How to use petrol and fuel stations in Japan (and Hakuba)
If you're visiting Japan and renting a car, one of the first things that might make you nervous is stopping at a petrol station. This can be especially stressful if you have little or no Japanese language skills.
The good news is that refuelling in Japan is much easier than it may seem. With a few useful phrases and a basic understanding of how Japanese petrol stations work, you'll find that filling up your rental car can become a simple — and even enjoyable — part of your road trip.
THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF STATIONS IN JAPAN
There are two main types of petrol stations you'll encounter in Japan:
Self-service petrol stations
Full-service (driveway service) petrol stations
Knowing the difference before you arrive will help you feel more confident.
TYPE 1: SELF-SERVICE
At a self-service station, you'll refuel the vehicle yourself using the pump. The process is generally as follows:
Park your vehicle beside the correct pump.
Use the touchscreen to begin the transaction.
Select your preferred payment method.
Choose the correct fuel type for your vehicle. Most Hakucar rental cars use Regular or “Regyurā” (レギュラー). This is commonly the colour red – you can’t miss it. Premium SUVs like our BMWs prefer High-Octane "hi oku" (ハイオク), the yellow pump. Occasionally, a diesel car will need Keiyu (軽油), which is the green pump.
Fill the tank.
Complete your payment at the pump or take your receipt to the payment machine, depending on the station. If you get stuck, just wave for assistance and apologize with sumimasen or gomennasai.
While some newer stations offer English language options, many operate only in Japanese. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask a staff member for assistance — they're often happy to help.
TYPE 2: FULL-SERVICE
Full-service stations are still very common throughout Japan and are the most common type of petrol station in the Hakuba Valley.
Instead of filling the car yourself, simply drive up to the pump and a staff member will guide you through the process.
Filling it up!
If you'd like the tank filled completely, simply say:
"Mantan kudasai" (満タンください)
This means "Please fill it up."
Asking for a specific amount because that’s how much money you have:
If you'd prefer to spend a set amount, you can tell the attendant the amount you'd like to purchase.
Some useful examples include:
“Ichi sen yen” is ¥1,000
“Ni sen yen” is ¥2,000
“San sen yen” is ¥3,000
“Yon sen yen” is ¥4,000
“Go sen yen” is ¥5,000
Simply say the amount followed by "onegaishimasu" or "kudasai" – for example “go sen yen, kudasai!” and the attendant will gladly dispense fuel up to that value.
SIMPLE, HELPFUL TIPS FOR YOU
To make your time travelling Japan in Hakuba car rental from Hakucar, keep these tips in mind:
Confirm which fuel your rental vehicle requires before leaving the rental office. We will let you know.
Keep cash and a credit card handy, as payment methods vary by station. It’s good to have both.
Don't worry if you don't speak Japanese – station attendants are accustomed to assisting international visitors. However, this is Japan and they speak Japanese. A small attempt goes a long way.
If you're using a self-service station and are unsure how the machine works, ask a member of staff for help.