Car Rental in Canada for Japanese Travelers

Embarking on a road trip across Canada can be thrilling, but it requires careful planning, especially for visitors from Japan wishing to rent a car. This guide covers all essential aspects, ensuring you hit the road with peace of mind.

Can I drive in Canada with my Japanese license?
Are international driving permits required?
What insurance options are available?
How do costs compare to other travel methods?
What Canadian traffic rules should I be aware of?

With this guide, we aim to provide all necessary details for Japanese travelers to confidently rent and drive cars in Canada. Bookmark this for quick reference during your trip!

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in Canada?

Yes, Japanese travelers can legally drive in Canada with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may vary by province and rental company.

Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Notes: Renters holding a non-U.S. driver’s license written in Roman characters must also present a valid passport or another form of government-issued photo identification as a secondary ID. If you are a new resident of Ontario, you may use your valid foreign driver's licence for up to 60 days. After 60 days, an Ontario driver's licence is required to rent a vehicle.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and UnionPay.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 19 and 90. Young drivers aged 19-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 10.84 per day.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for travelers from Japan visiting Canada.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
424
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Global presence with numerous locations
- Loyalty program with discounts
- 24/7 customer service
- User-friendly online booking system
Best for
Business and leisure travelers seeking reliable service
Budget
global
8.5
Locations:
408
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Frequent traveler program
- Online booking discounts
- No hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Thrifty
global
8.5
Locations:
259
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Convenient online booking
- Variety of vehicles for all needs
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
427
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Dollar
global
8.5
Locations:
178
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
- Flexible rental terms
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
35
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs

Trust Auto Group
local
8.5
Locations:
4
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental terms
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Easy online booking
- Local knowledge and support
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
City Car Truck
local
8.5
Locations:
2
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized service
- Wide range of vehicle types
- Convenient local locations
Best for
Local residents and small businesses needing trucks
ACE Rent A Car
local
8.5
Locations:
13
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental terms
- Easy online booking
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers looking for reliable service
ZOOM
local
8.5
Locations:
23
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient location in 10024
- No hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals

Recommendations for Japanese Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Canada
Require reliable nationwide coverage
Need 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel purposes

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking to save on rental costs
Focusing travel within major urban areas
Interested in unique vehicle options
Comfortable utilizing app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most Japanese drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips
- Consider your comfort level with driving on Canadian roads
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Japanese insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Rocky Mountain routes, cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Banff, Whistler, Niagara Falls

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Canada?

Canada presents a variety of stunning landscapes and vibrant cities for travelers to explore. From the iconic Rocky Mountains to bustling urban hubs like Toronto and Vancouver, travelers can choose routes that suit their interests. Car rentals provide the flexibility to explore both urban areas and natural wonders at your own pace.

What Insurance Do I Need?

If you're traveling from Japan to Canada and planning to rent a car, understanding the required insurance is crucial for a safe and hassle-free trip. Canada's insurance rules vary by province, and rental companies may offer different coverage options. Ensuring adequate protection can help avoid unexpected costs in case of accidents, theft, or liability issues.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental vehicle caused by accidents or collisions.
¥2,250-3,750/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage in the event of theft of the rental car.
¥750-1,200/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers damage or injury to third parties caused by the driver.
Often included in the rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Offers medical expense coverage for the driver and passengers in case of injury.
¥750-1,500/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Canada. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$15,000.00

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$15,000.00

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Canada?

Smart planning and informed decision-making can help Japanese travelers save significantly on car rentals in Canada. Consider timing, rental policies, and comparison tools for the best deals.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Well in Advance
Secure your rental car 4-6 weeks ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Save up to ¥3,000-¥5,000 per week
Utilize Comparison Platforms
Use reliable comparison sites like Kayak or QEEQ to find competitive prices.
Save up to ¥2,000-¥4,000 per rental
Opt for Economy Cars
Choose smaller, fuel-efficient models to reduce rental costs and fuel expenses.
Save ¥1,500-¥3,500 per trip
Return with a Full Tank
Select the 'full-to-full' fuel policy and refill at affordable stations before returning.
Save ¥2,000-¥3,000 on fuel charges
Look for Discounts and Promotions
Check for seasonal offers or membership discounts available through rental agencies or travel platforms.
Save up to ¥5,000 on total costs

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Canada.

Hidden Fees
Pay attention to additional costs that might not be immediately visible in the rental price.
- Airport surcharges
- Young driver fees for drivers under 25
- Charges for additional drivers
- Optional equipment rentals like GPS or child seats
- Toll road fees
Insurance Offers
Understand the insurance options provided at the rental counter and evaluate your existing coverage.
- Verify if your credit card offers rental car insurance
- Check if your travel insurance includes car rental coverage
- Review the cost of insurance offered by the rental company
- Avoid feeling pressured to purchase insurance you don't need
- Consider third-party insurance options for savings
Fuel Policies
Be aware of the fuel return policies to manage costs effectively.
- Full-to-full fuel policy is often the most cost-efficient
- Prepaid fuel can be convenient but may be expensive
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the car
- Save fuel receipts for potential disputes
- Ensure the tank is at the agreed level upon return
Inspecting the Vehicle
Perform a thorough inspection of the vehicle before and after rental to avoid disputes.
- Take photographs of any existing damage
- Check the functionality of lights and mirrors
- Test the electronics and air conditioning
- Examine the interior for cleanliness and condition
- Record the fuel level and mileage at pickup
Understanding the Contract
Review the rental agreement carefully to understand the terms and conditions.
- Mileage restrictions that might apply
- Allowed geographic driving zones
- Return time policies and late fees
- Cancellation and modification terms
- Procedures for reporting and handling damages
Pickup and Return Timing
Plan your rental pickup and return times effectively to avoid extra charges.
- Schedule pickups during business hours if possible
- Be aware of rush hour traffic affecting rental locations
- Late returns might incur additional charges
- Early returns typically do not result in refunds
- Allow extra time for airport rental locations

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rules: Differences and Similarities Between Japan and Canada

Japan and Canada have unique traffic regulations travelers should understand to ensure safe and compliant driving.

Right Turn on Red
CA
Allowed after a full stop unless prohibited by a sign
JP
Not allowed at red lights
Lane Usage
CA
Drive on the right side of the road
JP
Drive on the left side of the road
Blood Alcohol Limit
CA
0.08% BAC (varies by province)
JP
0.03% BAC (much stricter)
Speed Limits
CA
Measured in kilometers per hour (km/h)
JP
Measured in kilometers per hour (km/h)
Mobile Phone Use
CA
Hands-free devices required while driving
JP
Hands-free devices required while driving
Seatbelt Laws
CA
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
JP
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Remember
- • In Canada, traffic rules differ slightly by province, so check specific local laws.
- • Ensure your international driver’s license is valid and recognized.
- • Carry your passport, rental agreement, and insurance documents while driving.
- • Follow parking regulations closely to avoid fines.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Japan renting a car in Canada

カナダでレンタカーを借りるために絶対に必要な書類は何ですか？

You must have a valid original Japanese driver’s license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and a credit card in the main driver’s name. You should also carry your passport as an additional form of ID.

国際運転免許証（IDP）は本当に必要ですか？日本の免許証だけではダメですか？

At most rental companies, presenting an International Driving Permit is a mandatory condition for renting a car. It is also required if you are checked by the police, so always carry it together with your Japanese driver’s license.

カナダでのレンタカーに年齢制限はありますか？

At many companies the minimum age is 21, but drivers under 25 are often subject to a young driver surcharge. In addition, luxury or large vehicles may not be available to drivers under 25.

運転中、日本の免許証やパスポートは常に持ち歩く必要がありますか？

Yes, you must always carry the originals. You may be asked to present them while driving, so keep them in the car and take them with you when you get out for safety.

日本の運転免許証の有効期限がカナダ滞在中に切れる場合、車は借りられますか？

No. Your license must be valid for every day of the entire rental period. Be sure to check the expiry date before departure.

レンタカーの「CDW/LDW」とは何ですか？

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) / LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) is a vehicle damage protection scheme that waives or reduces your liability for vehicle repair costs in the event of an accident or theft.

「TPL/SLI」とはどんな保険ですか？

TPL (Third Party Liability) / SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance) is additional liability insurance that covers damage to other people or their property. It is recommended to add SLI to ensure sufficient coverage limits.

「免責額（Deductible）」とは何ですか？

The deductible is the maximum amount you must pay out of pocket first when making an insurance claim after an accident. For example, with a CAD 500 deductible, you are responsible for costs up to that amount.

「PAI/PEC」など追加保険には入るべきですか？

PAI (Personal Accident Insurance) and PEC (Personal Effects Coverage) may overlap with your overseas travel insurance. Check your existing coverage and consider adding them only if necessary.

日本の海外旅行保険でレンタカー事故はカバーされますか？

Standard overseas travel insurance usually covers the driver’s medical expenses and damage to personal belongings, but often does not include rental car vehicle damage or third-party liability. Check whether you have any special riders.

クレジットカードに付帯のレンタカー保険だけで十分ですか？

Credit card rental coverage often includes CDW/LDW but frequently excludes TPL/SLI. Confirm the scope of coverage and usage conditions with your card issuer in advance.

予約サイトで提供される「フルカバー」や「安心フルプロテクション」パッケージには何が含まれますか？

These packages usually include CDW/LDW and TPL/SLI, and in many cases the deductible is reduced to zero. Selecting such a package helps make procedures at the counter smoother.

レンタカーの総費用は1日あたりの料金以外に何がかかりますか？

In addition to the daily base rate, the total cost includes insurance fees, taxes, optional extras, additional driver fees, young driver surcharges, airport fees, and one way fees for returning the car to a different location.

「デポジット（Deposit）」とは何ですか？いくらでいつ返金されますか？

The deposit is a security hold; typically CAD 200–500 will be temporarily blocked on your credit card limit. If there are no issues upon return, the hold is released within a few days to about two weeks.

友人や家族と交代で運転できますか？

Yes, but they must be registered as additional drivers and have their identity verified at the time of the rental contract. There is often an extra fee of about CAD 10–15 per person per day.

異なる都市での乗り捨て（ワンウェイレンタル）は可能ですか？

Yes, one way rentals are possible, but long distances or crossing provincial borders can incur high one way fees. Always confirm the charge at the time of booking.

支払いはクレジットカードが必須ですか？

In most cases yes. Some locations accept debit cards but with strict conditions, and cash is rarely accepted. Make sure the main driver has a credit card in their own name.

カナダのレンタカーはいつ頃予約するのがベストですか？

For peak seasons such as summer and holidays, booking 2–3 months in advance is recommended. Popular vehicle classes sell out early, and early booking tends to be cheaper.

山岳地帯やカナディアンロッキーを走る場合、おすすめの車種は？

In summer, a sedan or compact car is usually sufficient, but an SUV or minivan offers more comfort. In winter or snowy areas, a 4WD/AWD SUV is strongly recommended.

お得なレンタカープランの探し方は？

Using multi-company platforms such as QEEQ allows you to compare prices and insurance-inclusive packages from multiple rental companies at once, which is convenient especially for first-time users.

冬季に「雪用タイヤ（Winter Tires）」を確約できますか？

In Quebec and parts of BC, winter tires are legally required in winter, but in other regions they are an optional extra and cannot always be guaranteed. Be sure to request them at the time of booking.

予約画面で表示される「Toyota Corolla or similar」とはどういう意味ですか？

This means you are booking a vehicle class (category), not a specific model. The actual model you receive depends on the fleet availability on the day.

空港に到着した後、車はどのように受け取りますか？

You complete the paperwork at the rental car center inside the airport terminal, receive the keys, and then find your car in the designated parking area. Some companies operate from off-airport locations and provide a shuttle bus.

車を受け取る際、どこをチェックすべきですか？

Inspect the car together with the staff for any scratches or dents and have them noted in the rental agreement. For your own protection, also take photos or videos yourself.

「満タン返し（Full to Full）」とは何ですか？

This fuel policy means you pick up the car with a full tank and must return it with a full tank. It is best to refuel at a nearby gas station before returning the car.

車の返却手続きは時間がかかりますか？

It usually takes about 5–15 minutes, but consider airport congestion and possible waiting time for shuttle buses, and allow extra time in your schedule.

満タンにせず返却した場合どうなりますか？

You will be charged for the missing fuel at a high per-liter rate plus a service fee, so always refill to full before returning the vehicle.

右側通行に慣れるコツはありますか？

Keep in mind that “the driver’s seat should always be on the side closer to the center of the road,” and have your front passenger remind you about driving on the right. It also helps to follow the flow of surrounding traffic.

STOPサインでの停止はどのくらい必要ですか？

You must come to a complete stop at the stop line, remain stopped for about three seconds, and check both directions for safety. At a 4-way stop, vehicles proceed in order of arrival; if you arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has priority.

カナダの信号ルールで日本と違う点は？赤信号でも右折できますか？

Except in parts of Quebec, you may turn right on a red light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring it is safe. However, if there is a “No Turn on Red” sign, turning right on red is prohibited.

ラウンドアバウト（環状交差点）の通行方法は？

Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way. Wait until there is a sufficient gap in traffic coming from the left, then enter safely. Signal right just before your exit.

カナダの高速道路（Highway）は日本とどう違いますか？

Most highways are toll-free, and the general speed limit is 100–110 km/h. Signs are in km/h. In urban areas the speed limit is lower, so pay close attention to the signage.

高速道路の一番左車線は追い越し専用ですか？

Yes. It is intended for overtaking only, and you should move back to the right as soon as you have passed other vehicles.

黄色いスクールバスが赤ランプを点滅させて停車したらどうすれば？

All traffic in both directions must come to a complete stop at least 20 meters away from the bus. By law, you must not move until the red lights stop flashing.

カナダでは歩行者が絶対優先ですか？

Yes. At crosswalks without traffic signals, you must stop and wait until pedestrians have completely crossed. Violations are subject to strict penalties.

カナダに有料道路はありますか？支払い方法は？

Most roads are free, but there are some toll roads such as Highway 407 ETR near Toronto. When using a rental car, tolls are charged automatically and an administrative fee may apply, so consider setting your GPS to avoid toll roads if desired.

冬季のカナディアンロッキーを運転する際の注意点は？

Watch out for icy and snowy road surfaces, and avoid sudden steering or hard braking. Keep a long following distance and constantly check the latest weather and road condition information.

「雪用タイヤ（Winter Tires）」装着は義務ですか？

In Quebec, winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15, and on certain roads in BC from October 1 to April 30. In these areas, be sure to choose a vehicle equipped with winter tires.

国立公園内で野生動物に遭遇した場合どうすべきですか？

Slow down and keep a safe distance. If you wish to observe, stop in a safe place and turn on your hazard lights. Do not get out of the car or feed the animals.

カナダの道路には未舗装路（砂利道）は多いですか？

Major roads are paved, but there are gravel roads in remote or local areas. Driving on unpaved roads is often excluded from insurance coverage, so check your policy and be cautious.

市街地での駐車ルールや標識の見方は？

A green “P” sign indicates parking is allowed, while red signs indicate no parking. There are detailed rules such as no parking within 5 meters of a fire hydrant, so always check the signs and surroundings carefully.

駐車料金の支払い方法は？

You typically pay at parking meters or pay stations using coins or a credit card, or via smartphone parking apps.

カナダのガソリンスタンドはセルフですか？給油手順は？

Most gas stations are self-service. Select your payment method at the pump, pay by credit card or prepay inside the store, insert the nozzle, and refuel.

レンタカーにはどのガソリンを入れれば良いですか？

In most cases, “Regular” (87 octane) is fine. Check the fuel type indicated on the fuel cap, and if you are unsure, ask the station staff.

交通事故を起こした場合の対応手順は？

Stop in a safe place and call 911 if anyone is injured. Exchange information with the other party, take photos of the scene, report the accident to the police and obtain a report number, and contact the rental company as well.

車がパンクや故障した場合はどうすればいいですか？

Contact the rental company’s roadside assistance number listed in your rental agreement and follow their instructions. Always call them before arranging any repairs on your own.

スピード違反や駐車違反のチケットを受けた場合は？

You are personally responsible for paying any fines. If you leave them unpaid when you return home, the rental company may pay them on your behalf and charge you later with additional administrative fees, so always settle them during your stay.

駐車中に車上荒らしで荷物が盗まれた場合、保険は適用されますか？

Damage to the vehicle is covered by CDW/LDW, but stolen personal belongings are covered under the “personal effects” section of your overseas travel insurance. Report the incident to the police and obtain a written report.

子供を連れて行く場合、チャイルドシートのルールは？

Each province legally requires appropriate child seats based on the child’s age, weight, and height. Rental companies offer child seats for a fee, but advance reservation is essential.

カナダで借りたレンタカーでアメリカへ入国できますか？

Many major rental companies allow cross-border travel to the U.S., but you must declare this at the time of booking. Additional fees, vehicle restrictions, and presentation of your passport and ESTA at the border may be required.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Canada for Japanese Travelers

Embarking on a road trip across Canada can be thrilling, but it requires careful planning, especially for visitors from Japan wishing to rent a car. This guide covers all essential aspects, ensuring you hit the road with peace of mind.

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in Canada?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Japanese Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Canada?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Canada?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rules: Differences and Similarities Between Japan and Canada

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations