Rent a Car at Misawa Airport (MSJ) (MSJ)

Misawa Airport (MSJ) in northern Aomori Prefecture, Tohoku, has 4 rental companies and is a combined civil and military airport. The airport is 3 km from Misawa city and approximately 30 km south of Hachinohe. A rental car gives you access to the scenic coasts and forests of northern Honshu.

Misawa city can be reached in 10 minutes' drive (3 km) to the north. Hachinohe, the region's commercial center, is 30 km south via Route 45 (approximately 40 min). Towada-Hachimantai National Park with Lake Towada is 60 km west, approximately 75 minutes' drive.

Winter driving is essential knowledge here – book a car with studded tires from November to March, which most rental companies provide automatically. Hachinohe port with ferries to Hokkaido can be reached in 40 minutes. Fill up your tank often in Misawa or Hachinohe, as gas stations are sparse toward Towada.

Is an international driving permit required at Misawa Airport? Yes, foreign visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention. Japanese authorities do not accept an EU driving license without an IDP.

Can I take a ferry to Hokkaido from Hachinohe with a rental car? Yes, Silver Ferry operates the Hachinohe–Tomakomai (Hokkaido) route and allows vehicles on board. However, check with the rental company that your vehicle is allowed on the ferry, as some rental agreements restrict this.

What are road conditions like toward Towada in winter? Route 454 toward Lake Towada can be closed or require snow chains from December to April. Always check Aomori Prefecture Road Information before departing.

We compare prices from all major providers at Misawa Airport (MSJ) 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.