Car rental at the Kagoshima Airport

As one of the key transport hubs in the region, Kagoshima Airport is well equipped with all the facilities you would expect. It's just over 28 miles (45 km) from the city centre, and the drive is a straight-forward one mostly along Japan's well-maintained expressways.

Car Rentals at Kagoshima Airport

Several car rental companies operate out of Kagoshima Airport. You'll find counters for Nissan Rent-a-Car, Toyota Rent-a-Car, Orix Rent-a-Car, and Times Car Rental in the Arrival Hall. Most companies offer a variety of vehicles from compact cars which are perfect for city driving to larger SUVs that are ideal for exploring the subtropical landscapes of Kyushu island.

Driving in Japan

While in Japan, remember to keep to the left-hand side of the road, conversely to what you're used to in the UK. An International Driving Permit (IDP), which you can obtain in the UK before your journey, is required to rent a car in Japan. It might also be useful to have a basic understanding of Japanese road signs – they're mostly similar to those in the UK, but with a few unique differences.

Refuelling Your Rental Car

Filling up your car's tank shouldn't be a challenge as several petrol stations are in close vicinity to the airport. However, unlike in the UK, in Japan an attendant usually fills up your car for you and only cash payments are accepted at some petrol stations.

Exploring Kagoshima and Beyond

Once you've picked up your rental car at Kagoshima Airport, the freedom to explore the diverse beauty of Kyushu is literally in your hands. Head towards the city centre to explore historical sites like Tsurumaru Castle or drive to the seaport to catch a ferry to Sakurajima Island, home to one of Japan's most active volcanoes. The expressway also offers a direct route to other popular cities on the island such as Miyazaki and Kumamoto.

A Bit About Currency

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Japan, it’s always useful to carry some yen with you. You can find ATMs in the airport, convenience stores, and post offices.

Whether you're looking forward to driving amid cherry blossom-lined roads or exploring volcanic landscapes unlike anything back in the UK, the road trip of a lifetime starts here at Kagoshima Airport. Safe travels!