Hiroshima car rentals

Convenience and Exploration

Renting a car in Hiroshima offers the flexibility to explore the city's landmarks and surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a personal vehicle, you can easily drive to the Peace Memorial Park, a symbol of the city's historical significance, or venture out to the scenic Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate, both within a short drive from the city center. Embrace the freedom of travel without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Vehicle Inspection and Rental Agreement

Upon receiving your rental car, conduct a thorough inspection and document any pre-existing damage to ensure you are not held accountable for it later. Capture images or video as proof. Carefully review the rental contract to understand all the terms, including mileage allowances, fuel policies, insurance inclusions, and any additional fees. Remember to refuel the car before returning it to avoid higher charges from the rental agency, and always return the car on time to dodge late return fees.

Child Safety Requirements

In Japan, child safety in vehicles is paramount, with strict regulations requiring children under six to use rear-facing car seats. When renting a car in Hiroshima, check with the rental provider about the availability of appropriate car seats, and confirm if they will be pre-installed. Traveling without a proper car seat for young passengers is illegal and can result in penalties.

Traffic Considerations

Hiroshima, while not as congested as Tokyo, can still experience traffic, particularly during rush hours. Plan your travel to avoid peak times, typically early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays. When driving in the city, stay alert for cyclists and pedestrians, and always adhere to traffic signals and railway crossing rules. Remember, driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and carries severe consequences.

Navigating with Ease

Although Hiroshima's roads may be less complex than Tokyo's, a GPS navigation system in your rental car can be invaluable for finding your way around efficiently. This tool can help you navigate to popular destinations like the Shukkeien Garden or Hiroshima Castle without the stress of getting lost or dealing with high taxi fares.

Airport Rental Convenience

At Hiroshima Airport, you can find several car rental agencies ready to serve you. This convenience allows you to pick up your rental car shortly after arrival, from reputable companies, ensuring you can start your journey without delay.

Driving in Japan

Familiarize yourself with driving on the left side of the road, as is the standard in Japan. Road signs on major routes are typically in both Japanese and English, but it's wise to ensure your rental car is equipped with an English-language navigation system, especially for navigating less urban areas. Pay attention to the unique driving rules, such as the prohibition of crossing the orange line and the requirement to stop at red lights and railway crossings.