Want to Rent a Car in Kyoto? Here’s What You Should Know:
Few people know that the first capital of Japan was not Tokyo, but Kyoto. And the city carried this proud title for more than 1000 years! Only then it was called Heiankyo, which in Japanese means "the capital of peace and tranquility." There are several theories about the origin of this name. The most popular version is based on the fact that the city was allegedly built on land guarded by "four sacred spirits." At that time, in the spiritual life of the country, the trend of the philosophical currents of China, and in particular the practice of feng shui, was clearly felt. And the Japanese believed that due to the special location of some mountains, rivers and tracts, this land is protected by mythical creatures or spirits. However, despite this, during its long history, the city had to endure more than one fire of war and numerous epidemics. So, for example, at the end of the 15th century, Kyoto became a battlefield in the internecine war of clans, which lasted almost 77 years. Naturally, by the end of the war, little was left of the city. At the end of the 16th century, the capital was completely rebuilt. It was already a much more fortified city with the residence of the ruler in the center. This layout of the city served as a prototype for the current Kyoto.
During the time that Kyoto was the capital of the country, the city and its inhabitants more than once had to withstand various disasters. Usually the fault was the clashes between the soldiers who defended the rulers and the clans or ordinary inhabitants who rebelled against the power. So, in 1788, a similar conflict ended in a fire that raged for two days and two nights. The Japanese subsequently named it the Great Fire of Tenmei.
Even after the transfer of the capital to Tokyo, the imperial palace was located in Heiankyo, which clearly indicated that, in spite of everything, Kyoto remained the political and cultural capital of the country.
Kyoto Landmarks
The city is located on Honshu Island, in the central part of it. Since it was the center of Kyoto that most often suffered from fires, most of the old buildings and attractions are located on its outskirts. For this reason, it will not be superfluous to worry about renting a car in advance. Bookingautos is one of the convenient options where you can rent a car without problems and delays. Kyoto's official guide website, which covers all upcoming events and festivals, can be your travel companion.
Where should you start exploring the former capital of Japan? Many people think that Fushimi Inari Shrine. A distinctive feature of this temple is not even the fact that its main building is located at the foot of the mountain, but the road that leads to it. An endless number of torii, painted in bright orange, form corridors several kilometers long.
On the shore of the Mirror Lake, there is a Buddhist temple of unique beauty, Kinkaku-ji, which is often called the Golden Pavilion. The name of the temple was due to the external decoration - its walls are actually covered with gold leaf, which is covered with a special varnish for protection. The pavilion is surrounded by small islands where Japanese pines grow. The picture is so mesmerizing that you can't take your eyes off it.
In Kyoto National Museum has a large collection of traditional Japanese art. This museum is considered one of the most famous in Japan. In front of the museum building there is a copy of Rodin's sculpture The Thinker.
What's near Kyoto?
If you have free time, Nara city is forty minutes from Kyoto. Its attraction is a park with deer, which are revered here as sacred animals. Entrance to the park is absolutely free. Also in the city is one of the oldest Japanese temples, Todai-ji.
Peculiarities of the national cuisine of Kyoto
If we talk about traditional Japanese cuisine, Kaiseki Ryori is definitely worth mentioning.
This is a Japanese rotating lunch. It is always based on soup, which is served with three accompanying dishes - something fried, boiled and pickled fish. You can try this lunch at one of the local restaurants:
Okonomiyaki Katsu. This small but cozy restaurant is located in the northern part of the city, in one of the quietest areas. Almost all tourists are delighted with this place. Address: Ukyo-Ku, Kyoto (+81 75-464-8981);
Teppan Tavern Gion Tenamonya. This place is a favorite place for many tourists. The peculiarity of this place is that visitors at the counter can observe the process of cooking. Address: Higashiyama Ward, Gionmachi Minamigawa, 537-2 B1F (+81 75-551-5272).
Kyoto parking lots
Parking in Japan can be either private or municipal. On the latter, you can leave the car for free for only 40-60 minutes. You will have to pay a fine for exceeding the limit. In paid parking lots, the price per hour can reach 300 yen (slightly less than $3). One such parking lot is located at Saiinkogomecho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8414 (+81 120-886-050).
Good to know
Most Popular Agency
Budget
Most popular car class
Mini
Average price
28 € / Day
Best price
20 € / Day
Monthly price chart: Average price per week of rent
January
€382
February
€293
March
€257
April
€423
May
€346
June
€440
July
€546
August
€593
September
€332
October
€297
November
€292
December
€531
* The average cost of renting a car in Kyoto for seven days. The data is calculated based on car bookings for the previous 365 days.
A percentage showing the monthly occupancy of the fleet of available vehicles. During August, there is a maximum demand for car rental, which entails a decrease in the range of cars available for order. You should take care of booking a car in Kyoto in advance, this will allow you to get the preferred option on the most favorable financial terms.
The best time to rent a car in Kyoto is November. This month, rental prices are minimal, below the annual average by 34%, and start from €16 for a Compact car.
Convertibles are especially popular in summer. It is difficult to find a free car for rent, and you will have to pay more than usual for a trip with a breeze. Renting Mini Couper Cabrio during Summer period can costs €136 per day.
Our rental office in Kyoto can offer you a wide selection of over 40 car models. You can rent exact car model. All cars are new and technically fully functional.
Car rental costs in Kyoto depend on its duration, car class and specific season. A budget category Ford Fiesta or VW Upare available for just €37-€35 per day. When booking through Bookingautos.com, the price will be from €15. The higher segment will cost more. The daily fee for Mercedes C Class, Toyota Rav-4, Renault Megane Estate will be about €37. There are also available minivans, luxury cars, electric cars and business class cars. Their rental starts from €74 and can reach several hundred euros per day.
Recently, in Kyoto has seen a rise in demand for electric car rentals. They do not pollute nature and save money. The city has free parking and cheap charging stations. To rent an electric car in Kyoto, select the appropriate filter in the car search and fill in the dates you need. The best option could be Tesla Model X.
Documents required for car rental
Driving license
Credit card
Voucher
Passport
Attention!
A valid international driver's license is required!
10 Smart Tips to Make the Most of Your Car Rental
Download Google maps for offline access
All modern smartphones have a GPS function. You can save on the "Navigator" service and roaming charges for the Internet if you download maps in the Google Maps application in advance. Offline maps also support route building and navigation. To download a map - open the area you need by controlling the scale, and enter "ok maps" in the search.
Early Booking Discount
Kyoto is a popular holiday destination and the car rental service is in great demand here. Therefore, it is recommended to book a car in advance. When booking online, you know exactly which car, for what price and under what conditions you will get in Kyoto. The main advantage of early booking is the cost savings. The less time left before the start of the rental, the higher the cost of the rental becomes. The optimal period for booking in rental companies is 6 weeks before receiving the car. If you book early, two days before receiving the car, you can cancel the order without any penalties.
Which car to choose for rent
Choose a car according to the purpose of your trip. You can drive around the city and its surroundings in a compact car VW Up or Ford Fiesta. These models are the most popular with our customers in Kyoto.
In the mountains, more powerful transport will be required. Pay attention to the volume of the engine - it must be more than 1.6 liters. An all-wheel drive crossover would be ideal. Renault Megane Estate will cost €45 per day. By the way, before leaving, do not forget to refuel with a margin. On the rises, the fuel goes one and a half to two times more. Gas stations in mountain villages are rare.
What you need to pay attention to when receiving a car
Before picking up, you are required to carefully inspect the car and point out to the rental company manager for scratches, damage and defects, such as dirty seat upholstery. You should check the ignition and the fuel level in the tank. You need to know the conditions for returning the car - where exactly, with what amount of fuel to return the car.
The rental agreement must include a telephone number to contact the rental company. It is designed so that customers can get help in emergency situations, such as when a car breaks down or in the event of an accident. A call to the rental company should be done first, even before the arrival of the police.
Insurance recommendations
Rental companies in Kyoto may offer different insurance options. They differ in price and set of options. Here are the basic types:
Third Party Liability (TPL)/Third Liability Protection (TLP). This is a third party liability protection. If you are the culprit of an accident, the insurance will compensate for the costs of the victims for you.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). This is to protect your vehicle from any damage. She works with a franchise. This is the amount that you will have to pay in case of damage in any case. The company will cover anything over the limit. The insurance does not cover theft.
Theft Insurance (TI)/Theft Protection (TP)/Theft Waiver (TW). This is car theft protection. Operates with a franchise.
Super Loss Damage Waiver (SLDW)/Theft Protection+Collision Damage Waiver (TP+CDW). Full protection against theft and damage, even if you are the culprit of the accident.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). This is medical insurance for the driver and passengers.
If you want to save money and choose the cheapest insurance, carefully inspect the car upon receipt. Make sure the machine is not damaged.
Fuel prepayment terms
For trips over long distances, it is better to choose the option with the already included payment for a full tank. If you have a short trip, then this service is inappropriate. Be sure to read the fuel policy before making a booking:
If necessary, use the special filter to select the most convenient option for you.
Mileage without limits
The rental company may set a daily mileage limit. You will have to pay extra for exceeding the limit. Please check this condition before booking. It is possible that a more expensive rental option will turn out to be more profitable in the end: it will not require any additional expenses. To filter cars with unlimited mileage - use the "Mileage" filter in the search results.
Compare conditions of different rental companies
When choosing a rental car in Kyoto, you should carefully read all the terms of the rental. This is due to the fact that different companies may differ not only in rental prices, but also in conditions for limiting mileage, the cost of additional services, and the amount of the deposit. To compare rental conditions, it is convenient to use the search and booking system on our website.
How to choose a rental company
It is recommended to rent a car in trusted companies, that is, in those whose services you have already used. You can also focus on the rating of our site, which is displayed next to the name of the company in the search results.
Ceteris paribus, preference should be given to larger companies that have a high level of service and a large selection of cars. The best rental companies in Kyoto are sixt with an average rating of 9.8 points and budget (rating - 9.7).
Car pick-up procedure
Getting a rented car in Kyoto is as follows: You show the manager a voucher, as well as the necessary documents - a passport and an international driver's license. The manager draws up a lease agreement, after which the agreed amount of the security deposit will be blocked on your bank card. Before receiving the car, it is necessary to inspect it, fix the existing damage and inform the manager about them.
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Car rental reviews: Kyoto
Based on 8255 reviews
Rate 4,8/5
Based on 8255 reviews
Tony
4,8
Without a doubt, I will continue to use Bookingautos on a regular basis. Thank you very much for your assistance!
Michael
4,7
Excellent value for money. The pick-up process was a little confusing, but I would use it again!
Luna
4,5
The search was very simple to use, the price was really low, and there were no problems with the rental car company.
Jody
4,9
Everything proceeded as expected. The complete coverage compensation really worked.
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