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Catherine,

You heard correctly.

Countries which are IDP (International Drivers Permit) members need only the valid home country drivers license and their IDP.

However, Switzerland is not an IDP country. Therefore you need to visit the nearest JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) office and have them issue a translation of your Swiss drivers license.

I seem to recall it cost JY5000 but that was several years ago.

I have a British Driving License and UK IDP and often drive in Japan, usually renting a car from one of the Nissan Car rental places. Maybe you could contact a Nissan or Toyota car Rental in Japan and ask them the precise requirements for a Swiss citizen. I always use the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP when I am there.

I have a British Driving License and UK IDP and often drive in Japan, usually renting a car from one of the Nissan Car rental places. Maybe you could contact a Nissan or Toyota car Rental in Japan and ask them the precise requirements for a Swiss citizen. I always use the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP when I am there. - @wyngrove60

Switzerland is not party to the 1949 IDP Geneva Convention. 

Correct. It's party to the 1968 Vienna Convention which is not accepted in Japan.