Car Rental Stations at the Airport
One huge perk of Narita International Airport is its range of car rental services. Major car rental services include Toyota, Nissan, Nippon, Orix, and Times Car Rental. You can find these car rental desks located in the arrival hall of each terminal. At Narita, the car rental process is way more straightforward than you could imagine, with English-speaking staff available to assist you.
Recommendations for Car Classes
In Japan, compact cars are recommended for constraining city lanes and crowded parking areas. They offer better fuel efficiency and maneuverability. If you plan on exploring beyond the cityscape and into the rural regions, consider renting an SUV for more space and comfort.
Gas Stations Near the Airport
Finding a gas station near Narita won’t be a hassle. There are several options available within a small radius of the airport, including Esso, Idemitsu, Cosmo, and Shell. These gas stations are always open for your convenience, and many of them have English-speaking staff.
Climate Information
Japan is known for its richly varied climate. Important to note, Japan is a long island country stretching from north to south, so you can encounter quite different weather conditions. You will experience humid summers (June- August) with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Winters (December - February) can be cold with temperatures dropping to near zero, and snowfall in the northern regions. Make sure to pack your bag considering the season of your visit.
Currency and Payments
The local currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but Japan remains a predominantly cash-based society, especially in rural areas. ATMs at the airport and 7-Eleven stores dispense cash for international cards. It's good to keep some cash handy.
Surrounding Cities and Attractions
From Narita, you can directly head to Tokyo, the bustling capital city, which is approximately an hour's drive away. However, there are many other attractions closer to Narita worth exploring. Don't miss out on Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple complex just 10 minutes from the airport. The peaceful city of Chiba, known for Chiba Castle and the vast Makuhari Beach, is also just a short drive away.
Driving in Japan
Driving in Japan can be an enjoyable experience. As Japan follows left-hand traffic, be sure that you're comfortable with this. Most car rental companies provide navigation systems with English language options. Remember, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Japan, so make sure you have it ready before your trip.
