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Japan Dropping COVID Entry Requirements This May

No more vaccine requirements or PCR tests needed before travel as of May 8th

There are plenty of logistical considerations that come with travel planning, from where to stay to what sights to see. When Japan reopened borders to independent foreign travelers on October 11th, 2022, there was another item to add to that list – either three doses of an approved COVID vaccine, or a negative PCR test within 72 hours of travel. Understandably, these extra requirements have seen some potential visitors hold off from solidifying plans.

There's good news on the horizon, though, with the Japanese government moving to scrap those entry requirements as of May 8th, 2023. On the same day, COVID is set to be declared as a common disease, hopefully heralding a return to something resembling pre-pandemic times.

Obviously, it's important to note that if you do visit before May 8th, you'll still need to adhere to the existing entry requirements.

To start mapping out your travel adventures, take a look at May events on our website here.

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Japan Dropping COVID Entry Requirements This May

No more vaccine requirements or pcr tests needed before travel as of may 8th.

There are plenty of logistical considerations that come with travel planning, from where to stay to what sights to see. When Japan reopened borders to independent foreign travelers on October 11th, 2022, there was another item to add to that list – either three doses of an approved COVID vaccine, or a negative PCR test within 72 hours of travel. Understandably, these extra requirements have seen some potential visitors hold off from solidifying plans.

There's good news on the horizon, though, with the Japanese government moving to scrap those entry requirements as of May 8th, 2023. On the same day, COVID is set to be declared as a common disease, hopefully heralding a return to something resembling pre-pandemic times.

Obviously, it's important to note that if you do visit before May 8th, you'll still need to adhere to the existing entry requirements.

To start mapping out your travel adventures, take a look at May events on our website here.

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• 3. Old measures (Archive)

Vaccination certificates and pre-departure tests are no longer required to enter Japan. Travelers and returnees with COVID-19 symptoms will no longer be subjected to on-arrival testing. Travelers with a positive COVID-19 test result will not be treated at designated facilities.

Genomic Surveillance of Infectious Diseases has begun from 12:00 a.m. (JST) on May 8.

• For information on Visa, please refer to Border enforcement measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)
• For procedures upon arrival at the airport and the status of residence: Contact: Immigration Service Agency of Japan TEL (Main): 03-3580-4111
• For general inquiries regarding border measures for entry into Japan; Contact: Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare TEL: 03-5253-1111 (Japanese only)
• For inquiries regarding flight information; Contact: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Civil Aviation Bureau, Director for Crisis Management Office TEL: 03-5253-8700

3. Old measures Old measures is moved to the archive below.

• Old measures (Archive)

FAQ About Travelling in Japan in 2023: We answered your questions!

After over two years of restrictions were imposed on international tourists traveling into Japan, officials finally announced the country’s reopening on October 11, 2022. Having been crowned the best tourist destination in the world in the Travel and Tourism Development Index 2021 , Japan is potentially one of the most popular post-Covid travel destinations. To better understand these global dynamics, LIVE JAPAN conducted an online survey regarding our readers’ future travel plans and what questions they currently have about traveling in Japan post-pandemic. Based on the answers from our respondents, while there are 26% who are planning a visit after May 2023 or have not decided on a date yet, around 74% are planning to visit Japan before May 2023. With a huge influx of international tourists expected to visit Japan by May 2023, here is the latest information on Japan travel with your questions answered, essential to plan your dream trip amidst the new era of travel. Main image: PIXTA

Preparing for your trip

Entry to japan, when in japan.

Q. When is the busy season?

A. Each season in Japan has different charms and attracts many tourists all year round. However, based on past data figures reported by JNTO for international visitors arriving in Japan, April and July are some of the most popular months. Meanwhile, September is the least busy period for international visitors. If you want to avoid crowds, this time of the year may be a good option for you to consider. Below is a simple breakdown of what crowds are like in each season and what factors contribute to it. Spring : The number of tourists reaches its peak, predominantly due to the world-famous cherry blossoms in bloom . Many popular tourist sites tend to be packed with people, especially when the sakura is Mankai—in full bloom. Japan’s major holiday, known as Golden Week , starts from late April to early May. This is the most popular time for locals to travel, so almost everything gets crowded this time of the year nationwide. Summer : The rainy period in early summer keeps tourists away in many areas; after this period, it tends to become very hot and humid. However, once you reach the latter half of summer , people flock to the beach and enjoy the numerous summer festivals, like the Gion Matsuri (July) , Tanabata (August) , and Nebuta Matsuri (August) . Also, a few national holidays and others, such as Obon and school summer holidays, occur in summer , contributing to large crowds across the country. Autumn : In autumn , weather conditions are volatile, occasionally developing typhoons or hefty rain, making it somewhat less favorable for travel. However, as the beautiful colors of the autumn foliage prevail, the number of travelers rises. During Silver Week (a week with consecutive national holidays in September), places get relatively crowded with locals. Winter : In regions such as Tohoku and Hokkaido, the number of tourists reaches its peak, as skiers and snowboarders head for the beautiful snow up north. Also, in the latter half of December, year-end holidays gradually kick off nationwide, so you will expect some local crowds until the holiday ends in early January. Local holidays are a significant contributor to crowds as well. Thus it would be helpful for you to take note of these dates when planning your itinerary. For more information, check the following articles:

During peak season , hotels and ryokans, airlines, and all other modes of transportation get booked out extremely quickly, especially in and around popular tourist sites. To avoid disappointments, plan ahead and lodge an early bird booking for your accommodation and transportation before they are all gone. For some ideas on where to stay, here are some hotels located around some of Japan’s popular tourist destinations: ・ Tokyo ・ Kyoto ・ Osaka ・ Sapporo

Q. If you want to avoid these crowded areas, what alternative options do we have?

A. While many tourists from overseas beeline to major cities and stay near famous tourist destinations, some of the country’s remote regions may appeal to you more if you want to hide away from the hustle and bustle. In the adjacent prefectures of Tokyo, such as Kanagawa, Chiba, Saitama, or other nearby prefectures like Gunma and Shizuoka, you’ll find many hidden gems that are often less crowded. Here are some ideas near Tokyo which make great alternative destinations; Hayama (Kanagawa): Great destination for gorgeous beach scenery amidst the backdrop of Mt. Fuji. Chichibu (Saitama): Great destination for spending some tranquil time amongst nature . Shimoda (Shizuoka): Great destination for an onsen stay by the southern coast of the Izu Peninsula. Minakami (Gunma): Great destination for enjoying the vibe of an authentic Japanese onsen tucked away deep in the mountains .

Q. What are the best things to see each season?

A. From the cherry blossoms in spring to Matsuri festivals in summer , fiery red foliage in autumn to powder snow in winter , each and every season in Japan resembles a whole new different facet, potentially attracting many travelers to visit all year round. For some of the best things to see and do in each season , check out the following articles for events to add to your bucket list. Spring In spring , the vast area of Japan is greeted by landscapes bedazzled with beautiful colors of spring blooms, the most famous of all certainly being the cherry blossoms. While the flowering period of cherry blossoms is very short, many people gather at sakura festivals every year to admire the ethereal beauties.

Summer In summer , you’ll find many traditional festivals known as Matsuri take over the local neighborhood. Matsuri has been considered an important part of Japanese culture, many of them associated with rituals of Obon.

Autumn : After a sizzling summer , Japan is soon greeted to cooler weather in autumn , which brings in the gorgeous landscape of its autumn foliage. In Japan, many people enjoy ‘momijigari’, a peaceful stroll appreciating the colors of fall.

Winter : As we approach the end of the year, winter in Japan starts to put on its festivities. Prior to Christmas, you’ll find glittering illuminations decorating the vast country, but once you pass Christmas and head for Oshogatsu (New Year), the authentic decorations take over the neighborhood.

Q. What is the weather like each season? What should I pack?

A. In Japan, each season sees different weather conditions, requiring you to prepare a little differently. To help you get an idea of what the weather is like in each season , here is a simple description of what you would expect, along with some tips on what you should have handy during your stay. Spring (March-May): Weather is relatively warm and calm throughout the day with a pleasant high temperature of 19℃ (66℉) and low of 10℃ (51℉). However, as the cold of winter still lingers at night, it’s safe to pack some warm clothes. Summer (June-August): June and July are rainy periods in most of Japan (excluding Hokkaido), and thus experience lots of rain and humidity. As the rain passes around August, you’ll find many days with blue skies and sizzling sun. Whether it’s rainy or sunny, the summer in Japan gets really hot, either with the humidity or sun. You will perspire a lot, so pack many light and breezy clothes to get changed in. Autumn (September-November): Weather in autumn is volatile, mixed with hot and cold days. As the heat of summer lingers, especially in the early half of autumn , you should have both light and warm clothes handy. Sometimes typhoons develop during autumn , so some precautions are required. We have a handy guide here about preparing for typhoon season . Winter (December-February): The chills of winter differ significantly across the region. During January, the average low for the south is 5℃ and Tokyo at 1℃ (around freezing). In northern areas like Tohoku and Hokkaido, the average lows reach -8℃ in January, producing heavy snow. As such, for those visiting the snowy region, pack decent winter boots, warm clothes, and other necessary protections. For those visiting major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, pack simple jackets and scarves to keep you away from the cold. For more information on what the weather is like in Japan, refer to below:

Q. What is the easiest way to get around Japan?

A. While there are various ways of getting around in Japan, with the country having a globally renowned railway system, it is fair to say that trains offer the most efficient way of transit. With special passes and tickets that offer unlimited rides for tourists, trains provide both convenience and value for users. Here are some passes and tickets you should take note of for efficient transit around Japan. For getting around all over Japan: Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) Offered exclusively to overseas tourists, this pass grants unlimited travel on Japan Rail (JR) trains across a vast area of Japan (with few exceptions) for around one, two, or three weeks. The pass also provides unlimited access to the Tokyo Monorail, local JR buses, and the Miyajima ferry. If you plan on traveling long distances, this pass is a dream deal you don’t want to miss out on. For travels around major cities (Tokyo and Osaka): Tokyo Subway Ticket This pass grants unlimited access to 13 varieties of routes with over 250 metro stops in Tokyo. Tokyo Subway Ticket 24, 48, or 72 offers 1-3 days of convenient travel around Tokyo. Ticket holders will be eligible for discounts and free gifts at some of Tokyo’s popular tourist attractions. Osaka Amazing Pass This pass provides you 1 or 2 days of unlimited access to the Osaka Metro, tramway, and bus. Ticket holders are also granted free entry to many of Osaka’s famous attractions, including the Umeda Sky Building and Osaka Aqua Bus. For day trips from Tokyo: JR TOKYO Wide Pass Offered exclusively to non-Japanese passport holders, this pass is suited for those who wish to base in Tokyo and do some day trips around its surroundings. The pass grants 3 days of unlimited travel on JR East Trains in designated areas of the Kanto region, along with some parts of Nagano, Niigata , Yamanashi , and Shizuoka prefectures. It also gives access to some non-JR trains, providing better accessibility to popular tourist destinations such as Mt. Fuji and Nikko . For travels around the countryside: JR EAST PASS Nagano, Niigata area or Tohoku area Offered exclusively to non-Japanese passport holders, these passes are perfect for those who wish to travel to the Tohoku region or areas around Nagano and Niigata . It grants 5 days of unlimited access to JR East trains and JR buses operating in designated areas. Unlimited access for some non-JR lines also offers access to popular tourist destinations in the countryside, including Nikko and the Izu Peninsula. For those who wish to explore Shinshu (Nagano, Matsumoto, and Hakuba), the JR EAST PASS (Nagano) is recommended for you. Meanwhile, if you wish to visit further north, such as Yamagata, Akita, or Aomori prefectures, the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area) is a good choice. JR EAST-SOUTH HOKKAIDO RAIL PASS If you are looking to travel both the Tohoku and Hokkaido region, this pass offers overseas tourists (temporary visitor status) unlimited access to JR East trains in Kanto, Tohoku and JR Hokkaido trains in southern Hokkaido for 6 consecutive days. The pass also provides access to the Tokyo Monorail, some non-JR trains, and local buses. For other modes of transportation to consider: ・Rent a car and drive around the country. You can learn more about renting a car in Japan here or even book one here . ・Travel by air via a domestic flight. See this page for more on tickets . ・Travel on highway buses and night buses for cheaper travel options (like the $20 bus from Tokyo to Osaka ). For more information about transportation in Japan:

Q. What are the required airport procedures to enter the country and what can I do to make it go smoothly?

A. Although some steps may vary depending on the airport , the general procedure you’ll take after you get off the plane is as follows: ・Medical inspection at the quarantine station ・Immigration ・Claiming your bag ・Inspection at the plant and animal quarantine station ・Customs ・Head to the arrival lobby For your entry procedure to go smoothly, make sure to pre-register for Visit Japan Web ; a digital service that enables you to complete your immigration procedure and customs declarations online. The new Fast Track feature also allows users to complete certain quarantine procedures in advance (e.g. registering required documents, including a valid vaccination certificate, Covid-19 Negative Test Result Certificate issued 72 hours prior to departure, and questionnaires). While there are new services to help you achieve some shortcuts, the most important thing of all is for you to be aware of the latest travel requirements for your country and regularly check for updates from official information.

Q. Do I need to be vaccinated?

A.Vaccination is not a prerequisite for all entrants to Japan. Those who do not hold a valid vaccination certificate must submit to the quarantine center a negative Covid-19 test result certificate issued 72 hours before departure from a medical institution. On the other hand, those with a valid vaccination certificate showing they’ve received three doses of a vaccine listed on the Emergency Use List released by the WHO can enter Japan without a pre-departure inspection certificate, inspection upon arrival, or waiting after entry.

Q. What if you are vaccinated but the person traveling with me is not?

A.As stated above, vaccination is not a prerequisite for entrants to Japan. However, as with any other travelers who do not hold a valid vaccination certificate, they must respectively follow the set quarantine procedures upon entry.

Q. Do kids / babies need to be vaccinated?

A. People under the age of 18 do not necessarily need to hold a valid vaccination certificate, as long as their parents or their accompanying parental guardian submit their valid vaccination certificate on their behalf. If in case the parents or guardians do not hold a valid vaccination certificate and are planning on entering Japan with a valid Negative Test Result Certificate, children under the age of 6 will be exempted from quarantine (although it is recommended that all children hold a valid Negative Certificate). Those over the age of 6 are required to undergo the same quarantine procedure as adults and thus are requested to present their own valid Negative Test Result Certificate respectively at the quarantine center. A child’s exemption on submitting a valid vaccination certificate or Negative Test Result Certificate is only applied to those traveling with their parents or a guardian in charge. Thus, if the child is traveling solo, they’ll need to follow the quarantine requirements regardless of their age. For any further information on vaccination, see the Visit Japan Web service and our article below.

Q. What countries need a visa to enter Japan?

A.As of October 11, 2022, the Visa (Short-Term Stay) exemption is arranged for 68 countries and regions. (*Conditions apply for some countries, refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website for more details). For entrants who are entering from countries (or people who do not meet the required conditions) outside the list, they will need to apply for a visa prior to entry. Major countries that require a visa: The Philippines, Vietnam, countries within the CIS, and more.

Q. Are there many flights to Japan right now?

A.While it depends on the country, since Japan reopened to international tourists in October, many airline companies are increasing their flights to accommodate an increasing number of tourists. Since the reopening in October, the number of inbound tourists has increased by 2154.8% since October 2021. This figure is expected to continue to grow steadily. To see if there’s a flight from your city, we recommend checking Skyscanner . When you have confirmed a flight from your city, you can start searching for the best deal on flights to Japan. Using a search engine like Skyscanner, you can compare every online flight deal and find the cheapest airfares. If you already have specific dates in mind, Skyscanner’s Price Alert function notifies you whenever fares go up or down, so you will not miss out on your best deal. For details, check out the Price Alerts page on Skyscanner.com .

Q. What should I do if I get COVID during my stay?

A. If you think you’ve contracted COVID-19 while traveling in Japan, the first thing to do is contact the health center or the COVID-19 Consultation Center, which will advise on the treatment method and period. If you test positive at a medical institution, they will contact the health center for you. Depending on your condition, they will either advise you to stay at your current accommodation and recuperate or transfer to another location. On the other hand, if you test positive utilizing a store-bought kit, you’ll need to contact the local government health center or COVID-19 Consultation Center yourself and wait for their updates on the treatment method and period. For more information about what to do and where to contact if you contract COVID-19 in Japan, see our article below.

Q. Do I have to wear a mask in Japan?

A. There are no strict mask mandates imposed in Japan. However, the government still recommends that people wear masks when indoors (unless there is enough social distance, limited or no conversation) or where they cannot keep a sufficient social distance (such as in a crowd or on public transit). Also, in many restaurants, shopping centers, and other indoor facilities, you’ll find that they request a mask to be worn. The facilities mask policy is usually posted at the entrance, typically indicated with a picture of a mask. For children under two years old, mask-wearing is not required in any circumstance. Those aged between two to six do not need to wear a mask regardless of social distance, but is recommended in some cases. On a side note, it is worth noting that Japanese have worn masks naturally before the COVID-19 outbreak; thus, you may be surprised to see so many people continuing to wear masks in their daily lives, even if it’s not required.

Q. What is new or has changed since 2020?

Until recent years, Japan’s tourism industry experienced a long quiet moment without international travelers. Despite things, the industry sustained its momentum and continued to evolve, introducing many new attractions for us to look forward to in 2023 and beyond. Below are some recent openings for you to have on your radar: ・NAKED FLOWERS FOR YOU (Yurakucho, Tokyo): An experimental art exhibition comprising a series of digital floral gardens , opened in March 2022. ・Ghibli Park ( Aichi Prefecture): A theme park based on the world of Japan’s famous animation studio Ghibli, opened in November 2022. For upcoming attractions to open in 2023 and beyond: ・Tokyo Midtown Yaesu (Yaesu, Tokyo): A new shopping complex facing Tokyo station , set for its grand opening in March 2023. In September 2022, the 1st basement floor shops and bus terminal have opened ahead of the complex’s grand opening. ・Senkayaku Banrai (Toyosu, Tokyo): A new off-site facility in Toyosu with a reproduction of an Edo cityscape, aimed at promoting Japanese food culture. Set to open in September 2023. ・Tokyu Kabukicho Tower ( Shinjuku , Tokyo): A new grand entertainment facility in Tokyo’s downtown , Kabukicho, set to open in April 2023. Information in this article is accurate as of December 2022. Please check official sites for the latest information.

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Traveling to Japan? No Need for a Visa and (Soon) No COVID Travel Restrictions Either

After scrapping the need for u.s. visitors to obtain a tourist visa this past fall, japan now plans to do away with its remaining pandemic-era travel regulations..

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Just in time for the final days of cherry blossom season, Japan will scrap its remaining COVID-19 border protocols.

Photo by Shutterstock

Travel to Japan will soon be less of a hassle, with the country planning to do away with the remainder of its COVID-19 border measures. As of May 8, 2023, visitors to Japan will no longer be required to provide proof of vaccination or have a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, according to Japan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs .

The changes come as Japan plans to downgrade COVID-19’s classification . Currently, COVID-19 is considered a Class 2 virus in Japan (a category that includes illnesses like tuberculosis and diphtheria), but come May 8, 2023, the virus will be recategorized to Class 5 (a less serious grouping that also includes the common cold and seasonal flu).

A phased reopening

Japan implemented some of the strictest tourist restrictions following the onset of the pandemic in 2020 and was slow to reopen to foreign travelers. The country only started allowing foreign tourists to return in June 2022 . Even then, there was a cap on the number of visitors allowed in, and those who did come had to sign up for government-authorized tours, which were unpopular and criticized for being too rigid . At that time, travelers were also required to obtain a visa, which U.S. leisure travelers had been exempt from prepandemic.

Japan travel visas no longer required

It wasn’t until October 2022 that independent travelers could visit without supervision and without a visa . However, they still needed to come armed with either a COVID-19 vaccine certificate (including at least one booster shot) or a negative predeparture COVID-19 test, taken within 72 hours of arrival—measures that will continue to be in place until May 8, 2023.

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Here’s what to expect when Japan downgrades Covid-19’s classification status on May 8

The reclassification will lead to an ease in Covid-19 prevention rules, including on mask wearing and quarantine measures

Just last week, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida confirmed that Japan would be downgrading the Covid-19 disease classification status to the same level as the seasonal flu. As reported by The Japan Times , this change will now go into effect on Monday May 8 , right after Japan’s stretch of Golden Week holidays. 

As explained in the report, Covid-19 will be officially downgraded from the Class 2 category,  which includes diseases such as tuberculosis, to the less severe Class 5, which includes the seasonal flu. Previously, Japan announced it would even consider relaxing its recommendation on wearing masks indoors if the classification of Covid-19 was lowered. 

If you’re curious what else will change when the downgrade goes into effect, here’s a short summary of what you can expect this coming spring.

• Those infected with Covid-19 will no longer be required to isolate and quarantine
• Close contacts to those infected will also no longer need to isolate 
• The government will no longer be able to issue a state of emergency if Covid-19 infections rise
• Restaurants and bars will not be encouraged to shorten business hours or close
• More hospitals and clinics will be allowed to treat Covid-19 infected patients
• Wearing face masks will become optional and up to your own judgement
• Border restrictions to likely further ease (no further details have been given on this, but we will keep you posted as more information is released)

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• Kaila Imada Associate Editor, Time Out Tokyo

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6 questions travelers need to ask before visiting Japan this year

Oct 5, 2022 • 5 min read

Unrestricted international tourism is returning to Japan on October 11 © Getty Images

On October 11,  Japan will finally open its doors to independent travel following more than two years of some of the world’s toughest border restrictions. The country is also bringing back visa-free entry for visitors from more than 60 countries.

Does that mean it will be as easy to visit now as it was pre-pandemic? Sort of. There are still some pandemic-era rules in place, and you might find that locals are still taking many precautions against the virus compared to other nations. Yet at the same time, there’s much excitement on the ground about the return of international tourism, with Japan gearing up to welcome visitors back with exciting new attractions and events.

Eating on trains, embracing bidets and more tips for your Japan trip

1. Do I need to pack a mask?

Yes. Face masks have been a norm in Japan since before the pandemic. People often wear them year-round to protect their lungs from air pollution and to protect themselves and others from viruses, infections and allergens. While Japan has no official mask mandate in place, you’ll find that many businesses still require people to wear one indoors; you’ll also see people with a mask while on a bus, train or taxi, or in any sort of crowded indoor environment. They’re an everyday item for many, and it wouldn’t hurt to have one in your bag or pocket at all times. If you forget to pack one, it’s easy enough to find a surgical-style disposable face mask in airports and pharmacies all over Japan.

2. Have I checked which entry rules apply to me?

Japan has a color-coded classification entry scheme for all countries, which will continue even after travel rules ease on October 11. The system sets out distinct rules depending on what country you’re entering Japan from. Travelers coming from a “blue” country – a list that currently includes the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, Mexico, Thailand and many EU nations – no longer have to quarantine and have the option to show proof of vaccination or negative test results before traveling. Travelers from “yellow” and “red” countries are subject to additional entry requirements, such as testing upon arrival and quarantine. You can view the complete list of countries and categories  here .

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3. Have I downloaded the MySOS app?

MySOS is a smartphone app (available for Android and iOS ) that’s used to record your vaccine and health information for entry into Japan. It should help you get through airport security checks more quickly by being a one-stop shop for all of your essential documents. If you’re traveling with kids, their relevant information can be stored in your MySOS app, too.

4. Do I need to apply for a visa?

Japan will reinstate visa-free travel on October 11 for travelers from more than 68 countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, Mexico, Argentina, Singapore, Thailand and more . If a passport holder a country on the visa-waiver list, you won’t need a visa to travel to Japan if you’re staying for less than 90 days.

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5. Should I reserve restaurants and museums in advance?

Japan has some of the most sophisticated, creative and celebrated restaurants on the planet. And for many travelers, its cuisine is one of Japan's biggest draws. Getting a table at the top spots has always been a challenge in the capital  Tokyo  (whether it's  Kozue for seafood, Tamawarai for soba, or the two-star Michelin Den , you generally need to express your interest well before showing up), and in cities like  Kyoto  and Osaka  – but since the pandemic, most restaurants across the country require advance reservation, a rule that hasn’t gone away even as the government relaxes its response to the pandemic.

Museums also have new entry systems in place as well, and you’ll likely need to book your spot before showing up. Check the website of the museum you wish to visit ahead of your trip to secure your preferred date and time.

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6. What new attractions can I add to my Japan itinerary?

Theme Parks

It feels like there’s always something exciting brewing in Japan. While the pandemic may have paused momentum, it’s now full speed ahead for the opening of some much-anticipated new attractions. After the world's first Super Nintendo World opened in Osaka during the pandemic, the next big thing is  Ghibli Park , a theme park based on the works of animation legend Hayao Miyazaki set to open in Aichi Prefecture on November 1. Unlike traditional theme parks, you won’t find rides here: instead, you’ll walk through the dreamy, watercolor-style landscapes and architecture from Ghibli movies like My Neighbor Totoro and Howl's Moving Castle .

Earlier this year, Ishikawa’s New Prefectural Library opened, featuring 300,000 open stacks of books (and the capacity for two million). It’s quickly become a magnet for anyone who loves books, crafts, art and history, and anyone with even a passing interest in cutting-edge architecture. The building’s exterior resembles the pages of a book being turned, while inside you’ll find craftworks by Ishikawa’s master artisans.

Trying the traditional crafts of Ishikawa prefecture

Now that borders are open you can visit a new UNESCO site in northern Japan, open since May 2021. The Jomon Prehistoric Sites  collectively form a Cultural Heritage Site, at which you’ll learn about the culture of the indigenous Jōmon people across 17 archaeological areas. 

Bullet Trains

Japan’s public transport system is among the best in the world, its jewel the high-tech, high-speed bullet-train network, which is continuously expanding. If you want to test a new route on your travels, the Nishi- Kyūshū line opened in September, taking passengers on a 41-mile journey between the famous hot spring town of Takeo Onsen in the northwest and the city of Nagasaki (gateway to the Gotō Islands) in just 23 minutes.

Japan's best food and drink experiences

If you’re in Tokyo, check out Okushibu,   the Japanese nickname for “Deep Shibuya.” This once well-kept secret within the shopping district of Shibuya  has now become a go-to zone for late-night cafe culture, as well as some really unique and creative restaurants. Okushibu runs parallel to the new rooftop Miyashita Park , and you can stay in the heart of the action when the new Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park opens in 2023. Expect a rooftop infinity pool with views across the park – and the city.

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On May 8, 2023, Japan will lift its COVID-19 travel restrictions

On April 21, 2023, the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare announced the termination of all COVID-19 border controls effective May 8, 2023 . This decision marks a significant step in the country's efforts to revive its tourism industry and reconnect with the global community.

The decision was made due to the steady decrease in the number of daily infections and the successful vaccination campaign that has been rolled out across the nation. The lifting of border controls means that foreign nationals will be able to enter Japan without any COVID-19 restrictions. This step is expected to promote tourism and business activities in the country, which have been severely affected by the pandemic.

However, visitors will still need to follow all standard border control procedures, including having a valid Japanese visa if required. It is also worth noting that even after the lifting of border controls, the Japanese government will continue to monitor the situation closely and may reintroduce restrictions if necessary.

Japan has been one of the countries that have been particularly hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict measures put in place to control the spread of the virus. However, the government's efforts to contain the virus have paid off, with a steady decrease in the number of daily infections.

The decision to lift border controls is expected to have a significant impact on Japan's tourism industry, which has been hit hard by the pandemic. The country has long been a popular destination for tourists from around the world, and the lifting of restrictions is expected to attract visitors once again.

In addition to tourism, the lifting of border controls is also expected to benefit business activities in the country. Japan is a major economic power, and the easing of restrictions is likely to boost trade and investment.

The decision to lift border controls is a positive step for Japan as it looks to move towards a new phase of normality. The country has shown resilience and determination in its efforts to control the spread of the virus, and the lifting of restrictions is a testament to the success of these efforts.

Japan's COVID-19 Cases on the Decline

The Japanese government has been closely monitoring the global situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister and other officials have been taking advice from health experts and have made the decision to lift border controls based on the current situation.

While the lifting of border controls is a significant step in the country's efforts to revive its tourism industry and reconnect with the global community, officials have expressed their commitment to closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation. The government has stated that they will respond accordingly if there is a resurgence of cases.

Japan has experienced multiple waves of COVID-19 infections since the onset of the pandemic. The government has implemented various strategies to curb the spread of the virus, including enhancing the healthcare system, increasing testing capacity, and accelerating the distribution of vaccines to ensure the safety of its citizens.

The country has made significant progress in controlling the spread of the virus, with the number of daily infections on a steady decline. This success can be attributed to the government's proactive approach and the cooperation of its citizens in adhering to safety protocols.

Moving forward, the lifting of border controls is expected to boost the country's economy by promoting tourism and business activities. Japan is also likely to make a significant contribution to the global tourism industry, which has been severely affected by the pandemic.

Japan's decision to lift border controls is a testament to the government's efforts to contain the spread of the virus and to ensure the safety of its citizens. The country's commitment to closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation shows its determination to prevent any potential resurgence of cases. The lifting of border controls is expected to bring a much-needed boost to the country's economy and the global tourism industry.

Japan's Standard Entry Requirements Remain Despite Lifting of Border Controls

As Japan lifts COVID-19 related border controls, it is crucial for travelers to understand that the country's standard entry requirements and visa regulations still apply. Foreign nationals must ensure that they are familiar with the necessary documentation and procedures before planning their trip to Japan.

Travelers should be aware that they may still need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test, even if they have been vaccinated. They should also be prepared to undergo health screenings upon arrival in Japan.

Furthermore, it is important to note that some countries may still have travel restrictions in place, which could affect the ability of foreign nationals to enter Japan. It is advisable for travelers to check with their respective embassies or consulates to confirm any restrictions before planning their trip.

While the lifting of border controls is a positive step towards reviving tourism and business activities in Japan, travelers must ensure that they follow all standard entry requirements and visa regulations. By doing so, they can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip to the country.

Japan's Move to Terminate COVID-19 Border Controls Expected to Boost Global Tourism Industry

The termination of Japan's COVID-19 border controls is a major development for the global travel sector, as it signifies a step towards a more normalized international travel environment. Japan's decision is expected to encourage other countries to reevaluate their COVID-19 restrictions and follow suit, leading to a resurgence of the tourism industry.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the travel industry, with many countries implementing strict border controls to contain the spread of the virus. The lifting of border controls by Japan is a positive sign that the world is beginning to emerge from the pandemic and that international travel may be possible again soon.

Japan's move is expected to send a message to other countries that it is safe to reopen their borders to foreign travelers, with appropriate safety protocols in place. This could lead to a domino effect, as other nations follow Japan's lead and begin to ease their COVID-19 restrictions.

As countries gradually reopen their borders, the tourism industry is likely to see a resurgence. This is good news for travelers who have been eagerly waiting to explore new destinations and for businesses that have been severely impacted by the pandemic.

The termination of Japan's COVID-19 border controls is a significant development for the global travel sector. This move is expected to encourage other countries to follow suit and reevaluate their COVID-19 restrictions, ultimately leading to a resurgence of the tourism industry. It is a positive sign that the world is beginning to emerge from the pandemic and that international travel may be possible again soon.

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Japan travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Japan travel in 2024 with official Japan travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Since travel restrictions can vary by citizenship, we will be focusing our post on rules that affect U.S. citizens.

Last update: April 6, 2024. Originally published: July 2022.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

*  Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist  *

April 2024: “Tourism is really popular in Japan these days, and crowds can be difficult to avoid. T here are no more travel restrictions for Japan, so it’s a much simpler arrival process than last year. However, we still highly recommend filling out the Immigration and Customs form online for quicker arrival (see instructions below).  We showed our passports and QR code at immigration and customs, did fingerprints, and had no questions asked. Wifi in both Tokyo airports can be frustratingly slow, so it’s important to screenshot/download the QR code before departure so you can access it offline. Just as it was pre-Covid, there is a percentage of Japanese people who wear masks out and about in public.” – Michelle & Jedd, Intentional Travelers

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Japan so you can get a sense of what it’s really like.

Table of Contents

Is Japan open for travel? Can I travel to Japan right now?

As of October 2022 , Japan is open for tourism for independent travelers. Visa-free travel for selected countries, including the US, has been resumed.

Tourists with U.S. passports can stay in Japan visa-free for up to three months. Find details and rules for entering Japan from other countries here . 

Japan travel restrictions have been eased but travelers are asked to follow guidelines with regard to masks, social distancing, dining etiquette, and more.

As of April 2023 , a proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test are no longer required for all travelers arriving in Japan.

To facilitate the arrival process, it’s highly recommended to submit your information online through Visit Japan Web before travel.

Steps for Traveling to Japan: What to Know (2024)

For a smoother arrival, travelers to Japan can pre-register for airport Immigration and Customs   to receive the QR codes used for “Fast Track” at major airports across Japan.

We completed the Japan entry process in late March 2023 and again in early April 2024. It was admittedly a bit confusing, so I thought I’d share our experience and tips, as the process is still the same (apart from step 2).

1. Register at Visit Japan Web  

While the Fast Track/Quarantine procedures are no longer mandatory to complete in advance, I was glad I followed advice to pre-register through the Visit Japan Web site. 

The latest they say you can register is at least 6 hours ahead of your flight to Japan .

2. Submit your Covid documents in advance – NO LONGER REQUIRED

3. Register for immigration QR code

Returning to the main registration dashboard on the website, select the next module “Disembarkation Card for Foreginer,” which says it’s required for landing in Japan.

Some details pre-populated from from my profile. I selected Tourism for purpose of visit. Then there are three ways to report length of stay: year, month, day; as well as a few questions about any criminal background in Japan.

Once completed, a button “Display QR code” appears below the appropriate section.

Take a screenshot of the Immigration QR code and save it to your phone . It will have a yellow line above it.

If you don’t have the QR code , there are immigration cards available to fill out at standing desks located before entering the lines. Some people got all the way up to the immigration agent and were asked to step aside to fill out a card, which are also available next to each immigration stall.

The immigration line at Narita moved steadily but took about 25 minutes since several flights had arrived at once.

When I showed the QR code, the immigration officer simply took a headshot picture and fingerprint scans, then stuck a “landing permission” stamp in my passport for 90 days. No questions asked.

4. Register for Customs QR code

Returning again to the main dashboard, finally select “Preparation for customs declaration.” This registration allows travelers to go through an electronic declaration gate, which wasn’t super clear once we were at the airport.

I entered my flight origination (Hanoi) and number of family members with me (1). Then there’s the usual customs questions – type of goods, prohibited items, monetary funds, alcohol, cigarettes, souvenirs over 200,000y.

Again, take a screenshot of the Customs QR code and save it to your phone . It will have a blue line above it.

At Narita, the customs line for QR codes are labeled “electronic declaration” in blue. There are also kiosks that allow QR code, card, and duty free, as well as those that are for physical customs card only. The lines weren’t too long so it didn’t matter much which line we chose.

The customs officer had us scan our QR code and we could see our entered data displayed on an over-sized tablet-like device at the desk. No questions asked, we proceeded to exit the airport.

5. Sign up for travel insurance

It’s recommended to obtain insurance to cover medical costs related to COVID-19 in Japan. For travel insurance that covers Covid, we use Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing.

Quarantine rules in Japan: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in Japan, provided that they are not suspected of having Covid-19. See details here . 

Residents report that quarantine rules for testing positive may no longer be enforced anymore.

Previously, foreign tourists who tested positive for Covid while in Japan had to contact a local consultation center . A 7-10 days quarantine at a government-designated accommodation facility was required with all costs covered by the visitor.

The quarantine period could end within 7-10 days depending on the symptoms and/or negative COVID-19 test result. See details here .

Can I travel to Japan in May? Can I travel to Japan this Summer?

Travel to Japan in May is open . See details above and check back for updates.

Is it safe to fly to NRT Narita or HND Haneda International Airport ? Health screenings and body temperature checks are no longer in place at the airport. Wearing of masks is no longer required on flights or in the airports, though masking is still widely practiced.

Stringent cleaning and seating limits are implemented.

What is it like to fly to Japan right now? All Nippon Airways reports that masks are now optional. Additional procedures are in place at Immigration – please see details above.

Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Japan? No . See quarantine details above.

Does Japan check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health screening procedures such as temperature checks and simple symptom questionnaires are typically not in place at ports of entry anymore.

Does Japan require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? A negative test is no longer required to enter Japan as of April 2023.

Does Japan require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? A proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required to enter Japan as of April 2023.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. A negative Covid test, quarantine, or proof of vaccination are no longer required to enter Japan.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Japan? No. A booster shot is no longer required to enter Japan.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers? PCR and/or antigen tests are available for travelers in Japan. Travelers should contact the local consultation center  to determine the location of testing facilities within Japan. A non-comprehensive list of some COVID-19 testing facilities can be found here .

Test results are available within 24 to 72 hours but many labs can return results in a matter of hours. PCR test costs vary from ¥2,500 to ¥16,500.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Japan who get the virus? Japan hospitals and clinics are open. Foreign visitors are required to secure a medical insurance which that will cover medical costs in case they contract COVID-19 in Japan.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Japan ?  Businesses and restaurants in Japan are open. Some businesses may require their own mask rules or capacity limits.

What public gatherings are allowed in Japan? Public gatherings are allowed in Japan subject to safety guidelines.

Are face masks required in Japan? As of March 2023, wearing of face masks in Japan is recommended but no longer required. 

Face masks are almost universally worn in public, especially in urban areas, indoors and on public transportation. The Consulate website states that failure to adhere to mask-wearing norms reflects poorly on foreign visitors.

Are buses running in Japan? Trains, buses and taxis are running as usual in Japan.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Japan?

Japan managed impressively well compared to most countries in the early days of the pandemic. Although Japan has been previously in a State of Emergency, the lockdowns were less disruptive on Japanese daily life.

However, Japan’s inbound tourism business lay dormant for years. Japan finally began easing restrictions in 2022 and reopened to travelers in June with strict entry requirements. 

Japan finally eased entry requirements for travelers in October 2022 making it easier for travelers to visit the country. Visa-free travel has also been resumed for select countries.

Vaccination in Japan started later than some other countries. Around 80% of the population has been vaccinated and 64% had received a booster shot.

Tourism is now back with record numbers of visitors, however, staffing shortages have not fully recovered.

For the current situation in Japan, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Japan; and COVID-19 testing in Japan, please see the Japan Ministry of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Japan?

😷 Face Masks -Face coverings are recommended and widely used in public places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Japan locals and recent travelers say about visiting Japan now?

What is it like to visit Japan right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

January 2024 – Brandon of Zimminaroundtheworld , expat living in Japan: “Japan is seeing an increase in tourism now that the country is open to visitors. Many visitors are traveling to Tokyo and Kyoto but some towns and cities like Nikko, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Naha are also seeing rises in tourism. 

Currently there are no travel restrictions within Japan unless it is due to environmental catastrophes like the earthquake that occurred in Ishikawa Prefecture recently. Access to healthcare in Japan is easily available and affordable. Although foreigners can sometimes pay up to 200% more for healthcare it is still cheap.

Many attractions and famous sites around Japan especially in Kyoto and Tokyo are crowded with lines that are longer then expected. In general, restaurants in Japan are smaller and can only able to accommodate up to ten people or fewer and the space can feel cramped. Like anywhere else, keep an open mind and be flexible and there will be no problems while traveling around Japan.”

September 2023 – Jackie Szeto of Life of Doing , American traveler: “My husband and I traveled to Tokyo and Nikko, Japan for vacation in September 2023. Expect large crowds at major attractions, restaurants, and trains in major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto. Visiting other destinations such as Nikko is a nice change of pace with fewer crowds, especially on the weekdays. 

It’s recommended to complete the Immigration and Customs declaration on the Visit Japan Web to expedite arrival, but it’s not required. When landing at international airports, the QR codes for Immigration and Customs are still accepted. Otherwise, all COVID protocols have been dropped in the cities. Antibacterial hand sanitizer is still provided at entrances of hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. Some people still wear masks in crowded areas and on trains, but most go mask-free.”

May 2023 – Sophie Pham of Delightful Travel Notes , traveler: “My husband and I were traveling in Japan for 11 days from May 11-21, 2023 for our vacation. I found that Japan had already welcomed visitors with open arms, free of earlier restrictions. The return of both domestic travelers and international tourists created a lively atmosphere, and crowds could be seen in a lot of places.

In May, it took us 45 minutes to clear immigration at Kansai International Airport after landing at around 7:45am.

All attractions and food venues were fully open, with no social distancing measures or mandatory mask rules, although some restaurant servers, locals, and taxi drivers still chose to wear masks. Some famous restaurants had long lines again, and popular attractions like Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Senso-ji-ji could get crowded during the day. If there’s a particular popular restaurant you want to try, it may be best to make your dinner reservation in advance, especially for weekend. Overall, everything is lively again and we had a great time.”

March 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, American visitor: “We enjoyed a two day layover in Japan. The online procedures and QR codes were a bit confusing but I highly recommended doing them in advance of travel to make your arrival smoother.”

February 2023 – Joel, US traveler: “For the most part the Japanese are wearing masks. I’d say mask wearing is at about 99%. Despite the crowds in the city and packed trains and subways, it honestly feels way safer than generally any place in America where mask wearing is far from the majority. ANA enforces a mask wearing requirement whereas United is pretty much a free for all.

One key thing that is good to know is at the ticketing counter they need to know your return flight info when initially checking in. We had all the other Japan travel docs as far as the gov mandated requirements but this one kinda caught us off guard. The immigration line may seem staggering but it moves. ” 

January 2023 – Lizzie of Wanderlust & Life , UK traveler: “I flew to Tokyo in January 2023 for 3 days as part of a stopover between Australia and the UK. For us it felt like the country is so happy to welcome tourists again. We were slightly worried about visiting or entry restrictions changing last minute but the airline kept us up to date and apart from filling out a lot of forms on arrival it felt quite normal being there. 

As Japan only opened recently there weren’t as many tourists as we were expecting which was a plus really. We were made to feel so welcome in the country.

Masks are mandatory indoors and everyone seemed to be following this. The vast majority of people were also wearing masks outdoors too. Sanitiser is readily available in restaurants and tourist attractions. We didn’t encounter any contact tracing or even requests to show covid passes. The only frustration we had was that we flew JAL and we had to wear masks our whole flight which was about 14 hours in one go and this was enforced by cabin crew.”

November 2022 – Darryl H., New Zealand traveler:  “My visit to Japan involved a return to the sort of measures that, in my home country of New Zealand, had been abandoned some time ago. The first action on arriving at Tokyo’s Narita Airport, with my mask firmly in place, was to allow officials to check and confirm I had complied with mandatory online registration of evidence of my vaccination status. Once this had been done, the arrivals process was pretty much standard.

During my 10-day stay, I experienced no restrictions on my movements or activities. The differences were in the roles of masks, sanitiser and – in some instances – distancing. The wearing of masks indoors and on public transport is close to one hundred percent, whether or not they are demanded. Outdoors, in most situations, they appear to be worn by at least 98 percent of people, although in some areas later in the evening there is an obvious relaxation in standards – especially among younger people. While most tourists appear happy to comply with the standards followed by locals, the proportion of non-mask use by non-Japanese is clearly larger than by Japanese. At no stage did I see any visitor reproached for this.

There is sanitiser on hand (pun intended) everywhere. It is probably accessed by about a third of people. There are many locals who are fastidious about sanitising.

While I observed no enforced distancing on public transport or in the street, it is definitely in place in cafes and other eateries. Most places I visited had plastic partitioning between patrons, and crosses to discourage the use of every second seat. Groups or couples are, of course, welcome to sit together.

The buffet breakfast in my hotel illustrates all three of the above differences. When I arrived at breakfast each morning, masked of course, the attendant ensured that I first sanitised my hands and then put on plastic gloves. Only then could I approach the serving implements and food. I would then sit on one of two seats (the second having a cross on it), both of which were partitioned off from the next pair of seats. Seats with another seat opposite were separated by another plastic partition. If I wanted to return to the buffet for more food, I first had to remask and re-glove. Once I forgot the gloves, and was politely turned back before I could touch the serving implements.

It is not uncommon for Japanese hospitality venues to give high priority to cleanliness, but there seems to be super-high priority now. Where in New Zealand I might expect a quick wipe over of a table between customers, in Tokyo it now appears to be a thorough and sometimes deep clean.

The precautions in no way reduced my pleasure in revisiting Tokyo. And they increased at least my perception of being protected.”

September 2022 – Jackson, American visitor: “Traveling to Japan reminded me of the COVID situation in Hawaii a year ago. People go about their day with a medical mask. Every store front has hand sanitizers and thermo cameras. COIVD testing and vaccination clinics are common place. Despite these COVID precautions, Japanese residents and businesses continue to welcome visitors with refreshing grace and hospitality. Japan’s  omotenashi , beautiful scenery, and extraordinary delicacies are worth exploring and appreciating, but can tempt visitors into overlooking the uncertainty that underlines Japan. I hope visitors will take the time to learn about the challenges of the Japanese people and reciprocate Japan’s hospitality with a gracious thank you.”

Aug 21 2022 – Y., American Japanese dual citizen: “ I returned from visiting family in Japan two days ago. Travel is still tough. The plane was empty – only 20 passengers on a big airplane. My pre-travel Covid test was 10 minutes earlier than the required 72 hours so I was turned away at the airport. I scrambled to find a last minute PCR test with rapid results and rush back to the airport.”

August 2022 – Christine, American visitor: “Japan isn’t currently open to tourists. I was there for a school conference, and had to get a conference visa. One has to get a visa for Japan in advance and you can only get one with an EFRS form filled out from someone in Japan.

I had to have a negative PCR test from within 72 hours of departure time. There’s eased quarantine procedures, which depend on the countries you’ve been to in the previous 2 weeks. And you have to have the MySOS app on your phone because they might check up on you. It also expedites your entry because you can upload all the necessary forms/COVID test/questionnaire ahead of time.

Everyone wears a mask everywhere, and they’re available for cheap at convenience stores. Because I was on a university’s campus most of the time, I had to report my temperature and if I was having any symptoms to the University every day.”

July 2022 – Brandon of https://zimminaroundtheworld.com , Expat in Japan: “Currently Japan is only doing guided tours for international tourism. Travel entry for normal tourism is not an option at the moment. I recently took a trip around central Japan and visited a variety of cities and saw hardly any tourists. It’s nice to get great photos of popular attractions without crowds of people in the photos. But at the same time, it is taking a toll on the economy. I’ve seen shops and restaurants struggle to survive here and locals begging for tourism to come back.

Masks have been worn in Japan even before Covid. To this day, the majority of the population wears masks and obeys the rules, this includes both foreigners and locals. I wear a mask when leaving my apartment and only take it off when social distancing can be achieved or while eating at a restaurant. The positive aspect about Covid is that there are no long lines to enter attractions or eating establishments. I feel public transportation is safe here as the Japanese are very good and sanitizing everything.”

Planning a trip to Japan?

Check out our other Japan travel resources: – Great Things To Do Around Iwakuni, Japan

If you have questions or updates about travel to Japan during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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Hi Great article ! I noticed you have been vaccinated once with JJ (same here) . You mentioned the requirements for boosters but it sounds like you haven’t had a booster? I tried to sort through the link page but couldn’t find any further info. So my question is I’m planning to travel after May 8th with 1 JJ vaccination, I’m Canadian, but will be coming from Indonesia. Thanks for any insight you might have

Hi and thanks for visiting our blog. While we had the single JJ vaccination, we also had boosters. I mentioned it because the Japan entry form allows you to essentially count JJ as two shots out of the three that are required. In other words, at least one booster is currently required for entry to Japan. That said, vaccine documentation will no longer be required after May 8 so you shouldn’t have to worry about it.

I am travelling to the US from Australia via Japan in September. I fly with JAL, from Melbourne (MEL) arriving at Haneda International Airport (HND), but need to fly out of Narita International Airport (NRT) to New York (JFK).

I would like to know if I will be allowed to travel, via Japan, in September.

Australia is in Blue Category and I have had 3rd dose of Covid vaccination.

I look forward to your reply soon.

Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to say what will be possible in September, as we do expect the rules to change over time. Currently, foreign travelers are limited to package tours and may not use public transit. To find out if any exceptions can be made for transit between airports, you can try the Japan visitor hotline .

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New entry procedure after May 8, 2023 - Japan Forum

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Just read on this article (which references another article in Japanese) that after May 8, a blue quarantine screen may no longer be required. And other restrictions will be lifted.

I expect lines for immigration might take longer with less prescreening.

https://www.kanpai-japan.com/japan-travel-guide/visit-japan-web-online-registration

2 replies to this topic

I was planning to fill out VJW forms in a few weeks. But since my arrival is post May 8, I went ahead to see if it would work.

Got blue screen for customs, yellow for immigration and my vaccination card was confirmed in a matter of minutes (blue screen).

I did print screen for all but I imagine the quarantine blue screen will no longer be checked after May 8.

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GUIDE Japan in May

• Stories & Guides
• Japan in May

Crowds and radiant warmth

May is the Goldilocks Zone of the Japanese calendar. Neither too hot nor too cold, it's the perfect time to take a trip and just about everyone does. The Golden Week holiday from the end of April to the beginning of May marks the peak of this period with packed trains and hotels being the norm. If you must travel in the first week of May, be sure to book early.

Know Before You Go

• The Golden Week holiday period is between late April and early May, and is one of Japan's busiest travel periods
• With major tourist destination packed, May is a good time to explore lower-key options
• The giant carp streamers you can see around rural Japan in May are koinobori, traditional decorations for Children's Day (May 5)
• The calmer second half of May is better for traveling and a good chance to see Japan before the rainy season in June

Floral highlights around Japan

The cherry blossoms in Hakodate last through until mid-May

Ashikaga Flower Park

The wisteria tunnel at the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden

Shibazakura in Saitama

Spring sumo and festival fun in Tokyo

Tokyo sumo tournaments are held in January, May and September

On a more sedate note, Tokyo Big Site hosts the annual Design Festa in which 10,000 artists from around the world display their works in a huge event space.

Alpine excursions

Snow still lingers in the mountains around Kamikochi in May

Though crowded at peak periods, it offers a nice alternative to the usual tourist fare.

Explore Kurobe Gorge from May

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai

Save US$100.00

Apr-Oct 2025

From US$3198.00

7 days to 23 days in Japan

Features  

An additional day in Osaka for the Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai.

English Tour

Private Coach

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The Golden Route Japan Tour

Jan-Dec 2024, 2025 & 2026

From US$2798.00

7 days & 8 days in Japan from Tokyo to Osaka

Visit the must see sites of Tokyo & Kyoto, perfect for first time visitors with limited time

The Golden Triangle of Japan

From US$3098.00

8 days to 11 days in Japan from Tokyo to Osaka

Visit sites that have persevered the history, traditions, and culture of Japan

Best of Japan Tour

From US$3998.00

10 days to 15 days in Japan from Tokyo to Osaka

Perfect for those who want to visit the most popular sites in Japan

Tokyo to Kyoto

Save US$50.00

Mar-Oct 2024, 2025 & 2026

From US$1848.00

6 days in Japan from Tokyo to Kyoto

Experience bustling Tokyo and time-honored Kyoto

Anime Flavor Tour

Feb-Dec 2024, 2025 & 2026

We will go to some of the popular anime spots while learning about Japan’s culture

Signature: Essence of Japan

Save US$200.00

Mar-Nov 2024, 2025 & 2026

From US$6498.00

10 days in Japan from Tokyo to Osaka

See Japan's top attractions and indulge in cultural experiences to make your trip truly memorable

Luxury Japan Tour

Save US$300.00

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8 days in Japan from Tokyo to Kyoto

Travel luxuriously to Japan while enjoying top tier accommodations, and the most exclusive cultural activities

Private Van

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11 days to 13 days in Japan from Tokyo to Osaka (Hiroshima)

Discover the ancient history, cultural wonders, delicious cuisine, and natural splendor of Japan

Deluxe-Plus

Private coach & public transportation

Japan In Depth Tour

Mar, Apr, May, Oct & Nov 2024, 2025 & 2026

From US$5698.00

14 days in Japan from Tokyo to Fukuoka

Visit the undiscovered regions, as well as the most popular sites in Japan

Majestic Japan

Mar-Nov 2025 & 2026

From US$5798.00

14 days in Japan from Tokyo to Tokyo

A 14-day itinerary that includes Tokyo, Snow Monkey Park, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa, Himeji, Hiroshima, Shikoku Island, Nara, Kyoto, Hakone, Mount Fuji, and more.

Spirit of Japan Tour

Mar, Apr & October 2024, 2025 & 2026

From US$6098.00

15 days in Japan from Tokyo to Osaka

Travelling to many scenic, spiritual, and historical places in Japan

Best Beyond Discoveries

Oct 2024, 2025 & 2026

From US$5998.00

15 days Japan from Tokyo to Osaka

Visit the must see and hidden gems of Japan

Grand Tour of Japan

Apr, May, Sep & Nov 2024, 2025 & 2026

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22 days in Japan from Sapporo to Fukuoka

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Japan Highlights

Feb, May & July 2024, 2025 & 2026

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21 days in Japan from Sapporo to Osaka

Must-see sights of Japan and a few unique-to-the- season activities you cannot miss

Signature: Classic Japan

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14 days in Japan from Tokyo to Osaka

Experience the culture of Japan at a slower pace with groups of maximum 12 people

Beyond Tokyo

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From US$1798.00

5 days in Japan from Tokyo to Tokyo

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9 days in Hokkaido

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Charms of Northern Japan

Apr, May, Jul, Oct & Nov 2024, 2025 & 2026

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For travelers wishing to go beyond the typical Japan itinerary

Charms of Tohoku

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10 days in Japan from Osaka to Osaka

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6 days in Korea and 7 days or 10 days in Japan

Explore two beautiful countries in one tour - Korea & Japan

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Highlights of Hong Kong and Japan

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Hokkaido, Tohoku & Central Japan

Apr, May, Oct & Nov 2024, 2025 & 2026

16 days in Japan from Sapporo to Osaka

Visit Hokkaido, Tohoku and Central Japan (Tokyo & Kyoto)

Best of Hokkaido & Honshu

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15 days & 16 days in Japan

Visit 2 main islands of Japan - Hokkaido and Honshu

Tohoku & Central Japan

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Experience a tour through the rare cultural beauties of Tohoku, followed by the golden route through Japan’s top destinations!

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13 days in Japan from Sapporo to Tokyo

Combine the best seasonal must-sees of Hokkaido with unforgettable experiences in Honshu

Kumano Kodo Walking & Hiking Tour

Apr, May, Sep, Oct & Nov 2024

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9 days in Japan from Kyoto to Kyoto

A small-group guided walking & hiking tour with five hikes of 2-6 hours of village-to-village walking on the sacred Kumano Kodo, or Kumano Ancient Trail

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Nakasendo Trail Walking & Hiking Tour

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12 days in Japan from Tokyo to Kyoto

A small-group guided walking & hiking tour with four hikes of 1-4.5 hours of village-to-village walking on the Nakasendo Trail

Nakasendo and Kiso Valley Walking & Hiking Tour

Apr, May, Jun, Oct & Nov 2024

From US$3105.00

7 days in Japan from Kyoto to Tokyo

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Nakasendo Trail Winter Tour

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From US$2095.00

8 days in Japan from Kyoto to Tokyo

A small-group guided winter tour to the Nakasendo trail. Walk or snow-shoe on five days for 1-3 hours

Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail Walking & Hiking Tour

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A small-group guided walking & hiking tour to Sacred Mount Koya & The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail

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A small-group guided walking & hiking tour exploring mountains in Tohoku with 6 days of walking and hiking of 2-6 hours per day

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14 days in Japan from Kyoto to Osaka

A small-group guided walking & hiking tour to the land of fire Kyushu with short hikes of 1-3 hours

Japan Walking Tour: Shoguns and Samurai

Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep & Oct 2024

14 days in Japan from Tokyo to Kyoto

A small-group guided cultural walking tour exploring the highlights of central Japan

Japan Walking Tour: In the Shadow of Mountains

Feb, May & Sep 2024

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A small-group guided cultural tour exploring two sides of western Japan - the Japan Sea Coast and the Inland Sea

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11 days in Japan from Tokyo to Kyoto

A small-group guided food tour through Japan's best- kept culinary traditions

Japan Birding & Wildlife Tours

9 days in Japan from Kushiro to Kushiro

Join one of our Japan birding and wildlife winter photography tours to discover the beautiful nature and fascinating wildlife of Hokkaido.

Japan Photography Expedition

Join a Japan Photography Expedition through Hokkaido on one of our three unforgettable Japan nature photography trips

What Can We Offer for Your Japan Trip ?

Japan Escorted Group Tours

The most cost-efficient and hassle-free way to travel japan.

AJT group tours are the best way to ensure that you do not miss seeing any of the highlights of Japan. We plan our group tours based on seasonal attractions with must see sites in every tour. All of our Japan group tour itineraries are researched and developed by our professional staff, all of whom have spent years working as a tour guide in Japan. We offer six different tour styles to pick from that are best suited to your interests, from train travel to luxury tours. We are confident that you will find something that is appealing and fascinating to you from our Group Tours. AJT group tour packages offer something suitable for everyone, no matter what your budget or tastes are.

Japan Private Journeys

Just you and your traveling partner.

A private journey is the perfect solution for if you can't find a published departure date that you and your companion(s) agree on. Our private journeys allow you to customize the perfect itinerary for you and your companion(s). Whether you're seeking an intimate honeymoon, private family tour, or a guided package tour for you and a few friends, we'll customize an itinerary just for you. We will not only design a trip exclusive to your tastes, but give you recommendations and guidance, handle all your arrangements, and organize all aspects of your journey, leaving you to take pleasure in a satisfying, memorable trip from beginning to end. Get started with one of our sample tours.

Japan Custom Group Travel

You plan, with our help, where and when your group travels.

All Japan Tours offers custom group travel to accommodate any group size or interest, including special interest groups, religious organizations, leisure groups, students or band performance groups, and more. We plan the your custom tour to fit your budget to bring you the best of Japan in an affordable travel package. Our team of Japan travel experts can create your perfect vacation, with a level of flexibility that is unmatched by anyone else. Our custom group tours give you the freedom to create, change, adjust, and reimagine your ideal itinerary. Our team will provide you with countless options and insights to tailor your Japan experience to fit your exact needs, and are happy to plan the best trip for your travel group.

Ultra-Deluxe by AJT

Travel japan in style with exclusive experiences and the best of the best.

Ultra-Deluxe Tours represent the best in luxury travel. The most luxurious hotels and ryokans, top-tier dining, immersive cultural delights unattainable on standard tours…all this and more await you on our Ultra-Deluxe Tours. We provide luxury transportation services, including a personal guide and driver for excursions tailored specially to the destinations you want to see. Ride Shinkansen (bullet trains) in first-class seating, and relax in the best hotels and ryokans (traditional inns). These fully customizable itineraries are arranged with your interests and travel needs in mind, and include access to destinations and entertainment inaccessible by your average group tour.

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Japan Travel Packages

When is the best time to visit tokyo japan.

All Japan Tours has a broad selection of professionally designed Japan travel packages that reach across a wide array of travel interests and come with a variety of perks. From active train tours to luxury group tours, cherry blossom tours to Japanese garden tours - we have them all.

Need inspiration? Want something special?

All Japan Tours has a broad selection of professionally designed Japan travel packages that reach across a wide array of travel interests and come with a variety of perks. From active walking tours to luxury small group tours, cherry blossom tours to Japanese garden tours - we have them all.

Group Tours by Interest

All Japan Tours is proud to present our exclusive Special Interest Group Tours. These tours are catered to travelers who want to see and experience something specific when they tour Japan.

Best Japan Tours

Tours for First Timers

Tours for Repeaters

Family Friendly Anime Tours

Anime Tours

Small Group Tours

Small Group Departures

Luxury Small Group Tours

Walking Tours

Seasonal Flowers Tours

Art & Architecture Tours

Photography Tours

Birding & Wildlife Tours

Garden Tours

Pottery Tours

Japanese Ancestry Tours

Pre & Post Cruise Tours

Japan Cherry Blossom Tours

Our Japan cherry blossom tours are our most popular tours because we highlight the top places to see sakura, the most renowned flower in the country. Experience Japanese cherry blossom festivals, a cherry blossom dance show performed by geisha, and sakura views from Mt. Fuji, to gardens in Kyoto.

Japan Autumn Leaves Tours

Our Japan autumn leaves tours give you exclusive access to beautiful gardens, temples, shrines, and famous landmarks while enjoying the colorful autumn scenery along the way. We offer Japan tours to rural parts of Japan, historical towns, World Heritage sites, and diverse shopping districts.

Japan Festival Tours

Our Japanese festival tours cover festivals from all seasons. Matsuri (festivals) can range from celebrations to honor a shrine`s deity to joyful seasonal occurrences. Participate in one of the biggest festivals in Japan, the Kyoto Aoi Festival, or check out the Gion Summer Festival on one of our Japan tours.

Top 12 Attractions in Japan

Takayama Festivals

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Snow Monkeys

Japan Winter Festivals

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Gion Summer Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Shibazakura Festivals

Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Experience the takayama spring & autumn festivals during your trip to japan, one of japan's most beautiful festivals..

Witness the beautiful Takayama Festivals in Japan, not once, but twice a year. We offer a list of Japan tour packages that allow you to experience the lavishly decorated floats, known as yatai, which feature karakuri (mechanical puppets) that dance and move impressively. Whichever season you prefer, we have a Japan tour package reserved for either Takayama Festivals.

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Get lost in the lovely furano flower fields surrounded with lavender flowers, and enjoy views of the spacious fields in biei..

Our Hokkaido lavender tours showcase the best spots to indulge in lavender beauty during its flowering season. Take a Japan trip to Farm Tomita in Furano, known as one of the best places in Japan to see spectacular backdrops of lavender. Our lavender tours will also take you to a small town called Biei, overlapping with picturesque hills, vast fields, and the popular Panorama Road.

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The tateyama kurobe alpine route is an amazing route that goes through the northern japan alps..

Visit the famous and long demanded Alpine Route in Japanese Alps. Requiring varying modes of transportation, this route takes you through mountains and valleys for some of the most scenic views in all of Japan. From high mountain peaks reflected in the surface of calm, crystal lakes to the lower elevations at the Kurobe Dam and the famous site of the snow corridor, this route is sure to be unforgettably beautiful.

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Take delight in viewing elegant wisteria flowers at ashikaga flower park and kawachi fuji garden during your tour to japan..

Wisteria are dream-like flowers that hang like pink and purple chandeliers. On our Japan Wisteria Tours, you will visit places like the Kawachi Fuji Garden and Ashikaga Flower Park. The Kawachi Fuji Garden features picture-worthy flower tunnels you can walk underneath, while the Ashikaga Flower Park is significant for their "Great Wisteria", a famous tree that's over a 150 years old.

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Watch japanese snow monkeys bathe in hot springs at jigokudani snow monkey park on a japan winter tour..

Our snow monkey tours will take you to the Jigokudani Yaenkoen Park, where you can see Japanese Macaque, known as "snow monkeys". Thousands of people come to see the monkeys, whom are native to northern Japan and can be recognized by their red faces and light brown-grey fur. Watching the snow monkeys bathe up close is quite an experience, so don't forget your camera!

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Our japan tours will take you to the best winter festivals in the country, where you can admire giant ice sculptures and unique fairgrounds..

Believe it or not, some of the best festivals that attract millions of visitors each year are located in the coldest parts of Japan. We have arranged tours to travel to the Sapporo Snow Festival, Otaru Snow Light Path, Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, Asahikawa Winter Festival, and the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival. Experience seeing illuminated ice sculptures on one our tour packages.

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Join a tour that visits japan's largest dance festival, awa odori, and enjoy traditional music accompanied with lots of food in a lively celebration..

Attracting over 1.3 million visitors per year, Awa Odori is the largest dance festival in Japan. We have a Japan tour package showing you the best of Japan, including this famous dance festival. It is also called the "Fool's Dance", which originates from 400 years ago. Many instruments including taiko, shamisen, and flutes are accompanied with the dancers that parade through the city.

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Spend your japan vacation indulging in traditional japanese culture and stunning floats at the gion summer festival..

The Gion Matsuri is Kyoto’s largest annual festival and one of Japan's most famous. We have arranged Japan tour packages that include this 1100 year old celebration, which originally began as a religious ceremony dating back to 869. The main event occurs on July 17th and July 24th, where locals and visitors gather to view two extravagant procession parade floats.

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Book a trip to japan that includes a taste of japanese history at the elegant and popular kyoto aoi festival..

Every May 15th, the Kyoto Aoi Festival features a large parade of over 500 people dressed in Heian Period (794-1185) styled clothing to illustrate a graceful procession. We provide several tours that highlight one of Kyoto's most celebrated festivals. The Kyoto Aoi Matsuri takes you back to the 10th century, where traditional makeup and impressive costumes can be appreciated.

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Admire thousands of ground cherry blossoms at the fuji shibazakura festival & takinoue koen park shibazakura festival during your japan tour..

Known as the ground cherry blossoms, our Shibazakura Festival tours will take you to attractions that are blanketed with vivid shibazakura. See the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, featuring over 800,000 spectacular moss phlox with the great Mt. Fuji in the background. Also visit Takinoue Koen Park, noteworthy for its hillside covered with 100,000 square meters of shibazakura.

View our Japan tours featuring Shibazakura Festivals

Take your japan tour to the majestic flower gardens at hitachi seaside park, widely known for its hillside of 4.5 million baby blue eye flowers..

Scientifically known as Nemophila, the largest collection of baby blue eye flowers can be seen at the Hitachi Seaside Park. There are over 4.5 million baby blue eyes blooming from mid-April to mid-May, referred as "Nemophila Harmony" during its annual bloom. The Hitachi Seaside Park features vast, gorgeous flower gardens of tulips, poppies, roses, kochia, and more.

View our Japan tours featuring Baby Blue Eye Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Join the fiery celebration at tohoku's 3 great summer festivals during your japan trip..

Be keen on Tohoku's Three Great Summer Festivals all in one Japan tour package. These summer festivals known as Aomori Nebuta, Akita Kanto, and Sendai Tanabata are lively experiences you don't want to miss. Enjoy magnificent views of lantern-lit floats, high-spirited dancing, music performances, kanto skills, firework displays, thousands of colorful streamers, and more.

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Top 12 places to visit in japan.

1. Hokkaido

Enjoy a tour to japan in hokkaido, renowned for its flower fields and attractions unique to every season..

Hokkaido, Japan has a distinctive change of seasons that only adds to its beauty. The island is renowned for its lavender fields in the summer and winter festivals that attract millions of visitors every year. Our Japan tours to Hokkaido will take you to the flower fields in Furano, the atmospheric Otaru Canal, Hokkaido's biggest entertainment district in Susukino, and to Shiraoi to learn about the Ainu people of Hokkaido. A Japan trip to Hokkaido means trying various fresh foods at the famous Nijo Market, strolling through the heart of Sapporo in Odori Park, and stopping by Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort in Noboribetsu. Hokkaido is proud to have its four distinct seasonal differences that include a number of events and activities each unique to the season. There is no other place like Hokkaido to enjoy your Japan vacation to the fullest.

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Make your way to the Tohoku region to see the great Towada Lake, visit the prominent Zeuiganji Zen temple, and see one of Japan's three most scenic views during your Japan tour.

Tohoku is known for its great summer festivals, picturesque landscapes, and its long history of samurai. Predominantly mountainous, this region offers broad areas of natural surroundings. A Japan tour to Tohoku involves visiting must-see sites among its six prefectures. Tour to one of Japan's three most scenic views at Matsushina, Tohoku's famous Zuiganji Zen temple, and the lovely Towada Lake. Numerous castles and samurai homes reside in Tohoku, making it an appropriate place to visit and appreciate history. Tohoku is also a suitable backup option when cherry blossom viewing, since the blossoming period takes place a few weeks later than in Kyoto or Tokyo. We offer several tours to see the best of Tohoku in one Japan trip.

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Dive into the fascinating world of Tokyo, where you will visit ancient landmarks and electrifying towns during your tour to Japan.

Populated by over 36 million people, Tokyo is the worlds largest city. It is a metropolis that offers a mixture of both futuristic and traditional qualities. We offer tours to Tokyo that take you to destinations such as the Meiji Shrine, the Tokyo Tower, and the Imperial Palace. Indulge in Japanese history at the interesting Edo-Tokyo Musuem. We have Japan tour packages that will also take you to a popular tourist attraction called Odaiba, a man made island that serves as a shopping and entertainment district. Admire Tokyo's oldest temple built in 645, the colorful Sensoji Temple, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Find yourself in the lively and colorful Shibuya, renowned for endless dining, shopping, and clubbing. Its trademark is a large intersection featured in a number of films and photos. A Japan trip is not complete without traveling to Japans most distinguished city.

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Travel to an active volcano in Hakone and ride the scenic Hakone Ropeway on one of our Japan tour packages.

Located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, the town of Hakone is mostly a mountainous region part of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Hakone is a famed holiday resort renowned for its variety of popular hot springs. On our Japan tours, you can enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Fuji in Hakone and its natural beauty. Our tours will also take you to Owakudani, a volcano with active steam vents, hot river valleys, and scenic trails. Enjoy a ride on the Hakone Ropeway, where you can view the active volcano zone and excellent views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Hakone is a popular destination in Japan for travelers looking to enjoy their tour outside of Tokyo. Since Hakone is in the Kanagawa Prefecture, our Japan tour packages will also include the must-see sites in this region.

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5. Mt. Fuji

Check out astonishing views of mt. fuji and all of its natural surroundings when you book a tour to japan..

Take a tour to the highest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji, an active volcano standing at 12,380 feet (3,776 meters). Mt. Fuji is not only famous for its majestic cone shape and impressive aura, but also being the subject for distinguished paintings, photos, and literature. It is recognized as an international famous symbol of Japan. Impressive views can be seen from Tokyo and Yokohama on clear days. On the other hand, cloudy days often block visibility of Mt. Fuji, so those who get to experience the clear view of the mountain are considered fortunate. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, the halfway point on the climb to Mt. Fuji. It is accessible almost any time of the year and is well developed. This is a popular sightseeing spot for thoroughly admiring the grand and awe-inspiring view of Mt. Fuji and its surroundings.

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6. Takayama

Add a traditional touch to your japan tour by visiting rural destinations in takayama and its authentic, historical buildings..

Celebrate at one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals here in Takayama, the Takayama Festivals, held in both spring and autumn. Since Takayama is located in the Japanese Alps, it is preferred among travelers wishing to add a rural destination to their visit to Japan. Takayama has been referred as "Little Kyoto", due to its preserved historical structures and traditional atmosphere. It is also popularly known as Hida-Takayama to refrain from confusion with other places called Takayama. We offer Japan tours to Old Town, where you can view entire streets and structures dating back to the Edo Period (1600-1868). Continue your Japan trip to the Matsumoto Castle, also called "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior. Here you can admire a prime example of original Japanese wooden architecture. Take delight in sightseeing in Takayama on your Japan vacation.

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7. Kanazawa

Tour to kanazawa if you wish to see one of japan's three great gardens and a well-preserved samurai district during your trip to japan..

Capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture, the eminent city of Kanazawa is known for its preserved Edo districts and other historical attractions. Since the construction of the Kanazawa Castle during the rule of powerful feudal lord Maeda Toshiie, the city has prospered with many cultural achievements. Visit one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, the Kenrokuen Garden, during your tour to Japan. Its name translates to "Garden of the Six Sublimities", qualities that make up the perfect garden according to Chinese landscape theory. Here you can find Japan's oldest fountain and the two meter tall Kotojitoro Lantern, an icon of Kanazawa and Kenrokuen. Some of our tour packages even travel to Kanazawa's Samurai District. Upon arrival, you will catch sight of well-preserved buildings and the former living quarters of samurai. Tour to Japan to enjoy these attractions unique to Kanazawa.

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Say hello to authentic Japanese culture by visiting Japan's most popular temples and shrines, beautiful parks and gardens, and the best summer festivals during a tour to Kyoto.

Kyoto is famous for its numerous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and ravishing gardens. The city served as Japan's capital and was the residence of the Imperial family during 794 to 1868. During your tour to Kyoto, you will get to participate in sake tasting at the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Musuem, visit the famous tunnel of scarlet torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, see the iconic Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavillion), and stroll through the city of geisha in Gion. Continue your trip to the former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu at Nijo Castle, check out the noteworthy Kiyomizu Temple and its impressive wooden stage, and see what a traditional Zen garden looks like at the Tenryuji Temple. Experience three of Kyoto's world-famous festivals, including the Aoi-matsuri Festival, the Gion-matsuri Festival, and the Jidai-matsuri Festival. Tour to Kyoto for an unforgettable Japan experience.

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Experience visiting the world's largest wooden building and Japan's biggest bronze statue of Buddha when you travel to Japan.

Located less than one hour away from Kyoto and Osaka, the city of Nara is one of Japan's most rewarding destinations. Nara is Japan's first permanent capital, and is second to Kyoto as a cultural legacy with eight Unesco World Heritage Sites. Under the rule of the Imperial family and aristocrats, many temples and shrines were built here, as well as the development of temple towns. Our tours include seeing one of Japan's most significant temples, the Todaiji Temple, home to the famous Daibutsu (Big Buddha). The temple's main hall (Daibutsuden) is the world's largest wooden building, which is where you can also find the giant bronze statue of Buddha. Your trip to Japan will also give you the opportunity to visit the popular Deer Park nearby the temple, filled with over 1,000 deer you can greet and feed. Choose one of our Japan tour packages to experience Nara's historic treasures.

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10. Hiroshima

Travel to the peace memorial park for an awakening experience about war and world peace, as well as the famed "floating" torri gate on the beautiful miyajima island, only in hiroshima..

Hiroshima is located in the Chugoku Region, a major city that is home to over a million residents. After the first atomic bomb dropped, there were predictions that the city would be uninhabitable. However, great endeavors were taken to rebuild Hiroshima and the speculations were proved wrong. During your Japan tour, you can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a must-see exhibition and eye opening experience. You can visit these landmarks of world history at Peace Memorial Park, located in the center of the city. Our Japan tour packages also take you to Itsukushima-jinja, a Shinto shrine located on Miyajima Island. It is famous for its "floating" torii gate and is inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage Site and one of Japan's three most scenic places. Don't miss out on a remarkable tour to Hiroshima.

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11. Shikoku

Journey to shikoku during your japan vacation for a tour full of remarkable sites and impressive coastal views, such as the incredibly scenic drive along the great seto bridge and the shimanami kaido toll road..

Shikoku is home to the Shikoku pilgrimage route, which includes 88 temples and other sacred sites. Shikoku offers many historic locations, breathtaking spots in nature, and traditional festivals. Here on your tour to Japan, you can enjoy scenic views from the Great Seto Bridge and the Shimanami Kaido, passing six small islands to get to Shikoku. Shimanami Kaido is renowned for its beautiful drive along its picturesque toll road. Take a pleasant stroll through Shikoku Mura Village and experience an awe-inspiring masterpiece of Japanese landscape at Ritsurin Park, featuring ponds, pavilions, and a Mt. Shuin backdrop. Shikoku may be the smallest main island of Japan, but offers many spectacular attractions to experience.

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Explore Kyushu during your tour to Japan, where you'll wander through an abandoned island known as Gunkanjima, and visit the site of legend where the Shinto Sun Goddess hid herself in a cave.

Kyushu is the third largest main island of Japan and offers significant landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Our Japan tour packages will take you to the best things to see and do in Kyushu. Take a trip to Gunkanjima, translating to "battleship island", a small and abandoned coal mine with the highest recorded population density in the world. You will also visit Glover Garden, an open-air exhibit featuring mansions of former Western residents in Nagasaki. Tour to Takachiho, a town pervaded with Japanese mythology. There you can visit the supposed site of legend of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu, where she hid in a cave distraught from her brother's cruel pranks, causing other gods and goddesses to attempt to lure her out. Takachiho is a "power spot" profound with spiritual energy and religious importance. Nearby, you can see a cascading waterfall at the Takachiho Gorge.

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What our customers say

  4.9 stars based on 600 REVIEWS

I think we had some of the best tour guides in all of Japan. Our first tour guide throughout Tokyo his name is Ken is absolutely amazing. Extremely insightful, energetic, friendly, informative, and by the end of our time with him, you genuinely feel like you’ve made a lifelong friend. Ken is somebody I would book with again and again and intend to in the future. I think the only time there was any miscommunication about the tour could’ve been when we went to the studio Gibley Park, because there was miscommunication about which kind of pass we had but aside at the rest of the trip was absolutely wonderful and it’s made me realize how much I love Japan, and intend to come back again and again. I enjoyed the shrines and temples in the castles a lot more than I thought I was going to, and gave me ideas for my next trip, which will be more revolving around the kids. I am absolutely astounded that you guys were even able to help me get concert tickets to a band I’ve been following for over 20 years and was initially sold out on the website so overall, even though we didn’t get through every single thing on the list, I feel like All Japan Tours really went above and beyond. everything from shopping to temples shrines castles just blew my expectations away. I cannot wait to come back to Japan.

Our tour with AJT exceeded my expectations! Our tour guides were wonderful - very knowledgeable, competent, professional, enthusiastic, entertaining and fun (Miharu and Barbara). I loved how both would tell us the history about the places we were visiting while also sharing information about Japanese culture in general and telling us stories about their own day-to-day lives. The buses were clean and comfortable, and all of the experiences were thoroughly enjoyable. The hotels selected by AJT were excellent and of course the food was amazing. All the fun and none of the stress of planning a trip myself!

Great tour, itinerary covered many places in Hokkaido and allowed us to experience the country, the food, the sights, the nature unique to Hokkaido. We can still see the lovely cherry blossoms despite the tail end of the blooming season because of the locations include in the itinerary. The food included in the tour covered a wide variety of Japanese food, seafood was yummy, cooking style, ice creams, etc. Delicious. The accommodations hotel were great, all hotels offered great breakfast, and dinner, especially the Hilton Niseko Village hotel. The hot spring baths in the hotel offered an opportunity to experience this unique culture in Japan. The tour manager Trend San did an outstanding job in guiding us, very informative on all aspects of Japan, patient, resourceful, polite and respectful and accommodating to the specific needs of all members in the group. The driver, I apologized for forgetting his name was an excellent driver, careful and drove us to all our destinations safely and on time. We highly recommend this tour to all. We will also consider using AJT for all future tours to visit other parts of Japan. All in all, this was a memorable tour. Thanks. Also, thanks for the customer service in our booking and follow up on all our questions.

It was a great tour and included everything we wanted to see during the 11 days of touring. The Tour Leader (Kim) and our Drive (Bamboo San) were outstanding.

Our tour was wonderful as was our tour guide and bus driver. Miharu was not only knowledgeable she also had a great sense of humor and made certain the group was comfortable and safe. She was amazing. The meal choices were excellent. I would definitely recommend this tour to others.

Japan Cherry Blossom Guide

Cherry blossoms in Japan have been a major attraction for tourists. The most common question people ask is "when is the cherry blossom season?" It is an easy yet difficult answer because it depends on the area we are talking about.

Japan Autumn Leaves Guide

Autumn leaves in Japan are almost as popular as the cherry blossom season. Kōyō is the Japanese word for autumn leaves. Kōyō and momiji (maple leaves) use the same kanji and has been that way since the Heian Period.

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Trip Planning FAQs

The best travel style for you will depend on your personal travel preferences and budget. Group tours are popular because they are more cost-effective than private tours , more hassle-free, and offer the chance for friendship within tour groups. Most of our group tours use a private coach for sightseeing, your driver will take you to the closest parking and you just need to walk to each destination from there. A private coach is a more flexible and a more hassle free way to visit Japan, this allows you to see as much of Japan as stress-free as possible. Private tours are often more costly, but offer full control of the travel pace and the sights you want to see, at the budget you set. If you would like to travel at your own pace, then custom private tours are for you. For a small group of 2 or 3 people, public transportation is the most cost efficient way to travel Japan. However, there is a lot of walking if you travel by public transportation since some attractions are far from the station, you will need extra days to visit the same sites compared to our group tours , and also you will need to able to walk 3-5 miles per day. We can also offer private tours by using private van. If you are looking for a private tour for 2 people with the same quality as our group tours , it will cost almost double the price. The larger the group size, the lower the cost per person.

Japan is a country with more places to see than might be expected of its size. For first-time travelers to Japan, the cities of Tokyo , Hakone , Mount Fuji , Takayama , Kanazawa , Nara , Kyoto , and Hiroshima are most recommended. Tokyo's glittering lights, tall skyscrapers, fine dining, and cultural experiences make it the number one place to visit. Kyoto is a must-see for its ancient temples, shrines, and gardens. It is also one of the best places for a spring cherry blossom tour . First time travelers enjoy Hakone and Mount Fuji's natural beauty, and a tour to see the autumn leaves in fall is especially lovely. Nara is near Kyoto and a top city for temples and beautiful nature. If you have enough time, go to Takayama and Shirakawago for ancient Japan historical sites and an authentic cultural experience, and go to Hiroshima for a walk in the Peace Park, past the A-Bomb Dome. More time means you can visit all the best Japanese cities!

A second trip is the perfect chance to explore a more real, authentic Japan atmosphere. The most recommended destinations for a second-time traveler to Japan are Tohoku , Hokkaido , Kyushu , and Okinawa . Take a trip out of central Honshu to visit the Tohoku region, where you can see the Aomori Nebuta Festival and the Sendai Tanabata fireworks in an exciting summer tour . Venture off the main island to the beautiful nature landscapes up in Hokkaido . Go down into Shikoku to discover the amazing treasures of Naoshima Art Island and the local Awa Odori dance festival of Tokushima . Go further south into Kyushu for the shrine at Takachiho or the Hidden Christian Sites at Nagasaki . Second-time travelers will enjoy a summer vacation in Japan to Okinawa's beautiful, perfect beaches. Japan has endless destinations to appeal to the second time traveler!

The prices will range widely depending on the destinations, duration, and your demands for comfort. Let's take one of the most popular itineraries as an example - a 7-day tour to Tokyo , Hakone , Mt Fuji , Kyoto , Nara and Osaka . For 2 people staying in 4-star accommodations, it will cost about US$3500 per person as a private Japan land tour , using public transportation (bullet train, local train, subway and taxi). If you join in a group tour with a similar itinerary, the trip usually costs about US$2700 per person. No matter how much you want to spend on a trip, as the best Japan tour company, we are always happy to tailor make a private tour itinerary that best fits your needs. In addition, our early bird discount can also help you save more.

The length of the trip will depend on the destinations and how much of Japan you want to see. For a single city vacation package ( Tokyo or Kyoto ), two to three days are required. If you want to visit three to four cities ( Tokyo , Mt Fuji , Kyoto & Nara ), you will need around one week. A 10-day Japan vacation package usually would cover five to six cities ( Tokyo , Mt Fuji , Kyoto , Nara , Osaka & Hiroshima ). For a two-week trip to Japan, you can add Takayama , Shirakawa-go , and Kanazawa to the popular sights in central Japan.

Yes, we do. Our Ultra-Deluxe Luxury Tours include luxury accommodation, private transportation, high-class dining, and exclusive cultural experiences. We also offer Luxury Train Travel Packages for a one-of-a-kind, stylish trip by rail through the amazing landscape of Japan. A Private Jet Journey is another one of our luxury tour options, offering you perfect control of what you see as you fly from one incredible destination to the next in your luxurious private jet that includes whatever amenities you want. We are glad to arrange a luxury travel tour tailored to your preferences.

Yes, we do. Through our sister company, All Asia Tours, we offer group tour packages to China, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, and can arrange private tour packages to any country in Asia that interests you. Starting with one of our Japan tour itineraries that take you through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, you can connect it to an extension in Korea to savor a bowl of spicy kimchi, or to China to walk atop the Great Wall outside Beijing. If you want to travel anywhere in Asia, All Japan Tours can plan a tour to suit your needs.

Any time of the year is the best time to visit Japan! In March and April, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms, in May there are seasonal flowers, such as Wisteria, Baby blue eyes, and shibazakura (phlox moss). The summer months from June to August is the best time for festivals like Awa Odori, and there are amazing fireworks festivals, too. In Hokkaido, fields of lavenders are in bloom at this time, as well as many other summer flowers. Autumn is the best time to see the bright autumn leaves, as the fall foliage changes to vibrant colors, and winter is good for the Sapporo Snow Festival, skiing in the mountains, and seeing snow monkeys! We have group tours available in every season, and can plan a private tour around your schedule.

You can see the cherry blossoms at different times in spring, depending on where you travel - earlier in the south, and later as you move north. Southern to Central Japan sees cherry blossoms from late March to mid April. This is the perfect time to see the pretty pink flowers anywhere from Nagasaki and Fukuoka to Kyoto's Maruyama Park, all the way over to popular Ueno Park in Tokyo. The Tohoku region's cherry blossoms bloom around late April, if you travel up to Sendai or Morioka. Up in Hokkaido, late April to early May is the perfect time for a stroll in a park in Hakodate or Sapporo to see the famous cherry blossoms.

Japan is great for families! It is one of the safest countries in the world, and offers a range of attractions to appeal to both children and adults. Kids who like anime will love Akihabara Electric Town and The Ghibli Museum. You could plan some Disney days to enjoy at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, or include some time at Universal Studios Japan in your itinerary. Families can also enjoy Japanese culture together, including a Ninja Mansion, watching sumo or learning how to make sushi. We can help to plan an itinerary that is sure to provide endless amusement for the kids, without leaving adults and seniors out of the fun!

Yes, it is. Japan offers some of the most breathtakingly romantic locations on the planet, more Michelin star restaurants than any other country, luxurious hotels and ryokans with onsen baths, along with memorable cultural experiences you can't find in any other honeymoon destination! We can even arrange an authentic Japanese wedding ceremony at a Shinto shrine, officiated by priest or priestess. Plan a honeymoon trip with seasonal scenery that will stand out in the honeymoon photos, like spring cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, or snow-capped mountains. There are also a range of cultural activities that couples can enjoy, like tea ceremony, ikebana flower arranging, nature hikes, and more!

Yes, we work closely with travel agents from around the world, and we are a preferred tour supplier for Japan travel. Our published tours can be sent to clients as they are listed on our site, or can be customized to fit their specific needs.

It depends how far in advance you prefer to plan. We book last-minute trips all the time, and also arrange tours that are planned years in advance. The main points to consider when booking last-minute are holiday and festival availability, and seasonal demand (e.g., cherry blossom season in Japan).

Please contact us by telephone (1-909-988-8885 or Toll Free 1-855-325-2726 ), e-mail ([email protected]), or via your travel agent when you are considering a trip. At that point, we can answer any questions regarding weather, recommended destinations, or special events taking place, and help you determine the best itinerary and destination(s). Once you are ready to book one of our trips, contact our office or your travel agent to make arrangements to place your trip deposit. We then book all services and generally have confirmations within 24 hours, depending on the extent of your services.

Internal flights are included in our tour prices unless otherwise specified. The addition of international airfare is an additional cost to the listed tour price. Many of our clients prefer to book their own international flights using airline miles. As regards the operation of our tours, our services begin when you arrive at your first international destination.

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The Ultimate Japan Itinerary for First-Timers: From 1 to 3 Weeks

I’ve yet to meet a traveler who didn’t love their time in Japan . It’s just one of those countries that everyone loves. How can you not? The food is carefully crafted and delicious; the history and culture are both rich and long; the landscape breathtaking; and the people super friendly and polite.

Japan remains one of my favorite countries. No matter how long I visit, it’s never enough. I always leave wanting more.

But the country always seems forbidding to many travelers. It definitely still has that “exotic” stereotype that makes people think it’s hard to travel around.

Where should you go? What should you include in your Japan itinerary? Should you buy a JR Pass to help you get around?

To help you out, here are a few suggested itineraries based on my years of visiting that will ensure you see the best sites on your Japan trip — as well as get off the beaten path and get a real sense of Japanese culture!

Table of Contents

Japan Itinerary: Know Before You Go

Japan itinerary: one week, japan itinerary: two weeks, japan itinerary: three weeks.

Just be sure to get one BEFORE you go as you cannot purchase them on arrival. For more information on the pass, including how much they cost and how you can get one, read this blog post . It has everything you need to know!

Mobile Data in Japan In Japan, English isn’t widely spoken (especially outside of the major cities) so having access to the internet is vital for checking addresses, using translation apps, and looking up things to see and do. The easiest way to get data is through an international eSIM for Japan .

An eSIM allows you to access mobile data via a QR code so you can have internet wherever you are, without worrying about physical SIM cards or roaming charges. This will save you a lot of time and hassle when using apps like Google Maps, Google Translate, Instagram, and YouTube. It will also come in handy for checking menus at restaurants (since they are rarely in english).  

Day 1 & 2: Tokyo Chances are you’ll be starting your trip in Tokyo , since it’s home to the country’s biggest international airport. If your trip is seven days long, activate your JR Pass right away, so that you can take advantage of the free JR trains that run through the city.

While you could easily spend your entire week in Tokyo and not get bored, here are some of the highlights:

Visit the fish market – In 2018, Tokyo’s main fish market moved to Toyosu, which is twice the size of the old one, Tsukiji, making it the largest in the world. While a lot of good restaurants moved too (Sushi Dai being the most famous), I find the place itself very stale, since you can no longer wander the floor (you look down via a walkway above; you also need a visitor’s pass to enter).

The old outer market in Tsukiji is still great though, and you can still find food and stores there too. You can wander alone and just eat and shop until you can’t anymore! Most businesses open at 6am, so it’s a perfect place to go in the morning when you wake up early because of jet lag. Food and drink tours of the Tsukiji Outer Market are available for around 13,500 JPY.

See Sensoji Temple – Sensoji is beautifully painted and sits in a scenic spot near a five-story pagoda and the famous Kaminari Gate. There’s a huge statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside the main hall. It’s always busy but is worth seeing with your own eyes. The temple is free to visit.

Drink in Golden Gai – This alleyway of back-street bars is a lively place to drink at night and has a bit of a red-light-district feel to it. It is not to be missed. Even if you don’t drink, be sure to wander about. Arigato Tours offers tours of the area where you’ll learn about the neighborhood while stopping to sample Japanese classics like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. Tours are 23,900 JPY and include a drink and dishes at four food stops.

Visit the Imperial Palace – When the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1869, he took Edo for his new residence and renamed it Tokyo. Though you can’t go inside (or get very close), the building is amazing. It is surrounded by lovely grounds and a park, and there’s a moat around the stone walls. You can also see the changing of the guard, though it’s a relatively low-key and unassuming ceremony.

Watch a sumo match – Kokugikan, Japan’s most famous sumo arena, hosts tournaments three times each year. The wrestling that we see today dates to the 17th century, though its origins go back even further, and it’s still one of the most popular traditions in the country. If you’re in town at the right time, this is a must-do! Tickets sell out quickly, so act fast. You can book a ticket online here (you’ll be accompanied by a guide too, so you can learn more about the tradition as it unfolds before your eyes).

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Kamakura to see the giant Buddha statue (Daibutsu). It is over 13 meters (42 feet) tall and dates back to the 13th century. The journey is around 90 minutes each way — and free with the JR Pass !

For delicious food, some of my favorite bars and restaurants include: Uogashi Nihon-Ichi (Standing Sushi Bar), Nemuro Hanamaru KITTE Marunouchi, Motodane, Tokyo Whisky Library, Ichiran Shibuya, and Uohama.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO : Hostel Chapter Two – A small, family-run hostel not far from Skytree Station in Asakusa. I really like the shared kitchen and common room, as there’s a real social feel to them.

With its beauty come lots of crowds though, so try to visit outside of the busy summer months. Even with lots of tourists, though, the city is still magnificent and has a lot to offer. Some things to see and do that you shouldn’t miss are the following:

Visit the Golden Pavilion – This famous (and picturesque) temple dates to the 1950s, when a monk burned down the previous temple (from the 14th century) while trying to commit suicide. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most-visited destinations in the country!

Explore Gion – Gion, the historic geisha district, is renowned as being one of the most iconic and atmospheric areas of town. It’s known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and preservation of geisha (known locally as geiko) culture. Lining the main street are ochayas (teahouses where geishas entertain), small shops, and many restaurants, ranging from upscale kaiseki restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine to casual eateries.

To really learn more about this amazing party of town and its past, take a walking tour of Gion . You’ll learn a ton and get a lot of context. They cost around 1,800 JPY.

Wander in the Bamboo Forest – For a relaxing break, head to Arashiyama and let the dense and towering stands of bamboo envelop you. Located near the famous Tenryu-ji temple, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. It’s not that big, but there are some hidden areas to explore. Just make sure to arrive early if you want to enjoy it without the crowds (it fills up fast after sunrise).

While there, I would also recommend visiting the Okochi Sanso Garden, which (along with the home) belonged to the famous Japanese actor Denjir? ?k?chi (1898–1962). It’s not free (it’s 1,000 JPY), but it’s really nice and has some wonderful views.

Admire Ryoan-ji temple – This is my favorite temple in Kyoto. Originally established in 1450 as a residence for a high-ranking samurai, it was soon converted into a Zen temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a mausoleum that houses the remains of seven emperors. Its traditional rock and sand garden is considered one of the best in the country. There’s also a teahouse where you can experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ) as you overlook the Kyoyochi reflecting pool.

Wander the Nishiki Market Nishiki Ichiba is now one of the biggest indoor markets in town. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” and spanning over five blocks, it is full of vendors selling traditional dishes from the region, classic Kyoto souvenirs, and really just about anything else. There are over a hundred stalls here, many of which have been in the same family for generations. Opening hours depend on the shop but are typically from 9am to 6pm.

To dive deeper into Japanese food culture, you can take a food tour of the market . It’s the best way to learn about all the food you’ll see, as well as the market’s history.

For a half-day trip, you can also visit Nara. It’s a small city just one hour from Kyoto. Nara was the capital of Japan in the eighth century, so there are lots of buildings and temples here that are upwards of a thousand years old (which is rare in Japan, due to fires, as well as World War II). But the real draw in Nara are the deer.

Since the 17th century, those in and around the city have been considered sacred. You can buy crackers to feed them or just watch them stroll around carefree. A guided half-day walking tour that includes all of Nara’s highlights as well as a traditional lunch is 11,500 JPY.

While you’re here, don’t miss a visit to Todai-ji. It’s the world’s largest wooden building and is home to a 16-meter (52-foot) Buddha statue. It was built in 738 CE and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission is 600 JPY.

WHERE TO STAY IN KYOTO : Backpacker Hostel K’s House – A fun, social backpacker hostel in a great central location. The rooftop terrace is a cool spot to hangout and meet other travelers after a day of exploring.

Don’t miss Osaka Castle though. While it’s not the original (this version dates to 1931), it’s nevertheless an impressive sight. It’s home to a small but insightful museum and an observation deck that offers some picturesque city views.

And be sure to stroll down Dotonbori (ideally at night), the main street, which is lined with restaurants, stores, and tons of neon lights and signs. A guided walking tour that includes Dotonbori as well adjacent neighborhoods is 6,500 JPY.

Today, Hiroshima is thriving . Don’t miss the Atomic Bomb Museum, which depicts the history of the city before and after that fateful day. It has photos, artifacts, videos, and information about the effect of radiation on the population. It’s a sobering experience but one that should not be missed.

If you feel like getting out of town afterward, head to Miyajima , an island that offers a place to hike and enjoy nature. You can also take a cable car to the peak of the mountain to take in the view. A one-way ferry ride to the island takes 10 minutes and is free to JR Pass holders.

WHERE TO STAY IN HIROSHIMA : Roku Hostel – A cozy, small hostel with a rustic atmosphere and design. It feels like you’re staying with a friend here, and the beds are super comfy too.

If you like history, don’t miss the Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village, home to a collection of traditional thatch-roof houses that you can enter to further immerse yourself in the country’s past.

This city (and region, really) is famous for its Hida beef, a high-fat variety that’s even better than any A5 Wagyu you might have. It just melts in your mouth. Be sure to have some while you are here!

The Japanese Alps are not far from here as well, so if you love hiking and want to extend your time in the region, head to Kamikochi for a day hike or overnight trip. It’s just an hour away and has both easy and moderate trails, which are open from April to November. Hiking trails can also be found in Hakusan National Park (also just one hour away by car).

One of the more unique temples in Japan is here too: Ninja (Myoryuji) Temple. While the temple wasn’t home to actual ninjas, Myoryuji was built as a defensive structure (strict laws forbade local lords from building defenses, so they were hidden in the temple to circumvent the rules). These include hidden rooms, secret tunnels, and a maze of staircases and halls to confuse enemies.

If you need a break from exploring cities, Hakusan National Park, home to Mount Haku, one of the three holy mountains, is just an hour south of town.

If you’re here in April, there are incredible cherry blossom displays that are famous in the region. And, just like Takayama, Matsumoto is close to the Japanese Alps, so you’re just a stone’s throw from some of the best hiking in the country.

There are tons of hotels (both modern and traditional) that have their own hot springs (often both indoors and outdoors). It’s the perfect place to wrap up a trip, relax, and take in the views.

In addition to getting a copious amount of R&R, be sure to ride the cable car up the mountain for even more amazing views. The area is surrounded by craters from an inactive volcano that erupted 80,000 years ago (not to be confused with nearby Mount Fuji, which is an active volcano), and you’ll find lots of vendors at the top selling eggs cooked in the sulfurous waters. It’s said the eggs prolong one’s life by seven years, so feel free to give them a try!

If you prefer to hike up instead, the trail is open between July and September, with the trek taking anywhere from 5 to 12 hours, depending on your level of fitness. Typically, hikers leave at night in order to arrive at the summit by dawn. There are little shops along the way that sell food and even beds you can rent in advance if you want to split your journey up. Just make sure you do your research and prepare in advance as it’s a tough hike!

If you really want to play tourist, you can also ride a mock pirate ship around the lake for more views of the mountains, and Mount Fuji in particular.

Full-day tours around Hakone that include all the main sights cost 14,800 JPY.

WHERE TO STAY IN HAKONE : Hotel Green Plaza – With gorgeous views of Mount Fuji, a huge buffet dinner (with both Western and Japanese options), and a private onsen where you can relax and enjoy the view, this is one of the best places to stay in Hakone if you want value but don’t want to break the bank.  

Using the suggestions above, here’s how I would organize your itinerary:

• Days 1-3 : Tokyo
• Day 4 : Mount Fuji or Hakone
• Day 5 : Takayama
• Days 6 & 7 : Kanazawa
• Days 8 & 9 : Matsumoto
• Days 10-12 : Kyoto
• Days 13 & 14 : Osaka
• Days 15 & 16 : Hiroshima

If you do want to spend a few hours in Hakodate, don’t miss the Morning Market, where you can find lots of fresh seafood. You can also visit Fort Goryokaku, the first “Western”-style fort in the country.

Be sure to stop in at the local Beer Museum too, owned by Sapporo Breweries (the oldest beer company in the country). It showcases the history of beer in Japan and how the business got its start. If you’re a whiskey fan, stop by The Bow Bar, home to some rare (and expensive) whiskeys and considered one of the best such bars in the world.

What I love about the city is its location. This region has some of the best hiking in the country. There are plenty of hills and mountains, offering options for both day hikes as well as overnight trips. Some highlights include Mount Me-akan, Mount Asahim, Mount Mashu, and Nishibetsu-dake. For the best views of the city, head to Mount Moiwayama. It’s just a 30-60-minute hike to the top, though there is a cable car you can take as well.

And if you’re visiting in the winter, hit the slopes! There are over a hundred ski resorts in Hokkaido. You can rent skis (or a snowboard) for around 10,000-18,000 JPY. Lift prices are usually 4,000-6,000 JPY per day. In the winter, don’t miss the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. It’s held every February and draws over two million visitors. There are ice sculptures, igloos, live music, and delicious local foods on offer.

Additionally, be sure to take a day trip to Otaru, where you’ll find some of the freshest uni in the whole country (this is the main area where the famed Hokkaido uni is caught). Go hungry and visit the markets, stalls, and shops around there.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAPPORO : Waya Hostel – This is a laid-back, colorful hostel with a social atmosphere that makes meeting people a breeze. It has a homey, DIY feel and is perfect for budget travelers looking for a no-frills place to crash.

There is a ton to see and do in Japan , and you could easily spend another month here and still just scratch the surface (we didn’t even get to Okinawa and the islands!). And while these itineraries are a bit fast-paced, Japan isn’t cheap, so budget travelers need to move around the country quickly to avoid breaking the bank.

But no matter how long you visit, you won’t be disappointed. Japan is an amazing, beautiful, and unique destination that I never get tired of visiting. While it’s not as affordable as its neighbors, there are still plenty of ways to save money , and it’s definitely worth spending the time (and money) visiting. You won’t be disappointed!

Just make sure to get your Japan Rail Pass before you go!  

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money; information on costs; tips on what to see and do; suggested itineraries, reading, and packing lists; and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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2024 Japan Travel: Vacation Pacakges, Cost & Tips

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Japan, an island nation that extends from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south, includes thousands of islands and offers a wide variety of sights and activities. Japan experiences four distinct seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—each bringing its unique natural beauty and seasonal foods. April is a particularly special time when many parts of the country are decorated with the famous cherry blossoms. Japanese cuisine, a major part of any trip, varies widely across its 47 prefectures, each presenting local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Despite its varying landscapes from mountain areas to city areas, Japan’s train system makes traveling across the country very easy. Speaking even a little Japanese can improve your experience, and while the people are generally quiet, they are incredibly welcoming to visitors. Known for its safety and cleanliness, Japan remains one of the most wonderful and safe destinations for travelers around the world.

How Much is a Vacation to Japan?

Tokyo 5 star Hotel

Japan is considered a moderately expensive destination, but budget-friendly travel is also possible. Major expenses include flights , hotels , Internet( eSIMs ), transportation (like the JR Pass ), food, attraction and souvenirs. Generally, traveling to Japan for a 2-night, 3-day trip as a budget traveler can cost approximately $780 to $1,550 . This estimate includes round-trip flights from the US ($600-$1,200), budget accommodations ($40-$100), public transportation ($30-$50), meals at budget-friendly places ($60-$100), and sightseeing activities like visiting TeamLab Planets TOKYO ($50-$100). For a more extended visit or for those traveling with families or preferring luxury accommodations and dining, costs can range significantly higher, from $1,000 to over $10,000, influenced by choices in lodging, dining, and activities.

Round-trip flights usually cost between $500 and $1,200 (from USA). Hotel prices range from $20 to $50 per night for budget options, and more than $500 per night for luxury hotels. Japan's public transportation is extensive and a one-way subway or train ticket costs between $1.50 and $5. Dining out can also fit a budget, with meals at economical eateries costing $5 to $10, while mid-range travelers could expect to spend between $150 to $250 per day. For those looking to minimize food expenses, consider eating at convenience stores.

Planning and researching costs ahead of time can help manage your budget effectively.

Prices in Japan

Introduction to Japanese Currency

The official currency of Japan is the yen, represented by the symbol ¥ and under the currency code JPY. As of May 2024, the exchange rates are approximately 1 JPY = 0.0064 USD, 1 JPY = 0.0087 SGD and 1 JPY = 0.0060 EUR. This information is essential for travelers to plan their budgets effectively when converting your home currency to yen for expenses in Japan.

Cost of Living Summary

Living in Japan presents various costs depending on lifestyle and family size. For a family of four, the estimated monthly expenses excluding rent average around $2,912.70 (453,938.6¥). For a single person, monthly costs are typically around $825.40 (128,630.7¥) without rent. Overall, the cost of living in Japan is roughly 33.1% lower than in the United States, with rent being about 67.3% cheaper on average. Understanding these costs can help manage expectations and budget planning for both visitors and potential expatriates.

Japan Season, Weather & Clothing

Source from Weather Guide

Seasons and Top Places to Visit in Japan

Regional weather & what to wear in japan, tipping in japan.

While tipping is generally uncommon in Japan, there are specific instances where it can be appropriate, particularly in settings that cater predominantly to international tourists or offer highly personalized services. Below is a table outlining when and where tipping might be suitable:

Japan Travel Advice

• Natural Disasters : Always follow local advice for earthquakes and tsunamis. Download NHK’s app for live updates.
• Crime : While Japan is relatively safe, remain vigilant for petty theft, especially in tourist areas, and avoid unnecessary risks in nightlife settings.
• Health : Verify the legality of your medications before travel. Be prepared to pay upfront for medical services.
• Local Laws : Familiarize yourself with local customs and legal requirements, such as carrying identification and the implications of drug use.
• Driving : If you plan to drive, respect local laws regarding alcohol consumption. Be cautious when driving in winter due to snow and ice.

Japan Traditions and Taboos

• Etiquette : Proper manners are highly valued in Japan. Always be polite, especially in public transport and while dining.
• Tipping : Tipping is not customary and can be seen as offensive. Instead, express gratitude verbally or through polite gestures.
• Footwear : Be prepared to remove your shoes when entering homes, certain restaurants, temples, and ryokans (traditional inns).
• Onsen Etiquette : When visiting hot springs, wash thoroughly before entering the water and keep all towels out of the water.
• Temple Stays : If staying at a temple, participate respectfully in rituals and adhere to the guidelines provided.
• Festivals : Engage respectfully with local festivals, known as matsuri, which are integral to Japanese culture and offer a glimpse into local traditions.
• Clothing : Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites, and cover tattoos if possible, as they can be associated with negative connotations.

Japan Safety Tips

Top 20 attractions for japan vacation.

Top Attractions in Kanto

• 🏰 Tokyo Disneyland/ Tokyo DisneySea Dive into the magical world of Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea where family fun and iconic attractions await every visitor. Experience your favorite Disney stories and enjoy thrilling rides.
• 🗼 Tokyo Skytree Stand in awe at the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan, offering breathtaking panoramic views across Tokyo. A must-visit for a sky-high adventure!
• 🌸 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Escape to the tranquility of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of bustling Tokyo, famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

• 🌊 Minato Mirai 21 Explore Minato Mirai 21, a modern waterfront area perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying stunning views of the port city of Yokohama.

• 🏯 Toshogu Shrine Visit Toshogu Shrine, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history and ornate architecture.

Top Attractions in Kansai Region

• 🎬 Universal Studios Japan Thrill-seekers and movie buffs will love Universal Studios Japan, featuring movie-themed rides and attractions that bring blockbuster films to life.
• 🛍️ Namba Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Namba, a bustling district known for its dynamic shopping and entertainment options.

• ⛩️ Fushimi Inari Taisha Walk through thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most iconic and picturesque shrines.
• 🌟 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Marvel at Kinkaku-ji, a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, shimmering across its reflecting pond—a spectacular sight in all seasons.

• 🦌 Nara Park Stroll through Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming sika deer, offering a unique and natural experience amidst historic temples.

Top Attractions in Hokkaido Region

• 🍫 Shiroi Koibito Park Discover the sweet allure of Shiroi Koibito Park, where the famous white chocolate has been crafted into a deliciously memorable souvenir.
• 🌳 Odori Park Visit Odori Park, the vibrant heart of Sapporo that hosts numerous festivals and offers a lush, green respite from the urban hustle.

Top Attractions in Chubu Region

• 🗻 Mount Fuji Behold the majestic Mount Fuji, Japan's highest peak and an iconic symbol of natural beauty and endurance.

• 🌿 Kenrokuen Garden Explore Kenrokuen, one of Japan's "three great gardens," renowned for its perfect balance and seasonal beauty.

• 🏰 Nagoya Castle Admire the historical grandeur of Nagoya Castle, famous for its golden dolphins and storied past.

Top Attractions in Chugoku Region

• 🕊️ Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a poignant site dedicated to the memories of those affected by the atomic bomb in WWII.

Top Attractions in Shikoku Region

• 🛁 Dōgo Onsen Relax at Dōgo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, known for its healing waters and traditional bathhouse culture.

Top Attractions in Kyushu Region

• 🏯 Fukuoka Castle Ruins Explore the ruins of Fukuoka Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Japan's samurai past.

• 💣 Atomic Bomb Museum Gain a deeper understanding of WWII through the educational exhibits at the Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki.

Top Attractions in Okinawa Region

• 🏰 Shuri Castle Experience the regal splendor of Shuri Castle, a former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, rich in cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

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Foreign student numbers in Japan grew in 2023

After a sharp decline during the pandemic, the number of foreign students in Japan experienced a recovery in 2023, though it remains below prepandemic levels, a public survey found.

The survey results, released by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) on Friday , show a 20.8% increase in the number of foreign students — 279,274 — as of May 2023 compared with a year earlier. Over the same period, the number of foreign students enrolled in Japanese-language schools nearly doubled to an all-time high of 90,719.

JASSO is a quasi-autonomous agency responsible for scholarships and student loans.

In contrast, the number of foreign students enrolled in higher education institutions, which grew from 181,741 in 2022 to 188,555 in 2023, experienced a much slower increase. The latest figure represents just a little over 80% of the prepandemic level.

The number of foreign students enrolled in bachelor’s and associate degree programs even dropped by 2.4% compared with 2022.

In terms of origins, students from China continued to make up the largest proportion, at 115,493. But the number of students from Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh and the United States surpassed the figure in 2019, a year before the COVID-19 pandemic crippled transnational travel.

JASSO also investigated the number of Japanese students studying overseas — mostly those on exchange programs — using data from universities in Japan. Based on the latest data, which covers 2022, the number of Japanese students studying abroad increased fivefold from a year earlier to 58,162, though this is still less than half of 2019's figure.

The top destinations of Japanese students studying abroad in 2022 included the United States, Canada, Australia, South Korea and the United Kingdom, according to the survey.

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

GOBankingRates

10 Travel Cities That Are Becoming Too Expensive To Visit

Posted: May 24, 2024 | Last updated: May 24, 2024

In December 2023, Euromonitor Internation revealed the Top 100 City Destinations of the year, a period in which global tourism and the travel industry made a strong recovery after the pandemic. Not surprisingly, New York City was among the most popular destinations, ranking eighth, the highest placing of an American city.  

Check Out: 3 Places To Travel That Are Like Hawaii but Way Cheaper

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NYC also ranked eighth in GOBankingRates' 28 Most Expensive Tourist Destinations in the US study issued in June 2023. However, the city's strict crackdown on short-term rental laws and construction permits might move "The City That Never Sleeps" closer to #1 in short order.

It's not alone. According to Nadejda Popova, Senior Manager at Euromonitor International, "Some destinations are imposing restrictions, steep taxation or reduction of hotel capacity to help limit the influx of tourists and preserve cultural heritage, while others embrace dispersion strategies that promote alternative or off-the-beaten-path destinations." 

Of the 10 most-visited large cities in the world, New York City is already the priciest to visit, according to R u stic Pathways . The site, which caters to student travelers and those looking for study abroad programs, analyzed the average cost of accommodation, transportation and food and drinks from multiple travel providers and found that a one-night stay in NYC will cost you $687 (not including airfare, train or bus fare to the destination).  

Bigger cities and capitals offer tourists amazing experiences, but careful budgeting is necessary to travel to many places now. Going off the beaten track or choosing a cheap vacation spot might help, but if you've got your heart set on visiting a popular tourist destination, prepare in advance by saving up and researching affordable lodging and deals on food and beverages, entertainment and activities.    

Here are the ten priciest popular large city tourist destinations, according to Rustic Pathways.

10. Berlin, Germany -- $266/one-night visit

• Hotel: $138
• Transportation (not including airfare): $19
• Entertainment: $24
• Alcohol: $27
• Tips and Handouts: $2

Learn More: Barbara Corcoran: Here's Why I Never Fly First Class

Trending Now: 7 Vacation Destinations To Avoid on a Retirement Budget

9. Madrid, Spain -- $298/one-night visit

• Hotel: $167
• Transportation (not including airfare): $20
• Entertainment: $37
• Alcohol: $32
• Tips and Handouts: $5

Learn Next: 10 Best US Vacation Destinations for Retirees on a Budget

8. Tokyo, Japan -- $338/one-night visit

• Hotel: $155
• Transportation (not including airfare): $18
• Entertainment: $69
• Alcohol: $50
• Tips and Handouts: $8

7. Barcelona, Spain -- $340/one-night visit

• Hotel: $208
• Transportation (not including airfare): $21
• Entertainment: $36
• Alcohol: $28
• Tips and Handouts: $12

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands -- $374/one-night visit

• Hotel: $221
• Entertainment: $40
• Alcohol: $38
• Tips and Handouts: $7

Check This: Dave Ramsey: 7 Vacation Splurges That are a Waste of Money

5. Rome, Italy -- $383/one-night visit

• Hotel: $192
• Transportation (not including airfare): $23
• Entertainment: $39
• Alcohol: $30
• Tips and Handouts: $48

4. London, England -- $461/one-night visit

• Hotel: $310
• Transportation (not including airfare): $32
• Entertainment: $41
• Alcohol: $29
• Tips and Handouts: $6

3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates -- $465/one-night visit

• Hotel: $340
• Transportation (not including airfare): $13
• Entertainment: $19
• Alcohol: $34
• Tips and Handouts: $3

Read This: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

2. Paris, France -- $557/one-night visit

• Hotel: $327
• Entertainment: $84
• Alcohol: $40
• Tips and Handouts: $38

1. New York City, USA -- $687/one-night visit

• Hotel: $350
• Transportation (not including airfare): $49
• Entertainment: $180
• Alcohol: $44
• Tips and Handouts: $14

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AAA Memorial Day weekend travel forecast

by Matthew Saffer

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period. This year’s total number of travelers is a 4% increase over last year and comes close to matching 2005’s record of 44 million Memorial Day travelers. If it holds, it will be the second highest Memorial Day holiday travel forecast since AAA began tracking in 2000.

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

Road trips are expected to set a record. AAA projects 38.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, the highest number for that holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The number of drivers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019. Traveling by car is appealing for many people because of the convenience and flexibility it provides. This Memorial Day weekend drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was roughly $3.57. Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks. Prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway. The wildcard remains the cost of oil, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.

Airports are bracing for a spike in travelers. AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019. This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11. This Memorial Day weekend, air ticket prices are comparable to last year. AAA booking data shows a 1% to 2% increase in prices for domestic flights. Several factors play into how much travelers pay for airfare, including destination, number of stops, and fare class. For example, passengers who book nonstop flights with seat selection and carry-on bags included will likely pay more than those who select basic economy with a layover.

Nearly two million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. AAA projects 1.9 million people will take these other modes of transportation, an increase of 5.6% compared to last year.

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro

INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX.

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.

• Thursday, May 2312:00 - 6: 00 PMBefore 11 AM, After 7PM
• Friday, May 2412:00 - 7:00 PMBefore 11AM, After 8 PM
• Saturday, May 252:00 - 5:00 PMBefore 1 PM, After 6 PM
• Sunday, May 263:00 - 7:00 PMBefore 1 PM
• Monday, May 273:00 - 7:00 PMAfter 7 PM

Peak Congestion by Metro

• AtlantaAtlanta to Savannah via I-16 ESaturday 4:45 PM5 hours 31 minutes
• BostonManchester to Boston via I-93 SSunday 8:45 AM1 hour 48 minutes
• ChicagoMilwaukee to Chicago via I-94 ESunday 4:30 PM2 hours 25 minutes
• DenverFort Collins to Denver via I-25 SSunday 4:15 PM1 hours 24 minutes
• DetroitKalamazoo to Detroit via I-94 ESunday 8:45 PM2 hours 48 minutes
• HoustonGalveston to Houston via I-45 NSunday 5:00PM1 hours 11 minutes
• Los AngelesLA to Bakersfield via I-5 NThursday 6:15 PM2 hours 45 minutes
• MinneapolisEau Claire to Minneapolis via I-94 WMonday 8:45 AM1 hour 47 minutes
• New YorkNew York to Albany via I-87NThursday 11:45 AM2 hours 37 minutes
• PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia to Baltimore/DC via I-95Friday 7:30 AM2 hours 1 minute
• PortlandHood River to Portland via I-84 WMonday 6:30 PM1 hour 20 minutes
• San DiegoSan Diego to Palm Springs via I-15 NFriday 6:15 PM3 hours 4 minutes
• San FranciscoSan Francisco to Napa via I-80 EFriday 11:00 AM1 hour 25 minutes
• SeattleEllensburg to Seattle via I-90 ESunday 4:30 PM2 hours 34 minutes
• TampaGainesville to Tampa via I-75 SSunday 9:00 AM3 hours 47 minutes
• Washington, DCWashington, DC to Baltimore via Balt/Wash Pkwy NFriday 2:15 PM1 hour 21 minutes

Top Destinations:

This Memorial Day weekend, travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California. Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver rank high because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed.

The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data:

• Orlando, FL
• Seattle, WA
• New York, NY
• Las Vegas, NV
• Anaheim/Los Angeles, CA
• Anchorage, AK
• Fort Lauderdale, FL

INTERNATIONAL

• Rome, Italy
• Vancouver, B.C., Canada
• London, England
• Paris, France
• Dublin, Ireland
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Athens, Greece
• Barcelona, Spain
• St. George, Bermuda
• Edinburgh, Scotland

Travel Trends

As travelers make plans for summer and beyond, AAA Travel has identified the following trends:

• Bucket Lists: Travelers taking once-in-a-lifetime trips
• Milestones: Families booking anniversary, retirement, and family reunion trips
• Asia: More travelers interested in visiting Asia, especially Japan
• Solo Trips: More people, especially women, interested in traveling by themselves
• Luxury Vacations: More travelers seeking high-end cruises and tours
• Trains: Many travelers interested in rail vacations across New England, Canada, and Europe
• Adventure in Nature: Travelers booking trips to Antarctica, Africa, and South Pacific

Travel Agent Survey

• A recent survey of AAA travel agents highlights topics travelers are frequently discussing when booking trips:
• Travel Insurance: 51% of agents say more travelers are interested in protecting their trips
• Cruises: 77% of agents say travelers are interested in ocean cruises and 67% say river cruises
• All-Inclusive: 70% of agents say travelers are interested in all-inclusive vacations

Visit Japan Web: The Online Registration Before Arriving in Japan

Japanese customs: mysos replaced from november, 14,  2022.

During the Covid pandemic, entry procedures in Japan have changed a lot, which created some confusion. It is still somewhat the case after the reopening to tourism since October 11, even if a focus has been placed on easing the procedures especially through digitalization , to minimize human interactions and subsequent contamination risks.

Until recently, the Japanese government asked visitors to install specific app on their smartphones:

• MySOS, for advance registration of information regarding vaccine status / PCR test, for faster airport procedures in Japan (the "fast track" system)
• COCOA, an app to track contact-cases and infected persons, but it was discontinued in September 2022.

MySOS was not mandatory but highly recommended . Travelers who could not use the app were directed upon their arrival in Japan to a specific line in order to complete the necessary steps (showing a valid vaccination certificate / PCR test, etc.) which lengthened their time at the airport.

New website available since November 1st, 2022

In mid-October 2022, a new change in the procedure has been announced for all entry in Japan from November 14 included : every traveler (tourist, foreign resident and Japanese citizen alike) can register in advance on the Visit Japan Web site.

Visit Japan Web is a free, single portal to group formalities related to:

• Covid-19   🦠 ( quarantine , vaccination certificate, PCR test); The Pre-registration for Quarantine Procedures section collects the information that were previously filled in the MySOS app ("Fast Track" function);
• Immigration : the Disembarkation Card for Foreigner that was formerly handed in the plane  ✈️ just before landing (does not concern Japanese citizens and foreign permanent residents);
• Customs  🛂 , with the Declaration of Personal effects and Unaccompanied Articles , to fill upon arrival, formerly either on a paper form or on the Japanese government’s Zeikan shinkoku app (税関申告アプリ).

In the facts, registering on the website has been possible since November 1, 2022 , for any arrival in Japan from November 14 in one of its largest airports:

• Tokyo -Narita,
• Tokyo-Haneda,
• Osaka - Kansai (KIX),
• Chubu ( Nagoya ),
• Fukuoka ( Kyushu ),
• New Chitose ( Hokkaido ) and
• Naha ( Okinawa ).

Travelers arriving in Japan before November 14, 2022, can still use the MySoS app to fill their Covid related data and are not the target of the Visit Japan Web.

1 blue screen and 2 QR Codes to show on a smartphone

Like with MySOS previously, each step of the registration process is ended by a change in the page display that includes:

• A blue screen , for a successful quarantine procedure registration,
• and the creation of 2 QR Codes for customs and immigration procedures.

Once all the steps are completed, a visitor’s smartphone  📱 will display first a blue screen, then 2 QR Codes to show at each checkpoint.

Starting April 29, 2023 , according to March 10 and April 26 latest announcements of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, some of the borders restrictions will be lifted and the Covid-19 quarantine procedure (blue screen) will not be required anymore .

It is highly recommended to register before departing for Japan : at the latest 6h prior to the flight’s departure, and ideally within the 10 preceding days , in order to allow time for the review of the submitted documents. Reviews are sorted by date of arrival in Japan . Visit Japan Web is available in English.

Whether you are fully vaccinated or not, consider using Visit Japan Web to make sure to board your flight to Japan, as airlines reserve the right to refuse passengers who may potentially be banned at the Quarantine Procedures step.

The necessary documents are:

• A valid email address (will be used as a user ID to each access to Visit Japan Web);
• Until April 29, 2023 , Covid vaccination certificate or negative PCR test result taken less than 72 hours before departure and translated in English (use the Japanese-English form provided by the Japanese Ministry of Health here );
• An address in Japan (for example, of the first accommodation you will be staying at).

If traveling with underage children , it is possible to register them on the same Visit Japan Web account (up to 10 travelers). Dependent or handicapped adults who cannot go through the procedures alone can also be registered in the Family members traveling with you section. However, each of them has to have their own passport or equivalent immigration document.

Each member of the family registered on the same account will also have their blue screen and 2 QR Codes, to show at checkpoints at the arrival airport in Japan.

Like with MySOS, registering with Visit Japan Web is not mandatory , however it helps going through the entry procedures in Japan faster, and reduces the hurdles of tedious formalities after 12 hours of more spent in a plane.

On April 5, 2023, Kono Taro, the Japanese Minister of Digital Affairs, announced that travelers are no longer required to show any document at arrival airport’s quarantine in Japan . However, filling information forms for immigration and customs is still a requirement.

Additional tips and advice

An Internet  📶 connection is required to use the Visit Japan Web site, especially to create the account, fill in the user’s information, and their family’s when applicable (name, passport number, etc.), the forms regarding vaccination or PCR test and create the first QR Code. The digital Disembarkation Card for Foreigners and custom procedures can be completed offline and the QR codes created upon arrival at the airport.

Creating a Visit Japan Web account is possible on a computer (Chrome browser is recommended) or on a smartphone (Chrome browser recommended on Android). In any case, before departure, make sure to be logged in only on the device you will use to travel (a smartphone ideally), and check that all information is up-to-date.

Questions asked at immigration and customs procedures are the same than on the paper forms. In any event, official Japanese sources (the Embassy of Japan or the Border Control page of the Japanese Ministry of Health for example) are the ultimate references regarding entry procedures in Japan and should be checked frequently.

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Keikaku is a travel agency specialist of Japan and providing different kind of services:

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Kanas are the much-needed basic characters of written Japanese language. Memorize them at a fast pace with our method.

Ask any kind of question and share your knowledge about Japan in Kanpai’s community space, our Q&A section Kotaete.

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