Japan drives on the left like Australia
ETC cards help speed up toll road travel
Roadside stops offer food, fuel, toilets, rubbish bins & more
Google Maps is accurate, perfect for navigating
Keep an eye on toll costs, they add up fast
Thinking of getting behind the wheel in Japan? If you’re the type of traveller who wants to ditch the crowds and explore off-the-beaten-track temples, hot springs, and scenic drives, driving could be the key to your best-ever Japan adventure.
Driving Feels Pretty Natural
Good news, Japan drives on the left-hand side, just like we do here in Australia. And with so many Japanese cars already on Aussie roads, you’ll likely feel right at home driving around Tokyo, Kyoto or deep into the countryside.
Japan’s highways are awesome - smooth, safe, and fast. But they come with tolls, and they can sneak up on you if you’re not prepared. Here’s how to handle them:
Pay as you go: Choose green-light lanes at toll booths and pay with cash or credit. Just note that some exits are ETC-only.
ETC Card (Recommended): These are electronic toll cards you can often get with your rental car. Slot it into the vehicle’s onboard reader, cruise through pink ETC lanes, and the toll gets auto-charged. It’s fast, easy, and avoids the awkward language barrier, but just be aware the costs can stack up.
For example, the tolls from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji add up to about AUD $55. If you’re planning to road trip across multiple areas, the ETC can take the stress off, but it’s worth keeping an eye on your budget.
Roadside Rest Stops = A Vibe
Japan’s expressway rest stops aren’t just toilets and petrol, they’re mini destinations. You’ll find hot meals, snacks, drinks, convenience shops, clean facilities, and even local goods. Rubbish and recycling bins are usually near the entrance, which is super handy given Japan’s lack of public bins.
Outside of major cities, there’s plenty of parking, especially at malls, supermarkets, and convenience stores. In central areas, expect paid parking buildings. Traffic is surprisingly light, even in cities like Osaka and Tokyo, especially outside of peak hours.
Use Google Maps, they’re spot-on.
Look closely at Google Maps when driving through cities with lots of flyovers and exits.
Watch out for ETC-only exits if you’re paying cash.
Be prepared for lots of tunnels. They’re everywhere.
Driving in Japan is a seriously underrated experience. The roads are easy to navigate, and if you’re confident driving at home, you’ll settle in quickly. An ETC card will make your trip smoother, but keep an eye on how those tolls add up. All up, a road trip in Japan offers the kind of freedom, fun, and flexibility you can’t get on a train pass.
Get inspired with what to see and do once booking your flights