If your trip to Shiojiri is all organized but your travel itinerary is a bit on the empty side, let us give you a few hints and tips.The wider region is known for having some outstanding hot air ballooning and paragliding. Why not hop in your rental car, get some fresh air and reconnect with nature?

A rental car will help you get around quickly and comfortably in Shiojiri. If you’re traveling on a shoestring and want to make your budget go further, a mini or a compact is an excellent option. These zippy cars are cheap to run and a breeze to park. If you’ve got the kids in tow, an SUV will give you room to move.

There’s loads of choice when it comes to rental cars in Shiojiri. From spacious SUVs with plenty of trunk space to economy rides that are a snap to park, you’ll find it all here. Choosing your perfect match depends on how much you want to spend and where you plan to go. There are some road trips that are just begging you to splurge on your dream ride, whereas other adventures don’t need more than a bargain, no-frills type model. Which car will you be sliding behind the wheel of this time?

Not knowing the traffic rules is like going away on a road trip and not having a map. Cruise with confidence in Shiojiri with our list of driving tips:

The left-hand side of the road is where you’ll be motoring along in Shiojiri. The controls of your rental vehicle here, like the steering wheel and stick shift (if your car has manual transmission), will be on the other side of what you’re used to.

Peak-hour traffic isn’t a huge worry in Shiojiri and the wider area of Matsumoto. With a population of 210,700, the roads aren’t as busy here as they are in larger cities.

It can be. Driving around the block searching for a place to park is a common experience in Shiojiri. Getting near big-name attractions is easier if you research your options ahead of time.

Shiojiri is a neighborhood in the city of Matsumoto, where speed limits range from 30km/h to 100km/h. However, these limits can change. Residential areas are typically 40km/h unless posted otherwise.

Normally, one of two things will happen. Your rental car company may bill the fined amount to your credit card. This is the most common approach. Otherwise, it may supply your contact details to local authorities so the fine is sent to you directly.

Subject to a small number of exceptions, seat belts are mandatory in Matsumoto.

As in many places, standard cell phone usage is not allowed while operating a vehicle in Shiojiri. However, an exception applies for hands-free or Bluetooth capabilities. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road.

In Shiojiri, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a BAC (blood alcohol content) greater than 0.03%. If you’re thinking of having a couple of drinks with lunch or dinner, you’d be wise to leave your rental car behind.

You aren’t permitted to turn at a red light in Shiojiri. If you come across one, enjoy a mindful moment until the light changes to green.