Japanese gas stations finder
Japanese gas stations finder
Japanese gas stations map
Enter your location or use GPS to find nearby gas stations in Japan
FAQ
🗺️How does this Japanese gas station finder work?
Think of it as your fuel location crystal ball! Simply enter any Japanese address or use your GPS location, and we'll show you the nearest gas stations with real-time distances and Google Maps links. Our tool searches through comprehensive data from major brands like ENEOS, apollostation, and Cosmo Oil across all of Japan. It's like having a local guide in your pocket - no more driving around Tokyo or Osaka wondering "where's the closest ガソリンスタンド?" The system works completely free without requiring any API keys, using reliable OpenStreetMap data to ensure accuracy.
⛽What are the main gas station brands I'll find in Japan?
The big players dominating Japan's fuel market are ENEOS (44% market share with 13,000+ stations), apollostation (formerly Idemitsu with 6,000 stations), Cosmo Oil, and JA-SS cooperative stations. ENEOS dominates with their distinctive orange and blue colors, while apollostation stations feature red branding. These major chains are your safe bet for consistent service, English support, and guaranteed credit card acceptance. Smaller regional brands include Kygnus, Solato, and various independent operators, particularly common in rural areas where they often offer competitive pricing to compete with the giants.
🌙Can I find 24-hour gas stations in Japan?
Absolutely! Many ENEOS and apollostation locations operate 24/7, especially along major highways like the Tomei Expressway and in metropolitan areas like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka. Self-service (セルフ) stations are your best bet for late-night fuel - they stay automated even when staff go home, accepting credit cards and cash 24/7. Highway service areas (SA) and parking areas (PA) also typically offer 24-hour fuel access, crucial for road trippers traveling between major cities like Tokyo to Kyoto or during Golden Week when traffic is heaviest.
💳Do Japanese gas stations accept credit cards and what payment methods work best?
Most major brand stations (ENEOS, apollostation, Cosmo) readily accept international credit cards, especially self-service locations which are designed for cashless transactions. Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted, while American Express works at most chain locations. However, some smaller independent stations in rural areas are still cash-only, so always carry yen as backup. ENEOS EneKey contactless payment, T-Point cards, and Rakuten points offer discounts, but your standard international credit card will work perfectly at chain locations. Many stations also accept IC cards like Suica and Pasmo for convenience.
🔧What's the difference between self-service and full-service gas stations?
Self-service (セルフサービス) stations are significantly cheaper and increasingly common, where you pump your own fuel using touch-screen interfaces often available in English. Full-service stations employ uniformed attendants who fill your tank, check your oil, clean your windshield, and provide courteous Japanese hospitality - but cost ¥5-15 more per liter. Self-service is perfect for tourists who want quick, cheap fuel without language barriers, while full-service offers traditional Japanese customer service excellence. Many modern self-service stations also offer hybrid options where staff assist if needed.
🚗What type of gasoline should I use for my rental car in Japan?
The vast majority of rental cars use "Regular" (レギュラー) gasoline - the cheapest and most common option available at every station. Premium vehicles or sports cars might require "High Octane" (ハイオク), but your rental agreement will clearly specify this requirement. When in doubt, Regular gasoline works for 90% of vehicles and costs approximately ¥160-180 per liter depending on location and station type. Diesel cars are rare in the rental market but use "軽油" (keiyu). Never confuse this with kerosene!
🗾Are gas stations easy to find on Japanese highways and expressways?
Absolutely! Japan's highway system is excellently designed with service areas (SA) and parking areas (PA) strategically placed every 25-50km along major routes like the Tomei Expressway, Chuo Expressway, and Tohoku Expressway. Popular rest stops often feature multiple fuel options, restaurants, shopping, and even hot spring baths. Highway gas stations are typically ¥10-20 more expensive per liter but essential for long road trips between major cities like Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka to Mt. Fuji, or during busy travel periods like Golden Week when regular stations may have long queues.
📱How can I find the cheapest gas station prices in Japan?
Smart fuel shopping can save you significant money! Self-service stations are typically ¥5-15 cheaper per liter than full-service equivalents. Costco locations offer some of Japan's cheapest fuel (members only), while independent stations often beat chain prices by ¥5-10 per liter. Apps like Yahoo Car Navigation (Yahoo カーナビ) show real-time gas prices and help you locate discount stations. Rural areas generally offer better prices than urban centers, and avoid highway stations unless absolutely necessary as they charge premium rates for convenience.
🎌Do I need to speak Japanese to use gas stations effectively?
Not at all! Modern self-service stations frequently offer English button options and intuitive visual interfaces. Essential vocabulary includes: "満タン" (mantan = full tank), "レギュラー" (regular gasoline), "ハイオク" (high octane), and "セルフ" (self-service). Most major tourist areas around Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have English-speaking staff or comprehensive visual instructions to assist foreign visitors. The payment process is standardized across brands, making it easy once you understand the basic steps.
💰What's the typical cost of filling up a car in Japan?
Japan's gasoline prices typically range from ¥160-180 per liter (approximately $4.20-4.70 per gallon), making it more expensive than the United States but comparable to European pricing. Rural areas and independent stations are often ¥10-20 cheaper per liter than Tokyo, Osaka, or highway locations. For a typical rental car with a 50-liter tank, expect to budget ¥8,000-12,000 for a complete fill-up. Compact cars and kei vehicles cost less, while larger SUVs or vans can exceed ¥15,000 for a full tank.