Miyakojima Rent-A-CarEA Class (Notebook e-POWER, Fit Hybrid, etc.)

Exploring Miyakojima with a Rent-A-Car: A Practical Guide to the EA Class Experience

When visiting Miyakojima, the beauty of Okinawa’s lesser-known islands shines brightly, and having your own wheels makes all the difference. For just $185.66 per group (up to five travelers), you can rent an EA class vehicle—think Notebook e-POWER, Fit Hybrid, or AQUA—and explore at your own pace. The rental process is straightforward, with a multilingual navigation system included, making it accessible even for non-Japanese speakers. Pick-up is at the Miyako Shimojishima Airport, where the friendly staff at the ORIX Rent-a-Car counter will get you set up.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of all-included navigation and insurance, allowing us to focus on the scenery rather than logistics. Plus, the modern hybrid vehicles offer an eco-friendly way to enjoy the island’s pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and charming villages. The two-day duration offers plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed, and the cost is competitive, especially considering the convenience of a mobile ticket and advance booking—average bookings are made 24 days ahead.

One point to consider is that fuel costs are not included, and you’ll need to budget for child or baby seats if traveling with little ones (at 1,100 yen per vehicle). The group size (up to five) makes this a great option for families or small groups, but those traveling solo or as couples might find it a bit spacious.

If you’re comfortable driving in Japan and want the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path spots, this rental suits travelers who value flexibility, modern vehicles, and local convenience. It’s especially great for those who prefer a self-guided adventure over organized tours.

Key Points

• Convenient pick-up at Miyako Shimojishima Airport with multilingual support
• Hybrid vehicles ensure eco-friendly exploration of Miyakojima’s natural beauty
• All cars come with navigation systems and insurance, simplifying the experience
• Two-day rental offers flexibility to explore at your own pace
• Additional costs like fuel and child seats are not included, so plan accordingly
• Pre-bookings are common, so reserve at least 24 days in advance for best availability

In-Depth Review of Miyakojima Rent-A-Car EA Class Experience

When planning a trip to Miyakojima, one of the biggest advantages is having your own set of wheels. Public transport on the island is limited, and taxis can add up quickly. Renting an EA class vehicle—which includes options like the Notebook e-POWER or Fit Hybrid—provides the flexibility to explore the island’s highlights and hidden corners with ease.

Location and Accessibility
Having the pick-up point at Miyako Shimojishima Airport simplifies your arrival. As soon as your flight lands, you can head straight to the ORIX Rent-a-Car counter. The process is generally smooth, especially with the multilingual navigation system included in each vehicle, which guides you confidently around the island’s winding roads. The meeting point details are clear, with operating hours from 9:00AM to 7:00PM daily, even during holidays like Christmas and New Year.

Cost and Booking Process
At $185.66 for a group of up to five, this rental offers excellent value—especially when you consider the convenience of having a vehicle for two days. Many travelers book about 24 days in advance, ensuring availability during peak seasons. The mobile ticket system means no paper to fuss with, and you can simply present your confirmation upon arrival.

The Vehicles and Features
The EA class vehicles are modern, hybrid, fuel-efficient options that are perfect for the environmentally conscious traveler. The Notebook e-POWER is particularly noteworthy—it’s a hybrid with a rechargeable battery, providing smooth acceleration and quiet operation. The Fit Hybrid and AQUA are equally reliable, compact, and easy to maneuver through narrow island streets.

Each vehicle comes standard with a navigation system, which is invaluable in an unfamiliar place. It’s especially helpful for finding local eateries, beaches, or scenic viewpoints away from the main tourist spots. The indemnity coverage included offers peace of mind, making this a stress-free rental.

What to Expect During Your Rental
Your two-day rental gives you ample time to explore Miyakojima’s highlights. Expect to visit Yonaha Maehama Beach, renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters, or venture inland to discover Shimojii Island’s serene landscapes. If you’re interested in snorkeling or marine activities, having your own transportation allows you to hop between different spots effortlessly.

Travelers have appreciated the ease of pick-up and return, with reviews noting that the process is “quick and friendly.” The group size (up to five) makes it perfect for families or small groups wanting to split costs and explore together.

Considerations and Tips
While the rental cost covers navigation and insurance, fuel and optional extras like child seats cost extra—1,100 yen per vehicle. You might find it worthwhile to bring your own child seat if possible, or plan your budget accordingly. Also, driving in Japan requires an international driver’s license, which must be valid for the duration of your stay.

A small drawback is that the price does not include fuel, so you’ll need to fill up before returning. It’s worth noting that the cars are modern and efficient, which helps keep fuel costs down. Travelers recommend allowing extra time for pickup and drop-off, especially during busy seasons.

Why This Rental Is Perfect for Certain Travelers

This rental experience is ideal for independent travelers, families, or small groups looking for flexibility and comfort. If you’re someone who prefers to create your own itinerary—whether it’s a lazy beach day or a scenic drive around the island—this is your best bet. The hybrid vehicles also appeal to eco-conscious visitors wanting to minimize their carbon footprint.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer guided tours or those who might be uncomfortable with driving in Japan, especially since fuel and child seats are paid separately. However, if you’re confident behind the wheel and value customized itineraries, this rental is a fantastic choice.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For its price, this two-day hybrid car rental offers unmatched flexibility to explore Miyakojima at your own pace. The included navigation system, the modern vehicle options, and the straightforward airport pickup make it a practical choice for those who want to focus on enjoying the island rather than navigating unfamiliar transport options.

The booking system and customer support appear well-organized, and the positive reviews—though limited—indicate a generally smooth experience. Whether you’re planning a leisurely beach tour, nature hike, or scenic drive, this rental gives you the freedom to shape your Miyakojima adventure.

We recommend this experience for couples, families, or small groups who prioritize convenience, eco-friendliness, and self-directed exploration. If you’re comfortable driving abroad and want to see Miyakojima on your terms, this rental is an excellent value.

FAQ

Is the rental available during holidays?
Yes, the rental service operates every day, including Christmas and New Year, from 9:00AM to 7:00PM.

Do I need an international driver’s license?
Yes, you will need a valid international driver’s license and passport to rent and drive the vehicle in Japan.

What is included in the rental cost?
The cost covers the vehicle, navigation system, indemnity, and consumption tax.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, fuel is not included, and child seats or baby seats cost an extra 1,100 yen per vehicle.

How early should I book?
Booking about 24 days in advance is recommended, as most travelers tend to reserve well ahead of their trip.

Can I return the car outside of operating hours?
The rental hours are from 9:00AM to 7:00PM daily; check with the provider for specific late-return policies if needed.

Is the vehicle suitable for a family with small children?
Yes, though you’ll need to pay extra for child or baby seats if required.

To sum it up, this Miyakojima rent-a-car experience offers a practical, eco-friendly, and flexible way to see the island’s best sights. Perfect for confident drivers seeking independence in their Okinawa adventure, it balances affordability with comfort and convenience.