Driving a Japanese sports car in Japan is a dream for many car lovers.
Fortunately, it is possible to rent iconic models such as the Toyota GR86 or GR Yaris during your trip. Many visitors choose Toyota Rent-A-Car because it offers reliable service and relatively affordable prices.
We actually rented a Toyota GR86 from Toyota Rent-A-Car during our trip to Japan and drove it around the Hakone area. The process was surprisingly simple, but there were several things we wish we had known beforehand — especially about the required documents and reservation process.
Based on our real experience,we explain everything you need to know about renting a GR86 or GR Yaris in Japan, including the cost, requirements for foreign drivers, and the step-by-step rental process.
- Actually foreigners can rent a Toyota GR86 or GR Yaris in Japan.
- Most travelers rent these cars through Toyota Rent-A-Car under the SP1 class. Prices usually start at around ¥14,000 per day depending on the location and rental period.
- To rent a car in Japan, you typically need
- An International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Your passport
- A credit card for payment
Where can you rent a GR86 or GR Yaris in Japan?
The easiest way to rent a GR86 in Japan is through Toyota Rent-A-Car
Some locations offer the GR86 under the SP1 class, which is categorized as a sports model. Availability is limited, so booking in advance is strongly recommended.
Other specialty rental companies may also offer sports cars, but Toyota Rent-A-Car is usually the most convenient option for international visitors.
How much does it cost to rent a GR86 in Japan?
The price of renting a GR86 in Japan varies depending on the rental location and duration.
| Hours | Prices |
| 6hours | Around ¥10,000 |
| 12hours | Around ¥12,000 |
| 24hours | Around ¥14,000~¥16,000 |
Can foreigners rent a GR86 in Japan?
Yes, foreigners can rent cars in Japan as long as they have the correct documents.
The required documents are:
- A valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Your passport
- A credit card for payment
Drivers from certain countries may use their national license with an official Japanese translation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Renting a GR86
Step1: Booking
Book a rental car in advance at the following official Toyota Rent-A-Car website. Be sure to make a reservation, as they are popular and there are only a few available.
Enter the following information when making a reservation
- Type of rental car desired (SP1 class)
- You can also specify the type of car, but you will receive a 2,200 yen discount if you choose random.
- Start and return date and time of use
- Stores to be used (pick-up and return stores)
- Options (child seat, car navigation system, etc.)
- Confirmation of required driver’s license (international driver’s license may be required)
When we made our reservation, the GR86 was listed under the “SP1” class on the Toyota Rent-A-Car website. Availability was limited, so we recommend booking at least a few days in advance, especially during travel seasons.
Step2: Required documents (preparation)
Be sure to include the following items in your luggage, as you will need them when you actually rent the car at the store.
Step3: Visit the rental store
Let’s try not to be late for our appointment.
Step4: Confirm the reservation
On the day of rental, follow the steps below to rent a car
Go to the store on the reserved date and time and complete the following procedures:
- Confirm the details of the reservation
- Confirm the car type, period of use, and options.
- Confirm your driver’s license
- Store staff will check your driver’s license.
- Payment
- Make payment by credit card or cash (credit card is recommended).
- Sign Agreement
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions of Car Rental and sign the contract.
- Check the vehicle
- Check the vehicle for scratches and condition with store staff.
Step5: Inspect the car
- Receive your keys and prepare for departure.
- The staff may explain basic usage (navigation system operation, type of gasoline, etc.). (The car I rented was an automatic. It will basically be an automatic)
Step6: Drive and enjoy
- Follow the traffic rules and drive safely.
- Fill up with the specified fuel (regular, high-octane, etc.).
- The GR86 I rented was regular gasoline. Be sure to ask the store staff what type of gasoline you need.
Step7: Return
Upon return, please ensure the following
- Refill fuel
- Fill up your tank. Fill up the tank at a nearby gas station
- Vehicle check
- Staff will check the condition of your vehicle.
- Reimbursement for overage charges.
- If there are additional charges for time used or optional extras, we will settle them.
Important Tips When Renting a Sports Car in Japan
Sports cars like the GR86 are more powerful than typical rental vehicles, so there are several important points to keep in mind.
- Choose a comprehensive insurance plan
- Confirm the type of fuel before driving
- Follow Japanese traffic rules carefully
- Contact the store if you will be late returning the car
GR86 vs GR Yaris – Which Should You Rent?
Both the GR86 and GR Yaris are popular Japanese performance cars, but they offer different driving experiences.
GR86
- Rear-wheel drive
- Balanced sports coupe
- deal for scenic drives like Hakone
GR Yaris
- All-wheel drive
- Rally-inspired performance
- More aggressive driving feel
Summary
Renting a GR86 or GR Yaris is one of the best ways to experience Japan’s car culture.
With the right documents and a reservation at Toyota Rent-A-Car, even international visitors can easily enjoy driving a Japanese sports car.
If you love JDM cars, renting a GR86 will make your trip to Japan unforgettable.
We took a GR86 rental for roughly 10 hours and hit the road from Tokyo to Hakone. Want to see how the drive actually went? Check out the article.
Comment Comment
How did you know which branches have GR86? The search function doesn’t let you filter according to specific car models and did I miss that out? Please enlighten me! Thank you
Hi! Thank you for your comment.
https://rent.toyota.co.jp/eng/reservation/index02.aspx?carType=5
You can check it from here by selecting the car brands.
86 will be at the bottom of SUV/Specality section.
Please let me know if you have more questions!
Hello!
I still don’t quite understand how you can search the availability of a specific car for all locations. When I select the GR Yaris, it still shows me all possible locations even though it’s not available there.
Also, when contacting Toyota, I’ve received the answer:
“Regarding your inquiry, we have confirmed the availability of AWD MT GR Yaris in Nagano, Gifu, Kyoto, and Nagoya. However, please note that none of these shops are equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) manual transmission. Therefore, it is not feasible to use the all-wheel drive GR Yaris with manual transmission in these areas.”
Which is very confusing, and I’ve read that other people have rented from Nagano and Nagoya. Do you have any experience with renting the AWD MT GR Yaris?
Thank you for the help!
Hi,
Thank you for your contact!
I haven’t borrowed GR yaris yet so I am not sure.
I asked Toyota rentalcar and they said you need to call (+81-92-577-0091) to book GRyaris.
They will look the availability for you and this dial is for English speakers.
In addition, MT and 4WD is rare and it might be full. If AT fits for you, you might have a better chance to book it.
Hope this will help.