⚠️ Opening hours, prices and access conditions may change without notice, for reasons beyond our control (season, weather, decisions by operators, establishments or local authorities). Before each trip, check the information with the relevant authorities and service providers.
Tanegashima: a hire car is almost essential
On Tanegashima, the sights stretch over 57 km, from Nishinoomote port to the space centre in Minamitane. The local bus does not run on Sundays or public holidays and does not go as far as the space centre: a hire car remains the simplest way to visit the island. Collect it at the airport or the port. Drivers from France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Monaco and Taiwan must show an official Japanese translation of their licence, while UK, US and most other drivers need an International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva Convention).
See offers on DiscoverCars.com →Partner link: if you book through this link, Dem-Tukki earns a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Two branches open daily 8 am to 6 pm: one a 3-minute walk from the terminal, with a free shuttle on request, the other at Nishinoomote port. The airport branch takes bookings by phone only and allows one-way returns elsewhere on the island.
Official websiterent.toyota.co.jp→Local company with 8 vehicles, from kei cars to MPVs, with pick-up and return possible 24/7. Insurance and fuel are included in the price, and you can pay by card or QR code.
Official websiteeverytime-rentacar.com→North–south route linking Nishinoomote port with Minamitane town hall, with a timetable in force since April 2026. It does not run on Sundays or public holidays, and the ‘SPACE TOWN Norūto’ on-demand bus takes over to the space centre on weekdays.
Official websiteglobal-think.co.jp→Pre-booked shared taxi organised by the three municipalities, linking the airport with each of them. Handy for reaching your accommodation without a car, it must be booked in advance, and fares and conditions are published on each municipality’s website.
Official listingtanekan.jp→