Gas Stations in Japan: How to Use Full-Service and Self-Service

Two Types of Gas Stations

When driving in Japan, you will encounter two types of gas stations: Full-Service (フルサービス) and Self-Service (セルフ). They operate very differently, but both are easy to use once you know the basics.

Using a Full-Service Station

Full-service stations are common in rural areas. When you pull in, staff will enthusiastically guide you to a pump.

  1. Roll down your window and say "Mantahn, Regular, onegai shimasu" (Full tank, Regular gas, please).
  2. The staff will pump your gas, wash your windshield, and sometimes even take away any trash you have in the car.
  3. You pay the staff directly from your window using cash or a credit card.

Using a Self-Service Station

Self-service stations are cheaper and more common in cities. The machines are usually in Japanese, so follow these steps:

  1. Select your payment method (Cash: 現金, Credit Card: クレジットカード).
  2. Select the fuel type. Regular (レギュラー) is always RED. High Octane (ハイオク) is YELLOW. Diesel (軽油) is GREEN. Do not put green diesel in a regular rental car!
  3. Select the amount. Press the button for "満タン" (Mantahn / Full Tank).
  4. Touch the anti-static pad (a black pad on the pump) to discharge static electricity.
  5. Pump the gas until it clicks off automatically.
  6. If you paid with cash, don't forget to take your change from the separate change machine!