We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Yamagata. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Yamagata in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Yamagata and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Yamagata and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Yamagata so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Yamagata?

Renting a car in Yamagata offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the region's diverse attractions, from the mountainous temple complexes to serene hot spring towns. With a personal vehicle, you can conveniently access remote sites and tailor your itinerary to your preferences, ensuring a comprehensive and comfortable travel experience.

Public transportation in Yamagata, while available, may not reach all destinations or operate on frequent schedules. A rental car allows you to venture beyond the typical tourist paths, discover hidden gems, and travel at your own pace without the constraints of bus or train timetables.

Car rental tips for Yamagata

  • Yamagata Airport offers several car rental agencies conveniently located within the terminal, allowing for a seamless transition from your flight to the road. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
  • Driving in Yamagata during winter requires caution due to heavy snowfall and icy conditions. Ensure your rental vehicle is equipped with appropriate winter tyres or chains, and familiarise yourself with local winter driving practices.
  • While major roads are well-maintained, some rural or mountainous routes may be narrow and winding. Drive attentively, especially when navigating unfamiliar areas, and consider using a GPS or updated maps to assist with navigation.
  • Petrol stations in rural areas may be sparse and operate on limited hours. Plan your refuelling stops accordingly, especially when travelling to remote attractions, to avoid running low on fuel.

FAQs about renting a car in Yamagata

What is the recommended car type/category?

A compact or mid-sized car is ideal for navigating Yamagata's varied terrain, from narrow mountain roads to urban areas. If you plan to visit during winter months, ensure the vehicle is equipped with snow tyres or chains, as heavy snowfall is common.

What are the parking options?

Parking is generally available at major attractions and within city centres, often in the form of paid lots or garages. In rural areas, parking is typically free and more accessible. Always check for signage indicating parking regulations to avoid fines.

What's the speed limit?

In Japan, speed limits are typically 60 km/h (37 mph) on general roads and 100 km/h (62 mph) on expressways. However, local roads in Yamagata, especially in mountainous areas, may have lower limits due to winding paths and potential hazards. Always adhere to posted signs and drive cautiously.

Popular attractions

  • Yamadera (Risshakuji Temple): A historic temple complex perched on a mountainside, offering panoramic views after a climb of over 1,000 steps. Renowned for its serene atmosphere and connection to the famous haiku poet Matsuo Bashō.
  • Zao Onsen: A renowned hot spring resort known for its therapeutic sulphuric waters and winter 'snow monsters'—trees covered in thick layers of snow and ice, creating unique natural sculptures.
  • Ginzan Onsen: A picturesque hot spring town with traditional wooden ryokan inns lining the river, evoking a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of Japan's Taisho era.
  • Kamo Aquarium: Home to the world's largest collection of jellyfish species, this aquarium offers mesmerising displays and interactive exhibits, making it a unique destination for marine life enthusiasts.
  • Dewa Sanzan: A trio of sacred mountains—Haguro, Gassan, and Yudono—offering spiritual significance, ancient shrines, and scenic hiking trails through lush forests.

More places to visit

  • Sendai: A vibrant city known for its historical sites, including the ruins of Sendai Castle, and its lively Tanabata Festival held every August.
  • Matsushima: Famous for its picturesque bay dotted with pine-covered islands, considered one of Japan's three most scenic views.
  • Aizu-Wakamatsu: A castle town rich in samurai history, featuring the well-preserved Tsuruga Castle and traditional sake breweries.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Hire Brands in Yamagata

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

National Car Hire

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Alamo Car Hire

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Enterprise Car Hire

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Budget Car Hire

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Hertz Car Hire

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Europcar Car Hire

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Thrifty Car Hire

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Keddy Car Hire

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AVIS Car Hire

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Firefly Car Hire

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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

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Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

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Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

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Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

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Yamagata: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.