Car Rental Nara

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Top Car Deals in Nara

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Nara, Nara Prefecture, JPN
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Nara, Nara Prefecture, JPN
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Nara, Nara Prefecture, JPN
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Nara, Nara Prefecture, JPN
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Nara car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Nara

Renting a car in Nara offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key attractions like Nara Park, which is perfect for city and outdoor experiences, and cultural sites such as Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Shrine, both located in the area of Nara.

A car rental also makes it convenient to explore nearby destinations like Naramachi, where you can find the Nara City Museum of Photography and Gango-ji Temple, or Noboriōji, featuring Sarusawa Pond Park and Kofuku-ji Temple. Additionally, Kōriyama, just 3 miles away, offers attractions like Koriyama Castle and the Koriyama Goldfish Museum. With a car, you can create a flexible travel itinerary and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region without relying on public transportation. Whether you are traveling with family or looking for a unique cultural experience, renting a car in and around Nara enhances your journey.

Most popular car rentals in Nara

  • Midsize: The Midsize car is a top choice for those traveling in groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for couples and families looking for comfort and space while exploring Nara. Its balanced size makes it easy to navigate through city streets and ensures ample room for all your luggage, providing a stress-free travel experience.
  • Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the Compact car option accommodates up to 5 travelers with room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle strikes a great balance between size and maneuverability, making it easy to park and navigate through Nara’s attractions. If you’re seeking an economical choice without sacrificing comfort, the Compact car is a fantastic selection for your trip.
  • Economy: The Economy car is the budget-friendly option that can also accommodate up to 5 travelers, with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice is well-suited for solo travelers and couples who prioritize cost-effectiveness while still enjoying the freedom of exploring Nara. The Economy car provides a practical solution for those looking to maximize their travel experience without overspending.

Top rated car suppliers in Nara

  • Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travelers in Nara, offering a convenient rental location in the area. Known for its fleet of Economy and Compact Van vehicles, Hertz provides flexibility for exploring Nara and its surroundings. Customers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and adjusting their travel plans while enjoying the comfort and reliability of Hertz vehicles. This supplier is an excellent option for those looking to maximize their sightseeing experience in Nara.
  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car has gained a strong reputation among visitors in Nara, with a rental location that makes it easily accessible. The supplier is particularly favored for its Compact vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the city and its attractions. Travelers often highlight the quick pickup process and the cleanliness of the cars, ensuring a hassle-free rental experience. Alamo offers a reliable and customer-friendly service, making it a top choice for tourists in the region.

Where to stay in and around Nara

  • Naramachi: Naramachi is a charming neighborhood in Nara, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a delightful mix of city-themed experiences, including a shopping area and a shopping mall center. Visitors can explore cultural landmarks such as the Nara City Museum of Photography and Gango-ji Temple, both suitable for a cultural vacation. Naramachi also features Nara Park, an urban park ideal for family outings and outdoor activities. With nearby options for coffee and beer, it's a great spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Noboriōji: Noboriōji is a quaint village in the Nara region, appealing to families and those seeking outdoor adventures. The village is home to accessible shopping areas and body treatment venues. Notable attractions include Sarusawa Pond Park and Kofuku-ji Temple, both offering enriching cultural experiences. Nara Park, a beautiful urban park, is also nearby, providing ample opportunities for family outings and outdoor enjoyment. This village allows visitors to immerse themselves in both nature and culture during their stay.
  • Kizugawa: Located 4 miles from Nara, Kizugawa is a vibrant city that attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The area boasts a variety of shopping options and even motor racing activities. Notable sites include Gansenji Temple and Joruri Temple, both of which offer cultural insights into the region. Additionally, Nara Park is easily accessible, making it a fantastic spot for family activities and outdoor fun. Kizugawa is a great choice for travelers looking to experience a blend of culture and city life.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Nara

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car to save on costs, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to find lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best approach. Alternatively, some companies offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worth the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Nara

The best value period to rent a car in and around Nara is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. February also offers average prices with average demand, making it a favorable option. As spring approaches, March sees a spike in prices and demand, becoming the most expensive month for rentals. Following that, April experiences high demand and average pricing, which continues through July, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
February40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
May64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June71.6°F (22.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July79.2°F (26.2°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
August81.3°F (27.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
September74.5°F (23.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
October63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
November54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Nara

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Nara into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Nara and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Nara

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Nara. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Nara

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Nara?
You can find cheap car rentals in Nara from $27 a day with Hertz's economy 2/4 door cars. Europcar offers economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $35 a day and compact 2 or 4 door cars starting from $45 a day. Alamo Rent A Car provides mini 2 or 4 door cars starting from $48 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Nara that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Nara.
What are the best luxury car companies in Nara?
For luxury car rentals in Nara, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Europcar. Europcar offers luxury and premium vehicle categories, providing enhanced comfort and features for your trip. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Nara.
Can I rent a car one-way in Nara?
A one-way car rental in Nara is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $44 a day. Providers like Europcar and Alamo Rent A Car may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your car in Nara and drop it off at a different location. This is a convenient choice for exploring beyond Nara without needing to return to your starting point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Nara.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Nara?
Nara is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $27 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Nara, such as Nara Park, Arima Onsen, and Universal Studios Japan, and returning to the same spot. Providers like Europcar and Alamo Rent A Car also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Nara.
What are the best car rentals in Nara?
Car rentals in Nara offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Special passenger van
  • Mini 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 4-5 door
Most come with automatic transmission, and both economy and compact cars are fuel-efficient. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Nara.
What are the best car rentals in Nara for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Nara for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $35 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $45 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Nara Park, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Nara.
What are the best car rentals in Nara for couples?
The best car rentals in Nara for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 4-5 door, starting from $60 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $70 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. These options provide ample room for two travelers and their luggage, making them ideal for exploring Nara and its surroundings. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Nara.
What are the best car rentals in Nara for families?
The best car rentals in Nara for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Compact SUV, starting from $70 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 medium suitcases and a car seat
  • Special passenger van, starting from $107 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and passenger vans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Nara. Alamo Rent A Car is popular with families. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, especially around April, and consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Nara.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Nara?
Nara has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Europcar offers hybrid plug-in vehicles starting from $27 a day, and Alamo Rent A Car provides hybrid options starting from $35 a day. Enterprise also offers hybrid vehicles starting from $35 a day. Multiple rental companies in Nara carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia, offering a fuel-efficient choice for your travels.
What is the best time to book a car in Nara?
From January, prices in Nara are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $35 a day during this period. April tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Nara Park
  • Arima Onsen
  • Universal Studios Japan
  • Nara Early Morning Tour Kyoto or Osaka Departure Available
  • Table-Style Tea Ceremony in a 100-Year-Old Kyoto Machiya
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Nara?
Car rentals in Nara are available from providers like Europcar, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Europcar has economy 2 or 4 door and compact 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers mini 2 or 4 door and compact SUV vehicles with more space and stability for highways and regional exploration. Enterprise rounds out the choices with midsize 4-5 door and compact SUV vehicles. Choose a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Nara.
What are good day trip destinations from Nara by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and activities within easy reach from Nara include:
  • Nara Park, approximately 3 miles away
  • Dotonbori, approximately 21 miles away
  • Universal Studios Japan, approximately 26 miles away
  • Nara Early Morning Tour Kyoto or Osaka Departure Available
  • Nara Afternoon Tour from Kyoto & Osaka: Todai-ji, Nara Park
These distances are manageable for most car types. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Nara.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Nara?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Nara. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Nara?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Nara?
Budget car rental in Nara can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Nara?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Nara. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Nara car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Nara?
To rent a car in Nara, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Nara car rental?
If you need to cancel your Nara car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Nara with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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