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4.67/5
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Excellent
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Kumamoto
Kumamoto
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Kumamoto
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Kumamoto
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Kumamoto
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 Kumamoto?
Kumamoto, a city known for its stunning castle and natural beauty, offers a wealth of experiences best explored with the freedom of your own vehicle. Public transportation is available, but a rental car allows you to delve deeper into the region's attractions at your own pace.
Explore Kumamoto's Natural Wonders. From the breathtaking Mount Aso to the serene Kikuchi Gorge, many of Kumamoto's scenic spots are more accessible by car.
Visit Historical Sites with Ease. Discover the historic Kumamoto Castle and the charming samurai district with the convenience of direct transportation.
Enjoy Local Culinary Delights. Drive to various regions to sample Kumamoto's local cuisine, from fresh seafood along the coast to regional specialties in the mountains.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Kumamoto
Before booking your rental car in Kumamoto, familiarize yourself with the standard rental terms and conditions. This includes age requirements, licensing, insurance, and potential fees.
Area
Approximately 390 square kilometers (150 square miles)
Population
Around 740,000 residents
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST), GMT+9
Ideal for
Exploring regional attractions
Rush Hours
Expect traffic congestion during morning and evening commute times
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsGenerally, the minimum age to rent a car in Kumamoto is 18, but some companies may require drivers to be 21 or older. Young driver surcharges may apply to renters under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver's license from your country of residence is typically required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in Japanese. A passport may also be necessary.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is typically required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyUnlimited mileage is common, but it's essential to confirm the policy. Rental cars are usually provided with a full tank of gas and should be returned the same way to avoid refueling charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers. One-way rentals may also incur extra charges.
Car Rental Prices in Kumamoto – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £16 / $20 / €19
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £25 / $32 / €30
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £16 / $20 / €19
SUV:
from £8 / $10 / €10
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (March to May, September to November): Sees increased demand, with prices rising by 20-30%
Low season (December to February, June to August): Often includes discounts to attract renters
*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 Kumamoto?
Booking a rental car in Kumamoto involves a few simple steps to ensure a smooth and convenient experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various car rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for exploring the countryside.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including 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 - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to the rental office when collecting your vehicle.
General Information About Kumamoto
Kumamoto is a vibrant city in Kyushu, Japan, offering a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. Understanding local driving conditions and regulations can enhance your car rental experience.
Kumamoto is known for its castle, beautiful gardens, and proximity to Mount Aso. Driving offers the flexibility to explore these attractions and the surrounding areas at your leisure. However, be aware of traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, and familiarize yourself with parking regulations.
Top Attractions to Discover
Kumamoto Castle
A historic castle offering panoramic views of the city.
Suizenji Jojuen Garden
A traditional Japanese garden with meticulously landscaped scenery.
Mount Aso
One of the world’s largest active volcanoes, offering stunning natural landscapes.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Available throughout the city, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available, but be mindful of time limits and restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities to avoid congestion in the city center.
Gas Stations in Kumamoto
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are readily available throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Major Brands
Look for well-known brands offering various fuel types.
Refueling Tips
Most stations offer full-service refueling, but self-service options are also available.
Useful Tips for Visiting Kumamoto
Observe Traffic Laws
Adhere to Japanese traffic regulations, including speed limits and right-of-way rules.
Plan for Toll Roads
Be prepared for toll roads when traveling outside the city.
Use GPS Navigation
A GPS navigation system can be helpful for navigating unfamiliar routes.
Allow Extra Travel Time
Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
Key Transportation Hubs in Kumamoto
Major Bus Stations
Kumamoto Kotsu Center
The main bus terminal offering connections to various destinations within Kumamoto Prefecture and beyond.
Railway Stations
Kumamoto Station
The primary railway station, serving Shinkansen (bullet train) and local train lines.
Airports
Kumamoto Airport (KMJ)
Located approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) from the city center, serving domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Kumamoto?
Renting a car in Kumamoto requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria.
A valid driver's license from your country is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended if your license is not in Japanese.
The minimum age to rent a car is generally 18, but some companies may have higher age restrictions and fees for young drivers.
A credit or debit card in the renter's name is necessary for the security deposit.
A passport may be required for international visitors as proof of identity.
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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Kumamoto 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.
Pretty relaxed, overall
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 29.11.2024
Kumamoto was fantastic! A whirlwind weekend, exploring so much thanks to easy car rental. Highly recommend!
Emily Brown
Reviewed: 29.01.2025
Pretty decent, really
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 01.06.2025
Kumamoto was lovely; exploring with friends was great fun. The castle museum was a bit underwhelming, though.
David Lee
Reviewed: 03.01.2025
Solid, low-key trip
Ben Miller
Reviewed: 10.02.2025
Pretty chill, tbh
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 17.06.2025