Operated by the Iwate Prefecture, Hanamaki Airport (HNA), is a convenient entry point to this scenic part of Japan. While it's a smaller airport, its connections extend not only domestically to Tokyo and Sapporo but to Seoul in South Korea as well. Easing your way into Japan’s countryside has never been easier.
Car Hire Stations at Hanamaki Airport
Several rental companies have desks at Hanamaki Airport, which include Toyota Rent-A-Car, Nissan Rent-A-Car, and Orix Car Rental. Opening hours may fluctuate, so we recommend booking in advance to avoid any disappointment upon arrival.
Choosing the Right Car Class
Considering the largely mountainous terrain with some urban areas, a compact car is perfect for city explorations, while an SUV or 4X4 would make those hill drives more comfortable and safer. Remember, Japan drives on the left, just like in the UK, easing familiarisation with the roads.
Local Petrol Stations
Petrol stations are abundant near the airport. One of the closest is JOMO Hanamaki, just 1.6 kilometres away. Many petrol stations in Japan are full-service, meaning your tank gets filled without you needing to leave the car - quite different from self-service tradition in the UK!
Getting Around
The airport is conveniently located in proximity to regional attractions. Hanamaki Onsen, a popular hot spring resort area, is around 20 km away. The enchanting city of Morioka, famous for its historic castle, cosy cafés, lovely parks, and local delicacies, is only about 48 km away. While driving remember Japan’s toll highways, slightly different from UK's toll roads as the cost varies based on distance travelled.
Climate and Currency
With its humid continental climate, Iwate sees wet, hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Temperatures could get quite different from familiar British climate, ranging from -3°C in winter to 26°C in summer.
The national currency is the Japanese yen (¥) and its coins come in a slightly different format than those found in Britain, so be ready for 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 yen coins.
Driving in Iwate
Driving in Iwate could be a thrilling experience, with panoramic mountains and scenic landscapes at every turn. Remember, Japan has strict drink-driving laws - much stricter than in the UK. Even a small amount of alcohol can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment, so it's best not to drink at all if you plan to drive.
With this guide and a well-selected rental car, your journey from Hanamaki Airport through the phenomenal Iwate Prefecture is set to be one of the finest travel experiences. Happy travels!
