Driving in snow in Nagano: winter tyres, chain rules and what to carry
Planning to drive in Nagano in winter? Here are the rules on snowy roads, the difference between winter tyre and chain regulations, and how to prepare your rental car.
Summer tyres on snow are against the rules
In Nagano Prefecture, you must use tyre chains, winter tyres or a similar measure when driving on snowy or icy roads (Article 14 of Nagano Prefecture’s road traffic regulations). Driving on these roads with summer tyres is an offence. The fine is ¥6,000 for a standard car and ¥7,000 for a large vehicle.
Source: Nagano Prefecture. Regulations change with the weather, so check before you set off.
Two signs you may see on the road
Winter tyre regulation
Used during ordinary snowfall. You can pass if all four wheels have winter tyres, such as studless tyres.
Chain regulation
Used in heavy snow on designated sections. You must fit chains, even with winter tyres. If you plan to drive through these sections, tell us when you ask for a quote.
Get a total price within one business day
Tell us your dates and where you are staying. Your quote includes delivery.
When you need winter tyres
Nagano City gets 163 cm of snow a year on average (Japan Meteorological Agency, 1991–2020 normals). Have winter tyres fitted by November. In colder areas such as Suwa and Chino there is less snow, but black ice is common: the road looks wet but is frozen.
Heavy snow and road closures
Check before you leave
Expressways and main roads may close in heavy snow. Check the latest road information from NEXCO East and NEXCO Central, Nagano Prefecture and the Japan Road Traffic Information Center (JARTIC).
What to carry
A snow shovel and snow brush, warm clothes, a blanket and gloves, drinks and snacks, and a phone charger. Keep the fuel tank well filled.
If you get stuck
If you wait in the car with the engine running, clear the snow around the exhaust pipe regularly. Stay with the car and check the radio or road information. In an emergency, call 110 or 119. To report a hazard on the road, call the road emergency line on #9910.
Renting a car for winter with us
4WD and winter tyres
Every car is 4WD. This winter, winter tyres cost a flat ¥20,000 however many months you rent, for rentals starting 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027. Roadside assistance is included, but pulling out a car that is stuck in snow is not covered, so we recommend carrying a shovel.
Winter driving questions
Q. Is it illegal to drive on snowy roads in Nagano with summer tyres?
Yes. Nagano Prefecture rules require tyre chains, winter tyres or similar measures on snowy or icy roads. The fine is ¥6,000 for a standard car.
Q. Can I drive through a chain regulation section with winter tyres?
No. When chain regulation is in force, you must fit chains, even if the car has winter tyres.
Q. Is 4WD enough without winter tyres?
No. 4WD helps you start and climb, but stopping and turning depend on the tyres. In winter in Nagano you need both.
Q. When do I need winter tyres in Nagano?
Snow usually starts in earnest in December, so have winter tyres fitted by November. Roads can also freeze in areas with little snow.
Q. What should I do if I get stuck in heavy snow?
If you wait in the car with the engine running, clear the snow around the exhaust pipe regularly to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Stay with the car and check road information. In an emergency, call 110 (police) or 119 (ambulance).
NEW & NEARLY-NEW CARS
New & Nearly-New Cars Arriving – Reserve Now
New and nearly-new cars arrive from November. All 4WD, tax and insurance included.
You can reserve now for rentals starting on or after each car's available date.
Arriving late OctNEW*Images are for illustration onlyToyota RoomyCompact car / 2 units
Compact car with sliding doors – easy to get in and out
Colors: Pearl white / black & pearl two-tone
Available now
- 1 week
- ¥30,250per day ¥4,321
- 1 month
- ¥80,250per day ¥2,675
- Seats 5
- 4WD
- Extra day ¥4,950
Arriving early NovNEW*Images are for illustration onlyToyota PriusHybrid / 2 units
Fuel-efficient hybrid for long drives
Colors: Pearl white / ash grey
Available from Nov 9, 2026
- 1 week
- ¥40,600per day ¥5,800
- 1 month
- ¥115,500per day ¥3,850
- Seats 5
- 4WD
- Extra day ¥6,600
Arriving early DecNEARLY NEW*Images are for illustration onlyToyota Hiace (5 seats)Large van / 1 unit
Large van with plenty of cargo space
2026 model, only about 500 km driven
Colors: White
Available from Dec 7, 2026
- 1 week
- ¥48,500per day ¥6,928
- 1 month
- ¥118,500per day ¥3,950
- Seats 5
- 4WD
- Extra day ¥7,700
Arriving early DecNEARLY NEW*Images are for illustration onlyToyota Hiace 9-seater9-seater van / 1 unit
Seats 9 – ideal for groups and ski trips
2026 model, only about 500 km driven
Colors: Silver
Available from Dec 7, 2026
- 1 week
- ¥51,100per day ¥7,300
- 1 month
- ¥123,000per day ¥4,100
- Seats 9
- 4WD
- Extra day ¥8,250
Delivery by end of DecNEW*Images are for illustration onlyMitsubishi Delica D:5Minivan / 1 unit
4WD minivan built for snow – great for ski trips and family stays
Colors: Two-tone
Available from Jan 5, 2027
- 1 week
- ¥53,900per day ¥7,700
- 1 month
- ¥132,000per day ¥4,400
- Seats 8
- 4WD
- Extra day ¥8,800
*Prices include tax and insurance (unlimited third-party liability). A Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) of ¥20,000 per contract is required.
*Arrival dates may change. Once the delivery date is confirmed, we will contact you.
*Each model has limited units. If it is fully booked, we will suggest a similar car.
Rent a 4WD car with winter tyres
Tell us your dates and where you are staying. We fit winter tyres before delivery.
You are welcome to write to us in English through our web form or LINE. We reply in Japanese, so please use a translation tool to read our reply.
Business hours: 9:00–18:00 Japan time, including weekends and holidays.