Japan has now finally opened its borders for travelers on June 10, 2022. While groups are allowed to enter the destination, individual travelers yet do not have an entry permit. Check out the comprehensive post-pandemic travel guide to Japan and enjoy a marvelous vacation.
Japan is a culturally-rich island nation situated in the northwest Pacific Ocean. Also recognized as the “Land of the rising sun,” Japan showcases nearly 7000 islands, out of which only 416 are inhabited. There are five main islands that enchant vacationers from all around the globe, namely Honshū, Hokkaidō, Shikoku, Okinawa Island, and Kyūshū. While serving as a home to captivating national parks, futuristic skyscrapers, towering mountains, and revered shrines, Japan genuinely warrants a place on your travel must-visit list. From the urban landscape of Tokyo to the tranquility of Okayama, every aspect of the country is worth experiencing.
Japan prohibited the entry of most foreign visitors for the past two years as a measure to control the spread of Covid-19. Additionally, no spectators were allowed to attend the postponed 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. However, the country lifted the travel ban for business travelers and foreign residents earlier in 2022. Now that Japan is welcoming vacationers, this detailed post-pandemic travel guide to Japan is everything you need to peruse.
Japan Travel Advisory during Covid-19
Although Japan has now opened its doors to international travelers after the gradual decrease in Covid-19 cases, the government ministries and authorities have now implemented new restrictions and measures to ensure the safety of travelers as well as locals. Read the following details to learn more about the updated guidelines.
- Persons of 2 years or older should properly wear a well-fitted mask in public spaces.
- Japan has implemented restrictions while categorizing countries or regions as Red, Yellow, and Blue. Please click here for detailed information.
- Japan is accepting daily arrivals of 20,000.
- The borders are open only for those on group tours and not individual tourists.
- Travelers with a valid vaccination certificate of the doses do not require to undergo an on-arrival test or home quarantine.
- On-arrival test and 7-day home quarantine or 3-day home quarantine along with a negative Covid-19 test report is mandatory for travelers who do not obtain a valid vaccination certificate.
- Travelers need to apply for a visa, except those who have a re-entry permit. The visa approval procedure may take longer than usual, so plan your holiday accordingly.
- Visas issued by December 2, 2021, are no longer valid, except for those issued for the holders of the status of residence as spouse or child of a Japanese national, spouse or child of a permanent resident” or diplomat.
The immunization will only be valid if specific requirements are fulfilled including:
- The immunization proof must be issued by a local government or a medical institution.
- The document must clearly indicate that you have undergone two doses from vaccinations including Comirnaty/Pfizer, Vaxzevria/AstraZeneca, Spikevax/Moderna, JACOVDEN/Janssen, COVAXIN/Bharat Biotech, Nuvaxovid/Novavax.
- A single dose of JACOVDEN/Janssen is considered equivalent to two doses.
- A combination of the aforementioned vaccines is also considered acceptable.
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Optimal Time to Visit
Despite being a year-round destination, Japan experiences a significant influx of travelers, particularly during the Spring season, which spans from March to May, and the Autumn season, which extends from September to November. The lower precipitation, clear skies, and delightful climate enhance your outdoor experience and leave a lasting impression. The temperature during these months varies from 7ºC to 20ºC.
How to Arrive
The sole and most recommended method of reaching Japan is by air. There are numerous direct and connecting flights available from India to Japan. While direct flights are limited to Delhi, connecting flights can be found from major cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, etc. The distance between the two countries is approximately 5,968 km, and the journey takes around 5-6 hours to complete. The primary airports in Japan include Osaka International Airport, Kansai International Airport, and Narita International Airport.
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Exploring the Vicinity
The transportation system of this archipelago nation is highly developed. There are various modes of transportation in Japan, and you can choose according to factors such as comfort level, destination, and duration. If you intend to travel between cities, there is no better option than the advanced Shinkansen trains. For those seeking a budget-friendly alternative to cover long distances, buses are an excellent choice. Ferries are also a popular means of transportation in Japan for island hopping. Additionally, other options like monorails, subways, taxis, and even bicycles are ideal for exploring the tourist attractions.
Places to Explore in Japan during the Covid Era
If you desire to witness the finest aspects of Japan, you should consider visiting locations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Mt. Fuji, Hokkaido, and Ishigaki. While Tokyo is renowned for its tall buildings, Disneyland, and Michelin-starred eateries, Kyoto boasts its bamboo forests, palaces, and more than 1600 Buddhist temples alongside 400 Shinto shrines. Mount Fuji, an active volcano and Japan’s tallest peak, holds sacred significance and captures the attention of numerous photographers and artists from all corners of the globe.
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Things to Engage in While in Japan amidst Covid
Showcasing a flawless combination of tradition and modernity, Japan offers an abundance of options in terms of art, architecture, adventure, music, gastronomy, and nature. Here are some of the most remarkable experiences you can savor, especially during these unprecedented times:
- Ascend Mt. Fuji, which is accessible from July until early September
- Partake in the renowned cherry blossom festival, commencing in late March and continuing until April
- Attend a captivating Sumo show in Ryogoku
- Delve into Japan’s significant history at Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
- Marvel at the cityscape from a towering Tempozan Ferris Wheel, measuring 369 ft. in height
- Witness captivating performances by the graceful Geisha and enthralling Kabuki dancers
Accommodation Options
Currently, there are no limitations regarding hotels or other lodging alternatives. Most hotels now welcome travelers while prioritizing the sanitization process and implementing additional safety measures. However, it is recommended to select a hotel that employs staff members who are fully vaccinated and ensures the highest standards of hygiene and post-Covid facilities. Remember to carry all the necessary documents for a hassle-free stay.
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Eateries
Following the gradual easing of Covid-19 restrictions in the country, restaurants and cafes are now commencing their operations. However, while adhering to protocols and implementing stringent measures, these establishments have imposed limitations on the number of patrons as well as their operating hours. If you’re planning to dine out, it is advisable to choose a hotel or cafe that is well-ventilated, maintains sufficient spacing between tables, and avoids overcrowding.
What to Carry
Traveling to Japan in the post-Covid era necessitates careful planning, especially when it comes to packing. Now that you have thoroughly reviewed the comprehensive post-Covid travel guide to Japan, let’s delve into the details of the essentials you should include:
- A budget-friendly and personal hand sanitizer along with a disinfectant.
- A couple of single-use masks and gloves.
- A compact first-aid kit equipped with all the necessary or general medications.
- An electrical adapter and a portable charger.
- Appropriate clothing suitable for the prevailing season.
- Comfortable footwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a pack of tissues.
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Post-Covid Travel Guide to Japan: Crucial Checklist
Before embarking on your journey to Japan, take a look at this travel checklist to ensure a smooth arrival:
- As Japan is currently permitting only vacationers on approved group tours, make sure to book one well in advance.
- Keep your vaccination certificate easily accessible as it will be required for the documentation process.
- Double-check all the necessary documents before your flight.
- Carry both hard copies and soft copies of all the required documents.
- The visa application procedures have been updated since June 1, 2022. Please visit the official website to familiarize yourself with the revised process.
- Apply for a visa as soon as you plan your trip to Japan and submit all the requisite documents.
- Collaborate with the authorities upon arrival at the airport.
- Comply with all the regulations for foreigners from Japan.
Additional Travel Suggestions
Now that you are fully prepared to travel to this magnificent country after reading the comprehensive post-covid travel manual for Japan, continue reading for some crucial travel tips:
- Wear a high-quality mask all the time while in a crowd
- Observe the necessary social distance
- Remember to carry a sanitizer, spare mask, and disposable gloves in your bag
- Avoid public gatherings if possible
- Select restaurants/cafes that have an adequate sanitization system
- Monitor your health daily
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Now that the travel restriction in Japan has been lifted, it is the perfect moment to plan an enjoyable vacation to this magnificent country. With this post-covid travel manual for Japan, your journey will undoubtedly be smooth. So, check out the finest Japan tour packages at Fred and Fuzzys and get ready for a marvelous experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Post-covid Travel Manual for Japan
Can I visit Japan due to the current Covid situation?
Yes, Japan is now welcoming holidaymakers while enforcing various stringent guidelines. When planning a trip to this country, ensure that you have completed your double vaccination with approved vaccines issued by the Japanese authorities. Also, adhere to all government protocols such as wearing a mask in public and maintaining the necessary social distance, among others.
What is the optimal month for a Japan trip?
You can plan a vacation to Japan during the peak months, which are between March to May and Autumn and September to November. The scenery of Japan becomes stunning during these months with enchanting cherry blossoms and vibrant red leaves.
Which are the approved vaccines for entry into Japan?
According to the latest guidelines, the approved vaccines for entry into the country are Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna, Janssen, COVAXIN, and Novavax.
Which are the top places to visit in Japan?
Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Mt. Fuji, Hokkaido, Ishigaki, Hiroshima, Sapporo, Osaka, Yakushima, Hakuba, Kamakura, Nagano, Kawaguchi, Takayama, Shibuya, and Naoshima are some of the most popular destinations in Japan that offer you the opportunity to witness the best of Japan.
Do I require a visa to enter Japan?
Yes, a visa is required if you are traveling from India to Japan. Since the visa process takes longer than usual during the Covid situation, it is advisable to apply well in advance.
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Category: Japan, Travel Manual
