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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Sendai
Sendai
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Sendai
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Sendai
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Sendai
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 Sendai?
Sendai, a vibrant city known for its lush greenery and historical sites, offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore the Miyagi Prefecture at your own pace.
Explore Beyond the City. A rental car allows you to easily access scenic spots like Matsushima Bay and the Zao mountains, which are difficult to reach by public transport.
Visit Historical Sites. Drive to historical landmarks such as the Sendai Castle ruins and the Zuihoden Mausoleum without the hassle of train or bus schedules.
Enjoy Local Festivals. A car provides the flexibility to attend regional festivals and events that may be located outside the city center.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Sendai
Before renting a car in Sendai, be sure to understand the local rental terms and conditions. Key factors include age requirements, license validity, insurance coverage, and deposit policies. Familiarizing yourself with these details will help ensure a smooth rental experience.
Area
788.09 square kilometers (304.28 square miles)
Population
Approximately 1.1 million residents
Time Zone
Japan Standard Time (JST), GMT+9
Ideal for
Exploring Miyagi Prefecture and nearby areas
Rush Hours
Expect traffic congestion during morning (7 AM - 9 AM) and evening (5 PM - 7 PM) commute times
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Sendai require drivers to be at least 18 years old. However, some companies may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid Japanese driver’s license is required. International visitors can drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to one year from their arrival date. Ensure you have your passport with you.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included in the rental price, but you may opt for additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is usually required and held on your credit card until the car is returned undamaged.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have daily or weekly limits. Be sure to check the fuel policy and understand whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, or additional drivers. Check for any potential surcharges before finalizing your booking.
Car Rental Prices in Sendai – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €23 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €35 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €23 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (March to May & September to November): Sees higher demand due to cherry blossom season and autumn foliage, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (December to February): Often come with discounts, especially excluding the New Year holiday period
*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 Sendai?
To book a car in Sendai, compare prices, choose a suitable vehicle, and review rental terms to avoid surprises. Booking early is essential for the best rates, particularly during peak seasons.
1. Compare Prices - Use online car rental comparison sites to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the countryside.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during popular travel periods.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, International Driving Permit (if applicable), passport, and credit card when collecting your rental.
General Information About Sendai
Sendai is a city known for its blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. To make the most of your trip, understanding local traffic rules, parking regulations, and fuel access is essential, especially if you're renting a car.
As the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, Sendai is a major economic and cultural hub in the Tohoku region. It's known as the 'City of Trees' due to its abundant greenery. Renting a car is a practical choice if you plan to explore beyond the city to destinations like Matsushima or the Zao Fox Village. While driving within Sendai is generally manageable, it’s important to be aware of local traffic laws and parking options to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Sendai Castle Ruins
Explore the historical site of Sendai Castle, offering panoramic views of the city.
Zuihoden Mausoleum
Visit the opulent mausoleum of Date Masamune, the founder of Sendai.
Matsushima Bay
Take a scenic drive to Matsushima Bay, known for its beautiful islands and oyster farms.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilize parking garages in the city center for secure and convenient parking.
On-Street Parking
Metered on-street parking is available, but be mindful of time limits and parking regulations.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and take public transportation to the center.
Gas Stations in Sendai
Major Brands Available
Find major gas station brands such as Eneos, Idemitsu, and Cosmo throughout Sendai.
Refueling Tips
Gas stations are readily available, but it’s advisable to refuel before heading to more remote areas.
Payment Methods
Most gas stations accept credit cards and cash.
Useful Tips for Visiting Sendai
Use Public Transport
Take advantage of Sendai’s efficient subway and bus system, especially within the city center.
Watch for Cyclists
Be aware of cyclists, as Sendai has a significant cycling population.
Plan for Traffic
Avoid driving during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM / 5:00–7:00 PM) to minimize traffic delays.
Learn Basic Japanese Phrases
Knowing basic Japanese phrases can be helpful, especially in rural areas.
Key Transportation Hubs in Sendai
Major Bus Stations
Sendai Station Bus Terminal
Located at Sendai Station, it provides access to local and long-distance bus services.
Railway Stations
Sendai Station
The primary railway station in Sendai, connecting to major cities throughout Japan via the Shinkansen bullet train.
Airports
Sendai Airport (SDJ)
Located approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles) south of Sendai, offering domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Sendai?
Renting a car in Sendai is a relatively straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before getting behind the wheel.
If you're a Japanese resident, your Japanese driver's license is required. International visitors can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to one year.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 18 years old. However, some may have additional requirements for younger drivers.
A valid credit card in the main driver’s name is necessary for the security deposit. Some companies may accept debit cards, but credit cards are generally preferred.
A passport or other form of identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Sendai 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 Sendai by car was a breeze! We loved the flexibility it gave us to visit Matsushima Bay and the Zuihoden mausoleum. Such a memorable trip.
David Lee
Reviewed: 08.02.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Karen Smith
Reviewed: 05.02.2025
Sendai was lovely; renting a car was a great decision. The only downside? The Zuihōden mausoleum was surprisingly crowded.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 02.08.2025
Smooth Sendai road trip! Easy to navigate, and the scenery was stunning. Highly recommend.
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 11.10.2024
Quick Sendai weekend trip, and the car made it perfect! So much to see.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 24.11.2024
Sendai was fantastic! Having a car made exploring so easy, especially the beautiful coastline. Relaxing beach days were perfect.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 17.11.2024