Rental Cars in Yamagata and Miyagi Prefecture
Rental Cars and Camping Vans
When asked what the single most difficult part of traveling here in the Japanese countryside is, our answer may surprise you. It is not the lack of English, the weather, or even the customs. It is transportation.
While it more than possible to plan a trip around local trains and local bus lines, rental cars or camping vans are a great option for those who are comfortable with driving. Much unlike the big cities, the roads here see little traffic and its a very enjoyable way to see the countryside of Japan.
The Hidden Japan has partnered with locally owned rental car companies as well as Vantech, a camping van maker from Yamagata to offer a variety of options for individuals interesting in getting around via car.
Rent a car in Yamagata
These cars may be conveniently picked up directly across Yamagata. The rental price is calculated per day, not per hour. All prices include insurance. We also require a ¥500 transaction fee.
Pick up locations:
- Yamagata Station (Yamagata City)
- Tsuruoka Station (Tsuruoka City)
- The Port of Sakata (for cruise passengers)
- Higashine City
Custom pick-up locations are also possible for extra fees, please contact us and we will confirm with the rental car company.
All you need to rent one of the cars below are the following:
- An international driver’s permit (international drivers license)
- Passport
Kei Cars
Light weight vehicles for easy transportation.
– 4 people (driver + max. 3 passengers)
– ¥11,600 per day
Hybrid Cars
Hybrid cars combining great fuel efficiency with comfort and size.
– 5 people (driver + max. 4 passengers)
– ¥15,800 per day
Compact Cars
Compact cars are larger and more comfortable than kei cars.
– 5 people (driver + max. 4 passengers)
– ¥13,500 per day
Mini Vans
Large mini vans for large groups or families with huge carry capacity.
– 8 people (driver + max. 7 passengers)
– ¥22,500 per day
Camping Van Rentals
Vantech is a major camping van maker in Japan that is based in Yamagata Prefecture.
We have partnered with them to make camping car tours here in Yamagata that we will release later this year.
Their vans are custom made bodies attached to a modified utility truck.
They can sleep 5 adults and can be parked in a variety of camping areas and places around Yamagata.
Note that they do not have showers or toilets in the car and are very much designed for Japan’s camping car culture where it is very popular to use hot spring facilities and either camp or stay in a camping van.
These are a really fun option for those looking to have complete freedom to get around the countryside here.
Prices start at 22,000 yen per day.
As of October 2024, we really want to send travelers to Vantech to push this camping car tour concept.
We will be happy to help arrange a visit for you in Yamagata personally.
Rent a car in Yamagata
You can send a booking inquiry for your rental car below. After we receive your inquiry, we will confirm the booking with our providers and send you a booking confirmation email at least 3 days before your desired date.
Please note this form does not confirm the availability of a rental car or reserves an rental car straightaway.
Cancelation policy
Our general cancelation policy for our rental cars is below. Cancelation fees may vary according to exceptional circumstances.
7 business days before rental start date
Free
6 business days or fewer before rental start date
100%