Where to Stay in Osaka, Japan: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Osaka and not sure where to stay? Well, you’ve come to the experts. 

As Japan’s third-largest city, Osaka has something for everyone, from buzzing nightlife and historic landmarks to incredible food and easy day trips to places like Kyoto and Nara. But with so many neighborhoods to choose from, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. 

Whether you want to be in the heart of the after-dark action, close to cultural sights, or tucked away in a quieter part of town, we promise we’ll help you find the perfect neighborhood!  In this guide, we’ll break down the best areas to stay in Osaka, complete with handy hotel recommendations. Let’s go!

Where To Stay In Osaka Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Osaka 

Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city, so there’s no shortage of neighborhoods to choose from! Each one offers its own unique attractions and atmosphere. The city is quite spread out, so we definitely suggest staying in an area you enjoy, but luckily, Osaka’s train and subway system is fast, reliable, and easy to navigate, so it’s easy to get to other areas.

Below, we’ve given a brief overview of the best areas to stay in Osaka and included our favorite hotel in each one. 

• Minami (Namba) – Osaka’s buzzing southern downtown is packed with street food, shopping, and nightlife, so it’s perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the city’s entertainment scene. Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka is a stylish and super convenient place to stay right in the heart of it all.

• Kita (Umeda) – The northern downtown area and business district, which is great for shopping and transport links out of the city. Villa Fontaine Grand Osaka Umeda is a sleek and comfortable base near Osaka Station.

• Tennoji – An older part of the city with a local feel, known for cheap eats, temples, and authentic izakayas. Waqoo Shitaderamachi offers a peaceful stay with traditional touches.

• Osaka Castle – A scenic, green area centered around one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. LUXCARE HOTEL is a clean, modern pick just steps from the castle grounds.

• Hommachi – A quiet and residential neighborhood between the two downtowns, ideal for staying central while enjoying a more laid-back vibe. Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi is a chic and relaxed option near the station.

• Nakanoshima – A trendy, artsy island with museums, river views, and a creative energy that feels both relaxed and refined. RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka is a standout stay with spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and great access to everything.

Where to Stay in Osaka

Minami (Namba) 

Minami means “south,” which is fitting because this area is Osaka’s southern downtown. It’s the heart of the city’s entertainment and nightlife scene, so if you’re keen to experience Osaka’s neon lights, late-night izakayas, and iconic neighborhoods like Dotombori and Amerika-Mura. 

You’ll often hear this area referred to as “Namba,” which is the major subway station at its heart. This also means that Minami is very well connected! We think it’s perfect for first-timers in Osaka, as well as those who are keen to experience the city’s most exciting bars and restaurants.

Arguably, the main attraction in Namba is Dotombori, which is a famous street lined with bars, restaurants, and street food stalls, as well as the city’s most dazzling display of neon lights. This is where you’ll see the famous Glico Man sign! It’s like the Times Square of Osaka, and it’s also one of the best places in Japan to try iconic dishes like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

We also love visiting the lively Kuromon Ichiba Market, and always get a kick out of exploring the edgy, fashion-forward Amerika-Mura district. It’s also ideal for shoppers, as it’s got everything from luxury stores along the glamorous Midosuji Avenue to quirky boutiques in Shinsaibashi and giant malls near Namba Station. 

Pros

• Vibrant and lively area with lots of famous attractions
• Great restaurants and nightlife 
• Well-connected by public transport

Cons

• Can be crowded, especially at evenings and weekends 
• Noisy at night 

Luxury – $$$ 

Hotel Royal Classic Osaka is an uber sleek and modern hotel in the heart of Minami. It’s just a 7-minute walk from Namba Station, and mere steps away from iconic spots like the Glico Man Sign and Orange Street. It’s ideally located for exploring Dotombori, shopping, and sampling Osaka’s famous street food, and it’s just a 15-minute walk from Amerika-Mura.

Meanwhile, on the inside, the chic, minimalist rooms offer amazing views of the city and jacuzzi-style bathtubs. It also has a generous cancellation policy that allows you to stay flexible.

Rooms here typically cost between $350 and $550 USD (50,000 and 78,000 JPY) per night.

Check availability and book your luxury stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka is a great mid-range option just a 3-minute walk from Namba Station and a 10-minute walk to the heart of Dotombori. Plus, it’s also a 10-minute walk from Hozen-ji Temple, which is one of the area’s most charming hidden attractions.

These apartments are bright, airy, and comfortable with plenty of space, and there’s a fitness center, a sauna, and a cozy library on site. And from studios to executive two-bedroom apartments, there are options for everyone here!

Studio rooms at Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka start at $200 USD (28,500 JPY) per night.

Check out all room categories and reserve your stay here!

Budget – $

Hotel Trend Nishi Shinsaibashi is a budget-friendly hotel in an unbeatable location. It’s just a 6-minute walk from Namba Station and steps from top Osaka attractions like the Glico Man Sign, Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade, and trendy Orange Street. We think it’s perfect for travelers who want to stay in the heart of the action without breaking the bank!

The rooms here are simple but comfortable and well-equipped. It’s well-kept with friendly staff and luggage, and they offer free 24-hour cancellation. Not bad, huh?

Rooms here cost between $90 and $185 USD (13,000 and 26,000 JPY) per night.

Check prices and availability for Hotel Trend Nishi Shinsaibashi at Booking.com!

Kita (Umeda)

Kita is Osaka’s northern downtown hub. It’s the city’s main business district, so this area is more about modern skyscrapers and huge department stores than buzzing nightlife, but that will suit some travelers down to the ground! In fact, we think that this area is ideal for travelers who want convenience, great transport links, and close proximity to the main attractions.

Now, Kita is often referred to as “Umeda”, which is one of the main train stations here. It does lack some of the traditional charm that other areas exhibit, but it’s safe, squeaky clean, and boasts impressive infrastructure. We think that it’s the perfect place to stay for families, as it’s really convenient but removed from the party scene. There’s still some nightlife here, but it’s easier to escape the noise than it is in Minami.

Kita is also a dream for shoppers, too. It’s massive, modern malls like Grand Front Osaka and LUCUA. The area is also home to a ton of great attractions, especially the futuristic Umeda Sky Building. This observation tower is a must-visit – you just have to see those panoramic city views! 

We also like staying in this area because it’s super well-connected. Umeda Station is Osaka’s main train station, so this is one of the most convenient areas to stay in if you’re planning on taking day trips to Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. 

Pros

• Fantastic transport links for day trips and getting around Osaka
• Fantastic shopping and restaurants
• Very safe area and quiet at night

Cons

• Business-like feel, without much traditional charm 
• Fewer budget accommodation options compared to other parts of the city

Luxury – $$$ 

Hotel Hankyu International offers a very refined stay right in the heart of Kita, just an 8-minute walk from Osaka Station. That means that when you stay here, the whole of Osaka is your oyster! It’s also right near Grand Front Osaka and Umeda Church, so it’s a great base for exploring the area.

However, you might not even want to leave the property once you see the classically decorated rooms, elegant bathrooms, and fantastic city views. Meanwhile, there’s a huge variety of on-site dining, from French to Chinese cuisine, and everything in between.

Double rooms here cost between $225 and $400 (32,000 and 57,000 JPY) per night, although deluxe options and suites cost more.

Check out all the options and secure your stay at Hotel Hankyu International here!

Mid-range – $$

Villa Fontaine Grand Osaka Umeda is a sleek 4-star hotel just a 6-minute walk from Osaka Station. It’s also just a 5-minute walk from Taiyū-ji Temple and 20 minutes from the Sky Building. 

The rooms and facilities here have a luxe feel, and there’s even a relaxing sento (public bath) on site where guests can unwind after a day of sightseeing. Honestly, we think that this place offers fantastic value for money! Each stay even includes breakfast every morning. 

Rooms here typically range between $175 and $350 (25,000 and 43,000 JPY) per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Budget – $

ibis Osaka Umeda is a 3-star hotel that offers the best value for money in Umeda! Its trendy interior feels modern and homely. We love the cozy restaurant and cool communal areas here, not to mention the super comfy beds.

And in terms of location, it doesn’t get much better than this! It’s a 6-minute walk from Osaka Station and there’s also a subway station right next door. Taiyū-ji Temple and top shopping spots are also right nearby.

Standard queen rooms here cost between $125 and $180 USD (18,000 and 25,500 JPY) per night.

See room options and reserve this budget stay at Booking.com!

Tennoji 

Tennoji is the oldest part of Osaka, full of classic charm with a dash of modern flair—like the Abeno Harukas building, completed in 2014 (and yes, the city views from up top are incredible!). Located just south of Minami, it’s a 30-minute walk or a quick 12-minute subway ride away, making it a convenient base with a more traditional Japanese vibe.

We love this part of the city! There’s something about the slower pace here that feels like a break from Osaka’s usual buzz, without being far from the action.

Tennoji actually once had a reputation as a rough-around-the-edges area, but it has seen a big revival in recent years. Staying here means you’re well-positioned to enjoy the retro-cool vibes of the Shinsekai neighborhood, enjoying the neon-lit Tsutenkaku Tower, and exploring the traditional streets lined with classic eateries and pachinko parlors. It’s also home to the sprawling Tennoji Zoo and the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts.

This is a great area for budget travelers, foodies, and anyone who wants to escape the flashier parts of Osaka. With easy access via Tennoji Station, it also makes a solid base for exploring the rest of the city. What’s not to love?

Pros

• Authentic and budget-friendly
• Central location 
• Great nightlife

Cons

• Some parts feel a bit run down 
• Noisy at night

Luxury – $$$

Anda no Mori Osaka Tennoji Tower is a super comfy hotel just a 3-minute walk from JR Tennoji Station. We love its Balinese-inspired décor and the warm, inviting atmosphere of this place. Each air-conditioned room has a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, electric kettle, and a seating area with a sofa, which is ideal for relaxing after a day out in Osaka.

The hotel also has family-friendly perks like a playroom and karaoke facilities. There are also shops and a laid-back restaurant and bar on site, and Tennoji zoo is just a 10-minute walk away. Meanwhile, Namba is just 10 minutes away by train. It’s a great base for families to explore Osaka!

Standard rooms here cost between $230 and $415 USD (33,000 and 60,000 JPY) per night.

Check availability and book your luxury stay in Osaka here!

Mid-range – $$

We love Waqoo Shitaderamachi because it offers a quintessentially Japanese stay! This hotel was inspired by traditional Japanese temple lodgings and offers a serene and culturally rich stay. Meanwhile, you can enjoy vegetarian Buddhist cuisine for breakfast and dinner if you like—this is no generic hotel restaurant, I’m telling you! 

The hotel is located in a historic temple district with Shitennoji Temple just a short walk away. Did you know it’s one of Japan’s oldest? And as if that weren’t enough, Waqoo Shitaderamachi is just a 15-minute walk from JR Tennoji Station, which is served by many of Osaka’s main railway lines.

Twin and double rooms here usually cost between $175 to $250 USD (25,000 to 35,500 JPY) per night.

See current room rates and book your stay at Waqoo Shitaderamachi here!

Budget – $

Dynasty Hotel & Resort Osaka is a comfortable and well-located option for travelers looking to explore Osaka on a budget. It’s just a 1-minute walk from Tanimachi 9-chome Station, so it couldn’t be easier to access all of the city’s top attractions. Meanwhile, the clean, cozy rooms are a great place to retire after a day of exploring.

Manpuku-ji Temple and the Shinsengumi Osaka Tonsho Monument are nearby, and Shitennoji Temple is less than 20 minutes away on foot. If you’re in Osaka for culture and great food, then we think that Dynasty Hotel & Resort offers a great location and solid value for money. 

Prices here typically range from $120 to $160 (17,000 to 23,000 JPY) per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Osaka Castle 

Osaka Castle is the crown jewel of the city. This striking white castle is surrounded by a vast park filled with cherry blossoms, moats, and scenic walking paths—no wonder it attracts over 2.5 million visitors per year! 

The area around the castle is ideal for history lovers and photographers—basically, anyone who would enjoy being able to access the castle nice and early, before all of the crowds turn up. This is especially true during cherry blossom season when the trees around the castle burst into pink! 

Beyond the castle, you can explore the Osaka Museum of History, built on ancient palace ruins, or take a riverside walk to Naka-no-Shima island. We also like grabbing some pastries and sweet treats and enjoying a picnic in the castle park. 

Plus, since the castle is such a huge attraction, this area is very well served by public transport. So even though dining and nightlife options in the area are a bit limited, more variety is just a short metro ride away. Overall, this is a great part of the city to stay in if you’d like a scenic stay with one of Japan’s greatest cultural treasures on your doorstep.

Pros

• Peaceful, scenic area 
• Great for early access to Osaka Castle before the crowds arrive

Cons

• Fewer hotel options compared to more central areas like Namba and Umeda 
• Limited nightlife and dining

Luxury – $$$

Hotel New Otani Osaka is a refined property that overlooks the Daini Neya River and offers stunning views of Osaka Castle, as well as the wider city skyline. It’s also just a 10-minute walk from JR Osakajokitazume Station, so it makes for a super convenient stay. 

But convenience isn’t the only thing that we love about this property. I mean, who wouldn’t want access to an on-site sauna and hot tub, as well as the chance to enjoy a relaxing massage after a day of exploring? Better still, there are multiple restaurants on site, so whether you’re in the mood for French, Japanese, teppanyaki, or a big global breakfast buffet!

Rooms here start between $200 and $350 (28,500 and 50,000 JPY) per night.

Check out all room categories and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

LUXCARE HOTEL is a comfortable and stylish hotel located just a 5-minute walk from Temmabashi Station and a 23-minute walk from JR Osakajokitazume Station. This property offers spacious, soundproofed rooms with air-conditioning and free WiFi. 

This hotel’s prime location puts you just 14 minutes on foot from Osaka Castle, with other attractions like Naniwa-no-Miya-Ato Park Park and Nakanoshima Park also nearby. It offers the ideal blend of comfort, value, and accessibility in one of Osaka’s most scenic districts.

Standard twin and double rooms here cost between $150 and $280 USD (21,000 and 40,000 JPY) per night.

Check availability and book this LUXCARE HOTEL here!

Budget – $

Sakura Garden Hotel offers a peaceful and budget-friendly stay just a 7-minute walk from JR Sakuranomiya Station and just over a mile from the iconic Osaka Castle. It’s situated right next to the Osaka Waterfront Park, and Umeda Station—aka Osaka’s main station—is just a 4-minute train ride away! And families will love this place because Universal Studios Japan is just 17 minutes away by train. 

The rooms here are simple but perfectly comfortable, and we like their traditional feel. Whether you’re looking to relax in nearby parks or dive into Osaka’s shopping and entertainment, Sakura Garden Hotel offers a welcoming and convenient stay. 

Double rooms here cost between $125 and $240 (18,000 and 34,000 JPY) per night.

Check out all the details and book your stay here!

Hommachi

Hommachi is a peaceful and centrally located neighborhood nestled between Osaka’s two major downtown districts: Kita to the north and Minami to the south. Unlike its busier neighbors, Hommachi is primarily an office and residential area, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a quieter place to stay while still being close to Osaka’s main attractions.

It has a calm, lived-in feel—perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. You’ll find plenty of low-key bakeries, coffee shops, and convenience stores tucked into its calm streets.

This area offers some great-value hotels, often at lower prices than those in more touristy zones. Despite this, Hommachi is well connected via its own subway station on the Midosuji Line, so it’s really easy to explore the rest of the city from here. And if you don’t mind a bit of a longer walk, you can reach Kita and Minami on foot! 

Families will love strolling through the serene Utsubo Park, and the area feels very safe. While Hommachi lacks a vibrant nightlife and major tourist attractions, its calm atmosphere, central location, and proximity to Utsubo Park make it a smart choice for travelers looking to balance convenience with tranquility. 

Pros

• Quiet and peaceful area with few crowds
• Central location with easy subway access
• Great value accommodation 

Cons

• Limited nightlife and entertainment options 
• Few tourist attractions and cultural sights 

Luxury – $$$ 

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn, and staying in one is a must when visiting Japan! So, Osaka Ukiyoe Ryokan is an ideal place to stay in Hommachi. Not only does it offer an interesting and super authentic stay, it’s also just a 2-minute walk from Hommachi Station, so it puts you within just a few minutes’ journey away from many of Osaka’s top attractions. 

We love the cozy futons and serene decor here, and nothing beats the authentic local hospitality. Staying at Osaka Ukiyoe Ryokan will really help you to understand what makes ryokan stays so special, and we guarantee you’ll want to book another one afterwards!

And with 4-beds per room, this is an ideal place for groups to rest their heads. Rooms here cost $395 USD (56,000 JPY) per night.

Browse rates and book your stay at Osaka Ukiyoe Ryokan here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi is a stylish hotel just a 4-minute walk from Hommachi Station. The spacious rooms receive a ton of natural light, and the big bathtubs are perfect for enjoying a relaxing soak at the end of the day. There’s also a restaurant on site, and a coffee shop where you can grab a quick pick-me-up before heading out for the day’s adventures.

Whether you want to shop in Kita, izakaya-hop in Minami, or enjoy a picnic in Utsubo Park, Hotel Cordia is a relaxing and convenient base for exploring Osaka. Plus, you can cancel for free up to three days in advance!

Rooms here cost between $200 and $260 USD (28,500 and 37,000 JPY) per night, depending on the season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Budget – $

APA Hotel & Resort Midosuji Hommachi Eki Tower is a modern high-rise hotel just a 2-minute walk from Hommachi Station. It’s a budget stay that doesn’t feel budget at all – who doesn’t love that? Some of the rooms even offer sweeping city views!

The on-site facilities are great, too. Guests can unwind in the public bath or enjoy an onsen soak after a day of sightseeing. There’s also a family-friendly restaurant that offers brunch and dinner. The hotel is also within easy reach of temples like Nanba Betsuin and Namba Shrine, and the lively Shinsaibashi shopping street is just a short walk away. With thoughtful amenities, a great location, and excellent transport links, this hotel makes an ideal base for exploring Osaka.

Rooms here typically range between $145 and $200 USD (20,000 and 28,500 JPY) per night.

Book this budget-friendly Osaka stay here!

Related Read: For an unforgettable day trip, check out our guide to the best Hiroshima tours from Osaka here— it’s the easiest way to visit one of Japan’s most historic and meaningful cities.

Nakanoshima

Nakanoshima is a slim island nestled between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers. It was once a business district, but nowadays it’s an artsy neighborhood that’s home to lots of retro cafes and stylish boutiques. If you’ve been wondering where Osaka’s hipsters hang out, this is it!

This trendy area is super close to Umeda and has several subway stations. It’s also just a 15-minute walk to JR Osaka Station from here, so even though it’s a little further out, it’s still a good base for exploring the city. 

We actually think that Nakanoshima is the ideal place to stay if you’ve been to Osaka before and ticked off the main tourist attractions. If you’re looking to base yourself in an area that feels more local, relaxed, and creative, Nakanoshima is a perfect choice. You can start your day at a cozy coffee shop, then spend your time exploring excellent art museums and strolling along the riverside paths. 

The vibe here is calm but cultured, so it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy design, art, and a good pour-over coffee (or cup of matcha tea) more than neon lights and tourist crowds. It’s also a great base for those who love to walk because there are some really scenic riverside routes leading all the way to Osaka Castle!

Pros 

• Peaceful riverside setting 
• Hip, artistic vibe with great museums
• Close to Umeda and JR Osaka Station 

Cons

• Fewer major tourist attractions on your doorstep 
• Limited nightlife options compared to other areas 

Luxury – $$$ 

Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier offers a refined stay in the heart of Osaka, just a 3-minute walk from Watanabebashi Station and 17 minutes from JR Osaka Station. It has also been listed in the Michelin Guide for three years in a row—a mark of consistent quality, comfort, and outstanding service.

The rooms here are large and inviting, and many of them offer beautiful river views. Meanwhile, there are spacious public baths on the top floor, and you can even order a masseuse right to your room! There’s also a complimentary shuttle to JR Osaka Station—how convenient is that?

It’s the kind of place that feels like a real treat to come back to after a busy day of exploring. Queen rooms here cost between $180 and $300 USD per night (25,500 and 43,000 JPY).

Check availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$

RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka, Vignette Collection by IHG is a luxurious city retreat located just a 4-minute walk from Nakanoshima Station. There’s also a free shuttle that can get you to JR Osaka Station in just 15 minutes! 

But the property itself is pretty hard to tear yourself away from, with a beautiful indoor pool, sleek marble bathrooms, a fitness center, and karaoke facilities. The hotel is also connected to a shopping mall, which is ideal if you’re looking for some retail therapy in Osaka.

With over 20 on-site dining options, you won’t have to go far to eat well, either. Everything here feels polished and thoughtfully designed, down to the lobby’s grand chandelier and quiet lounge spaces. Rooms start between $125 and $235 per night (17,500 and 33,500 JPY) per night.

Check out prices for all room categories and book your stay here!

Budget – $

Smile Hotel Osaka Nakanoshima is a convenient and affordable option in Nakanoshima. It’s a 4-minute walk from Watanabebashi Station and a 22-minute walk from JR Osaka Station. Rooms here are simple but comfortable, with air conditioning and private bathrooms. Meanwhile, the area around the hotel is known for its riverside charm and cultural spots.

The Dojima River Forum, the Monument of Kajimaya Head House, and Koyaji temple are all within walking distance. So whether you’re planning to explore Osaka’s museums or just want a calm and affordable base with great access, Smile Hotel Osaka Nakanoshima offers excellent value in a laid-back, urban setting.

Rooms here cost between $70 and $160 USD (10,000 and 22,500 JPY) per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: For help planning your trip, read our 3-day Osaka itinerary here! It’s got everything you need for the perfect mix of food, culture, and nightlife.

Other Activities to do While in Osaka

Now that you’ve figured out where to stay in Osaka, it’s time to start planning what to do! Below are some of our favorite experiences from our own trip to the city—from food tours and bike rides to quirky adventures you won’t find anywhere else. We highly recommend booking in advance as some of these activities fill up fast, especially during peak seasons!

• Take an Osaka food tour – We spent an evening eating our way through Shinsekai on this local food tour! With 13 dishes at 5 hidden spots (plus drinks!), we tried everything from takoyaki to oden—and loved every bite.

• Explore Osaka’s highlights and hidden gems – This city walking tour was the perfect way to kick off our time in Osaka! We wandered lively markets, secret alleys, and quirky neighborhoods with a fun, knowledgeable guide who shared tons of cool stories and local tips along the way.

• Go-kart through Osaka in costume – For a ridiculous and fun way to see Osaka, this go-kart experience is an absolute blast! We suited up in hilarious character costumes and zipped through the city streets in go karts, waving at locals and passing landmarks like Tsutenkaku and Dotonbori. It’s unforgettable!

• Try a traditional tea ceremony – In the heart of lively Dotonbori, we stepped into a calm, quiet room and took part in this peaceful tea ceremony. Our host walked us through every thoughtful step, and making our own matcha felt surprisingly meditative.

• Bike around Osaka Castle – This five-hour cycling tour was such a fun way to explore Osaka! We pedaled through peaceful parks, stopped at shrines and museums, and learned all about the city’s history—then refueled with okonomiyaki and green tea. So worth it!

Related Read: For even more ways to make the most of your trip, head to our guide on the best things to do in Osaka here, covering top sights, cultural spots, and local experiences worth adding to your itinerary.

Renting a Car in Japan

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Japan

• Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
• Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
• Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
• Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
• A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
• Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

With so many vibrant neighborhoods and distinct vibes, Osaka is one of Japan’s most exciting cities to explore. Whether you’re here for street food and nightlife, peaceful parks and temples, or easy day trips to Kyoto and Nara, there’s a perfect place to stay that matches your travel style. Picking the right area makes the whole city more accessible—and your trip way more enjoyable.

Still planning your Japan adventure? Explore our other Osaka travel blogs for insider tips, local favorites, and everything we wish we knew before our first visit! Or check out some of our favorites below.

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