Kitami Train Station Car Hire

Kitami is a city in eastern Hokkaido known for its peppermint production and vast agricultural landscapes in the Okhotsk region. With a rental car from the train station, you can reach Onneyu Onsen in 30 minutes and Abashiri with its icebreaker museum in 45 minutes. Three rental companies are available at or near the station.

Kitami is 130 km east of Asahikawa and has a continental climate with cold winters dropping to -30°C. The city is Japan's leading peppermint producer and features a charming peppermint museum in the city center. Lake Saroma, one of Japan's largest lagoons, is accessible 40 minutes north.

If you visit November–March, you must rent a car with winter tires – roads in Hokkaido can be extremely slippery. Drive to Memanbetsu for views over the Okhotsk Sea and drift ice in February. Fill up with fuel in Kitami before heading out into the countryside; gas stations are sparse.

How long does it take to drive from Kitami to Abashiri? Approximately 45 minutes via National Route 39, a distance of roughly 40 km. Do rental companies in Kitami offer cars with winter tires?

Yes, all three rental companies automatically switch to studded tires during winter, typically November to April. Can I return the car in Sapporo? Yes, one-way rental to Sapporo is possible but includes a surcharge, and the drive takes approximately 3.5 hours.

We compare prices from all major providers at Kitami Train Station so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.