The majority of foreign tourists who decide to visit Japan hit two places: Tokyo and Kyoto. They have the JR pass, they see a few crowded sights and then go home. Then how about for the rest of us? The backpackers, the long term travelers, the residents and teachers who live at least 20km from a station. The simple fact is, if you want to see the most interesting places in Japan, and not spend a lot of money then you should drive!
"But I can't speak the language and I can't read the signs!" Well, the fact is, there are resources out there that will let you rent a car with as little Japanese as possible, and the road signs (gasp) are also written in English (for the most part).
When I first came to Japan I used a third party website called "ToCoo! Travel" which arranges discounted car rentals of all kinds from all of Japan's major outlets. I still use them to this day. My personal favourite and recommendation is to use Nissan Rent-a-car, as they have very good service, cars that are usually less than 1 or 2 years old, and have a vast array of 24 hour locations within Kanto and Kansai.
The process is simple.
1) In your home country, get an international driver's license.
2) Contact ToCoo! Travel's website, and send them an inquiry in either English, Chinese or Korean and they'll get back to you within 24 hours, usually with your reservation as you requested.
3) When you pick up the car at the outlet, give them your passport, int'l license, and some cash. They'll ask you to write your address in Japan, and a contact number.
4) This is where it gets a bit tricky if you don't speak the language: They'll tell you about the insurance which states that if the car has an accident, and is drivable, then you are charged JPY20,000 upon return. If it is immobile after the accident, its JPY50,000 and no replacement car will be given. If you're a bad driver, upgrade your insurance coverage for about JPY5000.
Also, don't park illegally, as its a rather large fine. If you have an accident call the Police and just attempt to get a translator (or just shout English until you're understood).
5) Once this is complete, you and an attendant circle the car to look for any damage. I'm always a bit anal about this and point out every nick as I don't like to be charged. Sign the agreement and drive away!
BUT WAIT! You have a really good Sat Nav system and don't know how to use it?? Have your destination addresses written down in advance, and have the Nissan people enter them for you. They'll ask if you want "Kokudo" National Roads (Free but slow), or "Kosoku doro" Expressways which are tolled (Expensive but usually the best way to get somewhere fast).
Renting is a really good way to see some of the country that others never do (even native Japanese). Do yourself a favour and go ahead and try it!
http://www2.tocoo.jp/?file=rentcar_inbound/main
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