Frequently Asked
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to get in touch with us. There’s no such thing as a stupid question — we’d love to hear from you.
You will need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) recognized in Japan and a credit card in your name.
You must be at least 18 years old to rent a car in Hokkaido. Most rental agencies apply a young driver surcharge, though fees and policies may vary by location. Rental policies for young drivers may also include restrictions on certain vehicle types (e.g., luxury cars) and require full-coverage insurance. Be sure to review the terms and conditions carefully before selecting your vehicle.
Drivers under the age of 25 can still rent vehicles with us; however, an additional surcharge of ¥3,000 per day will apply.
No. At the time of rental, you must present a valid driver’s license along with a credit card that is embossed with your name. The name and billing address on the credit card must match the name and address on your driver’s license. Third-party credit cards are not accepted under any circumstances.
To rent the Lexus LC500, you will need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) recognized in Japan and a credit card in your name.
Booking with us is easy! Simply fill out the reservation form on any vehicle page or contact us at bigeastpark2@gmail.com. A member of our team will respond within 24 hours to assist you.
Yes, we accept credit card payments. Once your reservation is confirmed, we will process your payment in advance and verify your driver’s license. Your vehicle will be ready at the specified location on the day of your rental.
To cancel or modify your reservation, please contact us at bigeastpark2@gmail.com. Cancellations are subject to the following fees. If we do not hear from you within one hour of your scheduled pickup time, your reservation will be processed as a cancellation.
Cancellation Fees
7 days before departure: No charge
6 to 3 days before departure: 20% of base rental fee
2 days to 1 day before departure: 30% of base rental fee
Same day as departure: 50% of base rental fee
At Hokkaido Rent-a-Car, we offer a wide range of vehicles to suit any travel style, including SUVs, minivans, and sports cars. Our most popular option, the minivan, is known for its spacious and comfortable interior, excellent fuel efficiency (a full tank typically covers a round trip between Sapporo and Furano), and ample luggage space for large items. 4WD minivans are also available, ensuring safe travel on snowy winter roads in Hokkaido. From premium SUVs to luxury coupes, you’ll find the perfect vehicle for your journey.
Yes, long-term rentals are available in Sapporo. Simply select your preferred rental duration on the reservation form, and any applicable discounts will be automatically applied.
In Hokkaido, as in the rest of Japan, you must drive on the left-hand side of the road. Please note that the driver's seat is on the opposite side compared to many other countries. To make your driving experience easier, all of our rental vehicles are equipped with automatic transmissions.
Yes, you can rent a car at New Chitose Airport (CTS). Whether you choose to pick up your vehicle in Sapporo city or directly at the airport, you're all set for a comfortable journey through Hokkaido.
We strongly recommend adding Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage to protect your rental vehicle against accidents, theft, or vandalism while driving in Hokkaido.
Yes. A $200 fee will be charged if smoking is detected inside the vehicle.
Yes, late return fees may apply. There is a 29-minute grace period for vehicle returns. After 30 minutes, hourly rental rates and applicable taxes will be charged. If the vehicle is returned more than 90 minutes late, a full day’s rental charge plus tax may be applied. For delays exceeding 7 hours without prior notice, an additional late fee of ¥15,000 per day (approximately US$100) will apply.
If the vehicle is returned without a full tank of gas, a refueling fee will be charged based on the distance driven. This fee is calculated according to our standard fuel rate schedule.
Furano is widely known as one of Hokkaido’s top travel destinations—but your journey doesn’t have to stop there. With Hokkaido’s open roads and scenic drives, there are plenty of incredible places to explore. Here are a few ideas to help you start your trip off right:
Sapporo, located approximately 88 km from Furano, is full of must-see attractions and seasonal events like the famous Snow Festival and YOSAKOI Soran Festival. We recommend checking out what events are happening during your visit. (For more about things to do in Sapporo, visit our blog.)
About 210 km away, Niseko draws ski enthusiasts from around the world with its world-class powder snow. It’s a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy winter sports or connect with nature. (Curious about skiing in Niseko? Check out our blog for details.)
After a long drive, consider unwinding in Jozankei, one of Sapporo’s most popular hot spring resorts. It’s the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate.
Yes. We offer a special discount plan in partnership with a private vacation home located just a 35-minute drive from New Chitose Airport. This spacious house accommodates up to six guests and is ideally located for those planning to visit multiple destinations, including Furano (91 km away) and Sapporo (45 km away). Surrounded by farmland, the property offers a tranquil, immersive nature experience—an ideal way to enjoy the peaceful charm of rural Japan. For more details on the vacation home discount plan, please click here.
There are many benefits to renting with BIG EAST, including discounts for both short- and long-term rentals, as well as package deals with nearby vacation homes. Planning a trip to Hokkaido? Whether you're traveling with family, friends, a partner, or a group, we offer a wide selection of vehicles to suit your travel style. For long-distance driving, we recommend choosing a hybrid vehicle for better fuel efficiency. (View our hybrid vehicle options here.)
