Enjoy Experiences Only Possible with a Rental Car! Okinawa Drive Travel Guide

With a nationwide network across Japan, Times Car Rental has many branches conveniently located near airports and Shinkansen stations.
They are highly rated for their fleet of clean, well-maintained cars, all within three years of purchase. Another advantage is the ability to book up to 30 minutes before use, making it convenient for last-minute rentals after arrival or during your trip.
Among major companies, Times also offers relatively affordable rates, making it a great choice for travelers who value both reliability and cost efficiency.

As the second-largest rental car company in Japan in terms of fleet size, ORIX Rent-A-Car is a well-known and trusted brand nationwide.
Its wide lineup is one of its biggest strengths—ranging from kei cars and wagons to luxury and imported vehicles—making it easy to meet a variety of needs. Another appealing perk is that customers can earn airline miles with JAL and ANA (1 mile per 100 yen spent).

With over 1,100 locations nationwide, Toyota Rent a Car is the largest rental car service in Japan.
As expected, its fleet consists entirely of Toyota vehicles, offering the widest lineup and the largest number of cars in the industry. Whether you’re looking for a specific model to suit your needs or simply your favorite Toyota, you’re sure to find it here.
Toyota cars are highly regarded for their safety, reliability, and durability, along with excellent performance and fuel efficiency—ensuring a comfortable driving experience. Every vehicle is maintained to top standards with the latest equipment and expert engineers, keeping them in the best and cleanest condition at all times.
If you want a trusted option backed by proven results and quality, Toyota Rent a Car is a top recommendation.

Operated by Okinawa Tourist Co., Ltd., OTS Rent-A-Car is a locally rooted rental service based in Okinawa.
Its fleet mainly consists of vehicles less than three years old, ranging from luxury cars and popular hybrids to even camper vans, offering a wide variety of choices. Every car is meticulously maintained and cleaned, and all vehicles come standard with non-smoking interiors, car navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Additional perks include free shuttle service from Naha Airport, distribution of sightseeing brochures, and sales of discount attraction tickets—making it especially convenient for travelers.
Though not as well-known nationwide, OTS Rent-A-Car is a highly recommended option for first-time visitors to Okinawa, offering both quality vehicles and traveler-friendly services.

JAPAN C.R.C. is one of Japan’s largest rental services specializing in camper vans.
Its lineup includes a wide variety of models, from the company’s original Robinson 771 to the highly popular HiAce cab-conversion Serengeti, making it a top choice for travelers looking to enjoy a camping-style road trip.

The last introduction is not a rental car company, but TOCOO!, Japan’s first rental car reservation service designed specifically for international visitors.
The official website is available in English, Traditional Chinese, Korean, and Thai, and native speakers of each language provide customer support for inquiries and assistance. With around 3,000 partner locations nationwide—mainly near airports and major stations—TOCOO! also operates in Okinawa, including Naha Airport, Naha City, and even on remote islands.
An impressive 100,000 vehicles are listed daily, making it easy to find a car that matches your preferences and travel needs. Every rental comes with a free in-car Wi-Fi device, and there are also useful options such as the TOCOO! Expressway Pass (TEP), which allows unlimited expressway use during your rental period, and the Early Bird Plan for discounted rates when booking in advance.
While Japanese residents can also use the service, TOCOO! is especially recommended for international travelers. It’s a reliable companion for drive trips in Japan, and worth considering alongside the other rental car companies introduced here.

For those renting a car in Japan for the first time, it can be difficult to choose the right company. In such cases, it’s best to use a comparison site that lets you search across multiple rental car companies and find plans that match your preferred conditions (dates, vehicle type, options, etc.).
These sites not only support multiple languages but can also help you find more affordable rates, so it’s worth giving them a try. For details on comparison sites, check out this article.

H1 Rentacar offers a wide selection of vehicles, from popular models like the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang to compact Japanese cars.
All vehicles come equipped with car navigation, and the service supports multiple payment methods as well as free delivery, reflecting their commitment to meeting diverse customer needs. They also provide a limited-time “Safety Pack” that includes liability coverage, and they actively strive to offer some of the lowest prices in Okinawa—meaning you may be able to rent at a bargain depending on timing.
This makes H1 Rentacar a great choice not only for those looking to drive foreign cars, but also for travelers wanting to keep rental costs down.

ACS Rentacar specializes in foreign cars, focusing on convertibles, luxury models, and sports cars.
Its lineup includes brands such as Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, as well as one-box and wagon types, all offered at some of the lowest prices in Okinawa—making it easy to enjoy a premium driving experience.
Convenience is another highlight: with free shuttle service from the airport, you can start using your rental right after arrival. The process is quick, with paperwork completed in as little as 20 minutes, giving you more time to spend on sightseeing.
Customer reviews are also favorable, with particular praise for the cleanliness of the vehicles and the friendliness of the customer service.

Okinawa experiences frequent typhoons, and their impact is generally stronger than in mainland Japan. Keep in mind that most roads in Okinawa are paved with limestone, which becomes slippery when wet.
Driving during a typhoon is extremely dangerous due to poor visibility, strong winds that can push the steering wheel off course, and even the risk of overturning. Flooded roads are also common, and in some areas, road collapses or landslides may occur. In addition, flying debris such as umbrellas or signboards can damage your rental car.
If you are unlucky enough to face a typhoon during your trip, it’s best to prioritize your safety by avoiding driving and reconsidering your travel plans. For reference, typhoons typically occur most frequently between July and October.

Bus lanes are traffic regulations designed to ease congestion during rush hours and ensure smooth public transportation. In Okinawa, they are mainly enforced on National Route 58 and Kokusai Street in Naha City.
The curbside lane (the first lane next to the sidewalk) becomes a bus-only lane during restricted hours, and general vehicles are prohibited from using it. The restriction times are weekdays from 7:30–9:00 a.m. and 5:30–7:00 p.m. (not in effect on weekends, holidays, and January 2–3).
Driving in a bus lane during these times is a traffic violation that can result in penalties, including fines and point deductions. Enforcement is strict, applying equally to beginners and international visitors, so pay close attention.

Check the Okinawa Prefectural Police website beforehand to confirm the exact routes.

Another unique traffic rule to remember is the “central line shift zone” (time-based regulation), where the position of the center line changes depending on the time of day.
This system allows smoother traffic flow even during bus lane restrictions by shifting the center line on roads with three or more lanes. During restricted hours, the center line is indicated by signs and flashing pavement markers. If you don’t pay attention, you could mistakenly drive on the wrong side of the road.
Currently, “central line shift zones” are implemented on two routes:
•National Route 507 & Route 330 (between Zainokoba Intersection and Asahimachi Intersection in Naha City, from 7:30–9:00 a.m.)
•Prefectural Route 29 (between Zaimatsukawa (West) Intersection and Asato Junction in Naha City), where the center line changes between 6:00–5:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.–6:00 a.m. the next day.

In Japan, the maximum speed limit for standard passenger cars on expressways without specific signage is generally 100 km/h. However, in Okinawa, the limit is set lower at 80 km/h, so be extra careful not to overspeed when driving on expressways.
Additionally, due to the effect of sea breezes, the roads tend to be drier and more slippery overall. This makes it especially important to maintain a safe following distance and practice extra caution while driving.

Kokusai Street in Naha has both bus lane restrictions and full road closures at certain times. During restricted hours, general vehicles (with some exceptions such as certain authorized vehicles and motorcycles) are prohibited from entering, so make sure not to drive in by mistake.

Okinawa is a car-dependent region, but with a limited number of main roads, traffic jams are common. Congestion often occurs during commuting hours, on weekends, and even at unexpected times and locations.
Once caught in a traffic jam, you may be stuck for a long time, making it difficult to stick to your planned schedule. When driving a rental car in Okinawa, it’s best to create an itinerary with extra time built in, or plan routes that avoid the busiest areas.

As one of Japan’s top tourist destinations, Okinawa’s roads are shared by a wide variety of drivers—locals, tourists from across Japan and abroad, and even people who don’t usually drive back home. This means you’ll encounter driving styles you might not often see elsewhere.
In particular, some local drivers are known for strong quirks. Examples include:
•Not using turn signals when making turns
•Changing lanes or overtaking across solid yellow lines
•Driving extremely slowly (around 20 km/h)
For visitors and beginners, this can feel confusing or frustrating. However, to minimize the risk of accidents, it’s important to remain calm, drive responsibly, and set an example with safe driving.

While driving in Okinawa, you’ll often see cars with license plates that include letters such as “A,” “K,” or “H.” These indicate vehicles owned by members of the U.S. military stationed in Japan, with the most common being the “Y-plate.”
If you’re involved in an accident or trouble with one of these vehicles, you may have to deal not only with Japanese police but also with U.S. military police. This usually means a longer, more complicated process that can quickly derail your travel plans.

When renting a car around Naha Airport, the usual process involves taking a shuttle bus provided by the rental company from the airport to their office, completing the paperwork, and then finally getting the car.
However, during peak travel seasons when tourist numbers surge, rental car demand also skyrockets. This often means long waits for shuttle buses, plus additional delays from heavy traffic on the way to the rental office. At peak times, it’s not unusual to wait one to two hours before even getting your car.
While it’s hard to completely avoid congestion, you can reduce delays by picking up your car right after the office opens or just before closing, or by reserving at a location farther away from the airport. If your schedule allows, adjusting your travel dates to avoid the busiest times is also a smart option.

In Okinawa, reserving a rental car is essential—but timing is just as important. During peak travel seasons such as Golden Week (late April to early May) and summer (July to September), demand increases sharply, and cars may sell out, making reservations impossible.
To avoid this, it’s best to book your rental car at the same time as your flights and hotel. For those who find the process troublesome or tend to forget, choosing a tour or travel package that includes a rental car can also be a convenient option.

This isn’t unique to Okinawa, but it cannot be stressed enough—never drive after consuming alcohol. This includes not only drinking on the same day but also driving the next morning if alcohol from the previous night is still in your system, or even after “just a small tasting.”
Drunk driving carries severe penalties and, more importantly, puts lives at risk.

On the first day of this model course, you’ll explore breathtaking spots in northern Ishigaki Island by rental car. From coral reefs and hibiscus flowers to the deep blue sea, the route is filled with the lush scenery unique to the tropics. After driving through these stunning views, you’ll also visit Japan’s southernmost shopping street, where you can experience Okinawan culture and interact with the Uchinaanchu (local Okinawan people). Be sure to try some local gourmet specialties along the way.

On the second day, the model course takes you to the Yaeyama Islands, including Iriomote Island, where you can immerse yourself in Okinawa’s unspoiled nature. These islands are home to rare plants, animals, and enduring traditions, offering experiences you can’t find anywhere else.
Unlike Day 1, access to each spot will involve different modes of transport—cruise boats, water buffalo carts, and ferries—adding an extra sense of adventure. Since ferry services are not very frequent, be sure to check the schedules carefully and avoid missing your departure.

On the third day, you’ll rent a car again and set out to enjoy Ishigaki’s breathtaking scenery one last time. This plan is designed to let you experience the island’s natural beauty to the fullest before your flight in the afternoon. Drive safely, avoid accidents, and make the most of your final day in Okinawa.

Located in Uruma City, this 5 km road connects the Yokatsu Peninsula with four islands: Henza, Hamahiga, Miyagi, and Ikei. Built on an embankment across shallow seas, it gives the exhilarating feeling of driving right over the ocean.
Toll-free and used as a daily route by locals, the road is also famous as a drive destination thanks to its breathtaking scenery. From around 6:00 p.m. to midnight, the Henza Kaichu Ohashi Bridge is illuminated, offering views completely different from the daytime. The colors change depending on the season and events, and the perspective shifts with your viewing angle. Every 20 minutes, special lighting effects create a magical atmosphere—perfect for a night drive.
Along the way, you’ll also find attractions such as the Ayahashi Hall Sea Station and the HY Museum, celebrating the popular music group that serves as Uruma City’s tourism ambassadors.

Opened in 2005, this 1,960-meter-long bridge connects Yagaji Island in Nago City with Kouri Island. It is the second-longest toll-free bridge in Okinawa. On both sides, the emerald-green sea stretches endlessly, making it one of the most popular driving routes and scenic spots in the prefecture.
Once you cross to Kouri Island, you’ll find attractions such as Kouri Beach and Kouri-no-Eki Sorahashi, perfect places to stop and enjoy the island atmosphere.

Located in Nanjo City, this pair of bridges stretches about 660 meters and stands 80 meters high, descending from Prefectural Route 86 down toward National Route 331. The unique design features two bridges joined together—Nirai Bridge on the mountain side and Kanai Bridge on the ocean side. The name “Nirai Kanai” refers to a mythical utopia said to exist far across the sea.
The view from the bridge is truly stunning, like a scene from a painting. Especially impressive is the moment when you exit the tunnel at the top of the bridge to be greeted by a panoramic view of the brilliant blue sea and sky—an unforgettable Okinawan sight.
Driving with your windows down lets the sea breeze enhance the experience, making it even more special. From the nearby observation deck, you can also enjoy sweeping views of Chinen Cape and Kudaka Island. With walking paths available, it’s worth exploring on foot as well.

Located in Kunigami, the northernmost village of Okinawa, Michi-no-Eki Yui Yui Kunigami sits along National Route 58. Surrounded by the rich nature of Yanbaru, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, the station features a variety of facilities that highlight the area’s charm.
Seasonal local produce such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and prepared foods are sold here, along with cultural exhibition corners. Visitors can also find unique specialty items like woodcrafts and Yanbaru Kuina (Okinawa rail) goods—including keychains and plush toys—that can’t be found anywhere else.
Food highlights include dishes made with Kunigami’s branded pork, Kunjun Pork, as well as the beloved local treat Kunigami Donuts, both highly rated by travelers. With opportunities to eat, shop, and experience the culture, this roadside station is a perfect place to immerse yourself in Okinawa’s traditions.

Located in Nago City, Michi-no-Eki Kyoda was Okinawa’s very first roadside station, opened in 1994. It remains one of the most popular, attracting about 1.5 million visitors annually, and in 2020 it was ranked No.1 in Japan’s national roadside station rankings.
The highlight here is the food court, where you can enjoy Okinawa’s soul foods such as taco rice, asa soba (sea lettuce soba), and mozuku soba. The Yanbaru Product Center also offers fresh fruits, traditional sweets, and local specialties—perfect for souvenirs.
In 2021, the station underwent a major renovation, making it even more attractive. A newly built observation terrace offers panoramic ocean views and stunning sunsets on clear days. It’s a great spot to take a short break, grab a drink to-go, and snap some memorable photos.

Located in Itoman City, Michi-no-Eki Itoman is the southernmost roadside station in Japan and the largest in Okinawa. With convenient access from Naha Airport, it’s an ideal stop during sightseeing or before heading to your flight.
The highlights here are the Umanchu Market and the Itoman Fisheries Cooperative Fish Center, both famous for their abundance of fresh local ingredients. Every day, the station bustles with visitors shopping for vegetables, seafood, and Okinawan specialties.
Here you’ll find produce rarely seen on the mainland, such as island bananas, mangoes, fuchiba (mugwort), and muchi (a type of rice cake wrapped in leaves). The displays are colorful and lively, making browsing itself an enjoyable experience full of new discoveries. Prices are also very reasonable, another big plus.
For the best experience, visit in the morning when freshly harvested ingredients arrive—it’s the perfect time to enjoy Okinawa’s vibrant food culture.