Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Q: What is Drive Furano-Hokkaido-Car Rental?
A: Drive Furano-Hokkaido-Car Rental is a boutique car rental and vehicle purchasing service based in Hokkaido. We specialise in providing high-quality, snow-ready vehicles for travellers, seasonal residents, and anyone who wants to own a car in Japan without the stress of local paperwork.

Q: Where are you located?
A: We are located wherever you arrive or depart in Hokkaido, with delivery available to New Chitose Airport (CTS), Asahikawa (AKJ), and Sapporo.

Q: Do you only rent cars or can I buy one through you?
A: Both. You can rent short-term or long-term, or we can help you with your purchase and management of your own car in Japan — including storage, insurance, cleaning and maintenance.

Car Rental

Q: What types of vehicles do you offer?
A: SUVs, all equipped for Hokkaido conditions with 4WD or AWD, winter tyres, and full safety checks.

Q: What’s included in the rental price?
A: Standard insurance, roadside assistance, winter tyres (in season), and basic cleaning. Optional extras include child seats, roof racks, and GPS when available.

Q: Can I pick up and drop off in different locations?
A: Yes. We can arrange delivery and collection from Asahikawa Airport, Furano, New chitose Airport(sapporo) and Sapporo (downtown) (a one-way fee may apply).

Q: What licence do I need?
A: A valid licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Some countries (e.g. Switzerland, Germany) need a certified Japanese translation.

Q: What’s the minimum rental age?
A: 21 years old, with at least one year of licensed driving experience. Drivers under 25 may pay a higher insurance premium.

Q: Do you offer long-term rentals?
A: Yes — monthly and seasonal rentals are available, ideal for ski season or long Hokkaido stays.

Vehicle Ownership & Management

Q: How does your car purchasing service work?
A: We find and purchase a vehicle for you in Japan, handle all paperwork, registration, insurance, shaken (road worthiness assessment), and offer management solutions when your not here.

Q: Can foreigners own a car in Japan?
A: Yes. You can own a car. Through our management service we take care of local legal and administrative requirements so you can simply arrive and drive.

Q: What service levels do you offer?

1. Basic Purchase Assist – We source and buy a car for you; you manage insurance and shaken.

2. Full Service Ownership – Includes insurance, shaken, maintenance, storage, and airport delivery.

3. Premium Concierge – Everything above plus custom cleaning services, delivery to your hotel or home and pickup at the end of your stay. Premium concierge can be tailored to your individual requirements.

Q: Can you store my car when I’m not in Japan?
A: Yes. We offer secure indoor and outdoor storage solutions with periodic maintenance, battery checks, cleaning, and inspection.

Q: Can you help sell my car later?
A: Absolutely. We can handle resale through our local dealer network or buy back your vehicle directly (depending on age and condition).

Insurance & Support

Q: What insurance is included?
A: All rentals include full coverage — third-party liability, theft, and collision. Managed ownership vehicles are covered under tailored Japanese insurance plans through third parties.

Q: What if I have an accident?
A: Contact us immediately. We’ll guide you in English and assist with police reports, towing, and insurance communication.

Q: Do you offer roadside assistance?
A: Yes. 24-hour support is included with all rentals and managed vehicles (conditions may apply).

Payments & Bookings

Q: How can I book a rental?
A: Submit an enquiry through our website or email us. We’ll confirm price and availability, send a rental agreement, and arrange payment.

Q: What payment options are available?
A: Major credit cards, bank transfers, and selected digital payments. Long-term plans can be billed monthly.

Travel & Local Information

Q: Do the cars have English GPS?
A: Yes — all vehicles include English-language GPS/Carplay.

Q: What if my flight is delayed?
A: We monitor flight arrivals and adjust pickup times. Please include your flight number when booking.

Contact & Assistance

Q: How do I contact you?
info@drive-furano.com