How to Rent / License / In Case of Trouble
Here is a step-by-step guide to renting a car with us, from booking to return. This page also explains essential Driver's License rules and what to do in case of an accident or emergency.
⚠ IMPORTANT:
Please read our Terms & Conditions / Booking Policies regarding insurance coverage and cancellation fees.
Rental Flow
STEP 1. Booking
Submit a request via our website booking form. We will check availability and send you a confirmation email within 2 business days.
STEP 2. Arrival
You have two options to get to our shop:
- Direct Visit: Come to Hakuba Cortina Lodge (near Hakuba Norikura Ski Resort).
- Pick-up Service: We can pick you up from your accommodation or station and bring you to our shop.
STEP 3. Pick-up
【Requirements】
- Driver's License (Original)
- Passport (Mandatory for non-residents)
- Payment Method
Procedures: Signing the contract, Payment, checking vehicle condition/scratches, and key handover.
STEP 4. Return
Please return the vehicle to our shop on time with a Full Tank.
※Any additional fees will be settled here.
Drop-off Service:
After returning the car, we can drive you back to your designated location (Hotel, Station, etc.).
Payment Methods
Payment is required at the time of pick-up. We accept:
- Cash: Japanese Yen (JPY) only
- Credit Cards: VISA, Mastercard, AMEX, JCB, Diners
- QR Code Payment: PayPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay
In Case of Emergency / Trouble
If you are involved in an accident or breakdown, please stay calm and follow these steps. Insurance will NOT cover damages if you fail to report the accident to the police.
Accident Procedures
- Aid the Injured (Call 119): If anyone is hurt, call an ambulance immediately.
- Call the Police (Call 110): You MUST report the accident to the police and get a police report, regardless of how minor the damage is.
- Contact the Shop & Insurance Company: Please report the situation to the following numbers:
- Hakuba Rent a Car (Shop): 050-1793-0205
- Accident Support Center: 0120-256-110
- Roadside Assistance Desk: 0120-365-110
*If the vehicle cannot be driven due to accident or breakdown.
Driver's License Requirements
To drive in Japan, you must possess one of the following licenses. If you forget these documents on the day, we cannot rent the car to you.
1. Japanese Driver's License
A valid license issued in Japan.
2. International Driving Permit (IDP)
An IDP based on the 1949 Geneva Convention is required.
※WARNING: Please check your IDP carefully before travelling.
- ❌ 1968 Vienna Convention IDPs (often issued in EU countries) are NOT valid in Japan. It must say "1949 GENEVA".
- ❌ Digital copies or photos are NOT accepted. You must present the Original Paper Booklet.
3. Foreign License + Official Translation
For licenses issued in the following countries/regions, you need your Original License + Official Japanese Translation (IDP is not required).
Eligible Countries/Regions:
Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Slovenia, Monaco, Taiwan