How to find a cheap car rental deal in Niigata Airport (KIJ)
Searching for a cheap Niigata Airport rental car? You're in just the right place. With prices averaging C$79 a day, we compare the best offers so you can choose fast, spend less, and hit the road happy.
The cheapest daily price for a rental at Niigata Airport is C$58.
Staying on in Niigata for a while? Grab a weekly rental from C$402 and pack more sights into your itinerary.
Timing can make all the difference when it comes to finding a cheap KIJ car hire. Book around two weeks before your departure date to land the best price.
Nissan Rent a Car, Orix and NIPPON Rent A Car are some of the most popular providers at Niigata Airport.
Whether you go with Nissan Rent a Car or a different supplier, be sure to check the coverage on your Niigata Airport car rental. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid extra.
Consider getting a one-way rental. You might be able to land a good deal if the provider needs to shift vehicles between branches. Discover the best available rates for a car for hire in KIJ by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car rental in Niigata Airport with a full tank, so you pay only for what you use. You also avoid the high fees rental companies charge for refueling.
Hit the highway without watching the miles and racking up extra charges. Go to the 'Policies' filter and select 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you explore without limits.
Best value car rental options right now
You'll find the best value with this company. Prices average C$114 a day.
Next in line is this provider, which offers daily rates of around C$85.
The third option also makes the list of budget-friendly suppliers. Cruise away in one of their rentals for roughly C$111 a day.
The Mini rental category is a reliable choice if you're unsure what kind of ride you need. It's also the most commonly booked car type at KIJ.
Compare car rental types from Niigata Airport (KIJ)
Small: These cheap Niigata Airport rental cars may be small in size, but they pack a big punch. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, great on mileage, and just the thing for short trips.
Medium: A smart pick when you need something that has a few more features but is still easy to drive. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a bit of extra space compared to smaller options.
Large: You've got the suitcases, the kids, the snacks, the everything. Large vehicles have got the capacity to carry it all without breaking a sweat. Perfect for long-distance journeys, this KIJ car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and a wide-angle view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating trickier terrain or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many offer all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.
Van: With options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Niigata Airport makes light work of big hauls and group travel. They're tough, dependable, and ready for whatever task you throw at it.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the cost you'd have to pay if your KIJ car hire is stolen or damaged. While not mandatory, it's a smart add-on if you'd rather play it safe. Just remember that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
Make driving easier when you rent a car in Niigata Airport by adding some nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to make wrong turns a thing of the past, or reverse cameras that give you confidence when parking.
Good to know
Check each supplier's age requirements before booking your rental in Japan. Rules can vary, and some restrictions or fees may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' box and enter your age to explore your options.
Add a car seat to your KIJ car rental reservation if you're travelling with small kids. Requirements change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their age, weight and size is always the safest option.
You'll be asked for a few things when picking up your rental car: a valid driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card to cover the deposit amount. Debit cards usually aren't accepted. Your booking will flag any other must-haves.
If you're unfamiliar with driving in Japan, remember that traffic here keeps to the left side of the road.
Local speed limits are often about 55kph in built-up areas and around 85kph on highways. Always check the posted signs, as limits may vary.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.03% applies in Japan. The safest choice for staying legal to drive is to not drink at all.
The language most commonly used in this country is English.
Drive smarter from the start
With a KIJ car hire, you're in the driver's seat when it comes to your next move. If central Niigata is your first stop, it's around 11 kilometres southwest of the airport and a journey of about 20 minutes.
Allow roughly 25 minutes to drive from Niigata Airport to the city centre during peak hours.
Aim to travel outside high-traffic periods for a smoother trip. 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
You can also book a car rental in Niigata. If you don't need a set of wheels as soon as you arrive, hold off until you're in the city and avoid paying for unused rental days.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Niigata Airport (KIJ)
You'll want to take in some of the major attractions in Niigata before you do anything else. Suwa Shrine and Science Museum will kick off your adventure in style.
Around 27 kilometres east of KIJ, Shibata should be on your itinerary. Make a beeline for can't-miss sights like Aumont Sake Brewery and Kanonji.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Hachiōji, around 257 kilometres south of KIJ. Kick things off at Meijinomori Takao National Park, then follow it up with Ryukokuji.
