Japan

The Land of Sakura
and Shinto

Flag of Japan

Japan, an island nation in East Asia, is renowned for its unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. Japan continues to captivate visitors with its rich cultural heritage and modern innovations. Home to iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji, historic temples in Kyoto, and the bustling streets of Tokyo, Japan offers a diverse range of experiences.

Japanese culture is deeply rooted in traditions such as tea ceremonies, sumo wrestling, and kabuki theater, while also embracing contemporary pop culture and anime. The cuisine is world-famous, featuring delicate sushi, hearty ramen, and savory tempura. Known for its punctuality, efficient public transportation, and polite society, Japan presents a fascinating destination that seamlessly combines the old and the new.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Japan.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in Japan. While Japan does not strictly require 3 months validity beyond your stay, some neighboring countries you may transit through might, so it’s best to have at least 6 months validity to avoid issues.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from 68 countries (e.g., US, Canada, EU countries, Australia, South Korea) can enter Japan with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list (e.g., India, China, Philippines) must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Japan through a Japanese embassy or consulate.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Japan using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 90 days (tourist visa, Temporary Visitor Visa). Typically single-entry, with validity up to 90 days; some nationalities (e.g., US, Canada) can get multiple-entry visas valid for up to 5 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work, study, or family visa). Valid for one year or more, allowing application for a residence permit (Certificate of Eligibility required).

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are limited to 90 days for most eligible nationalities (some, like Austria, are limited to 6 months). Extensions are rarely granted for tourist visas.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities) require sponsorship. A landing permission stamp is issued on arrival for visa-exempt visitors.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Japan may reintroduce measures like vaccination proof or health declarations.
Toll

Driving in Japan

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Japan has an extensive network of toll roads, primarily expressways, including:
    • Tomei Expressway: Connecting Tokyo to Nagoya, a major toll road.
    • Hokkaido Expressway: Linking Sapporo to other parts of Hokkaido.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type, distance traveled, and time of day. For example, a standard car may pay approximately JPY 3,000-10,000 (Japanese Yen) for a trip from Tokyo to Nagoya on the Tomei Expressway. For the most current rates, visit the NEXCO (Nippon Expressway Company) website: https://www.nexco.co.jp/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Japanese Yen (JPY) is accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths on expressways.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) cards are widely used; vehicles with an ETC device can pass through dedicated lanes. Renters can request an ETC card with a rental car or purchase one at convenience stores.

Driving in Japan

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40-60 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h (some expressways allow 120 km/h)
  • Road conditions are excellent; Japan’s highways and urban roads are well-maintained, but rural roads in mountainous areas (e.g., Japanese Alps) can be narrow, winding, or snowy in winter.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your national driver’s license, valid for 1 year (must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention; some countries’ IDPs, like those from Germany, are not accepted). A Japanese license is required for longer stays.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Japan does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected at specific points on expressways.
  • Road Safety: Driving is generally safe, but urban areas like Tokyo can be congested, and rural roads may have sharp turns. Be cautious of cyclists and pedestrians, especially in cities.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable across Japan; rental cars often include English GPS. Apps like Google Maps work well, but keep an updated physical map as a backup for remote areas.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 110 for police, 119 for ambulance or fire.

Useful Links

Japan Currency

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1,000, 2,000 (rare), 5,000, 10,000 JPY
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 JPY
  • Symbol: ¥ (often written as JPY)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and major hotels in cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas for direct JPY withdrawals; many (e.g., at 7-Eleven or Japan Post) accept international cards, though some may have limited hours.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small establishments; Japan remains a cash-heavy society despite growing digital payment use.
  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments, but smaller shops or restaurants may be cash-only. Contactless payments (e.g., Suica, Pasmo) are common for transport and convenience stores.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and in rural areas, as digital payments are not universal. Consider getting a prepaid IC card (e.g., Suica) for convenience in cities.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the JPY fluctuates against major currencies.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Japan website: https://www.boj.or.jp/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Japan

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Japan, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities (including some prescription medications like Adderall) can lead to arrest; check regulations before bringing medication.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted (legal drinking age is 20); public intoxication is frowned upon but rarely penalized unless disruptive.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and on many streets in cities like Tokyo and Osaka; use designated smoking areas to avoid fines.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local customs; bow when greeting, remove shoes when entering homes or traditional spaces (e.g., ryokans), and avoid loud behavior in public. Do not discuss sensitive historical topics (e.g., WWII) casually.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized nationally (some cities offer partnership certificates). Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, especially in rural areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, some shrines/temples (e.g., inside Ise Grand Shrine), and private property. Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially during festivals or at religious sites.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 3 bottles (approx. 760ml each) of spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over JPY 1 million (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, certain medications (e.g., pseudoephedrine in large quantities), and fresh produce (e.g., fruits, vegetables).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Narita International Airport in Tokyo).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Japan National Tourism Organization or the Consumer Affairs Agency.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Enoshima, Shirahama) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated at major beaches but not always implemented in smaller ones.

Key Resources

Japan Travel Safety

Japan is generally very safe for travellers, with extremely low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Japan.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is extremely rare, even in crowded areas like Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing or Osaka’s Dotonbori. Violent crime against tourists is almost unheard of.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Japan is considered one of the safest countries, with a welcoming atmosphere. Female travelers may face occasional harassment (e.g., on crowded trains), but overall risks are low. Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving is straightforward, but urban areas like Tokyo can be congested, and rural roads (e.g., in Hokkaido) can be icy in winter.
    • Avoid driving in mountainous areas at night due to narrow roads and wildlife (e.g., deer in Hokkaido).
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe to drink nationwide.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; Japanese cuisine (e.g., sushi, raw fish) is generally safe if from reputable sources.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and Japanese encephalitis (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Minimal risk; use insect repellent in rural areas (e.g., during summer in Hokkaido) to guard against Japanese encephalitis.
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Mount Fuji at 3,776m). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated if climbing.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: High-quality facilities like Tokyo Medical University Hospital offer excellent care. Rural areas may have limited English-speaking services.
  • Pharmacies: Widely available in cities; over-the-counter medications are limited, so bring prescriptions with proper documentation.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, though local care is generally reliable.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance or fire).
  • Ambulance: 119 | Fire: 119 | Police: 110.
  • Tourist Police (Tokyo): +81 3 3503 8484.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Renting a car is straightforward; toll roads can be expensive, so plan routes. Public transport (e.g., Shinkansen, metro) is often more convenient.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for treks like Mount Fuji or the Nakasendo Trail; weather can change rapidly, especially in summer (typhoon season: June-October).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid pointing or using chopsticks improperly (e.g., sticking them upright in rice, which resembles a funeral ritual).
  • Air Quality: Generally excellent, but pollen (e.g., cedar in spring) can affect allergies; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Japan

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