Renting a Car in Gunma

Should You Rent a Car?

While Gunma's major destinations are accessible by train, renting a car provides greater flexibility and access to remote areas that are difficult to reach by public transportation.

I recommend renting a car if you plan to visit:

• Kusatsu Onsen

• Shima Onsen

• Minakami

• Mount Haruna

• Lake Haruna

• Oze National Park

• Rural onsen towns and mountain viewpoints

Things to Know Before Driving in Japan

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for most foreign visitors.

• Vehicles drive on the left side of the road.

• Most rental cars include GPS and English navigation options.

• ETC toll cards can usually be rented with the vehicle for expressway travel.

• Parking is generally easy to find in Gunma compared to larger cities like Tokyo.

Recommended Rental Locations

JR Rent A Car (Takasaki Station)

Nippon Rent A Car (Takasaki Station)

My Recommendation

If you're only visiting Takasaki or making a quick day trip, public transportation is usually sufficient. However, if you're planning to explore Kusatsu Onsen, Shima Onsen, Minakami, Gunma's mountain regions, or most of the places that I mapped out, renting a car will significantly enhance your experience and help you discover places that many visitors never see.