If your trip to Shima is all locked in but your itinerary is looking a little empty, we can give you a few hints and tips.Stop by Shima Spain Village. It’s one sight you’ll usually find on many visitors’ to-do lists. Ago Bay and Ise-Shima National Park Yokoyama Visitor Center are also a stone’s throw away and worth a detour.

If you find yourself with a spare day or two and you’re willing to travel 30 miles, take a look at Mihama. This happening destination offers up plenty of things to keep you busy. Among your first few stops here ought to be Minami Chita Beach Land, Strawberry Farm and Yamami Beach. Located 45 miles away, Toyohashi is another popular option. If you stop by, be sure to check out Toyokawa Inari Shrine, Toyohashi Park and Toyohashi Museum of Natural History.

There’s nothing like rolling down the car window and feeling the cool, salty breeze in your hair while you’re driving by the seaside. Pack some food and spend an afternoon having fun in the sun at one of the magnificent beaches near Shima. Picturesque options include:

• Jiro-Rokuro Beach (3 miles away).
• Ichigo Beach (4 miles away).
• Goza Shirahama Beach (5 miles away).

A rental car will help you get around the best sights quickly and comfortably in Shima. If you’re traveling on a shoestring and eager to stretch your budget, a mini or a compact is an excellent option. These smaller cars are cheap to run and easy to park. If you have the kids in tow, a full-size car will give you enough space to stretch your legs.

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to renting a car in Shima. From SUVs with space to spare to economy rides that are a snap to park, you’ll find it all here. Choosing your perfect match depends on how much you’d like to spend and what activities you’ve got planned. There are some road trips that are just begging you to splurge on your dream ride, whereas others don’t need much more than enough space for your luggage and buddies. What type of car will it be this time?

Keep on the left-hand side of the road in Shima. If you plan to rent a car here, be aware that the steering wheel will be on the right. It may take a little bit to get used to!

Getting a place to park in Shima isn’t always simple. That’s why many visitors opt for a hotel that has its own parking. When leaving the car around the city, take careful note of the signage. Overstaying the allotted time limit could land you a steep fine.

While motoring around the streets of Shima, keep in mind that the speed limits range from 30km/h to 100km/h. Residential areas are 40km/h unless marked otherwise.

One of two things will happen. Your chosen car rental company may bill the fined amount to your credit card. This is the more common practice. Otherwise, it may forward your contact information to the relevant local authority so the fine is issued straight to you.

It’s illegal to use your cell phone while you’re behind the wheel in Shima, and you may also be issued a fine for simply handling a phone when you’re in control of a vehicle. However, using hands-free or Bluetooth functions is allowed, as long as your attention stays on the road.

In Shima, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a BAC (blood alcohol content) of more than 0.03%. If you plan to have a few drinks with lunch or dinner, leave your rental car at your hotel.

It’s illegal to turn at a red light in Shima. If you come across one, enjoy a mindful moment or two until the signal goes back to green.

Although there are a few exceptions, seat belts must be fastened in Mie Prefecture.