Car rental Kyushu

Comprising seven delightful prefectures; Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Oita, Kumamoto, Miyazaki and Kagoshima, Kyushu, with its well-maintained roads & highways, is an excellent destination for a self-drive holiday. Unlike the UK, in Japan, including Kyushu, driving is on the left side of the road. Seat belts for all passengers are mandatory and mobile phone usage while driving is prohibited.

Car Recommendations & Routes

Compact cars are popular among visitors owing to their manageable size for driving on Japanese roads and higher parking availability. The recommended route for exploring Kyushu starts from Fukuoka, the largest city on the island, to the hot spring heavens of Beppu & Yufuin in Oita prefecture, then down to the awe-inspiring Aso-Kuju National Park in Kumamoto.

Speed Limits

The general speed limits in Kyushu are 60 km/h on city roads, 80 km/h on rural roads and 100 km/h on expressways. Compared to the UK, fines for speeding are hefty in Japan and strictly enforced.

Exploring Beaches

If you're a beach lover, drive your way to Miyazaki prefecture, where you'll find stunning beaches like Aoshima & Kizakihama.

Savouring Kyushu's Landscape

From the azure sea, verdant forests to looming volcanoes like Mt. Aso and Sakurajima, Kyushu's diverse landscapes offer prime vistas for nature lovers. Drive along the unspoilt Nichinan Coast and take in the sheer beauty of Japan.

Experiencing Culture & Festivals

Kyushu, rich in history, offers many heritage sites. Don't miss out on Nagasaki's Peace Park or the picturesque West Hoefu Samurai District. Experience Japan's traditional festivals (Matsuri), like the vibrant Hakata Gion Yamakasa in July or the autumn Karatsu Kunchi, to understand local culture better.

Understanding the Weather

Kyushu generally has a temperate climate, warmer than the UK and experiences a wet season (Tsuyu) in June & July, while typhoons are common in August & September.

Currency Considerations

Japan is primarily a cash-based society, and it's the same on the island of Kyushu. Credit cards might not be accepted everywhere, so it's wise to have some Japanese Yen (JPY) on hand.