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Planning a Trip to Japan? Here’s What You Need to Know

From mid-October, Australians will once again be able to travel to Japan without a visa or tour group. It’s great news for Australians who have been waiting to travel to Japan after the pandemic. But there are some important things to consider if you’re planning a trip to Japan yourself. Here’s what you need to know.

How Japan’s Border Restrictions Are Changing

From October 11, Japan is making several important changes to its border controls. To break it down for you, the key points are:

  • Tourists from Australia (and other countries with visa exemptions) can now travel to Japan without a visa.
  • Tourists are no longer required to travel on package tours.
  • Travelers are no longer required to undergo a COVID-19 test on arrival unless they are suspected of being infected with COVID-19.
  • There is no longer a cap on daily arrivals to Japan. Previously, Japan was only allowing 50,000 entrants per day.
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What Documents Do You Need to Enter Japan?

To enter Japan, you will need to provide a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate with at least three doses or provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to departure. It’s important to note that rapid antigen tests are not accepted — you will need to take an approved test, such as a PCR. You will also need to fill out a COVID-19 questionnaire as part of Japan’s quarantine procedures.

Japan’s authorities recommend you upload your documents and fill out the questionnaire using the ‘Fast Track’ pre-application system and MySOS app. When you’re in Japan, you can simply open the app on your phone to show quarantine officials. It’s a seamless process that ensures your medical history is easily accessible.

Fast Track Pre-Application System
Image Source: iblog

Do I Need to Wear a Mask?

In Japan, you’ll be expected to wear a mask when you can’t social distance. Japan is still very conservative in terms of its approach to the pandemic and the virus. Some restaurants will also enforce social distancing by physically separating diners. For instance, there may be a plastic protector separating you and your partner when you’re having a meal. It’s important to respect these measures to ensure everyone’s safety.

If you’re planning a trip to a theme park or other major attraction, keep in mind that it might be harder to purchase a ticket than before the pandemic. They’re limiting the pre-purchasing of tickets and controlling numbers for crowd management purposes.

Is It Expensive to Travel to Japan Now?

Japan is a relatively affordable travel destination, but flights are more expensive now than they were pre-COVID. The airline industry has to regain a lot of lost territory, and other factors like fuel prices contribute to this increase. However, there are often cheaper deals available on budget carriers, so make sure to explore all your options.

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The good news is that once you’re in Japan, you’ll find your wallet stretches more than it would back home. Japan is a relatively cheap destination to start with, and Australians might also benefit from the weak yen. Each Australian dollar is now worth over 90 yen, a higher rate than at nearly any time in the last five years.

Autumn in Japan
Image Source: iblog

What to Do in Japan

Whether you want to experience the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, stroll through the ancient capital of Kyoto, or visit Japan’s famous ski slopes, there’s plenty on offer for tourists. Japan is now entering autumn, which is a great time to explore the outdoors. The country is ablaze in color, and the Japanese are great nature lovers. The winter season is also popular, especially among Australians eager to hit the ski slopes after two seasons of absence. The ski seasons in Japan have been brilliant in recent years. Additionally, the peak travel season is spring, from March to May. During spring, the weather is mild, and tourists can see Japan’s famous cherry blossoms in bloom. Japan keeps offering different reasons to travel and is very attractive from that point of view.

Where You Can Get the Latest Travel Information for Japan

To stay up to date with the latest travel information for Japan, you can refer to the following sources:

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling to Japan:

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Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?
A: Australians (and other countries with visa exemptions) can now travel to Japan without a visa.

Q: What documents do I need to enter Japan?
A: You will need to provide a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to departure.

Q: Do I need to wear a mask in Japan?
A: Yes, you are expected to wear a mask when you can’t social distance.

Q: Is it expensive to travel to Japan now?
A: Flights are more expensive now than before the pandemic, but once you’re in Japan, it is relatively affordable, and the weak yen benefits Australians.

Q: What are some popular activities in Japan?
A: Exploring the outdoors during autumn, visiting Tokyo and Kyoto, and enjoying the ski slopes are popular activities for tourists in Japan.

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Japan has become easier for Australians with the recent changes to border restrictions. Make sure to have the necessary documents, follow safety protocols, and take advantage of the beautiful attractions Japan has to offer. Remember to stay updated with the latest travel information from reliable sources before your trip. Happy travels!

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