How to find a cheap car hire deal in Sapporo
Pick up a cheap rental car in Sapporo for around Rs16,088 a day and drive off happy. We do the hard work for you by searching the best rental providers, making it easy to compare prices and book.
The cheapest daily rental price in Sapporo is Rs7,867.
For longer trips, book a weekly rental from Rs50,022 and pack more sights into your itinerary.
Timing is everything when it comes to finding the best price on a Sapporo car hire. Try booking around two weeks before you go.
Rent your wheels from Nissan Rent a Car, Budget or Times. They're some of the most well-known providers in the city.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Sapporo car hire policy, whether with Nissan Rent a Car or any other supplier. Some may leave it out of the standard package and offer it as an extra.
Booking a one-way car hire can be the key to cheaper deals. Simply select 'Return car to a different location.' Providers sometimes need to move vehicles from one site to another, which means you can bag some awesome one-way prices on a car for rent in Sapporo.
Avoid those steep refueling fees by choosing a ride with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, paying only for what you use.
Hit every stop on your wish list by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you like without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
Taking the top spot for value is this company, with prices averaging Rs15,877 a day.
Next in line is [this provider]([this provider), which offers daily rates of around Rs25,846.
The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly Rs14,567 a day with this supplier.
The Mini rental category is a solid choice if you're not quite sure what sort of ride you need. It's also the car type that's rented the most in Sapporo.
Flying to Sapporo? Think about an airport pick-up
Take the hassle out of arrival day by picking up a car hire at Sapporo Chitose Airport. If you're flying to Sapporo through this airport, simply pick up your ride after landing and get moving. The drive to the city centre is about 48 kilometres and takes around 45 minutes.
Or start the engine and make a clean getaway with a car hire from Sapporo Okadama Airport. It'll take roughly 20 minutes to drive the 10 kilometres or so to the centre.
Compare car hire types in Sapporo
Small: These cheap rental cars in Sapporo may be small in size, but they live up to big expectations. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, light on fuel, and a match made in heaven for short trips.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, it's the definition of just right. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of fuel efficiency and interior space and are great for couples and small families.
Large: You've got the kids, the bags, the snacks, the everything. Large vehicles have got the capacity to pack it all in without breaking a sweat. Ideal for longer drives, this Sapporo car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are your four-wheel fix for wanderlust. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and winding backroads alike.
Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Sapporo big enough for a small crowd (and all their gear), a van is the roomy ride you need. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a great choice for group travel, business use or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something to think about. If your car is damaged, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying a big excess fee. Different Sapporo car hire providers have different insurance policies and cover levels, so check the terms before booking.
Take your ride to the next level with extras like a reverse camera and GPS unit. They can make your journey easier and more relaxed when you rent a car in Sapporo.
Good to know
Check each company's age requirements before booking your rental in Japan. Rules can vary, and added fees or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, simply uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' box and enter your age to browse your options.
Travel plans include the kids? Car seat rules vary from one place to another, and the correct setup may depend on their height, age and weight. Confirm whether you need to add one to your Sapporo car hire booking.
You'll need to bring a few things when picking up your rental car: your physical driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card to cover the deposit amount. Debit cards usually aren't accepted. Any additional requirements will be listed in your booking.
Driving in Japan might take some adjustment for first-time visitors. Keep in mind you'll need to stick to the left side of the road.
Local speed limits are usually about 55kph in urban areas and around 85kph on highways. Road signs will indicate if the limit is different.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.03% applies in Japan. The most reliable way to be safe to drive is to avoid drinking completely.
Around 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination. Try to avoid rush hours if you want a smoother run.
You'll be using the Japanese yen (JPY) for all your purchases and expenses here. You may find it helpful to carry a mix of cards and cash for more flexibility when paying.
Best hotels in Sapporo for drivers
Spend less time looking for a place to park and more time relaxing at Miidokoro House Hotel. About 3 kilometres from central Sapporo, it comes with parking, express check-in and internet access.
THE Calla is also a smart pick if a few road trips are on your itinerary. It features parking, plus luggage storage and air conditioning. Base yourself here and you'll be roughly 3 kilometres from the city centre.
Need more ideas for your trip? Browse the full list of hotels in Sapporo. You can narrow things down with filters — try 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' If your car's electric, you can select the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter too.
After you've found a car hire deal in Sapporo and the right hotel, it's time to plan your first stops. Hokkaido Shrine, Odori Park and Mount Moiwa Observation Deck are a memorable introduction to what the city has to offer.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Sapporo
Chitose should be on your itinerary if you're eager to visit Shikotsu Lake Sky Road and Steiff Discovery Walk. This city is about 32 kilometres southeast of central Sapporo.
They've perfected the guest experience at Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu No Uta and Shikotsuko Onsen Lake Side Villa SUIMEIKAKU-Adult Only, two reliable accommodation options with parking in Chitose.
Ishikari also has plenty going for it. Collect your cheap car hire in Sapporo and travel about 48 kilometres north to check off highlights like Bishabetsu Lookout.
Keep things moving and road-trip it to Goshogawara, about 257 kilometres south of Sapporo. Make your first stop Zyunihon Yasu - Japan's largest giant tree of Hiba, then follow it up with Kanoko Lake.
