern amenities and traditional Japanese culture. While the town center is easily walkable, having a car allows you to venture further afield and discover hidden gems. Be aware that some roads can be narrow and winding, especially in mountainous areas.
Top Attractions to Discover
Shiraito Falls
A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Stone Church
A unique architectural masterpiece made of stone.
Harunire Terrace
A stylish shopping and dining complex along a river.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Available in the town center and near popular attractions.
On-Street Parking
Limited and often metered, especially during peak seasons.
Park & Ride
Not widely available, but consider parking at your hotel if possible.
Gas Stations in Karuizawa
ENEOS
A major fuel chain with stations in and around Karuizawa.
Idemitsu
Another popular fuel brand with convenient locations.
Showa Shell
Offers reliable service and fuel options.
Useful Tips for Visiting Karuizawa
Carry Cash
While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, many smaller establishments still prefer cash.
Learn Basic Japanese
Knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful, especially when communicating with locals.
Plan for Traffic
Expect some traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends and holidays.
Respect Local Customs
Be mindful of Japanese customs and etiquette to ensure a pleasant experience.
Key Transportation Hubs in Karuizawa
Railway Stations
Karuizawa Station
The main railway station in Karuizawa, served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen and local lines.
Bus Stations
Karuizawa Bus Terminal
Located next to Karuizawa Station, providing connections to various destinations in the region.
Airports
Narita International Airport (NRT)
Located approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) from Karuizawa, accessible by train and bus.
Haneda Airport (HND)
Located about 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Karuizawa, also accessible by train and bus.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Karuizawa?
To rent a car in Karuizawa, you'll need to meet a few essential requirements.
You must have a valid driver's license. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country license.
The minimum age to rent a car is typically 18 years old, but some companies may have higher age limits or restrictions for certain vehicle types.
A credit or debit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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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 Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Karuizawa 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.
Charming town, easy to get around with a rental; the crowds were a bit much.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 01.11.2024
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 13.05.2025
First time in Karuizawa, and it was magical! Having a car made exploring so easy. Highly recommend.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 15.03.2025
Family loved Karuizawa! So much to see, driving was easy.
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 26.08.2024
Relaxing, car helpful
Olivia Wilson
Reviewed: 15.09.2024
Weekend in Karuizawa was lovely, though the shops closed early.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 21.03.2025
Absolutely loved Karuizawa! Exploring with the family was effortless, thanks to having a car. Highly recommend.
Katherine Nguyen
Reviewed: 12.05.2025
Karuizawa lived up to the hype! Exploring the area with a car was so convenient. Beautiful scenery and charming towns.
Sarah Lee
Reviewed: 13.07.2025