Japan International Travel Information (2024)

Criminal Penalties:You are subject to Japanese law while you are in Japan. If you violate Japanese laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, imprisoned, or deported. I f you are arrested in Japan, even for a minor offense, you may be held in detention without bail for several months or more during the investigation and legal proceedings.

Furthermore, some offences are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of Japanese law. For examples, see our website oncrimes against minors abroadand theDepartment of Justicewebsite.

The vast majority of arrests of U.S. citizens in Japan are for drug-related offenses, and arrestees often spend months or years in detention. Japanese authorities aggressively pursue drug smugglers and users, including recreational users with sophisticated detection equipment, "sniffing" dogs, blood tests, “stop and frisk” tactics, and other methods. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking a drug that is illegal in Japan are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and fines. Please note that some drugs which may be legal in certain jurisdictions outside of Japan, including marijuana and synthetic drugs, remain illegal in Japan. This also applies to certain prescription drugs that doctors in the United States may prescribe. Having a prescription for medical marijuana does not exempt you from Japanese law, which makes no distinction between medical and recreational marijuana. Even possession of a small amount for personal use can result in a long jail sentence and fine. Japanese customs officials carefully screen incoming packages, and individuals who are mailed drugs can be arrested and prosecuted as drug traffickers.

Confiscation of Prescription Drugs and Other Medication:It is important to note that some medications that are routinely prescribed in the United States, including Adderall, are strictly prohibited in Japan. The Japanese government decides which medications may be imported legally into Japan. The Embassy and consulates of Japan in the United States have limited information available and do not have a comprehensive list of specific medications or ingredients. Please see moreinformation on importing medicinesinto Japan.

You must carry your U.S. passport or Japanese Residence Card (Zairyu Kado) with you at all times. In Japan, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport or Japanese residence card to show your identity and status in Japan (e.g., as a visitor, student, worker, or permanent resident).

It is illegal to work in Japan while in tourist or visa-waiver status. Overstaying your visa or working illegally may lead to fines of several thousands of dollars, and in some cases, re-entry bans as long as 10 years, or indefinitely for drug offenders. For additional information please seeJapan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Actand contact the Japanese Embassy or nearest Japanese consulate in the United States for more information.

Laws governing rape, sexual commerce, and other activity involving sexual relations do not apply to same-sex sexual activity. This definition leads to lower penalties for perpetrators of male rape and greater legal ambiguity surrounding same-sex prostitution.

Driving under the influence of alcohol could also land you immediately in jail. The blood-alcohol limit in Japan is 0.03%. Punishments can be up to 10,000 USD in fines and up to five years in prison.

Possession of a gun or ammunition is a crime in Japan. Carrying a knife with a locking blade, or a folding blade that is longer than 5.5 cm (a little more than two inches), is illegal in Japan. U.S. citizens and U.S. military personnel have been arrested and detained for more than 10 days for carrying pocket knives that are legal in the United States but illegal in Japan. The possession of lock-picking tools is illegal in Japan.

Alist of English-speaking lawyerslocated throughout Japan is available on ourwebsite.

Arrest Notification:If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See the Department of State’s webpageand the Embassy’s website for additional information.

Faith-Based Travelers:See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information

International Religious Freedom Report– see country reports

Human Rights Report– see country reports

Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI+ events in Japan.

SeeourLGBTQI+ Travel Informationpage and section 6 of ourHuman Rights reportfor further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:Although Japan’s accessibility laws mandate that new construction projects for public use include provisions for persons with disabilities, older buildings are not likely to have been retrofitted for accessibility. At major train stations, airports, and hotels, travelers with disabilities should encounter few accessibility problems. Note that many smaller stations are inaccessible to those who cannot climb stairs. Information on travel in Japan for travelers with disabilities is available atAccessible Japan.

Travelers with disabilities can learn more about resources available in country from the Japan National Tourism Organization’straveling with a disability page.

Students:See ourStudents Abroadpage andFBI travel tips.

Women Travelers:See our travel tips forWomen Travelers.

Conditions at Prisons and Detention Facilities:Japanese prisons and detention facilities maintain internal order through a regime of very strict discipline. U.S. citizen prisoners often complain of stark, austere living conditions and psychological isolation. Heating in winter can be inadequate in some facilities, food portions can be significantly smaller than what many may be accustomed to, and access to specialized medical care, particularly mental health care, at detention facilities and prisons is sometimes limited. Additionalinformation on arrests in Japanis available on our embassy website.

Customs Regulations:Please contact the Japanese Embassy or nearest Japanese consulate in the United States, orvisit the Japanese Customs websitefor specific information regarding import restrictions and customs requirements.

Japanese customs authorities encourage the use of an Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission (ATA) Carnet in order to temporarily import professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and trade fairs into Japan. For additional information, please call (212) 354-4480, oremail the U.S. CIBfor details.

Pets:The JapaneseAnimal Quarantine Service(AQS) sets procedures for importing pets. At a minimum, the process will take seven to eight months, though the process can take up to a year before a pet may enter Japan. Advance planning is critical. You can find more information aboutimporting a pet into Japanor information aboutexporting a pet from Japanon ourEmbassy website.

Employment Issues:U.S. citizens should not come to Japan to work without having the proper employment visa arranged ahead of time. Teaching English, even privately, and serving as hosts/hostesses are both considered "work" in Japan and are illegal without the proper visa.

Some U.S.-based employment agencies and Japanese employers do not fully or correctly represent the true nature of employment terms and conditions. A minimum requirement for effectively seeking the protection of Japanese labor law is a written and signed work contract. If there is no signed contract, Japanese authorities are not able to act on behalf of foreign workers. If you are coming to Japan to work, carefully review your contract and the history and reputation of your Japanese employer before traveling to Japan. Complaints against U.S.-based employment agencies or recruiters may be directed to theBetter Business Bureauor the Office of the Attorney General in that particular state.

Disaster Preparedness:Japan is prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and landslides. See theEmbassy’s webpage for recommendations and steps you can take to prepare for an emergency. The Japan Tourism Organization’sSafety Tips appand NHK World app provide Japanese government emergency “J-Alerts” to your cell phone in English through push notifications. “J-Alerts” can provide early warning emergency alerts on earthquakes predicted in a specific area, sometimes seconds before an earthquake hits.

Radiation: f*ckushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant:The Government of Japan continues to closely monitor the conditions at and around the f*ckushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. You should comply with all travel restrictions and cautions put into place by the Government of Japan for areas surrounding the plant. For more information, contact theJapan Nuclear Regulation Authority.

Japan International Travel Information (2024)

FAQs

Can international travelers enter Japan? ›

Your valid visa and passport ​ OR visa exempt passport. 2. Complete the customs and immigration procedures via Visit Japan Web OR complete the customs and immigration procedures by paper upon arrival to Japan. Visit Japan Web is a web service for smooth arrival procedure at airport.

Are there any travel restrictions for Japan? ›

Yes, visa free tourism resumed October 11, 2022. Tourists with U.S. passports no longer need a visa to stay up to three months. Is a negative COVID-19 test required for entry? No.

Can I go to Japan now from us? ›

COVID-19 in Japan

Currently, there are no COVID-19 testing , proof of vaccination, or quarantine requirements to travel to Japan. However, we strongly recommend all U.S. citizens carefully review the information on Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website , which provides official guidance.

Do you have to quarantine to travel to Japan? ›

Quarantine measures:

(1) All travelers and returnees will no longer be required to submit either a certificate of negative result of COVID-19 test conducted within 72 hours prior to departure, or a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate of three doses or equivalent.

What does a US citizen need to enter Japan? ›

You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business "visa free" stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan. You cannot work on a 90-day "visa free" entry.

Why was Japan closed to foreigners? ›

In the 1500s, the first European traders and missionaries had visited the island nation and brought with them new ideas. Fearing that further contact would weaken their hold on the gov- ernment and the people, the Tokugawa banned virtually all foreigners.

Is rapid pcr test accepted for travel to japan? ›

The methods below are acceptable for travelers between USA to Japan. Rapid nicking enzyme amplification reaction (NEAR) Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) technology – ID Now by Abbott. Results < 1 hour. RAPID Automated RT-PCR, NAAT.

What vaccines are accepted in Japan? ›

Japan
  • Takeda. TAK-019 (Novavax formulation) ...
  • Moderna. Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Moderna. Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Pfizer/BioNTech. Comirnaty. ...
  • Pfizer/BioNTech. Comirnaty Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Pfizer/BioNTech. Comirnaty Bivalent Original/Omicron BA. ...
  • Takeda. ...
  • Oxford/AstraZeneca.

Do you need a Covid test to fly on Japan Airlines? ›

All passengers entering Japan from overseas are required to submit a certificate of testing for COVID-19. Learn more about the testing information. VeriFLY is introduced on selected routes. You can quickly check the entry requirements with the app.

What is the best month to go to Japan? ›

The best time to visit Japan is between March and May and between September and November as it's both warm and dry between these periods. However, the joys of springtime and the iconic blooming of the cherry blossoms in Japan are no secret, which means you'll be sharing the space with plenty of other travellers.

Can I go to Japan with a US green card? ›

Yes, you can travel abroad as a green card holder — that's one of the many benefits of being a permanent resident. However, your trip must be temporary and you cannot remain outside the United States for more than 1 year.

How to enter Japan 2023? ›

To enter Japan from the 29th of April, please enter with a valid visa and passport​ OR a visa exempt passport. We recommend the use of Visit Japan Web to assist with your customs and immigration declaration procedures.

How many days do I quarantine in Japan? ›

【Symptomatic】1) 7 whole days after the first sign of symptoms and 2) 24 hours free of any symptoms or 2 consecutive negative results on a COVID-19 test taken at least 24 hours apart, after being free of symptoms.

Do I still need a Covid test to fly? ›

Please view the updated COVID-19 vaccination travel requirements. *** CDC requirement for negative COVID-19 test prior to air travel: requirement suspended as of 12:01AM ET on June 12, 2022. Check the CDC's webpage for additional information and Frequently Asked Questions .

Is Japan border open for visitor? ›

1. Border Measures. Currently, vaccination certificate or pre-departure test is no longer required to enter Japan. Neither travelers and returnees with COVID-19 symptoms are subject to on arrival test nor are those with a positive test result treated at designated facilities.

What medications are prohibited in Japan? ›

Which Prescription Medicines are Banned? Heroin, cocaine, MDMA, opium, cannabis (including CBD oils), and some prescription medications like Adderall, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine are banned in Japan. There are no exceptions for prohibited medications, even if the medication is legally obtained outside of Japan.

Is Japan free to enter? ›

Japan extends visa-free entry to visitors from numerous countries, making it easily accessible and enticing for globetrotters seeking to explore its wonders. Here is everything you need to know about visa-free travel in Japan.

Which countries can enter Japan without visa? ›

Countries that are Visa Exempt from Requiring a Japanese Visa
CountryCountryCountry
MonacoNew ZealandNetherlands*
North MacedoniaNorwayPoland*
Portugal*Romania*San Marino
SerbiaSingaporeSlovakia*
19 more rows
Feb 13, 2023

What is a hikikomori in Japan? ›

Abstract. A form of severe social withdrawal, called hikikomori, has been frequently described in Japan and is characterized by adolescents and young adults who become recluses in their parents' homes, unable to work or go to school for months or years.

What is the shogun rule in Japan? ›

Shoguns were hereditary military leaders who were technically appointed by the emperor. However, real power rested with the shoguns themselves, who worked closely with other classes in Japanese society. Shoguns worked with civil servants, who would administer programs such as taxes and trade.

What was Japan's isolation policy? ›

Japan's isolation policy was fully implemented by Tokugawa Iemitsu, the grandson of Ievasu and shogun from 1623 to 1641. He issued edicts that essentially closed Japan to all foreigners and prevented Japanese from leaving.

What is the app for Japan arrival? ›

Although there are now no Covid protocols for Japan, the Japanese government still strongly recommends that you use the Visit Japan Web app to enter Japan. This app is used to enter your arrival information and customs declaration prior to arriving in Japan.

How do I get a QR code for Japan? ›

* If you do not have a smartphone or tablet and therefore cannot create a QR code at our Questionnaire Website before boarding, you can instead use a computer set up at the airport in Japan after you arrive to enter the information at our Questionnaire Website and create a QR code.

Do you need a vaccine to enter the US? ›

As of 12:01 am EDT May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States. See more information.

What is the point of embarkation in Japan? ›

Point of Embarkation is the last city that you went through customs before arriving in Japan.

What vaccination certificate do i need for Japan? ›

Consular Services

COVID-19 vaccination certificates issued in Japan which fall under any of the categories (1)-(3) below, and prove that at least three doses of COVID-19 vaccine are inoculated. COVID-19 vaccination certificates issued abroad which fulfill all the three requirements (1)-(3) below.

What percentage of Japanese are vaccinated? ›

As of February 27, 2023, around 77.5 percent of the population in Japan received the second dose of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination. At the same time, approximately 68.4 percent of the population had a booster shot.

Are masks required flying to Japan? ›

Until now, we have been asking passengers to wear facemasks in accordance with the guidelines for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 in the aviation sector, however, according to the new governmental policy, JAL has also decided to leave the wearing of facemasks by passengers as well as those airline staff either ...

Can I transit through Narita Airport during COVID? ›

Passengers transiting overnight must complete arrival immigration and customs procedures. However, some passengers may need a visa at that time. If you are in doubt concerning this, please contact your airline of the Immigration office directly in advance.

Do I have to go through customs for a connecting flight in Japan? ›

Security screening is required for connecting passengers. International arrivals at Terminal 3 have resumed on June 8.

How many days in Japan is enough? ›

Ideally, how long for a trip to Japan ? We recommend a minimum of 2 weeks to discover the Japanese archipelago. This is the minimum travel time in Japan to have time to visit Tokyo, Kyoto and their surroundings. For this, we advise you to spend a minimum of 6 nights in Tokyo and 6 nights in the Kyoto region .

How much money should I bring to Japan? ›

Sample daily budgets
Single TravelerTwo Travelers
Low Budget3,500 - 7,800 yen7,000 - 15,600 yen
Medium Budget8,800 - 18,500 yen13,600 - 28,000 yen
High Budgetover 18,500 yenover 28,000 yen
Dec 3, 2022

What's the cheapest time to go to Japan? ›

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Japan

High season is considered to be January, November and December. The cheapest month to fly from the United States is April. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Japan flight deals.

How much is the e visa fee for Japan? ›

Q22: How much is the visa fee? A22: In principle, visa issuance fee is equivalent to 3,000 yen for a single-entry visa. However, there are countries and regions where visa fees are mutually exempted or reduced depending on the applicant's nationality.

How long does it take to get a Japanese eVISA? ›

The processing time for an eVISA is the SAME as that for a traditional sticker visa (4-7 business days). We do NOT offer expedited service. In the eVISA system, you can only select scheduled dates of entry into Japan after 7 days from the submission date.

What documents do I need for international travel? ›

Passport, Travel Visa and National ID Card

Proper identification is the foundation of international travel. As a result, you should ensure to always have an official identification document with you. You can even consider having multiple documents such as your passport, national ID card or driver's licence.

Do I need 3 vaccines to travel to Japan? ›

AS OF THE 29th OF APRIL 2023, PROOF OF VACCINATION AND NEGATIVE PCR TEST RESULTS ARE NO LONGER REQUIRED FOR ENTRY INTO JAPAN.

Is QR code still required in Japan? ›

Visit Japan Web's QR Codes

You are also required to have your own individual QR code. This can be acquired through Visit Japan Web's website. This will basically fast track you through various procedures such as quarantine, immigration, and customs declaration.

What part of Tokyo should I stay in? ›

The best places to stay are Shinjuku, the Tokyo Station Area, Ginza/Hibiya, Shibuya or Roppongi. Other decent places to stay include Nihombashi, Shinagawa, Hamamatsucho and Shiodome. Try to stay near a Yamanote Line (Tokyo loop line) station. If you can't do that, be sure you're near a subway station.

Is vaccination required to enter Japan? ›

Effective as of midnight April 29, 2023 (Japan time), all travelers arriving in Japan will no longer need to present proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test certificate.

How much does it cost to quarantine in Japan? ›

T: The entire quarantine cost around 170,000 JPY (~1,600 USD) including the food, stay, and luggage delivery service.

Do we need to stay in quarantine in Japan? ›

Herewith, after arriving to Japan, the 3 day facility quarantine held by quarantine authorities will not be required anymore. However, home quarantine for 14 days from one day after arriving Japan will be still a necessity.

Do you have to be vaccinated to travel to america 2023? ›

All non-immigrant, non-U.S. citizen air travelers to the United States are required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States.

Do you have to be vaccinated to go on a cruise? ›

Although vaccines are not required, we encourage all guests 5 years of age and older to be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines, when eligible, and carry proof of vaccination.

Do I need a negative Covid test to fly to the US? ›

As of June 12, 2022, the requirement for presenting proof of a negative viral test result before entering the U.S is suspended. This decision may be adjusted if conditions warrant. Monitor your health and look for symptoms of COVID-19.

Is rapid pcr test accepted for travel to Japan? ›

The methods below are acceptable for travelers between USA to Japan. Rapid nicking enzyme amplification reaction (NEAR) Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) technology – ID Now by Abbott. Results < 1 hour. RAPID Automated RT-PCR, NAAT.

When did Japan open to the world? ›

On July 8, 1853, American Commodore Matthew Perry led his four ships into the harbor at Tokyo Bay, seeking to re-establish for the first time in over 200 years regular trade and discourse between Japan and the western world.

How long did Japan close its borders? ›

'locked country') was the isolationist foreign policy of the Japanese Tokugawa shogunate under which, for a period of 265 years during the Edo period (from 1603 to 1868), relations and trade between Japan and other countries were severely limited, and nearly all foreign nationals were banned from entering Japan, while ...

When did Japan close its borders for COVID? ›

In early 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic reached the shores of Japan, the country quickly closed its borders to any international travel of foreigners.

Who needs a visa to enter Japan? ›

Any tourist wanting to visit Japan must obtain a tourist visa prior to entering the country.

When did Japan return to isolation? ›

While Sakoku, Japan's long period of isolation from 1639 to 1853, kept it closed off from much of the world, one upshot was the rise of cultural touchstones that persist to this day.

When did Japan open up from isolation? ›

Japan's isolation came to an end in 1853 when Commodore Matthew Perry of the United States Navy, commanding a squadron of two steam ships and two sailing vessels, sailed into Tokyo harbor.

Why did the US open Japan? ›

Perry's mission had three objectives: first, to seek assurances that Japanese authorities would protect and provision American sailors who were shipwrecked in Japanese waters; second, to gain permission for American ships to enter Japanese ports to obtain food, water, fuel, and other necessary provisions; and third, to ...

Do I need a Covid test to fly Japan Airlines? ›

All passengers entering Japan from overseas are required to submit a certificate of testing for COVID-19. Learn more about the testing information. VeriFLY is introduced on selected routes. You can quickly check the entry requirements with the app.

What was the isolation policy of Japan? ›

sakoku, (Japanese: “closed country”) a Japanese policy consisting of a series of directives implemented over several years during the Edo period (also known as the Tokugawa period; 1603–1867) that enforced self-isolation from foreign powers in the early 17th century.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Duncan Muller

Last Updated:

Views: 6063

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (79 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Duncan Muller

Birthday: 1997-01-13

Address: Apt. 505 914 Phillip Crossroad, O'Konborough, NV 62411

Phone: +8555305800947

Job: Construction Agent

Hobby: Shopping, Table tennis, Snowboarding, Rafting, Motor sports, Homebrewing, Taxidermy

Introduction: My name is Duncan Muller, I am a enchanting, good, gentle, modern, tasty, nice, elegant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.