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.

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

Please come to our shop (inside Hakuba Cortina Lodge) at your reserved date and time.

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 on time.
The vehicle must have a Full Tank of fuel upon return.
※Any additional fees (late charges, fuel charges) will be settled at this time.

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

  1. Aid the Injured (Call 119): If anyone is hurt, call an ambulance immediately.
  2. 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.
  3. Contact Us: Call Hakuba Rent a Car at 050-1793-0205.

Insurance & Non-Operation Charge (NOC)

Basic insurance is included in our rates. However, in the event of an accident, theft, or damage requiring repair or cleaning, a Non-Operation Charge (NOC) will be charged to cover business losses.

55,000 JPY (Tax inc.) If the vehicle can be driven back to the shop.
110,000 JPY (Tax inc.) If the vehicle cannot be driven (requires towing).
※Towing fees and flat tire repairs are the customer's responsibility unless covered by a protection plan.

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

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