1. Key Requirements for Foreigners Buying a Car in Japan
- You need a valid residence card and registered address in Japan.
- You must prove parking availability; for regular cars a parking space certificate (車庫証明 / Shako-Shomeisho) is required.
- Required documents typically include: Residence certificate (住民票 / Juminhyo), personal seal (inkan), insurance (at least compulsory liability insurance), valid driver’s license (or international permit depending on your status) .
2. Where to Buy & What Types of Cars
- You can purchase from new car dealerships (major brands like Toyota, Nissan, Honda) or from used-car dealers.
- “Kei cars” (軽自動車) are popular: compact, lower taxes and insurance, easier to park.
3. Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Pay
| Item | Estimated Cost / Range |
|---|---|
| New Kei Car | ~ ¥1,500,000 – ¥2,000,000 depending on model & extras |
| Regular compact new car | ~ ¥2,000,000 – ¥3,500,000 |
| Used cars (Kei / compact) | Can start from ¥200,000-¥500,000+ depending on age, condition, mileage |
| Shaken (inspection every 2 years) & related inspections | Varies: for mid-size car maybe tens of thousands of yen every 2 years. |
