Car Rental in Japan, Tokyo, Roppongi?

Question

Hi, Traveling with the family to Tokyo Japan in few days, and wonder if it's wiser to rent a car hang arouns to Disney complex and around. I'll be staying at Roponggi, and I have 3 kids.

If it is the case, can anyone recommend on a good car rental agency around Roponggi?

Answer 1

I have 2 children and have lived in Japan for 3.5 years now. The trains are by far the most cost effective and lowest risk form of transportation. They are on time and getting lost is not much of an issue. Renting a car can be a hassle and driving around Tokyo can be a major headache. The Roppongi area can be very busy at any time of the day or night and the roads are confusing. Getting lost or forced to drive down tiny streets can happen easily. We bought a car in our fist months here and it took us about 3 months to really learn the best routes to drive our car.
As for your trip to Disney, I suggest to take the highway bus that goes directly to the Disney area. Below are some links to help you out. Or you can take the Subway to Otemachi, walk to Tokyo Station (5 min walk) and then take the Keio Line to Maihama station. Maihama is the stop directly in front of Disney.
When I took my family to Disney, we actually booked a hotel room at The Ambassador Hotel. Even though we live in Tokyo, the proximity was perfect for our little troopers, who were tired from the 2 days of fun and excitement.

Answer 2

I would recommend renting a car. Three exhausted kids in a crowded train back into Tokyo could be a hassle. I found two rental companies in Roppongi, I am sure there are more. You could always ask the hotel where they may have a package deal with drop off and pick up which could be a lot easier.

Answer 3

if you are unfamiliar with Japanese driving laws and driving a right side steering wheeled car, then don't bother renting. In fact, it may not even be possible with out an international DL.

Additionally, parking is scarce in Tokyo and the surrounding areas, and darn expensive when you do find it. The train & subway system, on the other hand, goes everywhere and is clean eifficent and cheap.