This discussion thread has been set up by the moderators of /r/JapanTravel. Please stay civil, abide by the rules, and be helpful. Keep in mind that standalone posts in the subreddit must still adhere to the rules, and quick questions are only welcome here and in /r/JapanTravelTips.
Japan Entry Requirements
- Japan allows visa-free travel for ordinary passport holders of 71 countries (countries listed here).
- If you are a passport holder of a country not on the visa exemption list, you will still need to apply for a visa. All requirements are listed on the official website.
- As of April 29, 2023, Japan no longer requires proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test (official source).
- Tourists entering Japan should have their immigration and customs process fast tracked by filling out Visit Japan Web (VJW). This will generate a QR code for immigration and customs, which can smooth your entry procedures. VJW is not mandatory. If you do not fill it out, you will need to fill out the paper immigration and customs forms on the plane/on arrival to Japan.
- For more information about Visit Japan Web and answers to common questions, please see our FAQ on the topic.
Japan Tourism and Travel Updates
- Got an IC card or JR Pass question? See our stickied thread in /r/JapanTravelTips for information, updates, and advice.
- Important JR Pass News! As of October 1, 2023, the nationwide JR Pass and many regional JR Passes increased significantly in price, making it so that the nationwide JR Pass is no longer a viable option for most itineraries. For more information on the JR Pass, including calculators for viability, see our stickied thread in /r/JapanTravelTips.
- Important IC Card News! There is no longer a shortage of IC cards in the Tokyo area. You should be able to get a Suica at Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, or major JR East stations in Tokyo. See our stickied thread in /r/JapanTravelTips for more info.
- As of March 13, 2023, mask usage is left up to personal choice and preferences in most circumstances.
- If you become ill while traveling, please see the instructions in this guide. If you are looking for information on finding pain or cold/cough medication in Japan, see this FAQ section.
Quick Links for Japan Tourism and Travel Info
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5 comments
Planning to take a 14 hour ANA flight to and from over spring break. Would it be acceptable to ask the flight attendants to speak to me to help me with my Japanese?
Hi all, I’m wanting to buy a J-League football (soccer) shirt while I’m in Japan. Are these commonly sold in sports shops, etc. or are they only sold in specific stores at the stadiums?
Hi, I also did the “mistake” of travelling during GW (Osaka. Kyoto, Nara with a short 2-day trip to Wakayama and Nachi). But I was wondering when does the busy period actually start? Exactly after Showa Day or a little bit beforehand? I get there on the 19th of April, so I thought I could check off some of the more popular places beforehand, and then go down south when all the congestion starts. Rough schedule is 19-23 Osaka, 24-27 Kyoto and I have to yet plan the exact dates for Nara/Wakayama. Any opinions?
I arrived at Narita Airport 3 days ago and was not able to get a regular Suica despite being told they would go on sale from September 1st. Ymmv I guess.
Should I expect any issues charging a Nimoca IC card that hasn’t been used in 6 years?