Renting a car in Japan?
Using a Japanese gas station may look confusing at first — but it’s actually simple, safe, and very organized.

This guide explains:

• The difference between self-service and full-service stations
• How to tell them apart
• How to refuel step by step
• Extra services available
• A quick tip about highway vs city fuel prices

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⛽ Two Types of Gas Stations in Japan

Japan has two main types of gas stations.

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1️⃣ Self-Service (セルフ)

This is the most common type today.

At self-service stations:

• You pump the fuel yourself
• You usually pay first
• You operate a touchscreen machine

Many stations offer an English language option.

How to Identify a Self-Service Station

• Look for the word セルフ on the sign
• No staff approach your car immediately
• Each pump has a payment screen

Self-service stations are usually slightly cheaper.

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2️⃣ Full-Service (フルサービス)

At full-service stations:

• Staff guide your car to the pump
• You stay inside the vehicle
• Staff refuel for you
• They often clean your windows
• They may collect small trash from your car

Simply lower your window and say:

“Regular, please.”
“High-octane, please.”
“Diesel, please.”
“Full tank, please.”

Payment is made after refueling.

Full-service stations cost a little more but are very convenient.

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⛽ Fuel Types in Japan

Make sure you choose the correct fuel:

• レギュラー = Regular gasoline
• ハイオク = High-octane (Premium)
• 軽油 = Diesel

Always check:

• The sticker inside the fuel door
• Your rental agreement

If unsure, ask the staff before pumping.

Fuel in Japan: Regular, High-Octane, and Diesel — What’s the Difference?

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⛽ Step-by-Step: How to Use a Self-Service Station

1. Park next to the pump.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Select language (if available).
4. Choose your fuel type.
5. Insert payment (cash or credit card).
6. Remove the nozzle and refuel.
7. Return the nozzle.
8. Take your receipt.

⚠ Do not use your phone while refueling.
⚠ Avoid re-entering the vehicle during pumping (static electricity risk).

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⛽ Highway vs City Gas Stations (Quick Tip)

Gas stations located on expressways (Service Areas / SA) are usually more expensive than regular roadside stations.

Many highway rest areas are operated by companies such as:

• NEXCO East Japan
• NEXCO Central Japan
• NEXCO West Japan

Fuel prices on highways can be 5–15 yen per liter higher.

💡 To save money:
Refuel in cities or suburbs before entering the expressway.

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⛽ What Else Can You Do at a Japanese Gas Station?

Japanese gas stations often offer more than just fuel.

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🚻 Clean Restrooms

Many stations provide:

• Free toilets
• Very clean facilities
• Modern equipment

Highway service areas are especially well maintained.

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🥤 Vending Machines

It is common to find vending machines selling:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Soft drinks
• Water

Perfect for a quick break.

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🧹 Small Trash Disposal

At full-service stations, staff may collect:

• Small trash bags
• Empty bottles

Large garbage disposal is usually not allowed.

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🚿 Car Wash (洗車)

Many stations offer:

• Automatic drive-through car wash
• Self-wash bays
• Hand wash (at some locations)

Payment is usually through a separate machine.

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🌬 Tire Air Pressure (空気圧)

Most stations have:

• Free air compressors
• Tire pressure gauges

You can check and adjust tire pressure yourself.

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🛢 Light Maintenance

Some stations also provide:

• Engine oil changes
• Wiper replacement
• Battery checks

More common at full-service stations.

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🏪 Convenience Stores at Gas Stations

Some larger stations are connected to convenience stores such as:

• 7-Eleven
• FamilyMart
• Lawson

You can buy snacks, use ATMs, or take a short rest.

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⛽ Helpful Japanese Words

• セルフ = Self-service
• フルサービス = Full-service
• レギュラー = Regular
• ハイオク = High-octane
• 軽油 = Diesel
• 満タン (Mantank) = Full tank

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⛽ Final Advice for Tourists

Japanese gas stations are:

• Safe
• Clean
• Well-organized
• Tourist-friendly

If you’re unsure:

• Look for the word セルフ
• Observe whether staff approach your car
• Or simply ask: “Self?”

Staff are polite and helpful, even if you don’t speak Japanese.

Once you understand how it works, refueling in Japan is easy — and road trips become stress-free.

Enjoy driving in Japan 🚗🇯🇵

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