Car Rentals in Nagano, JPN

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Nagano

Renting a car in Nagano offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and craft your travel plans without the constraints of public transport schedules. This is particularly advantageous for those looking to enjoy ski, adventure, and sports experiences in the area. Key attractions such as the Zenko-ji Temple and Togakushi Shrine are easily accessible, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture. Families can benefit from visiting the Nagano City Museum, which is perfect for cultural experiences. Additionally, popular destinations like Obuse, located 12 km from Nagano, and Kinasa, featuring highlights like the Happo-one Adam Gondola, can be conveniently reached. Whether you are a culture enthusiast or seeking outdoor adventures, a rental car enhances your ability to discover everything Nagano has to offer. From scenic drives to spontaneous stops, having a car allows for a more personalised and enjoyable travel experience.

Most popular car hires in Nagano

• Compact: The Compact car option is a popular choice for those travelling in small groups. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal vehicle for solo travellers, couples, and families who want the freedom to explore Nagano at their leisure, with sufficient space for luggage and essentials.
• Mini: The Mini car option is perfect for smaller parties, accommodating up to 4 travellers with the capacity for 2 small suitcases. It is an excellent choice for solo travellers and couples looking for a convenient and economical way to navigate Nagano. Its compact size makes it easy to park and manoeuvre through the region's scenic routes.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option is well-suited for families and couples, offering space for up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a comfortable ride while ensuring you have ample room for all your belongings, making it ideal for those who desire a bit more comfort during their exploration of Nagano.

Top rated car suppliers in Nagano

• Alamo Rent A Car: With a rental location in the heart of Nagano, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility. Known for its reliable service, this supplier offers a range of vehicles, with Compact and Mini cars being the most booked options. Renting from Alamo allows you to explore Nagano and its stunning surroundings at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your itinerary as needed.

Where to stay in and around Nagano

• Chikuma: Located 17 km from Nagano, Chikuma offers a delightful experience for adventure seekers and winter sports enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its ski fields and resorts, making it a prime destination during the winter season. Nearby attractions include the Nagano Prefectural Museum of History, ideal for culture lovers, and the serene lakes and onsens that provide relaxation after a day of outdoor activities. Food and drink options abound, with local breweries and wineries enhancing your stay.
• Kurita: Situated around Nagano, Kurita is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for sports and adventure. Visitors can easily access skiing opportunities and enjoy the surrounding hotsprings and lakes. Notable points of interest include the culturally significant Zenko-ji Temple and the Togakushi Shrine, both suitable for those interested in Japan's rich heritage. The Nagano City Museum also offers insights into the region's natural history, making Kurita a well-rounded choice for travellers.
• Shinano: Positioned 18 km from Nagano, Shinano is an excellent destination for those looking for adventure and outdoor sports. The area is famed for its ski resorts and beautiful mountain landscapes, perfect for winter activities. Visitors can explore the picturesque Lake Nojiri, a lovely spot for relaxation and scenic views. Culturally, the Togakushi Shrine and Zenko-ji Temple are easily accessible, offering enriching experiences. Shinano's local wineries and breweries provide delightful options for food and drink enthusiasts.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Nagano

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and specific features you desire. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best options for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance is likely to yield lower prices and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before finalising your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind during your travels. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Nagano

The best value period to rent a car in and around Nagano is June, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. May offers similar value with average prices and low demand, making it another good option. Following June, demand starts to increase slightly, with average prices in August. However, October marks the most expensive month, where prices tend to be slightly high and demand remains steady. November also sees average pricing with consistent demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
February	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
March	37.4°F (3.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
August	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	34.2°F (1.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average