Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2025: JESTA Pre-Registration
Starting in 2025, many visa-exempt travelers to Japan will need to complete the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) online pre-registration (free for most), which links your passport to biometric data and is valid for multiple entries over three years. Apply via the official app or website at least 72 hours before departure to ensure smooth processing at immigration.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Japan, with at least one blank page for entry stamps. Biometric passports are required for visa-free entry, and it's wise to have six months validity if transiting through other countries.
Always carry your passport as it's checked frequently, especially on trains and at accommodations.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of over 70 countries including the US, EU nations, UK, Canada, Australia, and many Asian countries can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays up to 90 days. This covers short-term visits without employment or study.
Confirm your eligibility on the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, as rules can update based on bilateral agreements.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring visas, apply at a Japanese embassy or consulate with documents like a valid passport, application form, photos, itinerary, proof of funds (around ¥10,000/day), and return ticket. Fees range from ¥3,000-6,000, and processing takes 5-10 business days.
Multiple-entry visas are available for frequent travelers, valid up to 5 years with sufficient justification.
Border Crossings
Japan's airports like Narita and Haneda have efficient immigration with fingerprint and photo scans; expect 30-60 minutes for processing. Sea ports for ferries from Korea or China involve similar checks but are less crowded.
No land borders, so all entries are by air or sea; declare any restricted items like fresh food at customs to avoid fines.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies (Japan's healthcare is excellent but expensive for foreigners), trip delays, and lost baggage. Policies should include ¥1,000,000+ in medical coverage and start from ¥500/day.
Many credit cards offer basic coverage, but verify it includes evacuation from remote areas like Hokkaido.
Extensions Possible
Visa-free stays can be extended up to 90 additional days for compelling reasons like medical needs or family emergencies by applying at a local immigration office with supporting documents and a fee of around ¥4,000. Approval isn't guaranteed and requires proof you won't overstay.
Plan ahead, as extensions must be requested before your current stay expires to avoid penalties.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Japan uses the Japanese Yen (¥). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Tokyo or Osaka by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at konbini (convenience stores) for bento boxes under ¥500 or standing soba shops for ¥800 meals, avoiding tourist traps to cut food costs by up to 60%.
Explore depachika (department store food halls) for high-quality, affordable picnic items and seasonal treats.
Public Transport Passes
Invest in a Japan Rail Pass (¥50,000 for 7 days) for unlimited Shinkansen travel, saving 50%+ on intercity routes like Tokyo to Kyoto.
Local IC cards like Suica or Pasmo offer seamless fares and discounts on city buses and trains.
Free Attractions
Visit iconic sites like Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, which are free and provide deep cultural immersion without entry fees.
Many national parks and hiking trails, such as those in Nikko, offer stunning views at no cost, especially off-peak.
Card vs Cash
Cash is king in Japan, especially for small vendors and rural areas; ATMs at 7-Eleven or post offices give the best rates for foreign cards.
Cards are increasingly accepted in cities, but carry ¥10,000-20,000 daily to avoid fees from currency exchange counters.
Museum Passes
Utilize city-specific passes like the Tokyo Museum Pass (¥2,000 for 3 days) for access to 80+ sites, recouping costs after just two visits.
National discounts for students or seniors can further reduce entry to places like the Tokyo National Museum.
Smart Packing for Japan
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack versatile layers for Japan's varied climates, including lightweight breathable fabrics for humid summers and thermal base layers for winter chills in Hokkaido. Include modest clothing like long pants or skirts for temple visits to respect local customs.
Opt for wrinkle-resistant items since you'll be on the move; a packable rain jacket is indispensable year-round due to frequent showers.
Electronics
Bring a Type A/B plug adapter (100V, 50/60Hz), portable Wi-Fi hotspot or eSIM for connectivity, and a universal power bank for long train rides. Download offline translation apps like Google Translate and maps for navigation in low-English areas.
A lightweight camera or smartphone stabilizer is great for capturing cherry blossoms or cityscapes without bulk.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance details, a basic first-aid kit with motion sickness remedies for boats or trains, and any personal medications (with English labels for pharmacies). Include high-SPF sunscreen, even in winter, and masks for crowded public transport.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes are essential, as public restrooms may lack soap, and for hygiene during onsen visits.
Travel Gear
Pack a compact daypack for urban exploring, a reusable water bottle (tap water is safe), and a lightweight scarf for sun protection or temple etiquette. Include a money belt or neck pouch for securing cash and passport in busy areas like Shibuya.
Photocopies of your passport and itinerary, plus a small notebook for jotting down addresses in Japanese characters.
Footwear Strategy
Choose comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for Japan's pedestrian-friendly cities, where you'll average 10,000+ steps daily on uneven surfaces. For hiking in areas like the Japanese Alps, pack sturdy trail shoes with good grip.
Include indoor slippers or socks for ryokans and homes, as shoes are removed indoors; lightweight sandals work for summer festivals.
Personal Care
Bring travel-sized toiletries compliant with airline rules, including lip balm for dry winter air and a compact towel for onsen or unexpected rain. Eco-friendly sunscreen and insect repellent are key for outdoor activities in mosquito-prone summers.
A small laundry bag and quick-dry underwear help manage packing for multi-week trips across islands like Honshu and Kyushu.
When to Visit Japan
Spring (March-May)
Prime time for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) across Tokyo and Kyoto, with mild temperatures of 10-20°C and blooming landscapes. Fewer crowds early in the season make it ideal for serene park picnics and temple hikes.
Golden Week (late April-early May) brings festivals but higher prices; shoulder months offer better deals.
Summer (June-August)
Hot and humid (25-35°C) with vibrant matsuri (festivals) like Gion in Kyoto and fireworks displays; great for beach escapes in Okinawa. Typhoon season starts in September, but early summer is perfect for sumo tournaments and hiking Mount Fuji.
Expect crowds and rain, but indoor attractions like museums provide relief from the heat.
Autumn (September-November)
Stunning koyo (autumn foliage) in places like Nikko and Arashiyama, with comfortable 15-25°C weather ideal for onsen soaks and rural drives. Harvest festivals and fewer tourists mean lower costs and peaceful exploration.
Mid-November peaks for colors in central Japan, offering a magical contrast to spring's blooms.
Winter (December-February)
Cool 0-10°C with snowscapes in Hokkaido for skiing and hot springs, plus illuminations and New Year's shrine visits in Tokyo. Budget-friendly off-peak rates make it great for cultural immersion without summer humidity.
Northern regions see heavy snow for winter sports, while southern areas remain mild for city sightseeing.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Japanese Yen (¥). ATMs are widespread; exchange rates fluctuate. Cards accepted in cities but cash preferred elsewhere.
- Language: Japanese is primary; English signage in tourist areas, but limited spoken. Use apps for translation.
- Time Zone: Japan Standard Time (JST), UTC+9 (no daylight saving)
- Electricity: 100V, 50/60Hz. Type A/B plugs (two flat pins, sometimes grounded)
- Emergency Number: 110 for police, 119 for medical or fire (English support available)
- Tipping: Not customary and can offend; service is included in prices
- Water: Tap water is safe and delicious throughout Japan
- Pharmacies: Easily found; look for "kusuriya" signs. Drugstores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi are common