Fukuoka car rental is one of Japan’s hottest self-drive destinations right now! Travel to Japan has been booming since the pandemic, and with more and more people exploring Japan in depth — plus airfares that just won’t come back down — Fukuoka in southern Kyushu is a great place for a self-drive trip, alongside Hokkaido, Osaka and Tokyo.
Compared with the hectic traffic of the big cities, driving in Fukuoka, Kyushu feels relaxed and easy, making it a great beginner-friendly self-drive region besides Okinawa.
Read on for the most complete Fukuoka car rental guide!
The most common questions before renting a car in Fukuoka:
Q: What documents do I need to rent a car in Fukuoka?
A: You must have your Taiwanese driver’s license, a Japanese translation of your driver’s license, your passport, and the credit card used for the booking — every one of these is required!
Q: I just got my driver’s license. Can I still rent a car in Fukuoka?
A: Japanese car rental rules don’t necessarily require you to have held your license for a full year, but before booking please check that you meet the rental company’s minimum age requirements.
At the same time, if you’re not yet comfortable behind the wheel, please slow down and drive carefully to avoid accidents!
Q: What’s included in the rental price? What’s the difference with extra insurance?
A: When you book online, the vehicle price usually includes the rental fee and basic insurance (with a deductible), while fuel, highway tolls and optional equipment are paid for separately.
Basic insurance normally comes with a deductible, so if you want to avoid it entirely you can add NOC and CDW coverage!
Q: Do Fukuoka car rental companies offer airport pickup?
A: Services vary from company to company. Below you’ll find gogoout‘s hand-picked Fukuoka rental companies, with the highlights of each one explained!
Recommended Fukuoka car rental companies at a glance
| Fukuoka car rental company | Highlights | Discounted price | Chinese-speaking service | Airport shuttle | Basic insurance | Full compensation coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OKS Rent a Car Book now👉 | A wide range of vehicle models, with Chinese-language service | From NT$1,700 / day | ⭕️ | ✅ | ✅ | Add on at the counter |
| rainbow rent a car Book now👉 | Great-value rental rates and free airport shuttle service | From NT$1,800 / day | ⭕️ | ✅ | ✅ | Add on at the counter |
| Hi-Hi Car Rental Book now👉 | Free airport shuttle and several 8-seater vehicle options | From NT$3,465 / day | ⭕️ | ✅ | ✅ | Add on at the counter |
👇👇Fukuoka car rental from NTD 1700 a day👇👇
Fukuoka car rental | OKS Rent a Car – Fukuoka Airport branch
Real customer rating: ★★★★★ 5 stars
🪧 About the company
The OKS Rent a Car Fukuoka Airport branch offers convenient Chinese-language service and a free shuttle from Fukuoka Airport, making your rental experience that much smoother.
📢 Highlights
Free airport shuttle service:
A free shuttle runs from Fukuoka Airport to the branch,
so you don’t have to worry about how to get to the rental counter after you land — it saves time and makes everything easier.
Chinese-language service:
Staff can communicate in Chinese, which is very handy for travelers who don’t speak Japanese.
NOC/CDW coverage available at the counter:
OKS Rent a Car offers NOC (non-operation charge) compensation and collision damage waiver (CDW) coverage.
You can add these options at the counter when you pick up the car, which greatly reduces what you’d pay in the event of an accident or damage so you can travel with peace of mind.
A wide range of vehicle models:
With many vehicle models to choose from to suit different needs, getting around Fukuoka is that much easier.
Fukuoka car rental | Rainbow Rent A Car – Fukuoka
Real customer rating: New company, no reviews yet
🪧 About the company
Rainbow Rent A Car is located near Fukuoka Airport and offers a free airport shuttle, making the rental process even more convenient.
Whether you’re traveling with family or on your own, you can enjoy Fukuoka with ease.
📢 Highlights
Paid child seat and GPS rental:
Rainbow Rent A Car offers paid child seat rentals for families with kids, keeping little ones safe and comfortable.
GPS navigation rental is also available, so you can find your way around an unfamiliar city, lower the risk of getting lost and keep your trip running smoothly.
Chinese-language service available:
Staff can communicate in Chinese, which is very welcoming for travelers who don’t speak Japanese.
Whether you’re completing the rental paperwork, asking about routes or have other travel questions, you can talk it through in Chinese!
NOC/CDW coverage available at the counter:
The company offers NOC (non-operation charge) compensation and collision damage waiver (CDW) coverage, which you can add when you pick up the car.
These options effectively reduce the financial burden of an accident or damage, so you can travel with peace of mind.
Great-value rates:
Rainbow Rent A Car offers affordable rentals, so you get a quality rental experience at a budget-friendly price.
Fukuoka car rental | Hi-Hi Car Rental
Real customer rating: ★★★★★ 5 stars
🪧 About the company
Hi-Hi Car Rental sits right next to Fukuoka Airport and specializes in convenient car rental for international travelers.
Besides airport pickup, the staff can serve you in Chinese, so you can finish the paperwork quickly and get your trip started.
📢 Highlights
Free shuttle service from Fukuoka Airport and Hakata Station:
Hi-Hi Car Rental offers a free shuttle from Fukuoka Airport and Hakata Station, so you don’t have to arrange transportation yourself or worry about complicated transfers.
Free GPS plus front and rear dash cams in every car:
All cars come with free GPS navigation and front and rear dash cams as standard. These are must-haves for self-drive travelers and help you avoid trouble caused by unfamiliar local traffic rules.
NOC compensation coverage can be added at the counter:
To reduce the risks of renting a car, Hi-Hi Car Rental offers NOC compensation coverage, which you can add on at the counter as needed.
A range of 8-seater vans available:
Hi-Hi Car Rental offers several 8-seater van models, which are great for families or small groups.
These cars are roomy, making them ideal for long drives or travelers with lots of luggage.
Comparing car rental companies in Fukuoka
Japan has plenty of online booking platforms and rental chains, and each one differs in locations, cars and insurance limits.
Below is a basic comparison of rates and services using pickup at Fukuoka Airport as the example, for your reference!
Based on a compact five-seater:
| gogoout | Tabirai | Times CAR RENTAL | ORIX RENT-A-CAR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport shuttle | Varies by branch | Varies by branch | ❌ | ⭕️ |
| Chinese-language service | ⭕️ (online customer service in Chinese) | ❌ (online customer service in English) | ⭕️ | ❌ (service in English) |
| Price (per day) | NT$1,700 | About NT$1,550 | About NT$1,600 | About NT$1,950 |
| GPS | Varies by branch | Varies by branch | ⭕️ | ⭕️ |
| ETC | Varies by branch | Varies by branch | About NT$80 each | About NT$80 each |
| Child seat | Varies by branch | About NT$250 each | About NT$250 each | About NT$250 each |
| Opening hours | (varies by branch) 8:00~19:00 | (varies by branch) 8:00~20:00 | 8:00~19:00 | 9:00~18:00 8:00~20:00 |
| CDW coverage | Add on at pickup | About NT$250/24h | About NT$250/24h | About NT$250/24h |
| NOC coverage | Add on at pickup | About NT$150 each | About NT$150/24h | About NT$150/24h |
Please refer to each company’s official website for actual prices.
Car rental insurance in Fukuoka explained
When you rent a car and drive in Fukuoka, the insurance rules are one of the most important things to understand!
Every rental car comes with the legally required basic insurance,
including liability coverage, which pays out a certain amount for personal injury, property damage and damage to the car.
Even though the insurance company covers most of the compensation, renters still have to pay part of the cost themselves — this is the so-called “deductible.”
If you want to reduce that deductible, there are two types of optional coverage you can buy!
1. Collision damage waiver (CDW)
(Collision Damage Waiver): This coverage reduces what you owe if the car is damaged or you’re in a collision.
On top of the basic compulsory insurance, it waives the deductible the renter would otherwise have to pay, so if an accident happens, this extra coverage gives you much more peace of mind.
2. NOC coverage (non-operation charge)
(Non-Operation Charge): This covers the rental company’s lost business while the car is out of service — the loss-of-use fee commonly seen in Taiwan. Rental companies offer it as an optional add-on.
NOC mainly waives the compensation for the rental shop’s loss of business while the car is being repaired after the accident.
Note｜These two types of coverage are separate, and not every plan covers both the repair costs and the loss-of-business fee for free. Be sure to double-check what each rental company’s policy includes before you book!
| Coverage | Basic compulsory insurance | +CDW (collision damage waiver) | +NOC compensation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury compensation (for the other party) | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Property damage compensation | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Vehicle damage compensation | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Personal injury compensation (for passengers) | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Deductible waived | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
| Loss-of-business fee waived | ✔️ |
Documents you need before renting a car in Fukuoka
Before you rent a car in Fukuoka, make sure you have all the key documents ready!
They aren’t just a rental company requirement—they’re the key to a smooth trip:
Please note that travelers from Taiwan need a Japanese translation of their driver’s license in addition to the documents above in order to pick up a car in Japan.
Visitors from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Europe and the Americas only need their passport and an International Driving Permit (IDP)!
How to book a Fukuoka car rental online
Step 1: Book a car in Fukuoka online
When you book with gogoout, choose Fukuoka as your pickup location and browse the car categories available on the platform.
Each listing shows detailed information, including real photos, specifications and user reviews, so you can pick the car that fits you best.
Remember to book early so you don’t miss out during peak season!
Step 2: Pick up your car in Fukuoka
When you arrive at the rental company in Fukuoka, have your booking confirmation, International Driving Permit (IDP), license translation and other key documents ready, then review and sign the rental agreement.
Inspect the car carefully at pickup, make sure there is no existing damage, and take photos for your records. Also confirm the return time and the fuel policy so there are no misunderstandings that lead to damage charges.
Step 3: Wrap up your Fukuoka self-drive trip
When your trip is over, return the car to the rental company in Fukuoka at the agreed time.
Confirm the mileage with the staff and settle the final charges, including highway ETC tolls.
Finally, hand back the keys and your Fukuoka car rental trip is complete.
Renting with gogoout really is that fast!
From compact cars to minivans and vans, everything you need for your Fukuoka car rental in one place.
gogoout shows real photos of the cars, detailed specifications and user reviews to help you pick the right one—renting overseas doesn’t have to be hard!
Things to know when renting a car in Fukuoka
1. Traffic rules and fines
Driving on the right-hand side of the car:
In Japan you sit on the right and drive on the left, an important difference from Taiwan and most countries in Europe and the Americas.
If you hit the wipers instead of the turn signal, don’t panic! Just drive slowly, watch the road and stick to the local traffic rules.
Watch your turns:
Remember this rule of thumb: right turns are wide, left turns are tight.
As you approach an intersection, check for cars coming from the right first, then look left, so you don’t collide with oncoming traffic in the right-hand lane.
For a full guide to Japan’s traffic rules:[Japan Car Rental] 2026 rental guide and price comparison—explore Japan on your own terms!
Stop and proceed:
When you see ” 止まれ “ (stop) and ” 踏切 “ (railroad crossing), you must bring the car to a complete stop and only move on once it’s safe!
If you don’t follow these rules, you face two kinds of penalties:
Failure to stop fine: if you don’t come to a complete stop at a “止まれ” sign before proceeding, the fine is ¥7,000.
Railroad crossing fine: failing to stop completely before a railroad crossing can cost you as much as ¥9,000.
Temporary stopping:
Fines for parking wherever you like in Japan are hefty—one big reason Japan’s streets stay so clean and orderly is its strict parking rules!
So when you need to stop, look for a nearby parking lot; that’s always the safest option.
If you have to stop at the side of the road, pay close attention to the markings along the curb:
Dashed yellow line: you may stop briefly but not park—the car has to stay ready to move.
Solid yellow line: stopping or parking is completely prohibited. Leaving your car here counts as a serious violation.
Illegal parking can lead to a fine starting from ¥10,000.
Note｜If you do end up with a traffic ticket, remember to pay it at a local police box (koban). If you wait and settle it through the rental company instead, the amount will go up!
Note｜Before pulling into a parking lot, double-check that it isn’t a 「月極駐車場」 (monthly contract parking lot). These are rented by the month rather than charged by the hour, and you could end up in a resident’s space and have your rental car locked up!
Parking lot fees:
Japanese parking lots charge in all sorts of ways, and one wrong move can leave you with a huge parking bill, so check the following before you park:
- Which days: whether the sign distinguishes 平日 (weekdays) from 土日祝 (Saturdays, Sundays and holidays), or 月~土 (Monday to Saturday) from 日曜 (Sunday)
- Which hours: daytime 8:00–20:00 / ¥xxx, nighttime 20:00–8:00 / ¥xxx
- Maximum charge: daytime maximum ¥xxx, nighttime maximum ¥xxx; 入庫から/駐車後12時間最大 (maximum charge within a given number of hours from entry/after parking)
All of these rules are priced differently, so if you only look at the maximum charge and miss the fine print beside it, you could end up paying a hefty parking fee!
Further reading on Japanese parking fee signs: Times parking lot sign / Meitetsu Kyosho parking lot sign
Watch out for one-way streets and narrow roads:
Self-driving in Fukuoka is a relaxing way to travel, but keep in mind that downtown Fukuoka has a lot of one-way streets and narrow roads. Check your navigation before you turn so you don’t end up blocking traffic!
2. Traffic signals
Traffic lights
Traffic lights play an important role in Japan’s road rules.
The upper row is the usual red-yellow-green light, while the lower row shows arrows for going straight, turning left and turning right. For example:
Red light + straight arrow: you may continue straight ahead, but you may not turn.
Red light + left arrow: you may turn left, but you may not go straight or turn right.
Green light + right arrow: traffic in all directions may proceed safely, including right turns.
These signals matter a great deal and help keep traffic orderly and safe.
Always follow them to keep yourself and other road users safe.
Road signs
Below are some of the most common road signs. When you drive in Fukuoka, keep an eye on the signs so you don’t break the law.
For a fuller guide to Japanese traffic signals:[Japan Car Rental] 2026 rental guide and price comparison — explore Japan on your own terms!
3. Setting up the car navigation system
Car navigation systems in Japan have a unique feature called the Mapcode system, and virtually every car in Japan is equipped with it.
You can look up the Mapcode for your destination on Mapion and then enter that number directly into the car’s navigation unit.
You can also simply enter the destination’s phone number — sometimes it’s even more accurate than navigating with Google Maps!
Further reading on setting up Mapcodes in Japan: How do you navigate when self-driving in Japan? An introduction to Mapcode
4. Gas stations in Fukuoka
Gas stations in Fukuoka have both full-service and self-service pump islands. Here’s a quick reference table — just remember to confirm which fuel your rental car takes when you pick it up!
| Fuel type | Nozzle color | Japanese | English |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular gasoline (95) | Red | レギコラー | Regular |
| Premium gasoline (98) | Yellow | ハイオク | Premium |
| Diesel | Green | 軽油 | Diesel |
Self-service refueling, step by step:
1. Choose the fuel, the amount and the payment method:
After selecting the fuel type, follow the on-screen instructions to set how much you want (by liters or by amount)
or simply choose 「満」 (full tank) to fill it up. You can pay by credit card, at the self-service payment machine next to the pump, or at the staffed counter.
2. Refuel:
Open the fuel door, insert the nozzle and squeeze to start pumping. When you’re done, return the nozzle, close the fuel cap tightly, and collect your receipt and change.
Fukuoka car rental FAQ
1. How old do you have to be to rent a car in Fukuoka?
A: Many rental companies won’t rent to drivers under 20, or to those who have held a license for less than one year.
So before you book, double-check that you meet that company’s requirements!
2. How are expressway tolls calculated in Fukuoka?
A: Tolls on Japanese expressways are collected in two ways: the cash 「一般」 (general) lanes and the 「ETC」-only lanes. When traffic is heavy, the general lanes can back up a little, so ETC is the more convenient choice.
(Just remember to keep your speed under 20 km/h in the ETC lane, or the gate may not read your card!)
3. What should you do if you have an accident in Fukuoka?
A: Whether you hit something on your own or collide with another vehicle, the first thing to do is call the rental company so they can help, and also call the police.
Photograph the scene, then move the car to the side of the road so it doesn’t block traffic. Once everything is done, be sure to get the accident report certificate — you’ll need it to file an insurance claim!
4. How do you pay a traffic ticket you get in Fukuoka?
A: Remember that all tickets must be paid in person at a local police station (koban), or ask the rental company at pickup whether you should pay the fine yourself or settle it with them when you return the car.
Whatever you do, don’t ignore the ticket or wait to pay online after you get home — the amount will go up a lot!
Fukuoka car rental: final thoughts
With this Fukuoka car rental guide in hand, you should now have all the key information you need to rent a car in Fukuoka!
Remember: book your car in advance, bring all the required documents, inspect the vehicle carefully and follow the traffic rules — these are the keys to a smooth trip.
Fukuoka just might become your next favorite city in Japan. Here’s hoping your Fukuoka road trip is full of happy surprises!
More articles about renting a car in Japan:
👉[Sports Car Rental in Okinawa] Recommended rentals, price comparison and a complete guide to driving a sports car in Okinawa
👉[Okinawa Car Rental Must-Read] Recommended rentals, cost comparison and driving tips, all in one guide!
👉[Okinawa Self-Drive Essentials] Documents to prepare, traffic rules and insurance basics, all in one place!
👉[Tokyo Car Rental] Recommended rentals, company comparison and things to watch out for — the complete Tokyo self-drive guide!
👉[Osaka Car Rental] A rental guide, driving tips and an introduction to insurance, made easy!
👉[Kyoto Car Rental] Driving tips and recommended rentals for a worry-free trip!
👉[Hokkaido Car Rental] The latest guide: 9 things to know before you hit the road!
This article was translated by AI from the original Chinese version.
