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Japan is slowly reopening its doors to international tourists, with stricter rules and regulations in place.
On June 10, over two years after closing its borders, Japan began welcoming travelers from 98 countries, including the U.S., Unlike in pre-pandemic times. However, Americans must now secure a tourist visa before stepping foot in the Land of the Rising Sun.
“Currently, foreign nationals/people who will enter Japan need a visa newly issued by embassies or consulates or consular office of Japan,” stated the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in its latest entry requirements.
That means anyone considering a trip to Japan must apply for a visa by mail or make an appointment as soon as possible at the closest Japanese embassy or consulate.
With foreigners having been barred from the country for so long, there is a sizable backlog of visa applications at various Japanese embassies and consulates across the U.S. getting a visa may take longer than usual, and travelers should plan accordingly.
The new visa requirement comes besides several other hoops that international travelers must now jump through to visit Japan. The new rules include purchasing medical insurance covering all COVID-19-related expenses and wearing a mask. Japan has divided countries and regions into three categories depending on the COVID-19 risk in that area. Travelers from some countries must present proof of vaccination and COVID tests and are still quarantined for a period. In contrast, others from areas with lower COVID risk may only have to submit a negative COVID test.
All foreign tourists must also travel with an organized tour group. These tour operators have been pre-approved by the Japanese government and must supervise travelers at all times. Spots on these group trips are minimal and may pose the biggest hurdle for tourists visiting Japan. However, it is still a sign that the country is returning to normal as it also recently increased the daily entry limits from 10,000 foreign arrivals per day to 20,000.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.