Car Rentals vs. Private Transfers

Car Rentals vs. Private Transfers: Which is Best for Your Niseko Ski Trip?

When planning your ski trip around Niseko, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is how to get around. With a ton of private and bus transfer options to get between Chitose Airport and Niseko, renting a car is certainly not required, especially for those staying in the condensed and convenient Hirafu Village area, who will find accessing the lifts, restaurants, and other amenities a breeze without needing a vehicle. For those staying further afield, however, renting a car can be a great way to easily get around, access all Niseko United resorts, and explore the local area. 

Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, but your accommodation location is typically a good way to decide whether it’s needed.  For more on this, check out our post about renting a car in Niseko.

Let’s explore the pros and cons to help you decide which is the best fit for your trip.

Car Rentals

Pros:

1. Flexibility: Car rentals offer the most flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace and visit “off-the-beaten-path” destinations.
2. Independence: You’re not tied to a schedule or route, giving you complete control over your itinerary.
3. Convenience: With a rental car, you can easily stop at shops, restaurants, and attractions along the way.
4. Cost-effective: For longer stays, renting a car can be more cost-effective than private transfers.
5. Adventure: Driving in a snowy region can be an exciting adventure for some travelers.

Cons:

1. Safety: Driving in unfamiliar locations, especially on snowy roads or even on the road side of the road for some people, will require extra care.
2. Stress: Similar to the above safety concerns, winter road conditions require the driver to be well-rested and focused before starting up the engine.
3. Cost: In addition to the rental fee, you’ll need to factor in fuel costs, parking fees, and potentially tolls.
4. Limited parking: Some ski resorts have very limited parking, so you may need to either wait in a long line of cars or park off-site. This is the same for trying to find parking around Hirafu town, at restaurants, or your accommodations.
5. License: Before driving in Japan, you will need to obtain an international driving permit (IDP) in your own country first and bring the physical document/card over.
   

Private Transfers (Private Taxis and Chartered Buses)

Pros:

1. Convenience: Private transfers offer a door-to-door service, eliminating the hassle of driving yourself.
2. Safety: Professional drivers are familiar with local roads and conditions, providing a safer and more comfortable journey.
3. Relaxation: You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving.
4. Efficiency: Private transfers can be more efficient, especially for shorter distances or if you’re traveling in a group.  
5. Language barrier: Many private transfer companies offer English-language support, making communication easier.

Cons:

1. Cost: Private transfers can be more expensive than car rentals, especially for shorter distances or smaller groups.
2. Limited flexibility: You’re bound by the driver’s schedule and route.
3. Waiting times: If you’re traveling in a group, there may be waiting times for the driver to pick up all passengers.
4. Availability: Private taxis are very popular and often get fully booked out over the peak season (usually between December 15 – January 15) so it is very important to decide early and book as soon as possible.

The best option for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as your budget, the number of people in your group, your comfort level with driving in snowy conditions in Japan, and the flexibility you desire in your itinerary.

Lastly, we would also recommend car rentals for certain areas, such as Niseko Town, Kabayama, and Higashiyama. However, for more central Hirafu accommodations, everywhere is quite walkable and the shuttle service is convenient; having a car here is not necessary and could even be cumbersome and expensive.

Thinking about a trip to Niseko? Let our staff help you book here!

For more information about car rentals options, click on a link below:

Renting a car in Niseko: https://japanskiexperience.com/news-and-articles/rent-a-car-in-niseko-japan/

Renting a car in Hakuba: https://japanskiexperience.com/news-and-articles/rent-a-car-in-hakuba/

For more details regarding Private Transfers and rates (must be booked as part of an accommodation booking), click the link below:
https://japanskiexperience.com/guest-services/niseko/sapporo-to-niseko-transfers

For guests who already have existing reservations with JSE, you can add transfers to your booking through your MMB (Manage My Booking) page below:
https://book.japanskiexperience.com/info/my-booking.aspx