What services does NICO NICO Rent a Car offer? Introduction to car rental types and how to choose the right one for your Japan trip

Traveling and sightseeing in Japan by renting a car and driving it yourself is one of the most popular travel styles for Thai tourists, because it provides freedom to explore new tourist attractions that public transportation systems or trains may have difficulty reaching. Whether it's driving along scenic routes to enjoy nature, stopping at rest areas to taste local delicacies, or family trips with lots of luggage, one of the car rental service options that tourists are increasingly talking about is NICO NICO Rent a Car, which stands out with its concept of affordable, easily accessible car rental services.

This article will introduce you in detail to NICO NICO Rent a Car, from its history, the distinctive features that make this brand different from other service providers, the types of vehicles available for rent, to the booking process and important documents you need to prepare. If you're looking for information to help decide your next trip, you can find more ideas about driving around Japan at Interesting Japan Tourist Attractions or plan a classic route like visiting Mount Fuji, as well as pick up attractions in the city through Tokyo Travel Guide and Tokyo Tourist Attractions. Additionally, those visiting the Kansai area can also check out Osaka Tourist Attractions as an option. Before heading back, don't forget to check the Tokyo Souvenirs checklist to make your driving trip as perfect as possible.

Who is NICO NICO Rent a Car

NICO NICO Rent a Car (ニコニコレンタカー) is operated by Rentas Co., Ltd. (株式会社レンタス), which was founded in December 2008 and is one of Japan's major car rental business networks with a distinctly different market position and business model from car manufacturer brand rental companies. NICO NICO was founded under the concept of "Eco & Smile", focusing on providing car rental services at economical prices that are environmentally friendly. Their main business model is to take well-conditioned used cars, put them through strict inspection and maintenance according to Japanese safety standards, and offer them for rent at prices lower than the market average.

With rapid growth, the NICO NICO network currently has over 700 employees under the management company group, and has more than 8,000 rental cars in the system. The most important distinguishing feature of NICO NICO Rent a Car is its franchise model in cooperation with gas stations (petrol pumps), car repair shops, or car maintenance stores, making it currently have more than 1,450 - 1,500 service locations throughout Japan, making it one of the brands with the densest branch distribution across communities and suburbs.

NICO NICO's main customer group is usually Japanese people who need to use a car for short periods, such as going shopping, running errands, or students and working people who want to save on expenses. For foreign tourists, NICO NICO is starting to open up and develop its system to accommodate more users, including having foreign language websites for booking, but there are still some limitations to understand before booking, such as the lack of shuttle service at some airport branches, or the need to communicate in basic Japanese if you visit a local branch that is not in the main tourist zone.

5 NICO NICO Rent a Car Branches Convenient for Tourists

Although NICO NICO Rent a Car has the advantage of branches located in communities and gas stations, for tourists, choosing a branch near a major transportation hub will make picking up and returning the car more convenient. Here are 5 branch locations that are easily accessible.

1. Narita International Airport Branch (Narita International Airport - Chiba) Niconico Rent-A-Car branch in the area near Narita Airport is suitable for picking up a car as soon as you arrive in Japan to drive around Chiba or Tohoku (you may need to take a short train ride or taxi to the gas station which is the car pickup point)

2. Haneda Airport Branch (Haneda Airport - Tokyo) NICONICORENTACAR branch is suitable for those who fly into Haneda and can pick up a car and drive into Tokyo, or head south to Yokohama and Hakone conveniently without having to drag luggage far.

3. Tokyo Station Branch (Tokyo Station) Tokyo Station connection point. If staying in the city center, it's recommended to take the train from Tokyo Station to pick up the car at a nearby branch on the Yamanote Line to avoid traffic and the very expensive parking fees in the business district.

4. Shin-Osaka Station Branch (Shin-Osaka Station) Nico Nico Rent-a-Car Shin-Osaka Sta. North is near the center of the Shinkansen in the Kansai region, a short walk from the station. You can pick up the car and immediately drive to sightsee in Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe.

5. New Chitose Airport Branch (New Chitose Airport - Hokkaido) Niko Niko Rental Agency New Chitose Airport Branch is the main car pickup point for those who want to drive around Hokkaido. It offers snow tires (Snow Tires) for rental during the winter season.

Why You Should Choose NICO NICO Rent a Car in Japan

The most obvious advantage of NICO NICO Rent a Car is very economical pricing compared to major brand car rental companies. With the strategy of using well-conditioned used cars, they can keep the starting rate for small cars (Class S) at an easily affordable level, such as campaigns for 12 hours at only a few thousand yen at the beginning (the number 2525 sounds like "nico nico" which means smile in Japanese)

Besides pricing, because they have branches hidden throughout gas stations across the country, NICO NICO is a good option if you're staying in residential areas or suburbs where large car rental companies don't have branches. You can easily walk from your accommodation to pick up a car at a nearby gas station. However, what you have to trade off is that the cars may not be brand new with red license plates, may have some scratches, and the in-car technology such as GPS navigation systems may not be up-to-date, or some may only support Japanese language, which tourists can solve by using Google Maps on their smartphone instead.

Overview of the Car Rental Market in Japan

The car rental market in Japan can be divided into 2 main groups. The first group is premium car rental companies and car manufacturer brands (such as Toyota Rent a Car, Nissan Rent a Car, ORIX, Nippon Rent-A-Car), which provide services with the latest model cars, have extensive service centers, have staff who speak English, and provide full support for foreign tourists including one-way drop-off services and complete accessories.

The second group is budget car rental companies (Budget Car Rental), in which NICO NICO Rent a Car falls, along with other brands like Guts Rent a Car or 100 Yen Rent a Car. These companies focus on cost management by using used cars, reduce storefront space by locating at gas stations, and often have limitations on one-way returns. Service to foreign customers may not yet be 100% comprehensive, but in exchange for prices that are 30-50% cheaper than the first group, which suits budget-conscious tourists with driving experience and the ability to use navigation apps on their own.

What Types of Cars Does NICO NICO Rent a Car Have to Choose From

Since they are used cars, NICO NICO's options are diverse and depend on the inventory of each branch. Generally, they are divided into different classes as follows.

Small Cars (K-Class / Kei Car)

660cc vehicles which are unique to Japan (such as Daihatsu Move, Suzuki Wagon R, Honda N-BOX), suitable for 2 people traveling with small luggage, easy to drive in narrow alleys, highly fuel efficient, and toll highway fees are cheaper than regular cars. Suitable for short distance driving within a province.

Compact Cars (S-Class)

5-door compact sedans (such as Honda Fit, Toyota Vitz/Yaris, Nissan Note) suitable for 2-3 travelers with medium luggage, more stable driving, suitable for driving between cities or on expressways.

Sedan and Wagon Cars (M-Class / L-Class)

4-door sedans or station wagons that focus on rear cargo space, providing more comfort for passengers, suitable for 4 people or those who need to travel long distances and want better driving performance.

Minivan for Families (F-Class / V-Class)

6-8 seater vans (such as Toyota Voxy, Nissan Serena, Honda StepWGN) especially suitable for families with children, elderly people, or groups of friends with multiple large pieces of luggage. Space allocation is flexible, but you need to be careful about the height of the car when parking in some parking buildings.

(Check more details about each class of vehicles at: https://niconicorentacar.jp/th/vehicles-rates)

NICO NICO Rent a Car Japan Pricing

NICO NICO's car rental prices are divided according to membership level and rental duration (such as 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and next day). Factors that affect pricing include:

• Car Class: Kei cars have the lowest prices, going up to minivans.

• Membership Status: Registering as a member through NICO NICO's app or website will get you special rates (Web Reservation Rate), which is cheaper than walking in and booking at the counter.

• Insurance: The basic rental fee usually already includes compulsory insurance, but does not include deductible waiver (CDW) and non-operation charge waiver (NOC).

• Seasonal Periods: During Japan's long holiday periods (Golden Week, Obon, New Year) or peak tourist seasons, there may be price increases (High Season Surcharge).

• Optional Equipment: Child seats or ETC card rental service.

Japan Car Rental Insurance You Need to Know (CDW and NOC)

Understanding the insurance system is very important when renting a car in Japan.

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): This is protection that waives the responsibility for deductible damage if an accident occurs. Normally, if you don't buy CDW, when an accident happens, the renter may have to pay the first part of the damage amount approximately 50,000 yen, but if you buy CDW, the renter won't have to pay this part (except in cases of breach of contract conditions).

• NOC (Non-Operation Charge): This is compensation for loss of business opportunity paid to the car rental company in case the car has an accident or gets damaged so badly that it cannot be rented out immediately. If the car can still be driven back and returned to the branch, you will pay approximately 20,000 yen. If the car cannot be driven back and needs to be towed, you will pay approximately 50,000 yen. Many companies have insurance packages that cover NOC waiver (NOC Waiver) available for additional purchase.

Sample Daily Expense Estimate Table (Excluding Fuel and Expressway Fees)

Note: The prices in the table are just sample estimates based on Class S (Compact) rates for 24 hours. Please verify actual prices from the service provider's website again

How to Book NICO NICO Rent a Car Step by Step

Booking NICO NICO for foreigners can be slightly challenging since the main website and most applications are in Japanese, but you can use the browser's translation function to help

1. Visit the official website: Go to the NICO NICO Rent a Car website

   

2. Select a branch: Search for a branch from a railway station, airport, or region of your choice. It's recommended to carefully check the opening and closing times of each branch, as some gas stations are not open 24 hours

3. Set the date and time: Select the date you'll pick up the car and the date you'll return it. The system will calculate the price based on the rental period (6 hrs, 12 hrs, 24 hrs)

   

4. Select car type: Choose a car based on the number of passengers and luggage. The system will show available car classes at that branch

5. Select add-ons: Check the box to purchase CDW insurance (highly recommended) and specify whether you need a child seat rental

   

6. Review and confirm: The system will summarize all expenses, you'll fill in the renter's personal information, and confirm the booking. In some cases, you may need to pay in advance via credit card, or you can choose to pay at the counter on the day you pick up the car

   

7. Save the confirmation: Screenshot the booking confirmation and save the email so you can show it at the branch

Documents Required to Rent a Car in Japan

To ensure a smooth car pickup, Thai tourists need to prepare the following documents (originals are required, and don't forget them at any cost)

1. Passport: That hasn't expired and has the correct entry stamp to Japan

2. Thai Driver's License: Although Japanese law doesn't require it to be checked, some rental companies ask to verify it along with the international driving permit

3. International Driving Permit (IDP): Must be the Geneva Convention 1949 (Geneva Convention 1949) only, for Thailand the cover will be white with a validity of 1 year. If you bring the Vienna Convention driving permit (gray cover), you will absolutely not be able to rent a car in Japan. Read more details at how to get an international driving permit to travel to Japan

4. Booking confirmation document: Email or booking confirmation screen

5. Credit card: A credit card with the same name as the primary renter, for payment and deposit purposes (some branches may accept cash, but a credit card is safer)

How to Pick Up a Rental Car at NICO NICO in Japan

On the day you pick up the car, allow approximately 20-30 minutes for the process

• Contact the counter: Go to the gas station or shop that is a NICO NICO branch and tell the staff your name or show your booking documents

• Check documents and pay: Staff will ask to see your passport and international driving permit, and have you read the rental agreement terms (some branches may provide an English guide). Then make the payment

• Inspect the car condition: Staff will take you to the car and inspect it together. Very important: If you find dents, scratches, or broken glass, inform the staff immediately and have it recorded in the documents, and take photos or videos around the car to keep as evidence

• Using the equipment: Ask how to open the fuel tank cap, adjust the seat, and if you have your own ETC Card, insert it into the ETC Reader slot immediately

How to Return a Rental Car in Japan

• Fill the tank completely: The golden rule of returning rental cars in Japan is to "fill the tank completely" (満タン - Mantan) and you must refuel from a gas station in the vicinity of the branch where you're returning the car. Keep the "fuel receipt" to show the staff to prove you just refueled (the advantage of NICO NICO is that branches are usually located within gas stations already, so you can drive in, refuel, and return the car in one location)

• Return on time: You should return the car before the scheduled time. If you know in advance that you'll be late due to traffic, you must call the branch immediately. Returning the car late without prior notice will incur a very high late fee

• Check for belongings: Check the glove compartment, under the seats, and the trunk to make sure there are no forgotten belongings or passports

What You Need to Know About Driving in Japan

• Drive on the left: Japan drives on the left side of the road with the steering wheel on the right, just like Thailand, making it easy for Thais to adapt

• Stop signs (STOP / 止まれ - Tomare): A red inverted triangle sign or a sign with the word 止まれ. If you encounter it at an alley entrance or intersection, you must brake to bring the car to a complete stop 100% (lock the wheels) for at least 3 seconds, look left and right, before moving the car forward. Not coming to a complete stop is considered a serious traffic violation

• Pedestrians are gods: If there is someone standing waiting to cross the zebra crossing, the car must stop and let them cross. Do not honk to shoo them away under any circumstances

• Using expressways (ETC): Expressways in Japan are quite expensive. If your car has an ETC system and you have an ETC card, drive into the purple lane (ETC), but if you don't have a card, enter the green lane (一般 - General) to get a ticket and pay cash or credit card at the toll gate

• Winter and snow tires: If you rent a car during the winter season (December - March) in snow-prone areas such as Hokkaido, Tohoku, or mountainous regions, make sure the car is equipped with Snow Tires and drive with caution. Use engine braking more

• Zero Tolerance for Alcohol: Japan has the strictest drunk driving laws in the world. If the driver drinks alcohol, passengers riding along will also be arrested and face legal penalties together

Advantages and Limitations of Renting a Car to Travel in Japan

To provide information to help decide between renting a car and using trains/buses

Frequently Asked Questions About NICO NICO Rent a Car (FAQ)

1. What is NICO NICO Rent a Car? A budget car rental network in Japan that offers used cars in good condition for rental. They usually have branches located at gas stations

2. Can Thai people book and rent a car? Yes, if you have an international driving permit according to the Geneva Convention 1949 and a valid passport

3. How much does NICO NICO Rent a Car cost? Starting from approximately 4,000 - 5,000 yen per day for a small car (price depends on car class and rental period)

4. What type of international driving permit do I need? Geneva Convention 1949 (Geneva Convention 1949) white booklet only

5. What documents do I need to prepare? Passport, international driving permit, Thai driver's license, booking confirmation document, and credit card

6. Can I pick up and return the car at different branches (one-way rental)? Mostly NICO NICO does not allow returning at different branches, or if available, the area is very limited. Must check branch-specific terms

7. Do they have cars for families or multiple passengers? They have minivan class vehicles (Class F or V) available, but must book in advance as availability is limited

8. How far in advance should I book? It's recommended to book 1-2 months in advance, especially during spring and autumn seasons when rental cars fill up quickly

9. Does the rental fee include insurance? The basic rental fee includes third-party liability insurance. However, it does not include CDW (except for the first part of damage costs), which renters must purchase separately

10. What happens if I return the car late? You will be charged a late fee (Late Charge) at a rate higher than the normal rental rate. If you realize you'll be late, you must call the branch immediately

11. How do I pay for expressway tolls and fuel? Fuel is the renter's responsibility by filling the tank completely before return. Expressway tolls are paid based on actual usage at toll gates, or you can rent an ETC card to have the charge deducted from your credit card later

12. Is the condition of NICO NICO cars too old? Although they are used cars, they pass strict vehicle safety inspection standards in Japan (Shaken). The cars are in good working condition, but may show some exterior wear

NICO NICO Rent a Car is Suitable For

• Budget-conscious travelers: Who want to keep travel costs down and use the money saved for food or accommodation

• Experienced travelers: Who have been to Japan before, have rented cars before, and can rely on Google Maps or mobile navigation apps without needing to depend on in-car systems that may be in Japanese

• Short-term rentals: Suitable for renting for 1-2 days to drive to other provinces and return to the same location

• Those staying outside the city center: Since NICO NICO branches are usually located at gas stations in residential areas

Unsuitable groups: If you want a brand new car with red plates, want fluent English-speaking counter service, or need to pick up in Tokyo but return in Osaka, consider national car rental companies (such as Nissan, Toyota, ORIX) instead

Which Car Rental Company in Japan is Best

Choosing a car rental company depends on your needs and budget:

• Focus on comprehensive coverage and standard service: Toyota Rent a Car, Nissan Rent a Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, and ORIX Rent a Car are the best options. They have branches at all airports and offer one-way rental services

• Focus on low prices and value: NICO NICO Rent a Car, Budget, or Times Car Rental would be better options, or read the article which car rental company in Japan is best to help with your decision

Summary: Drive Around Japan for Fun and Safety, Prepare Well Before Your Trip

Renting and driving a car in Japan is opening the door to a limitless travel experience. NICO NICO Rent a Car is another interesting option for travelers looking to save money with the concept of quality used cars from local gas stations. However, the most important thing about driving in a foreign country is "safety and respect for traffic laws"

Before traveling, don't forget to prepare your international driving permit (Geneva Convention 1949), study important traffic signs like the "stop (Tomare)" sign, and understand car rental insurance such as CDW and NOC for peace of mind. For anyone planning a trip, you can visit MIDO Car Rental's blog for more information about travel routes and driving tips to make your next Japan trip as enjoyable and smooth as possible!