One of the most practical concerns for visitors renting a car in Japan is how to handle refueling. Japanese gas stations use a color-coded nozzle system to prevent misfueling, and knowing the basics before you drive will save you time and potential repair costs. There are three fuel types available: Regular unleaded gasoline (\u30ec\u30ae\u30e5\u30e9\u30fc)<\/strong> with a red nozzle, which is correct for the vast majority of standard rental cars; High-octane premium gasoline (\u30cf\u30a4\u30aa\u30af)<\/strong> with a yellow nozzle, intended for high-performance vehicles; and Diesel (\u8efd\u6cb9, Keiyu)<\/strong> with a green nozzle, only for diesel-engine vehicles.<\/p>\n The most important rule is to always use the red nozzle unless your rental company explicitly instructs otherwise. Accidentally filling a gasoline-engine car with diesel will cause serious engine damage, and the rental company will charge you for all repair costs. The required fuel type is usually labeled on the fuel door or the instrument panel of your rental car, so check before you pump.<\/p>\n Japan has two types of gas stations. Full-service stations (\u30d5\u30eb\u30b5\u30fc\u30d3\u30b9)<\/strong> have attendants who refuel your car for you. Pull up to the pump, roll down your window, and say \"Regyuraa, man-tan de onegaishimasu\"<\/em> (Regular, full tank please). Attendants often provide extra courtesies such as wiping your windshield and collecting trash.<\/p>\n Self-service stations (\u30bb\u30eb\u30d5)<\/strong> are now more common throughout Japan and typically offer slightly lower prices. You operate the pump yourself by following the on-screen instructions. Most modern pumps accept both cash and credit cards, and many offer an English-language option on the touchscreen.<\/p>\n Using a self-service pump in Japan is straightforward once you know the steps:<\/p>\n Gas stations in rural areas of Japan may close early in the evening or remain closed on weekends and public holidays. If you are planning a long drive through the countryside, fill up whenever you see an open station rather than waiting until your tank is nearly empty. In urban areas, gas stations are generally open around the clock.<\/p>\n Most rental companies in Japan require you to return the car with a full tank. Some companies designate specific nearby gas stations for the final fill-up before return, so ask when you pick up the car. Current fuel prices in Japan typically range from approximately \u00a5170 to \u00a5190 per liter for regular gasoline. A compact rental car with a 40-liter tank will cost roughly \u00a57,000 to \u00a58,000 for a full tank.<\/p>\n If you accidentally put the wrong fuel in your rental car, do not start the engine. Contact your rental company's roadside assistance immediately and explain the situation. Starting the engine after misfueling can cause severe and costly damage. Acting quickly and keeping the engine off will minimize the damage and associated costs.<\/p>\n Refueling a rental car in Japan is a simple process once you understand the system. By remembering the color-coded nozzles, following the on-screen instructions, and keeping your receipts, you can focus on enjoying Japan's remarkable scenery and open roads.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Understanding Fuel Types at Japanese Gas Stations One o … <\/p>\nFull-Service vs. Self-Service Stations<\/h2>\n
Step-by-Step Guide to Self-Service Refueling<\/h2>\n
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Practical Tips for Driving in Japan<\/h2>\n
What to Do If You Misfuel<\/h2>\n