Question 1

How do I book a car rental in Japan on gogoout? What is the complete booking process?

Accepted Answer

Booking a car rental in Japan on gogoout involves four steps:

1. Select "Japan" on the homepage and find your desired pickup city (e.g., Fukuoka, Okinawa), pick-up date, and drop-off time.

2. Compare and select rentals based on price, size, dealer reviews, and rental policies.

3. Complete the driver's passport and personal information accurately, and select any additional items you require, such as a child safety seat.

4. Securely pay online with your credit card. Once your order is placed, you will receive a "Booking Confirmation" email from gogoout.

Question 2

When booking a car rental in Japan on the gogoout website, is the payment in Japanese Yen or Taiwanese Dollar?

Accepted Answer

When you book a car rental in Japan on gogoout, your payment will be in New Taiwan Dollars (TWD).
The reference price you see on the rental page is in New Taiwan Dollars (TWD), and your final checkout will also be in TWD.

Question 3

When booking a rental car in Japan, can the paying credit card holder be different from the driver?

Accepted Answer

Whether the credit card holder for payment can be different from the driver depends on the specific policies of each Japanese rental car company. Most Japanese rental companies require that the credit card used for online payment, the credit card presented at pick-up, and the driver's name must be the same to ensure liability.

To avoid any issues with the rental car, we strongly recommend that you use the driver's credit card for all reservations.

If you have special circumstances, please contact gogoout Customer Service before booking so we can confirm the specific policy with the specific rental company.

Question 4

What fees are included in the Japan car rental prices shown on the platform?

Accepted Answer

The total rental price you see on gogoout includes all necessary costs for renting a car in Japan, including Japan's consumption tax and all insurance coverage for your selected vehicle.

Not included: Fuel (requires refueling), expressway tolls (ETC), parking fees, optional accessories (such as child seats and ETC cards), and advanced insurance (such as NOC compensation).

Question 5

If we are traveling in a group and need to rent more than two cars, how should we make a reservation?

Accepted Answer

For group trips involving more than two vehicles, each driver must register their own gogoout account and complete their own reservation. Each booking is limited to one primary driver, who must bring their local driver's license and the credit card used for the reservation upon pick-up. If the credit card is not held by the driver, the person who used the card must be present to pick up the vehicle.

Question 6

I have made a reservation but have not received a rental confirmation. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

If you haven't received a reservation confirmation email from gogoout within 10 minutes of completing your reservation, please check your "Spam" or "Promotional Email" folders.
If you still can't find it after checking all your folders, the most likely cause is that you accidentally entered an incorrect email address when making your reservation. You can verify your reservation by logging into the "Order Management" page in the gogoout Member Center. If your reservation exists but the email address is incorrect, or if you're unsure of your order status, please contact Customer Service immediately.

Question 7

When is the peak season for car rentals in Japan? How far in advance should I book?

Accepted Answer

Peak car rental seasons in Japan are primarily during national holidays, cherry blossom viewing, autumn foliage season, and summer vacation. During these popular periods, we strongly recommend booking 1.5 to 3 months in advance.

Major Peak Seasons:
Cherry Blossom Season: Late March to April (varies by region).
Golden Week: Japan's long holiday from late April to early May.
Summer and Winter Vacations: July and August are summer vacations in Taiwan.
Autumn Leaf Viewing Season: Late October to November (varies by region).
New Year's Holidays: Late January to early February, Taiwan's New Year's holiday (depending on the calendar).

Question 8

Can I reserve a vehicle on the same day in Japan?

Accepted Answer

You can reserve a rental vehicle for the same day, but actual pickup will depend on the availability of the rental vehicle. To ensure vehicle availability and minimize waiting times for vehicle preparation, not all rental agencies offer same-day pickup. If no vehicle is available on the platform, please contact [gogoout Customer Service] and we will assist you in searching for immediate pickup options.

Question 9

What is the earliest date that I can reserve a rental car?

Accepted Answer

gogoout typically allows you to book a rental car in Japan three to six months in the future, but availability depends on the availability of each participating dealership.
If you haven't found any cars for a future date you selected, this means that the dealership in that area isn't open for reservations for that time period. We recommend saving your search and trying again in a few weeks.

If you have a confirmed rental date and would like to confirm your reservation sooner, please contact Gogoout Customer Service directly, and we'll confirm vehicle availability for you.

Question 10

I'm traveling to Japan on a cruise ship. Does that mean I can't rent a car?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only with the selected retailers listed by gogoout customer service.

This is because cruise passengers are typically unable to bring their original passports ashore upon disembarkation and can only use photocopies. Most car rental companies in Japan require verification of original passports, so not all retailers can accommodate cruise passengers.

Therefore, if you are traveling to Japan on a cruise and would like to rent a car, please be sure to contact gogoout customer service directly to confirm your reservations and ensure a smooth shore excursion.

Question 11

What documents do I need to prepare to rent a car in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Japanese drivers (those with a Japanese-issued driver's license) are requested to bring the following documents when picking up your vehicle:

1. Original valid Japanese driver's license

2. Credit card used for reservation

Non-Japanese passengers, please bring the following documents:

1. Original passport

2. Original valid driver's license from your home country

3. International driver's license recognized in Japan or an official Japanese translation (depending on the driver's license regulations of the country where you are picking up the vehicle)

4. Credit card used for reservation

Question 12

Why can't I use my Taiwanese driver's license as an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Japan? What's the difference between the Japanese translation and the International Driving Permit?

Accepted Answer

Due to a special reciprocal agreement between Taiwan and Japan regarding driver's licenses, only Japanese translations are recognized, not the International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by a Taiwanese driver's license authority. These two documents are completely different.

Please do not confuse them! If you only bring your Taiwanese driver's license and an IDP to Japan, you will be refused a rental car. Please ensure you have the original Japanese translation.

Question 13

Is there a minimum age or number of years of driver's license required to rent a car in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Japanese car rental companies have strict age and experience requirements for drivers. Generally, drivers must be 20 years of age or older.

Japan Car Rental Age Restrictions: Most standard vehicles require a 20-year minimum age requirement. Some SUVs or luxury vehicles with more than 9 seats may require a 26-year minimum age requirement.

Question 14

After successfully booking, do I need to print out the gogoout booking confirmation letter and bring it with me?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend printing out a hard copy of your gogoout booking confirmation, or saving a clear electronic PDF copy on your phone, and presenting it upon pickup.

Key Benefit: When you arrive at the counter, simply present your rental number on the confirmation to help the staff quickly locate your information.
Communication Assistance: If there are any communication issues on-site, the printed confirmation clearly outlines your reservation details, avoiding any misunderstandings.

Question 15

If my flight to Japan is delayed and I might arrive later than my scheduled time, do I need to contact the car rental company first?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Please contact us as soon as you learn of the delay! If you fail to contact us, your reservation will be automatically canceled as a "No-Show," the vehicle will be released to the customer at the location, and cancellation fees may apply.

When booking on the gogoout website, if the field is optional, please be sure to enter your arrival flight number in Japan.

This will allow some airport rental companies to proactively track your flight status. Regardless, a proactive phone call or contacting the rental company's app account is the right way to ensure your reservation is properly saved!

Question 16

How do I pick up my car after arriving at the airport in Japan?

Accepted Answer

If you select the pick-up service and complete your reservation, the service provider will typically send an email 1-3 days before pickup explaining the pickup process and providing contact information (such as a messaging app). You can then add the service provider to facilitate arrangements for pickup, early return, and more. If you can't find their contact information, please feel free to contact gogoout customer service. We'll be happy to assist you!

Question 17

How should I schedule my car pickup and return due to flight departure and arrival times?

Accepted Answer

To avoid delays, we recommend using a "flexible" timeframe. We recommend setting your pick-up time 1.5 to 2 hours after your flight's estimated arrival time, and your return time 3 hours before your flight's estimated departure time.

Estimated pick-up time: Flight landing → Clearance and document inspection (30-60 minutes) → Waiting and baggage claim (20-30 minutes) → Finding the counter and waiting for the shuttle (15-30 minutes) → Boarding the shuttle and completing paperwork (20-30 minutes) = approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours total.

Estimated return time: Driving to the office for refueling (15-20 minutes) → Car return and inspection (15 minutes) → Waiting for and boarding the shuttle to the airport (15-30 minutes) → Upon arrival at the airport, you'll need at least 3 hours for check-in and departure procedures.

Question 18

Do car rental companies in Japan offer "free airport/station pickup" or "hotel/designated location pick-up and return" services?

Accepted Answer

These are special services beyond the standard service scope, and their availability depends entirely on the policies of the specific rental company and its branch office. On the gogoout booking page, each partner's "Store Services (Paid on-site)" section details the full range of services offered.

If the terms and conditions don't specifically mention the availability of a service, please contact [gogoout Customer Service] and we can inquire and confirm with the specific store on your behalf, avoiding unexpected service details after booking.

Question 19

Can I schedule a pick-up or return for a vehicle outside of business hours?

Accepted Answer

In Japan, most rental car shops only offer pick-up and drop-off services during business hours and do not support after-hours service. However, a small number of shops currently partnering with gogoout offer after-hours pick-up and drop-off services, which may incur a service fee.

If you require this service, please contact gogoout Customer Service before booking and provide the name of the shop and time of your desired rental. We will assist you in arranging this service.

Question 20

How do I cancel my gogoout car rental order? Are there any cancellation fees or associated costs?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your reservation, but the terms and fees vary depending on when you cancel.
For more information on cancellation policies, please visit the [Cancellation Policy] for more details.

Question 21

After canceling an order, how long does the refund process take and where will the money be returned?

Accepted Answer

After receiving your cancellation request, the system will transfer the order information to the operations department one business day for processing. The payment system takes about 3-5 business days to complete. Once the system is completed, it will be directly handed over to your credit card issuing company (without further notice). The actual crediting time will be mainly based on bank operations (usually completed within about 30 business days). The above business days do not include holidays.

Question 22

After booking, can I modify the rental date, pick-up time, or change the car model?

Accepted Answer

Currently, once an order is placed, the details cannot be modified. If you need to modify your details, you can cancel the order and create a new one to ensure your rental time, location, and car model meet your requirements.

To cancel an order, please visit "Member Center > Order Management."

Question 23

I find that I haven't had enough fun during my trip. Can I extend the rental period temporarily?

Accepted Answer

Temporary rental extensions are possible, provided the vehicle is not booked by another customer after your original return date.
Since all vehicles are reserved by appointment, if you wish to extend your rental, you must contact gogoout first to confirm availability before you can renew your rental.

Question 24

If I return my vehicle early, can I get a refund for the days or hours I didn't use?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, if you return the vehicle early, you will not be refunded for any unused period.
Since the vehicle has been fully reserved, the total purchase price will not be refunded even if you return it early.

Question 25

Can I cancel my trip for free if there is a typhoon, earthquake, tsunami or other natural disaster?

Accepted Answer

Rental cancellations will be processed according to the [Cancellation Policy] provided at the time of your reservation. If your trip is impacted by unforeseen circumstances such as a typhoon, we will be happy to assist you by extending your hold and allowing you to redistribute your hold within 90 days at the same rental location. Furthermore, if you are concerned about potential unforeseen circumstances, we sincerely recommend purchasing travel inconvenience insurance to ensure you have adequate coverage for any unforeseen circumstances.

Question 26

Can I cancel my car rental if my flight is cancelled?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your flight is completely canceled by the airline, preventing you from reaching Japan, gogoout will assist you in cancelling your reservation free of charge and providing a full refund with the car rental company, provided you provide proof of cancellation issued by the airline.

Please contact gogoout Customer Service immediately upon learning of your flight cancellation and provide us with proof of cancellation. We will use this as evidence to assist you in negotiating with the car rental company in Japan.

Question 27

If my flight is delayed, can I cancel or postpone my car rental?

Accepted Answer

If your flight is only delayed but still arrives on the same day, this generally doesn't qualify for a free cancellation. However, if you proactively contact us, we can arrange for a later pickup date, but the rental contract end time will remain unchanged.

Your rental fee will be calculated from the original pickup time, and the return time will remain unchanged. You will not be able to request a later return date or a partial refund due to a flight delay.

If your flight is delayed so long that you arrive after our office hours, your reservation may be considered a "No-Show" and you will not be able to pick up the rental, and no refund will be given.

Question 28

What are the most important driving habits and precautions to adapt to when actually driving on the road in Japan?

Accepted Answer

When driving in Japan, you need to keep in mind three core differences: "driving on the left," "right turns are wide, left turns are narrow," and "the wiper and turn signal stalks are positioned opposite each other."

Three key points for adapting to right-hand drive:

1. Driving Position: Always keep your vehicle on the left side of the road.

2. Turning Logic:

Left turns: Similar to right turns in Taiwan, simply make a small turn along the side of the road, which is relatively simple.
Right turns: Similar to left turns in Taiwan, you'll need to cross the oncoming lane and make a longer turn. Always drive to the center of the intersection and make sure there are no oncoming vehicles going straight before making a large turn.

3. Reversed Turns: In Japanese cars, the turn signal stalk is on the right, and the wiper stalk is on the left. It's normal to make some mistakes when you first start driving; just be patient and you'll get used to it after a few tries.

Question 29

How do I refuel at a gas station in Japan? What is the process?

Accepted Answer

Manual refueling process:

1. Drive to the station and a staff member will guide you.

2. Say to the staff member, "Regular, Man-tan, Card" (レギュラー、満タン、カードで), which means "95 unleaded gas, fill up, pay with credit card."

3. Hand them your credit card or cash.

Self-service refueling process:

1. Park at the station and touch the "static elimination" area on the pump screen.

2. Select your payment method (credit card or cash) on the screen.

3. Select the fuel type and amount (usually "満タン" for a full tank).

4. Pick up the corresponding pump and pump, then return it after stopping.

5. Retrieve your card and receipt.

Most gas stations use color-coded pumps, but regulations vary. The safest bet is to identify the Japanese lettering on the pump or pump. If you are unsure, please feel free to ask the station staff for assistance.

Question 30

How do I know what type of gas to use in my rental car?

Accepted Answer

The most accurate way to confirm the type of fuel you're refueling is to open the fuel cap of your rental vehicle. The inside of the cap will usually be labeled with the Japanese name of the fuel type that should be added.

Common fuel types and corresponding colors in Japan (for reference only):

Regular gasoline: Equivalent to Taiwan's 95 unleaded gasoline, this fuel type is used by most rental cars. The fuel nozzle is usually red.

High octane gasoline: Equivalent to Taiwan's 98 unleaded gasoline, this fuel type is typically used by high-performance and imported vehicles. The fuel nozzle is usually yellow.

Keiyu gasoline: For diesel vehicles only. The fuel nozzle is usually green.

Before picking up the fuel nozzle, take five seconds to double-check that the label on the fuel cap matches the fuel type selected on the pump screen. If you are unsure, stop immediately and ask the gas station attendant for help.

Question 31

How to use and pay for parking lots in Japan (e.g. Times)?

Accepted Answer

How to use a coin-operated parking lot:

1. Pull your car into an empty parking space and park. After a few minutes, the metal barrier will automatically rise.

2. Please note your parking space number.

3. When you want to pick up your car, go to the actuary (payment machine) inside the lot.

4. Enter your parking space number into the machine, and the amount due will be displayed on the screen.

5. Pay by cash or credit card according to the on-screen instructions.

6. After payment, confirm that the barrier has been lowered and drive away within 3 minutes, otherwise it may rise again.

Before parking, be sure to check the parking fee sign at the entrance to check the hourly rate and whether there is a daily maximum charge. This will help you stay within your budget.

Question 32

If I don't have an ETC card, can I still use the expressway? Which lane should I use?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! If you don't have an ETC card, please always choose the "General" cash payment lane when entering a Japanese highway toll booth.

How to pay highway tolls with cash or credit card:
Entrance: After entering the general lane, slow down and drive to the toll booth and draw a ticket from the dispenser.

Exit: When exiting the highway, choose the general lane again and hand the ticket you drew at the entrance along with your cash or credit card to the toll collector.

Question 33

What should I do if I accidentally enter Japan's ETC lane?

Accepted Answer

If you accidentally enter a purple "ETC-only" lane, remain calm. Never stop or reverse. Slow down and proceed slowly through the gate.

Japanese ETC gates typically raise when they sense an approaching vehicle, regardless of whether you have an ETC card. This is designed to prevent rear-end collisions. Do not assume your payment is successful simply because the gate has raised, and never panic and slam on the brakes.

Procedure after accidentally entering an ETC lane:

1. Pass safely: Slow down and proceed directly through the ETC gate.

2. Find the office: Continue driving and at the next interchange or service area (SA/PA), look for an office marked "Office" or "Ryokan Office."

3. Explain honestly: Present your "pass" (if applicable) at the entrance or tell the attendant which interchange you came from, and explain that you accidentally entered an ETC lane.

4. Pay manually: The attendant will calculate the toll, and you can pay by cash or credit card.

Question 34

What is a K-Car (Light Automatic Vehicle)? How is it different from a regular car?

Accepted Answer

A K-Car is a type of minicar unique to Japan, most notably its yellow license plates. Compared to regular sedans, it is smaller, has lower engine displacement, and is more affordable.

K-Car Features:

Advantages: Low rental costs, excellent fuel efficiency, compact size, easy parking and meeting, and low highway tolls.

Disadvantages: Engine displacement under 660cc, resulting in low horsepower, making it difficult to navigate highways and climb mountain slopes; interior space is limited, and luggage capacity is limited.

Suitable for: Ideal for couples or friends traveling with one or two people, mainly for short sightseeing trips within a city or a single prefecture, with limited luggage.

If you are planning a long, inter-provincial trip, or are traveling with three or more passengers and a lot of large luggage, we recommend a regular sedan (with a white license plate) with more horsepower and space.

Question 35

Is there a daily or total mileage limit for the rental vehicle? What will be the charges if the mileage exceeds the limit?

Accepted Answer

Mileage limits depend entirely on your rental company's over-mileage policy. On gogoout, you'll find two main policies: "Unlimited Mileage" and "Limited Mileage."

Unlimited Mileage: You don't have to worry about how many miles you've driven, allowing you to enjoy your rental without worrying about the mileage limit.
Limited Mileage: Some rental companies offer this option, such as a 400km or 200km daily limit. If your total mileage exceeds the "daily limit x number of rental days," an over-mileage fee will apply.

Question 36

What is the fuel policy when picking up the car? Do I need to fill up the tank when returning it?

Accepted Answer

Fuel level policies vary by rental company. Two common practices are "full tank return" and "same tank return."

Full tank return: The rental company gives you a fully fueled vehicle, and upon return, you must refill it with fuel to complete the return.
Same tank return: When picking up the vehicle, be sure to confirm the fuel level with the rental company and clearly note it on the rental agreement. If the fuel level is lower than the one you picked up, a fee will be charged. However, if the fuel level is higher than the one you picked up, the rental company generally does not refund the excess fuel.

Question 37

After renting a car, can I be more than just the driver? How do I add an additional driver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can add one or more additional drivers, but all drivers must be present at the vehicle pickup and complete the registration process. Each additional driver must present the same legal road-legal documentation as the primary driver, including their original passport, valid driver's license, and, if required, an international driver's license or Japanese translation (specific requirements vary depending on the country of license issuance). Drivers who fail to complete the registration process are not allowed to drive, and insurance and benefits will not apply.

Question 38

Are smoking and pets allowed in the car?

Accepted Answer

In Japan, all vehicles booked through gogoout are strictly non-smoking to maintain the cleanliness and odor of the vehicles. Regarding pets, the policy varies depending on the rental company, but most do not allow them.

Regarding Smoking: If any signs of smoking (such as cigarette smoke or ash) are detected in the vehicle upon return, the rental company will charge a "loss of business compensation" (NOC) to cover the cost of deodorizing the vehicle. This typically starts at 20,000 yen in Japan, making it a significant expense.

Regarding Pets: Most Japanese rental car chains prohibit pets to avoid allergies, odors, and cleanliness issues. A few may allow pets, but they usually require them to be kept in a designated carrier at all times and require prior approval.

Question 39

What should I do if I left my personal belongings on the vehicle?

Accepted Answer

If you discover you've left personal belongings in your rental car after returning it, please contact the rental company immediately.

If you find your belongings, you must return to the rental office in person to collect them. If you've already left the area, you can arrange with the rental company to use a courier service like Kuroneko Delivery (cash on delivery) to ship your belongings to your designated address in Japan (such as a hotel) or Taiwan. Shipping costs will be borne by you.

Question 40

Is the GPS interface in Japanese or Chinese for car rentals? How do I use it?

Accepted Answer

Most of the GPS systems in vehicles provided by gogoout's partner Japanese car dealerships to international travelers only support local language interfaces.

Even if your chosen vehicle offers Chinese navigation, entering addresses in Japanese kanji or pinyin can be difficult and error-prone. Therefore, we strongly recommend using a "Map Code" or "Phone Number" to set your destination, as this is the fastest and most accurate method.

Even if your vehicle has navigation, we recommend using Google Maps on your phone as a backup or primary navigation tool. Please prepare a car phone holder and charging cable before departure to prepare for any eventuality.

Question 41

What is Mapcode in Japanese navigation?

Accepted Answer

Mapcodes are a unique geographic coding system in Japan that are generally more accurate and convenient than addresses or phone numbers.

Before your trip, you can use a dedicated Mapcode search website (such as Mapion) to find the Mapcodes for major attractions, restaurants, and hotels.

Question 42

Do I need to rent an ETC card in Japan?

Accepted Answer

While renting an ETC card isn't necessary, it can enhance your driving convenience and allow you to enjoy certain expressway discounts (such as holiday and late-night discounts). However, not all gogoout participating locations offer ETC card rentals. Whether you can rent an ETC card depends on the selected car. You can check the available options on the booking page or contact customer service to confirm.

If you don't rent an ETC card, you can still use cash or a credit card to access the "normal toll lanes" on expressways without affecting your driving.

Question 43

When renting a car in Hokkaido, Tohoku, or Hokuriku during the winter, do I need to install snow tires or choose a 4WD vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we strongly recommend it. Snow tires are an absolute must-have when renting a car in Japan's snowy regions during the winter.
On icy or snowy roads, regular tires offer almost zero grip, making it as dangerous as walking on a frozen lake in leather shoes. Snow tires' special rubber material and tread design are designed to maintain grip in cold temperatures, ensuring your safety in the snow.

Snow tires: Some stores on gogoout offer vehicles with snow tires. You can check the "Store Services (On-site Payment)" section when selecting a vehicle, or contact customer service for assistance.

4WD (Four-Wheel Drive): 4WD provides improved starting traction and stability on snowy or icy slopes. While snow tires are essential, 4WD offers a higher safety margin.

Question 44

Do Japanese rental cars have USB ports for charging mobile phones?

Accepted Answer

Most cars use a traditional USB-A port. Some newer models may have a faster USB-C port. If you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously or require faster charging speeds, we recommend using a car charger that plugs into the cigarette lighter.

Question 45

Do Japanese car rental companies provide dashcams?

Accepted Answer

Whether a dashcam is provided depends entirely on the rental company's policies and the vehicle's configuration; it's not a mandatory requirement. If a vehicle is equipped with one, we'll usually indicate this in the equipment list. If you absolutely need this equipment, please confirm it carefully before booking.

If you believe a dashcam is essential for your trip, please contact our Customer Service Center before booking so we can find and recommend vehicles with this feature.

Question 46

Can I rent a baby or child safety seat when renting a car in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can rent an infant or child car seat, but this is an additional purchase and must be requested at the time of booking so the car rental company can reserve it for you.

During the gogoout booking process, you can find and select the type and quantity of car seats you require in the Add-ons section.

According to Japan's Road Traffic Law, children under the age of six must use a child car seat appropriate for their age and size when riding in a car. You must select this service at the time of booking.

Question 47

When renting a car, can I specify the colour of the vehicle or specific features (e.g. sunroof, leather seats)?

Accepted Answer

Sorry, we can't specify the vehicle's color or non-standard extras like a sunroof. The plans displayed on the gogoout website are "same-class vehicles," meaning the rental company will provide a vehicle of the same class and seating capacity.

Car rental companies often have multiple vehicles of the same class, but with slightly different years, colors, and interiors. They will schedule a vehicle based on on-site vehicle availability. The photos on the website are primarily intended to give you an idea of ​​the space, exterior, and basic specifications of the vehicle in that class.

Question 48

What basic insurance coverage is included in car rental fees in Japan?

Accepted Answer

When you book a car rental in Japan on gogoout, the price includes the basic insurance required by Japanese law, as well as the insurance coverage listed in the "Car Rental Insurance" section for that vehicle.

Insurance details (such as personal and property damage compensation, vehicle damage compensation, and deductibles) may vary depending on the vehicle's specifications and model.

We recommend carefully reviewing the vehicle's insurance policy before booking. If you have any questions, please contact gogoout customer service to confirm insurance coverage and liability details.

Question 49

What is the "Debt Compensation System (CDW)"? Is it a must-buy option?

Accepted Answer

The Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is an optional program that exempts you from paying your vehicle damage and property damage deductibles. At gogoout, to provide comprehensive protection, CDW is mandatory and included in most rental plans.

If your deductible is a minimum repair cost (e.g., 100,000 yen), then CDW is like a "waiver." With it, you avoid paying the 100,000 yen minimum in repair costs if your vehicle is damaged.

Question 50

What is Loss of Operation Compensation (NOC)?

Accepted Answer

A Non-Operation Charge (NOC) is a fee paid by the lessee to the rental company to compensate for operating losses during the period when the rental vehicle is temporarily unavailable for rental due to repairs or cleaning, such as an accident, theft, breakdown, or damage.

NOC is not the cost of vehicle repairs, but rather compensation for losses incurred by the rental company due to the vehicle's inoperability. While the calculation method may vary slightly between rental companies, a common method is to calculate the NOC based on "the actual number of days the vehicle was repaired x the daily rental amount." If you have any questions, please contact GoGo Out customer service for confirmation before booking.

Question 51

Why do I have to pay NOC after purchasing a liability waiver (CDW)?

Accepted Answer

CDW covers the cost of repairing the vehicle, while NOC compensates the dealer for the lost profits from not being able to rent the vehicle. These two expenses are completely separate and distinct, so even with CDW, NOC still applies.

Question 52

If I accidentally hit a wall or a traffic island while driving in Japan, do I need to call the police?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely! Even in a "self-injury" accident involving no third party, you must report it to the police and obtain an "accident certificate."

Whether you hit a utility pole, scraped a wall, or backed into a pillar, you'll need this official document to prove the accident occurred.

Whether the accident involved a person, a car, or property, the process remains the same: ensure immediate safety, contact the Japanese police, contact the rental company, and follow the instructions for follow-up procedures.

Question 53

What if my rental car is stolen? Will the insurance cover it?

Accepted Answer

If you discover your vehicle has been stolen, please call the police immediately at 110 and obtain a theft report. Then, notify the rental company immediately. Once the report is completed, the theft insurance claim will be triggered.

The process for handling a theft is very similar to that of a traffic accident; the key is to immediately seek official (police) intervention and obtain documentation.

Basic car rental insurance in Japan includes theft insurance, but it also has a deductible. Typically, the lessee's deductible is 10% of the vehicle's current market value. This deductible can be reduced if you purchase an advanced insurance plan that includes theft reduction. Please note that if theft is caused by personal negligence (e.g., leaving keys in the vehicle or doors unlocked), the insurance may not cover the loss.

Question 54

What should I do if I find new scratches or damage on my vehicle when returning it to Japan? How will the fees be calculated?

Accepted Answer

Upon return, the rental company will inspect the vehicle with you, comparing it to the vehicle inspection form used upon pickup. Any new damage not listed in the contract will be considered an "accident," triggering standard accident procedures.

Any new damage means the rental company will need to spend time and money to repair the vehicle, and the vehicle will be unavailable for rental during the repair period. Therefore, even a minor scratch will trigger a loss of operating costs (NOC) claim.

The procedure is as follows:

1. Confirm that the damage existed before pickup.

2. Verify that you have filed a police report and obtained an accident certificate.

If so, your insurance policy will process the claim (e.g., if NOC coverage is available, no payment will be made).

If not, you will be responsible for all repair costs, and your insurance policy will not cover the cost.

Question 55

Under what specific circumstances will the insurance for a car rental in Japan become completely invalid and no claims will be paid?

Accepted Answer

All insurance claims are based on the lessee's legal and contractual use. If you commit any material violation of the law or breach of contract, all insurance (including any additional plans) will be immediately void.

Invalidity includes, but is not limited to:
1. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
2. Driving without a license, or driving with a relative or friend not registered on the rental agreement.
3. Failure to notify the police and the rental company after an accident (hit-and-run).
4. Using the vehicle for any criminal or illegal activity.
5. Improper use that violates the rental terms (e.g., off-roading, drifting, or racing on the beach or trails).
6. Non-collision damage caused by personal negligence (e.g., misfueling, lost keys, or damage caused by smoking inside the vehicle).

Question 56

If I get into a car accident in Japan and my car only has minor scratches, can I settle the matter privately with the other party instead of calling the police?

Accepted Answer

Private settlements are strongly discouraged and strictly prohibited! Even if it's just a seemingly minor scratch, you must report it to the police.

The rental vehicle is owned by the rental company, and you (the lessee) do not have the authority to decide on how to handle damage on your behalf. Any damage not reported to the police will be considered "damage for which the lessee is not responsible" and will not be covered by insurance. You will be responsible for the full cost of the repair.

Question 57

How do I handle and pay traffic violation tickets (e.g., speeding, illegal parking) received during my car rental in Japan?

Accepted Answer

During the rental period, you (the lessee) are fully responsible for all use of the vehicle and are therefore responsible for any traffic violation tickets. Upon receiving a traffic violation ticket, you must personally pay the fine at the designated location before returning the vehicle. You must present the payment receipt upon returning the vehicle.

How to pay traffic violations in Japan:

1. Bring the violation notice to the nearest police station (or designated police station) to inquire about and receive the official traffic violation ticket and payment slip. If you were not stopped and issued a traffic violation, you will need to bring any violation notices you see on your vehicle to the nearest police station (or designated police station) to receive a payment slip.

2. Pay at a bank or post office: You must bring the payment slip (payment slip) and cash to the designated bank or post office window within the payment period.

3. After paying, please be sure to ask for and keep the payment receipt properly. When returning the vehicle, please be sure to show the fine and payment receipt to the rental company staff to prove that you have completed the process.

Question 58

I noticed a yellow parking violation sticker on my car, what is it?

Accepted Answer

This yellow "Parking Violation Sticker" is an official "Parking Violation Report." It means your vehicle has been registered with the police, and you must immediately follow the established procedures to resolve this violation.

How to Handle a Parking Violation:

1. Remove Documents: Immediately remove the yellow sticker and all documents from your windshield.

2. Go to the Police Station: You must bring this document and report in person to the designated police station (kobansho) in your area.

3. Processing Procedures: Show the police your driver's license, Japanese translation, passport, and other documents. They will issue you an official "Payment Slip" (debt receipt).

4. Pay the Fine: Take this "Payment Slip" to a bank or post office to pay the fine (parking violation fines in Japan typically start at 15,000 yen).

Question 59

Where can I pay my traffic ticket in Japan? Can I pay it at a convenience store?

Accepted Answer

No. Traffic fines in Japan cannot be paid at convenience stores. You must pay them in cash at a bank or post office during designated business hours.

Don't leave it until the last minute before returning your vehicle, as this can lead to a hefty fine.

Question 60

What happens if I don't pay my traffic fine before leaving Japan?

Accepted Answer

If you fail to resolve your traffic violation before leaving Japan, there are two serious consequences: First, the rental company will charge you a hefty "violation handling fee"; second, you may be blacklisted, impacting your future car rental rights in Japan.

1. High Fine: After the rental company pays your traffic violation, they will charge your credit card the original traffic violation amount plus a "violation handling fee" of approximately 25,000 to 30,000 yen.

2. Blacklist: Your violation record will be reported to the Japan Car Rental Association, and you may be unable to rent a vehicle from any major car rental chain in Japan in the future.

Question 61

Is gogoout a car rental company? How is it different from other car rental companies?

Accepted Answer

gogoout is a one-stop car rental platform. We partner with hundreds of high-quality local car dealerships, but we're not a car rental company itself.
The cars you see are provided by various rental companies around the world. gogoout aggregates pricing and service information from these companies, allowing you to compare prices and complete your rental needs in one place!

Want to learn more? Please visit our [About Us] page.

Question 62

What should I do if I can't find the car model or specific dealership I want to rent on the gogoout website?

Accepted Answer

gogoout partners with leading, high-quality car rental companies in various regions, but may not offer all brands or specific models.
If you can't find a rental on our website, it means our partner companies don't have a matching vehicle for your selected date and location.
We're constantly expanding our partner network, so please check back later or consider adjusting your desired rental location or time, which may result in different results.

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