Located in the city of Ōzora, Memanbetsu Airport operates daily domestic flights that serve as your gateway to Japan's northernmost region of Hokkaidō. Geared with an airport rental service, you can drive straight from the runway into the scenic wilderness of Hokkaidō.
Driving in Japan
Driving on the Left
Just like in the UK, Japan drives on the left side of the road; thus, you'll feel at home navigating the Japanese highways. The only key difference is, road signs and directions are mostly in Japanese characters, but major signs have English translations.
International Driving Permit
Before you start your journey, ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), together with your UK driving license. Japan only accepts the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP, which you can easily obtain from UK post offices before your trip.
Rental Car Services
Memanbetsu Airport houses several car rental services at the arrival lobby, including major international players such as Hertz and Europcar, and local services like Nippon Rent-a-Car. It's advisable to reserve your car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Fuel (Petrol) Stations
Japan operates on self-service petrol stations where you can refuel your car using cash or prepaid cards. The nearest one to the airport is about a 7-minute drive away.
Basic Routes and Courses
Whether you fancy visiting the stunning Shiretoko Peninsular or a drive down to the lavender fields at Furano, Memanbetsu Airport is your starting point. Top driving routes include Memanbetsu to Kushiro, providing a scenic ride along the coastline.
The Surrounding Cities
Ōzora town holds attractions such as the Abashiri Prison Museum. On the other hand, Kushiro, a short drive from the airport, allows you to experience the rich Ainu indigenous culture at the Kushiro City Museum.
Climate
Hokkaido has cooler weather compared to the rest of Japan, with Memanbetsu experiencing cold, snowy winters and mild summers. Make sure to adjust your driving accordingly, especially during the winter season.
Currency
The currency in Japan is the yen (¥), with cash being favoured for transactions over card, especially in rural areas.
As you can see, there's plenty to do and explore once you land at Memanbetsu Airport. So buckle up, and get ready for an unforgettable road trip through beautiful Hokkaido!
