Japan travel is back! Starting 11 October, Japan is allowing short-term visitors to enter without a visa. Learn more here.

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07

SEPTEMBER

JAPAN TRAVEL IS BACK!

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Happy September!


We hope you are enjoying the end of summer and transition to fall. This is my absolute favorite time of year, and there’s more to celebrate with fresh news coming out of Japan…


Yesterday the Japanese government made the most significant step in its border policy since closing them over almost three years ago — easing tourism restrictions and raising the daily arrival cap to 50,000.


Better yet, non-escorted travel will resume on the 7th September.


That’s right. No guides, no representatives on your trip.


This is a a HUGE step toward the full resumption of travel to Japan, a country that has imposed some of the strictest tourism restrictions since the pandemic began.


Additionally, travelers who have received three doses of an approved Covid vaccine will be exempted from pre-arrival PCR tests, another big step that brings Japan’s entry policies close to that of other G7 nations.


We’re so glad to see the country taking steps toward welcoming back travelers, downgrading the virus and treating it like the seasonal flu.


So, if Japan’s been on your list or now is, what does this mean for you?

Tourists will still need to have “sponsors,” or travel agencies in Japan that they can contact if they get infected with Covid, meaning that as of right now independent travelers who want to arrange their own trips won’t be allowed in.


While supporting independent travelers is our bread and butter, we do partner with some amazing Japanese travel agencies who’ll ensure your experience is hyperlocal, sustainable, and memorable. Reach out to us via email or on our homepage if you’re seeking one now.


For those who have worked with us in the past to prepare custom, executable itineraries or get hooked up with one of our Private Guides, we encourage you to use the next few weeks ahead to set your travel intentions for Japan. (Plug in the code 5YEARSANNIZI in our client questionnaire for a 15% discount.)


For newcomers here, questions about visiting?


Book a 30-min or hour-long Virtual Advising session with us.


This is a very exciting time for our team and Japan, so we look forward to supporting your intentions and dreams on visiting!