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4.67/5
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Nikko
Nikko
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Nikko
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Nikko
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Nikko
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 Nikko?
Nikko is a captivating city known for its stunning shrines, temples, and natural beauty. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
Unrestricted Access to Remote Locations. Nikko National Park and other scenic spots are best accessed by car, allowing you to discover hidden gems that are often missed by tour buses.
Tailored Travel Schedules. With a rental car, you can customize your itinerary according to your interests, whether it's early morning visits to avoid crowds or spontaneous stops at roadside attractions.
Convenience for Families and Groups. A car offers ample space for luggage and travel essentials, making it ideal for families or groups traveling together.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Nikko
Before renting a car in Nikko, it's essential to be aware of the terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.
Area
Approximately 553.45 square kilometers (213.69 sq mi)
Population
Around 80,000 residents
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST), GMT+9
Ideal for
Scenic drives and cultural exploration
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during peak tourist seasons and local holidays.
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Nikko require drivers to be at least 18 years old, but additional fees may apply for drivers under 25.
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.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals typically include basic insurance coverage, but additional options like collision damage waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is usually required.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies usually require returning the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, and one-way rentals.
Car Rental Prices in Nikko – 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 (March to May & September to November): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher tourist activity during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage.
Low season (December to February): Offers discounts as tourist numbers decrease. Ideal for budget travelers.
*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 Nikko?
Booking a car in Nikko involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies. Consider factors like price, included insurance, and customer reviews.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering the number of passengers, luggage space, and the type of roads you'll be driving on.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking your rental car well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, International Driving Permit (if required), passport, and credit card when you pick up the rental car.
General Information About Nikko
Nikko is a city in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, known for its UNESCO World Heritage shrines and temples, as well as its stunning natural landscapes.
Navigating Nikko by car requires awareness of local traffic regulations and driving conditions. While not as congested as larger cities, understanding parking and fuel access is important.
Top Attractions to Discover
Toshogu Shrine
A lavishly decorated shrine complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Lake Chuzenji
A scenic lake formed by a volcanic eruption, offering boat tours and stunning views.
Kegon Falls
One of Japan's tallest waterfalls, cascading down from Lake Chuzenji.
Where to Find Parking
Designated Parking Areas
Look for designated parking lots near major attractions, often with hourly or daily rates.
Street Parking
Limited street parking may be available, but it's essential to observe posted signs and regulations.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer parking facilities for guests, providing a convenient option for those staying overnight.
Gas Stations in Nikko
Major Brands Available
Gas stations are readily available along major roads and highways.
Consider Refueling
It's wise to refuel before heading into more remote areas, as gas stations may be less frequent.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate nearby gas stations and plan your route accordingly.
Useful Tips for Visiting Nikko
Driving Etiquette
Follow Japanese driving etiquette, including yielding to pedestrians and cyclists, and driving on the left side of the road.
Traffic Conditions
Be aware of potential traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons and weekends.
Speed Limits
Adhere to posted speed limits, which are typically lower than in other countries.
Prepare for Weather
Check the weather forecast before you travel, as weather conditions can change rapidly in mountainous areas.
Key Transportation Hubs in Nikko
Railway Stations
Nikko Station
The main railway station in Nikko, connecting to various destinations within Japan.
Tobu-Nikko Station
Another major station providing access to Tokyo and other areas via the Tobu Railway.
Bus Terminal
Nikko Bus Terminal
Serves local and regional bus routes, providing transportation to various attractions and towns in the area.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Nikko?
Renting a car in Japan, including Nikko, requires meeting specific requirements. Here's what you'll need to have ready before picking up your rental.
You must have a valid driver's license from your home country.
If your license is not in Japanese, you'll need an International Driving Permit. It must be obtained in your home country before arriving in Japan.
A valid passport is required for identification purposes.
Most car rental companies require a credit card in the renter's name for the security deposit.
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Learn more about our Content Quality Standards
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 Nikko 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.
Exploring Nikko by car was so convenient! The scenery was stunning, and everything felt effortless.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 28.02.2025
Loved exploring Nikko! It was my first time, and having a car made it so easy to discover hidden gems.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 16.08.2025
Such a beautiful area! My short business trip to Nikko was made so much easier by having a car. I saw so much more than I would have otherwise.
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 29.05.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 22.08.2024
Absolutely loved Nikko! First time there, and having a car made exploring so easy and enjoyable. Gorgeous scenery.
Evelyn Wilson
Reviewed: 29.09.2024
Nikko's shrines were amazing; driving made exploring effortless.
Katherine Lee
Reviewed: 19.11.2024
Summer in Nikko was incredible! Having a car made getting around so easy, and we saw so much. The scenery was stunning.
Ava Martinez
Reviewed: 09.10.2024
Pretty peaceful, really.
Mia Thompson
Reviewed: 10.04.2025
Wonderful spontaneous weekend! Exploring Nikko by car was effortless and scenic.
Maya Hernandez
Reviewed: 20.05.2025
Nikko was breathtaking! First time visiting and exploring by car was the perfect way to see everything. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 01.11.2024