The Best JDM Car Rentals in Japan
Some trips are about sights or people but mine was about driving something real. I had two days free in Japan and wanted to experience what it really felt like to drive a true Japanese sports car on Japanese roads. That led me to NRT Rent a Car just outside Narita Airport where I rented a Nissan Silvia S15.
What Makes NRT Different from Other Rental Shops
Right from the start you realize NRT is not a typical rental company. It is run by enthusiasts who care about the cars and the people who drive them. The cars are not just flashy tourist rentals but well maintained machines that feel alive and ready to be driven properly.
The staff treat you like a fellow driver not just a customer. There is no long list of restrictions or warnings. Instead you get trust that you will drive responsibly and enjoy the car as it was meant to be driven. That trust completely changes the vibe of the whole experience.
My Two Days with the Silvia
The first day was mostly a write off because of a passing typhoon that limited driving. Some might say Silvia's are made for that kind of weather but since this was a rental I was not going to take unnecessary risks. The roads were wet and windy so I took it slow and absorbed the atmosphere.
The next morning the weather cleared. The roads were dry and the skies opened up. That is when the experience really came to life. The mountain roads were smooth and clear. The Silvia’s turbo engine added an exciting layer to the drive. Every corner felt alive and the car fit perfectly on those roads.
I spent about 180 Australian dollars on fuel over the two days. Despite the bad weather on day one it felt completely worth it. Driving a proper JDM car in Japan lets you see the country from a fresh perspective especially outside the usual city routes.
What You Should Know Before Renting a JDM Car in Japan
Not every rental shop takes care of their cars the same way. I chose NRT Rent a Car because of their reputation for well maintained vehicles. That showed clearly in how the Silvia felt behind the wheel.
Renting a true enthusiast car like a Silvia or Skyline is not just for diehard fans. Anyone comfortable with right hand drive and Japan’s traffic rules can have a unique and rewarding driving experience. Just be sure to pick a rental company known for good upkeep so your trip is not ruined by avoidable problems.
Disclaimer
Note Kizu will always remain unbiased in any opinion provided in order to protect and maintain car culture globally. NRT provided this Silvia at a wholesale rate I still paid for the service and this review is not impacted by what they provided me. I would and will in the future go back to this company for enthusiast car rentals because the car was so much better maintained than other rentals I have used.