travelling to japan need pcr test

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Guide to Japan’s reopening for tourism: visa-free travel, valid vaccines, PCR tests and more

Tourist visa, accepted Covid-19 vaccines and other border rules for tourists visiting Japan – effective October 11

After two-plus years of tight border restrictions, Japan finally scrapped its daily entry cap and fully reopened to international tourism on October 11 2022. This means that travellers no longer have to book their trips through a travel agency and visa-free entry is back on. Coming to Japan is a lot simpler now than it was a few months ago, but there are still a couple of things you will need to prepare for your trip. Here’s everything you need to know about Japan’s latest entry requirements.  

No more quarantine

This is a big one. Until October 10, which of the three entry protocols travellers needed to follow depended on whether the country they are arriving from falls into the ‘red’, ‘yellow’ or ‘blue’ category. On October 11, however, Japan ditched this red-yellow-blue country classification system along with the last of its quarantine requirements upon reopening. Tourists coming from countries that were previously deemed to be ‘high-risk’ for Covid-19 are longer required to quarantine. Only travellers who are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms will be administered a PCR test on arrival. More information here (in Japanese only).

Tourists are no longer required to book their trips via travel agencies 

Spontaneous travel is back on as tourists aren't required to book their accommodation and flight tickets through travel agencies as of October 11. This also means tourists no longer have to obtain a certificate through the Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System (ERFS).

Visa-free travel is back on 

While Japan suspended its visa exemption agreements for the majority of the pandemic, the government resumed visa-free travel on October 11. This means that passport holders from any of these 68 countries and regions designated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs no longer have to apply for a tourist visa.

No pre-arrival PCR tests for triple-vaccinated travellers 

In September, Japan changed the entry rules to exempt fully-vaccinated (booster dose included) travellers from pre-arrival PCR tests . Non-vaccinated travellers will be required to submit a negative PCR test 72 hours before departing for Japan. 

Travellers are still urged to submit their docs online  

While quarantine is no longer required of most travellers, both Japanese citizens and foreign nationals are urged to expedite immigration procedures by pre-registering their travel documents online. Previously, this was done through the MySOS app , but the pre-registration system was transferred to Visit Japan Web on November 11. Through the Visit Japan Web Fast Track system, you’ll be able to digitally register your Covid-19 vaccine certificate or negative test certificate and fill out the necessary forms prior to your arrival. If you skip this step, you’ll have to fill out all your information at the airport, so you may as well save yourself the hassle and do it ahead of your flight. Once you’ve submitted all the necessary information, you will receive a QR code that you can show to immigration officials upon arrival. For more information on the Fast Track service, visit here .

Accepted Covid-19 vaccines 

Japan has recently expanded its list of valid Covid-19 vaccinations to be in line with those approved for emergency use by the World Health Organisation . So on top of Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Janssen, Bharat Biotech and Novavax vaccines, Japan now accepts Sinopharm, Sinovac and Convidecia vaccines as of October 11. More information here (in Japanese only).

For the latest border rules, check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

This article was published on September 27 and updated on November 17.

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Japan to drop pre-arrival testing for vaccinated travelers next month

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Wednesday that Japan will stop mandating pre-arrival coronavirus tests for vaccinated travelers from Sept. 7 — a step that brings Japan’s border control policy closer to that of other major economies.

“From Sept. 7, we will allow travelers to submit proof of vaccination (vaccine passports) instead of negative test results taken within 72 hours of departure,” Kishida said during an online news conference. “It has been inconvenient for people, especially those traveling abroad from Japan.

“We will speed up measures both to prevent the spread of infections and promote socioeconomic activity,” he said.

Travelers who have received three doses of an approved coronavirus vaccine will be exempted from pre-arrival PCR tests. Travel agencies have been urging the government to drop pre-arrival tests, which comprise part of the strictest border controls among the Group of Seven wealthy nations.

Many other countries no longer require pre-arrival testing. The United States, for example, stopped asking foreign travelers to submit pre-arrival tests in June.

Daily arrivals, including Japanese nationals and foreign residents, are currently capped at 20,000. A relatively small number of foreign tourists have been able to enter the country since June, albeit only via guided tours. Earlier media reports said that Japan may allow independent tourists to enter the country but Kishida did not mention such a move on Wednesday.

In July, an online survey conducted by D2C X Inc., a tourism marketing firm, showed that 72% of about 1,700 respondents said they will — or are likely to — give up visiting Japan if the current border controls remain in place.

During the news conference, Kishida also said he discussed coronavirus measures with related ministers and public health experts earlier in the day and decided, as an emergency measure, to simplify the paperwork for doctors in areas with large numbers of COVID-19 patients. Those doctors will now be asked to provide detailed information on only high-risk patients, Kishida said.

For people with mild symptoms, government-approved antigen tests will be made widely available over the counter by the end of this month. This, Kishida said, is so those less at-risk can buy the tests online or at general drug stores without needing to visit so-called fever clinics. Currently, government-approved antigen tests are sold only at certain pharmacies, resulting in many people with mild symptoms rushing to fever clinics or calling ambulances if a clinic turns them away.

If people self-test for COVID-19 and get a positive result, they will be asked to register their results at centers designed to follow up on test results. The government will make sure that these centers are set up nationwide, Kishida said. At present, 40% of all new COVID-19 cases in Hokkaido — as well as 10% to 20% of new cases in Tokyo and Osaka — are being handled through follow-up centers, he added.

“In areas where fever clinics and public health centers are significantly strained, we will allow municipal governments to use their discretion and limit the (detailed) reporting of cases to the elderly, people requiring hospitalization and those with a risk of developing severe symptoms and requiring treatment,” Kishida said.

The government will continue to ask hospitals and clinics to report the number of new COVID-19 cases to public health centers, he said, noting that it is committed to making up to 50,000 beds available for COVID-19 patients nationwide.

Also Wednesday, the Foreign Ministry lowered its coronavirus travel advisories for 55 countries and areas — including Indonesia, the Philippines and Ukraine — from Level 2 to Level 1. A Level 1 advisory urges Japanese nationals traveling to those regions to “stay fully alert.”

For 41 countries including Jamaica, Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan, the advisory level was downgraded from Level 3, which warns against all travel, to Level 2, which urges people to avoid nonessential trips.

Travel advisories are issued for outbound travelers and are separate from the government’s categorization of blue, yellow and red countries to determine whether travelers need to quarantine upon arrival.

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

• Living in Tokyo
• Medical / Hospitals

Where to Get a Covid-19 PCR Test and a Certificate for Travel from Japan

Due to the coronavirus infection being contagious, depending on the country you plan to travel to, you may need a PCR test before you leave Japan. In this article, we have made a list of medical institutions that allow you to take a PCR test without having any of the symptoms of the coronavirus infection and get a certificate for travel.

Where to take a PCR test and get a certificate for business travelers

You can take a PCR test and receive a certificate from the hospital or clinics linked below. Please note that this test is available only to those who do not have any symptoms related to the corona virus and would like to take a test for the purpose of traveling or working abroad. Please be aware that as you are requesting the PCR test without showing any symptoms, the test will not be covered by health insurance and will need to be paid out of pocket. If you are worried about your symptoms, please read The Covid-19: Where to Call and Ask Questions in English .

Click the name of the hospital to see further details (only available in Japanese).

Narita International Airport

Narita airport pcr center, *the website is available in japanese only. the center will be open from november 2nd at 2 different locations..

1) Terminal 1, Central Building, 3rd Floor 2) Terminal 2, 1st Floor

T Care Clinic Hamamatsucho

2-13-9 Hamamatsucho, Minato-ku, Tokyo

You can make a reservation online and get a certificate on the next day or on the same day if you chose the same-day option.

Ebisu Clinic

2F, 4-1-18 Ebisu Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Mita Hospital

1-4-3 Mita Minato-ku, Tokyo

Mita Kokusai Building Clinic

3F Mita Kokusai Building, 1-4-28 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Sanno Hospital

8-10-16 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo

St. Luke's International Hospital

9-1 Akashi-cho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Tokyo Cancer Clinic

9F Shosankan Building, 1-3-2 Iidabashi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

Tokyo Medical University Hospital

6-7-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

T Care Clinic Osaka

1F, 2-2-14 Dōtonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka

You can make a reservation online and get a certificate on the next day.

3-3-4 Omachi, Fukishiwada-shi, Osaka

Umeda Travel Clinic

Umeda Square Bld. 11F, 1-12-17 Kita-ku, Umeda, Osaka-shi, Osaka

More hospitals for PCR test in Japan (including Tokyo and Osaka)

You can find the list of Japanese hospitals and clinics where you can take a PCR test for travels on Register of Medical Institutions Issuing COVID-19 Testing Certificates .

More Information Related to Covid-19

＊ Where to Call and Ask Questions about Covid-19 in English in Tokyo

＊ Covid-19: The Current Situation in Japan and Countermeasures

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Japan to end pre-departure COVID tests for fully vaccinated tourists in September

The measure will go into effect Sept. 7.

Japan is ending its pre-entry COVID-19 test requirement for fully vaccinated travelers with at least one booster dose, making it one of the last countries to do so.

The country, which has enforced some of the strictest border measures since the pandemic began, had required a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure.

MORE: New Zealand fully reopens borders for 1st time since COVID pandemic

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced Wednesday the restrictions will end Sept. 7.

"We plan to gradually ease border controls to allow entry procedures to be as smooth as those of other Group of Seven countries," Kishida said during a virtual press conference from his official residence, where he is isolating after testing positive for COVID Sunday. "We will speed up our efforts while balancing infection measures and social and economic activities going as much as possible."

This makes Japan one of the last countries to drop pre-departure testing, with just a few left who are keeping the requirement, such as China and South Korea.

Kishida also announced the isolation period for people who test positive for COVID-19 will be shortened but did not provide specifics. Currently, those with symptoms are required to isolate for 10 days and those without symptoms for seven days.

However, other restrictions in the country will continue to remain in place. Japan will continue its cap of 20,000 daily visitors.

Kishida did say the government is considering increasing the daily cap on travelers next month. Local media reports suggest the government will more than double the cap to 50,000 per day.

So far, only 387,000 people have visited Japan between January and May this year, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization . This pales in comparison to the 31.8 million people who visited the nation in 2019.

Additionally, foreign tourists are only allowed to visit as part of a guided package tour and must apply for a visa. Independent travelers are not yet allowed entry into the country.

MORE: What to know about COVID-19 risks as travel mask mandate is lifted

Currently, those allowed to enter include Japanese nationals, family members of Japanese residents, international students and certain business travelers.

It is unclear when a full reopening will occur.

The changes come as Japan battles a new wave of COVID-19 infections. According to the World Health Organization , Japan confirmed more than 185,400 cases Tuesday. At the beginning of July, the country was recording just 23,000 new cases.

COVID-19–related deaths have also been increasing. On Tuesday, the country recorded 269 deaths, WHO data shows. Meanwhile, at the beginning of July, Japan was reporting between 10 and 15 deaths per day.

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Travelling to Japan soon? Here's all you need to know about the latest international entry requirements

Coming to see us in niseko soon below is an overview of current border measures to help you plan for a seamless and stress-free entry into japan., the current covid-19 entry requirements.

For those entering Japan from China starting December 30th, 2022, please check updated requirements here .

To enter Japan, all international visitors must show one of the following:

• A valid COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate showing 3 doses of the vaccine have been received
• If 2 doses or less or unvaccinated, A Negative PCR Test needs to be taken within 72 hours of departure to Japan

Travelling with children under 18?

When a parent/guardian has a valid vaccination certificate:

• Children under 18 (not including 18) who are not vaccinated can enter Japan if their parent/guardian has valid proof of vaccination that meets the current requirements.

When a parent/guardian does NOT have a valid vaccination certificate:

• Children under 6 (not including 6) who are not vaccinated do not require a negative test when their parent/guardian has a valid negative PCR test within a 72 hour period before entering Japan.
• Children that are 6 and above will require a negative test.

Fill out all COVID-19, Immigration and Customs information before you take off

Skip long lines airport at the airport by loading all information in advance on Visit Japan Web , An online portal to easily upload and pre-verify your required COVID-19 documentation and Immigration and Customs information.

Once completed, this will allow you to use Fast Track (expedited travel lanes through Japanese airports).

We strongly recommend setting up a Japan Web account and registering all of your information before you fly, as this will save you time when you arrive in Japan.

Before Departure:

Create a Visit Japan Web account and register your user information, and all immigration and customs details before you fly.

Obtain a valid vaccination certificate (if three doses have been administered) or a negative test certificate (if less than three doses, or unvaccinated)

Arrival in Japan:

Fast-track immigration and customs by showing your completed information within your Visit Japan Web account.

Almost ready to depart?

Japan entry requirements are constantly changing, so please check Visit Japan Web before your flight for the latest information. If you have any other questions, we advise you contact the Visit Japan team's Chatbot service directly below.

Niseko Central wishes you a safe journey, and we look forward to seeing you when you arrive in Niseko.

Posted on 01 December, 2022 by in Winter .

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The New Travel Essential

Before catching your flight, there's one last thing to check off the list. Test and travel confidently with Labcorp’s trusted COVID-19 PCR tests.

Preferred Pre-Travel Test

Fast results, tests for your family.

Testing Before You Travel

Pixel by Labcorp customers get their COVID-19 PCR test results quickly, allowing them to travel safely.

Request a test kit online or purchase at a store

Request a test kit online or purchase at a store near you.

Most kits purchased online arrive within 2 days.

Collect your sample at home

Collect your sample at home using a short, painless nasal swab.

Ship back same-day for faster turnaround time.

Ship your sample back to our lab

Most kits arrive within 2 days.

Access your results online

On average, results are received in 1-2 days from when samples arrive at the lab.

Where to Purchase Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Kits

Available at over 6,000 Walgreens stores nationwide. Kits are located in the pharmacy. Check in-store availability at  walgreens.com .

Available at select CVS stores in Alabama, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Kits are located in the pharmacy. Check in-store available at  CVS.com .

On-demand Delivery

Available to be delivered by DoorDash® and Instacart® through Walgreens. Check availability at  walgreens.com .

Know the Travel Guidelines for Your Destination Before You Go

*Rules for COVID-19 testing and quarantining can vary greatly among U.S. states. Some destinations may not accept test results from self-collected samples; please check with your destination to confirm. Visit the CDC’s  Travel Planner  to be routed to the relevant health department in order to understand what’s required before traveling to that destination. Labcorp OnDemand services are only available in the US. If you are traveling internationally, you’re unable to ship kits from international locations.

The CDC has different travel guidelines for vaccinated and unvaccinated people—and recommends delaying travel until you’re fully vaccinated. Click  here  for the latest information on domestic travel and  here  for the latest on international travel. The agency’s website notes that even fully vaccinated people are at risk of getting and spreading new COVID-19 variants when traveling.

Labcorp is a leader in the fight against COVID-19

At Labcorp, we’re on a mission to improve health and improve lives. Our network of CAP-accredited and CLIA-certified laboratories has performed over 38 million COVID-19 molecular (PCR) tests, and their effectiveness has been proven for the U.K., South African and Brazilian variants. With the first FDA authorized at-home kit, we are continuing to be a global leader in the fight against COVID-19. Learn how Labcorp is developing new ways to help fight the crisis.

Can I purchase a kit for travel?

The Labcorp OnDemand® COVID-19 PCR Test Home Collection Kit is a RT-PCR test that is designed to determine active infection of SARS-CoV-2. Many destinations require negative PCR results within a specific timeframe. We recommend that you reach out to your destination’s government for their specific requirements and timelines before making your purchase. Some destinations may not accept test results from self-collected samples.

How many kits can I purchase at once?

You can purchase up to 5 kits at one time by adjusting the quantity in your cart. Each kit is shipped individually and should be returned in the packaging included in each kit.

Can kids take the Labcorp OnDemand COVID-19 test?

The test is authorized for ages 2 and older.  All people aged 18 years or older can collect their own sample.  Children between the ages for 14-17 can collect their own sample under adult supervision. Children 2-13 can use this test when samples are collected by an adult.  

Can I ship a kit internationally?

Labcorp OnDemand® services are only available in the US.  Unfortunately, we're unable to ship kits internationally.  

How long does it take to get COVID-19 test results back?

Currently the average time to deliver results is 1-2 days from when your sample is received at the lab.  Our labs process samples seven days a week.  

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clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Japan axes covid test for travelers but faces battle to revive tourism

TOKYO — Japan said Wednesday it would end a requirement for vaccinated travelers to have a coronavirus test to enter the country, a gradual step toward reviving a hard-hit tourism industry but that comes as other restrictions continue to deter visitors.

After enacting some of the strictest border measures during the pandemic, Japan has been gradually allowing nonresidents to visit. But tourists are still not allowed in unless they are a part of an authorized tour group, their every move watched closely by a licensed guide.

Many Asian countries continue to impose quarantine or testing rules for international arrivals, but Japan’s restrictions were out of step with others in the Group of Seven major economies. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Wednesday that Japan would continue to ease border control measures in phases, “to enable smooth entry into Japan in a manner similar to other G-7 countries.”

How to navigate Japan's mandatory tours, travel restrictions and coronavirus protocols

Among those steps is raising the cap on daily entrants, currently at 20,000, but Kishida did not give a specific figure. Japanese broadcaster NHK reported Wednesday that the government is considering lifting the requirement that tourists who enter as a part of a group tour be accompanied by a guide at all times.

International students, some business travelers and family members of Japanese residents are allowed to enter the country. At present, anyone headed to Japan must get a coronavirus test within 72 hours before departure to the country, register the result with the government and get a QR code for immigration. Japan requires a nucleic acid amplification test , such as a PCR test, which tends to be less accessible and more expensive than at-home rapid antigen tests.

Beginning Sept. 7, Japan will lift the testing requirement for boosted travelers who have had three vaccine shots, Kishida said, speaking from his residence during a remote news conference after he tested positive for the virus.

Tom Cruise in Japan? Okay. Ordinary tourists in Japan? Not okay.

Group tours resumed in June after a trial run, but those visitors are subject to many restrictions, including booking a tour with a guide or company registered with the government and buying travel insurance.

That same month, only 252 tourists entered the country, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. In July, the number rose to about 7,900. But that is a far cry from pre-pandemic levels; Japan welcomed a record 32 million foreign tourists in 2019 and had aimed to reach 40 million in 2020.

For months, business leaders and tourism industry groups have been calling on Japan to fully reopen its borders, arguing that it would bring much-needed revenue to invigorate the economy and that U.S. tourists would be eager to take advantage of the weak yen. Travel-related spending by foreigners plummeted from about $38 billion in 2019 to just under $1 billion in 2021, according to Nikkei Asia .

It remains unclear, however, when a full reopening would take place.

Coronavirus: What you need to know

Covid isolation guidelines: Americans who test positive for the coronavirus no longer need to routinely stay home from work and school for five days under new guidance planned by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The change has raised concerns among medically vulnerable people .

New coronavirus variant: The United States is in the throes of another covid-19 uptick and coronavirus samples detected in wastewater suggests infections could be as rampant as they were last winter. JN.1, the new dominant variant , appears to be especially adept at infecting those who have been vaccinated or previously infected. Here’s how this covid surge compares with earlier spikes .

Latest coronavirus booster: The CDC recommends that anyone 6 months or older gets an updated coronavirus shot , but the vaccine rollout has seen some hiccups , especially for children . Here’s what you need to know about the latest coronavirus vaccines , including when you should get it.

How to Get a COVID Test for International Travel

A negative covid test continues to be a requirement to travel the world—including for entry into the united states. here’s how to get the right test when you need it..

• Copy Link copied

COVID tests are the must-have travel item of the pandemic.

Photo by Shutterstock

The need for COVID testing doesn’t appear to be going away anytime soon. Even as more people get vaccinated worldwide against COVID-19, variants such as Delta and Omicron have put numerous countries on high alert. Once again, there are new—and in some cases, stricter—COVID testing requirements for travel.

As of December 6, the United States began requiring that all international arrivals get tested for COVID no more than one calendar day before flying to the United States , regardless of vaccination status. That’s down from three days prior, making it even more of a last-minute challenge to get tested before flying to the U.S.

France and the United Kingdom also reintroduced COVID testing requirements in December for all travelers, regardless of vaccination status. The sudden developments served as a reminder of how quickly travelers sometimes have to scramble to find tests that satisfy new rules—for many, it’s overnight. How do you stay on top of so many changes? How do you know what you need? Look here for starters.

Whether travelers are in search of a COVID test before heading abroad or need to re-enter the U.S., here are the (numerous) options and ways to get a COVID test for international travel.

What kind of COVID test is required to enter the U.S.?

According to the official order issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID tests that satisfy the U.S. entry requirement include a PCR test, antigen test (including a rapid antigen test), or an approved home or self test , which means that there are some easier options than a PCR test, the results for which can take longer to obtain—though, there are services that offer “rapid PCR” tests, usually for an added cost.

CDC-approved COVID self tests for international travel

The BinaxNOW Antigen home kit is sold as a six-pack for $150, which comes out to $25 for each kit.

Courtesy of Abbott

For travelers who are worried about obtaining a PCR or antigen test within a day of flying back to the U.S., there is the option of bringing a set of COVID-19 home or self tests with them. The CDC has approved a handful of self tests for international travel. They include the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Home Test , the Ellume COVID-19 Home Test with Azova , and Cue COVID-19 tests —all of which we have reviewed .

The tests can be self-administered—meaning you do your own nasal swab—but to meet the CDC requirements, they must be paired with a supervised telehealth video call in real time. (The above tests include the telehealth call service.) Travelers, take note: You must have a reliable internet connection wherever you plan to administer the test, so logging into the telehealth video call isn’t an issue.

Related We Reviewed the CDC-Approved COVID Home Tests for International Travel—Here’s What to Know

How to find a testing site abroad

Want to find out if the country you’re planning to visit has COVID testing sites that can turn around results within a day? A great place to start is the U.S. State Department’s detailed COVID-19 travel information and country-specific advisories , which include an entire section on COVID-19 testing for each country. Right up front, the section answers the question of whether PCR and/or antigen tests are available to U.S. citizens and whether test results are reliably available within one calendar day. It also often includes information about where and how to obtain such tests.

Another good resource is TestforTravel.com , where you can search any international destination for testing centers and filter by the specific type of COVID-19 test you’re looking for.

The good news is that testing has ramped up worldwide, and it has become more widely available at international airports and hotels. Travel companies—including airlines, cruise lines, and tour operators—and travel advisors are also stepping in to help international travelers either actually get tested or find testing sites in their destination. The bad news is that pricing varies wildly. Tests can run anywhere from several dollars to several hundred dollars, which can make travel budgeting a bit of a nightmare.

American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have all developed resources to provide passengers with international testing information. American is doing so with the VeriFly app , a global health pass that allows users to more easily upload their health data.

Through its United app, United has added a feature called the “ Travel-Ready Center ” (located in the “My Trips” section of the app or online at United.com ). Once passengers access the Travel-Ready Center, they can identify COVID-19 travel requirements for upcoming trips, find local testing options, and upload proof of test results (as well as vaccination status).

Delta, too, has developed an easy COVID-19 testing search function on its website through which travelers can find testing center locations in numerous global destinations.

How to find a COVID test in the U.S. to travel internationally

First and foremost, you need to make sure you’re up to date on the latest entry requirements for the country or countries you plan to visit, or even just enter—there’s never been a better time to fly nonstop. As we have seen throughout the pandemic, these rules can change very quickly at times.

Again, the U.S. State Department’s country-specific COVID-19 advisories are a great place to start to find up-to-date entry rules and requirements. We have also rounded up our favorite interactive map tools that provide updated global COVID-19 travel information.

Once you know what’s required, whether you need a PCR or antigen test, for example, and within what time frame (between two and three days, or 48 to 72 hours, is the most common requirement), you can begin to track down testing options near you.

Mail-in COVID self tests

COVID testing throughout the U.S. is patchy at best in terms of availability and reliability, and it varies enormously from city to city, county to county, and state to state. Earlier this month, President Biden announced that at-home COVID tests will become more available and will be covered by private insurance plans. Additional details will be available in January, but there are a few home or self tests that travelers can stock up on with mail-in options that may qualify for health insurance reimbursement and that satisfy certain international government requirements for entry. (Of course, if the COVID test entry requirement is a very tight time frame—say, two or three days prior to travel—these mail-in options might not work.)

Note that these tests can be used for travel from the U.S. to international destinations that will accept the results , not the other way around. The tests that work for inbound travel to the U.S. from abroad were mentioned above and were reviewed by AFAR editors.

Here are some of the options we have found for self tests that could work for travel:

• EverlyWell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC ($109 per test, or discounted for $81.75 with code GIVEMORE): This FDA-authorized PCR test is delivered within two to eight business days of order, so it should be ordered at least a couple of weeks before travel. Once you receive it, take the self-administered test and mail it the same day using the included overnight delivery label. Upon receiving the sample, the lab will provide results within 24 to 48 hours.
• Pixel by Labcorp COVID-19 Test At-Home Collection Kit ($119 per test): An FDA-authorized PCR test that is typically delivered within two days of order. The self test includes a FedEx overnight label that travelers use to send the sample back to the lab, where results are processed within one to two days.
• LetsGetChecked COVID-19 Pre-Flight Test & Lab Report ($109 per test): A home testing kit that travelers can order in advance. The company advises at least five days prior to travel (but why not stock up even earlier than that?). After collecting the sample yourself using a nasal swab, you then send it to the lab with a prepaid next-day delivery label, and results can be expected within 24 to 72 hours after arriving in the lab. This is also an FDA-authorized PCR test.

In-person COVID testing options in the U.S.

Large pharmacy chains such as CVS and Walgreens , healthcare networks, and county and state health agencies are among the numerous entities that offer COVID testing but not always with the guarantee of receiving results within a specific two- or three-day window. Travelers may need to rely on pricier local private providers and urgent care centers (such as CityMD and Medical Offices of Manhattan in New York and COVIDCheckToday in Southern California, Denver, Las Vegas, and Miami) to get a test for travel quickly. DMCOVID-19 Test is a nationwide testing service that does house calls and offers same- and next-day results—for a hefty fee; same-day services will run you around $300 and next-day around $220.

Getting tested at the airport

Another option (or backup option if waiting until just before departure is a little too nerve wracking for you) is to get tested at the airport.

XpresSpa Group’s XpresCheck brand now has COVID-19 testing locations at 11 U.S. airports, including Atlanta, Boston, Denver, Dulles, Houston, Newark, New York (JFK), Phoenix, Seattle, and San Francisco. Services include a standard PCR test with results within 48 to 96 hours (for $75) and a rapid PCR test with results within 60 minutes (for a much heftier $250). Beyond XpresCheck, countless U.S. airports have their own testing facilities as well now, so travelers can look into options at their local hub.

U.S. airports that have COVID testing facilities include:

• Los Angeles International Airport
• Oakland International Airport
• San Diego International Airport
• Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport
• Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
• Miami International Airport
• Tampa International Airport
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (Honolulu, Hawai‘i)
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport
• Chicago Midway International Airport
• Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport
• New York’s LaGuardia Airport
• Portland International Airport
• Philadelphia International Airport
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

What happens if you test positive?

“If you were to test positive for COVID-19 while overseas, you would need to postpone your trip back to the United States, potentially for several weeks. All travelers should have a plan B,” the U.S. State Department’s Acting Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Ian Brownlee, said during a January 26 media briefing when the testing requirement for international travelers entering the U.S. was first introduced.

Brownlee noted that U.S. travelers should consider where they would stay, the cost of an extended stay, and the repercussions they would face if they could not immediately return, whether for work, for childcare issues, or other responsibilities.

“Think through the answers to these important questions carefully” prior to committing to travel plans, Brownlee said. Another recommendation he has for international travelers: Consider travel insurance that covers COVID-19 medical treatments and COVID-19 related travel disruptions.

And the same goes for outbound travel—travelers need to consider what kind of safeguards they have in place, including the cancellation policies for all components of their trip, in the event that they or anyone in their travel group tests positive before flying out.

>> Next: The Best Travel Plan This Holiday Season: A Backup Plan

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• Information about PCR Tests for International Travel from or to Japan

At present, you may be required to present a negative PCR test certificate upon entering any country or region due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This page provides information on medical facilities offering PCR tests for customers traveling internationally from Japan. Before using one of these facilities, please confirm the details regarding the facility and the relevant country's travel conditions.

Before Leaving Japan: PCR Test for International Travel from Japan

You will find information below on our partner medical facilities inside Japan where you can obtain a PCR test certificate for international travel from Japan.

Entry Conditions and Quarantine Measures for Each Country

• * For the latest travel conditions, please check the relevant information provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan's overseas safety homepage, the embassy/consulate at your destination, the health authorities, etc.
• * This link will direct you to an external site. Some third-party programs may not run due to browser environment.The personal information protection policies and terms of use of the respective sites will apply.

Partner Clinics inside Japan

• * The link for each clinic will take you to an external website. Please enter into a contract directly with the relevant clinic.
• * If you have any questions about PCR tests, please contact the relevant clinic directly.
• * A negative PCR test certificate issued by one our partner clinics will not guarantee entry to another country. Please be sure to confirm the applicable entry conditions, etc. yourself.

Mita Kokusai Building Clinic

This clinic provides travel assistance to more than 170 countries worldwide and is accredited by embassies including those for Hawaii and China. It provides reliable pre-travel testing for your peace of mind, and also caters for infants, English speakers, and groups. The clinic is open on Saturdays (in the morning).

Other Useful Information

New routes, Resumed routes and Suspended routes (International Flights)

Get information on the international flight routes operated by the ANA Group.

ANA Care Promise

Introducing ANA's efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and the latest information on international travel.

Japan travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Japan travel in 2024 with official Japan travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Since travel restrictions can vary by citizenship, we will be focusing our post on rules that affect U.S. citizens.

Last update: April 6, 2024. Originally published: July 2022.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

*  Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist  *

April 2024: “Tourism is really popular in Japan these days, and crowds can be difficult to avoid. T here are no more travel restrictions for Japan, so it’s a much simpler arrival process than last year. However, we still highly recommend filling out the Immigration and Customs form online for quicker arrival (see instructions below).  We showed our passports and QR code at immigration and customs, did fingerprints, and had no questions asked. Wifi in both Tokyo airports can be frustratingly slow, so it’s important to screenshot/download the QR code before departure so you can access it offline. Just as it was pre-Covid, there is a percentage of Japanese people who wear masks out and about in public.” – Michelle & Jedd, Intentional Travelers

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Japan so you can get a sense of what it’s really like.

Table of Contents

Is Japan open for travel? Can I travel to Japan right now?

As of October 2022 , Japan is open for tourism for independent travelers. Visa-free travel for selected countries, including the US, has been resumed.

Tourists with U.S. passports can stay in Japan visa-free for up to three months. Find details and rules for entering Japan from other countries here . 

Japan travel restrictions have been eased but travelers are asked to follow guidelines with regard to masks, social distancing, dining etiquette, and more.

As of April 2023 , a proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test are no longer required for all travelers arriving in Japan.

To facilitate the arrival process, it’s highly recommended to submit your information online through Visit Japan Web before travel.

Steps for Traveling to Japan: What to Know (2024)

For a smoother arrival, travelers to Japan can pre-register for airport Immigration and Customs   to receive the QR codes used for “Fast Track” at major airports across Japan.

We completed the Japan entry process in late March 2023 and again in early April 2024. It was admittedly a bit confusing, so I thought I’d share our experience and tips, as the process is still the same (apart from step 2).

1. Register at Visit Japan Web  

While the Fast Track/Quarantine procedures are no longer mandatory to complete in advance, I was glad I followed advice to pre-register through the Visit Japan Web site. 

The latest they say you can register is at least 6 hours ahead of your flight to Japan .

2. Submit your Covid documents in advance – NO LONGER REQUIRED

3. Register for immigration QR code

Returning to the main registration dashboard on the website, select the next module “Disembarkation Card for Foreginer,” which says it’s required for landing in Japan.

Some details pre-populated from from my profile. I selected Tourism for purpose of visit. Then there are three ways to report length of stay: year, month, day; as well as a few questions about any criminal background in Japan.

Once completed, a button “Display QR code” appears below the appropriate section.

Take a screenshot of the Immigration QR code and save it to your phone . It will have a yellow line above it.

If you don’t have the QR code , there are immigration cards available to fill out at standing desks located before entering the lines. Some people got all the way up to the immigration agent and were asked to step aside to fill out a card, which are also available next to each immigration stall.

The immigration line at Narita moved steadily but took about 25 minutes since several flights had arrived at once.

When I showed the QR code, the immigration officer simply took a headshot picture and fingerprint scans, then stuck a “landing permission” stamp in my passport for 90 days. No questions asked.

4. Register for Customs QR code

Returning again to the main dashboard, finally select “Preparation for customs declaration.” This registration allows travelers to go through an electronic declaration gate, which wasn’t super clear once we were at the airport.

I entered my flight origination (Hanoi) and number of family members with me (1). Then there’s the usual customs questions – type of goods, prohibited items, monetary funds, alcohol, cigarettes, souvenirs over 200,000y.

Again, take a screenshot of the Customs QR code and save it to your phone . It will have a blue line above it.

At Narita, the customs line for QR codes are labeled “electronic declaration” in blue. There are also kiosks that allow QR code, card, and duty free, as well as those that are for physical customs card only. The lines weren’t too long so it didn’t matter much which line we chose.

The customs officer had us scan our QR code and we could see our entered data displayed on an over-sized tablet-like device at the desk. No questions asked, we proceeded to exit the airport.

5. Sign up for travel insurance

It’s recommended to obtain insurance to cover medical costs related to COVID-19 in Japan. For travel insurance that covers Covid, we use Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing.

Quarantine rules in Japan: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival in Japan, provided that they are not suspected of having Covid-19. See details here . 

Residents report that quarantine rules for testing positive may no longer be enforced anymore.

Previously, foreign tourists who tested positive for Covid while in Japan had to contact a local consultation center . A 7-10 days quarantine at a government-designated accommodation facility was required with all costs covered by the visitor.

The quarantine period could end within 7-10 days depending on the symptoms and/or negative COVID-19 test result. See details here .

Can I travel to Japan in May? Can I travel to Japan this Summer?

Travel to Japan in May is open . See details above and check back for updates.

Is it safe to fly to NRT Narita or HND Haneda International Airport ? Health screenings and body temperature checks are no longer in place at the airport. Wearing of masks is no longer required on flights or in the airports, though masking is still widely practiced.

Stringent cleaning and seating limits are implemented.

What is it like to fly to Japan right now? All Nippon Airways reports that masks are now optional. Additional procedures are in place at Immigration – please see details above.

Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Japan? No . See quarantine details above.

Does Japan check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Health screening procedures such as temperature checks and simple symptom questionnaires are typically not in place at ports of entry anymore.

Does Japan require a negative Covid 19 test for travelers? A negative test is no longer required to enter Japan as of April 2023.

Does Japan require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? A proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required to enter Japan as of April 2023.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. A negative Covid test, quarantine, or proof of vaccination are no longer required to enter Japan.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Japan? No. A booster shot is no longer required to enter Japan.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers? PCR and/or antigen tests are available for travelers in Japan. Travelers should contact the local consultation center  to determine the location of testing facilities within Japan. A non-comprehensive list of some COVID-19 testing facilities can be found here .

Test results are available within 24 to 72 hours but many labs can return results in a matter of hours. PCR test costs vary from ¥2,500 to ¥16,500.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Japan who get the virus? Japan hospitals and clinics are open. Foreign visitors are required to secure a medical insurance which that will cover medical costs in case they contract COVID-19 in Japan.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Japan ?  Businesses and restaurants in Japan are open. Some businesses may require their own mask rules or capacity limits.

What public gatherings are allowed in Japan? Public gatherings are allowed in Japan subject to safety guidelines.

Are face masks required in Japan? As of March 2023, wearing of face masks in Japan is recommended but no longer required. 

Face masks are almost universally worn in public, especially in urban areas, indoors and on public transportation. The Consulate website states that failure to adhere to mask-wearing norms reflects poorly on foreign visitors.

Are buses running in Japan? Trains, buses and taxis are running as usual in Japan.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Japan?

Japan managed impressively well compared to most countries in the early days of the pandemic. Although Japan has been previously in a State of Emergency, the lockdowns were less disruptive on Japanese daily life.

However, Japan’s inbound tourism business lay dormant for years. Japan finally began easing restrictions in 2022 and reopened to travelers in June with strict entry requirements. 

Japan finally eased entry requirements for travelers in October 2022 making it easier for travelers to visit the country. Visa-free travel has also been resumed for select countries.

Vaccination in Japan started later than some other countries. Around 80% of the population has been vaccinated and 64% had received a booster shot.

Tourism is now back with record numbers of visitors, however, staffing shortages have not fully recovered.

For the current situation in Japan, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Japan; and COVID-19 testing in Japan, please see the Japan Ministry of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Japan?

😷 Face Masks -Face coverings are recommended and widely used in public places. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Japan locals and recent travelers say about visiting Japan now?

What is it like to visit Japan right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

January 2024 – Brandon of Zimminaroundtheworld , expat living in Japan: “Japan is seeing an increase in tourism now that the country is open to visitors. Many visitors are traveling to Tokyo and Kyoto but some towns and cities like Nikko, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Naha are also seeing rises in tourism. 

Currently there are no travel restrictions within Japan unless it is due to environmental catastrophes like the earthquake that occurred in Ishikawa Prefecture recently. Access to healthcare in Japan is easily available and affordable. Although foreigners can sometimes pay up to 200% more for healthcare it is still cheap.

Many attractions and famous sites around Japan especially in Kyoto and Tokyo are crowded with lines that are longer then expected. In general, restaurants in Japan are smaller and can only able to accommodate up to ten people or fewer and the space can feel cramped. Like anywhere else, keep an open mind and be flexible and there will be no problems while traveling around Japan.”

September 2023 – Jackie Szeto of Life of Doing , American traveler: “My husband and I traveled to Tokyo and Nikko, Japan for vacation in September 2023. Expect large crowds at major attractions, restaurants, and trains in major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto. Visiting other destinations such as Nikko is a nice change of pace with fewer crowds, especially on the weekdays. 

It’s recommended to complete the Immigration and Customs declaration on the Visit Japan Web to expedite arrival, but it’s not required. When landing at international airports, the QR codes for Immigration and Customs are still accepted. Otherwise, all COVID protocols have been dropped in the cities. Antibacterial hand sanitizer is still provided at entrances of hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. Some people still wear masks in crowded areas and on trains, but most go mask-free.”

May 2023 – Sophie Pham of Delightful Travel Notes , traveler: “My husband and I were traveling in Japan for 11 days from May 11-21, 2023 for our vacation. I found that Japan had already welcomed visitors with open arms, free of earlier restrictions. The return of both domestic travelers and international tourists created a lively atmosphere, and crowds could be seen in a lot of places.

In May, it took us 45 minutes to clear immigration at Kansai International Airport after landing at around 7:45am.

All attractions and food venues were fully open, with no social distancing measures or mandatory mask rules, although some restaurant servers, locals, and taxi drivers still chose to wear masks. Some famous restaurants had long lines again, and popular attractions like Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Senso-ji-ji could get crowded during the day. If there’s a particular popular restaurant you want to try, it may be best to make your dinner reservation in advance, especially for weekend. Overall, everything is lively again and we had a great time.”

March 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, American visitor: “We enjoyed a two day layover in Japan. The online procedures and QR codes were a bit confusing but I highly recommended doing them in advance of travel to make your arrival smoother.”

February 2023 – Joel, US traveler: “For the most part the Japanese are wearing masks. I’d say mask wearing is at about 99%. Despite the crowds in the city and packed trains and subways, it honestly feels way safer than generally any place in America where mask wearing is far from the majority. ANA enforces a mask wearing requirement whereas United is pretty much a free for all.

One key thing that is good to know is at the ticketing counter they need to know your return flight info when initially checking in. We had all the other Japan travel docs as far as the gov mandated requirements but this one kinda caught us off guard. The immigration line may seem staggering but it moves. ” 

January 2023 – Lizzie of Wanderlust & Life , UK traveler: “I flew to Tokyo in January 2023 for 3 days as part of a stopover between Australia and the UK. For us it felt like the country is so happy to welcome tourists again. We were slightly worried about visiting or entry restrictions changing last minute but the airline kept us up to date and apart from filling out a lot of forms on arrival it felt quite normal being there. 

As Japan only opened recently there weren’t as many tourists as we were expecting which was a plus really. We were made to feel so welcome in the country.

Masks are mandatory indoors and everyone seemed to be following this. The vast majority of people were also wearing masks outdoors too. Sanitiser is readily available in restaurants and tourist attractions. We didn’t encounter any contact tracing or even requests to show covid passes. The only frustration we had was that we flew JAL and we had to wear masks our whole flight which was about 14 hours in one go and this was enforced by cabin crew.”

November 2022 – Darryl H., New Zealand traveler:  “My visit to Japan involved a return to the sort of measures that, in my home country of New Zealand, had been abandoned some time ago. The first action on arriving at Tokyo’s Narita Airport, with my mask firmly in place, was to allow officials to check and confirm I had complied with mandatory online registration of evidence of my vaccination status. Once this had been done, the arrivals process was pretty much standard.

During my 10-day stay, I experienced no restrictions on my movements or activities. The differences were in the roles of masks, sanitiser and – in some instances – distancing. The wearing of masks indoors and on public transport is close to one hundred percent, whether or not they are demanded. Outdoors, in most situations, they appear to be worn by at least 98 percent of people, although in some areas later in the evening there is an obvious relaxation in standards – especially among younger people. While most tourists appear happy to comply with the standards followed by locals, the proportion of non-mask use by non-Japanese is clearly larger than by Japanese. At no stage did I see any visitor reproached for this.

There is sanitiser on hand (pun intended) everywhere. It is probably accessed by about a third of people. There are many locals who are fastidious about sanitising.

While I observed no enforced distancing on public transport or in the street, it is definitely in place in cafes and other eateries. Most places I visited had plastic partitioning between patrons, and crosses to discourage the use of every second seat. Groups or couples are, of course, welcome to sit together.

The buffet breakfast in my hotel illustrates all three of the above differences. When I arrived at breakfast each morning, masked of course, the attendant ensured that I first sanitised my hands and then put on plastic gloves. Only then could I approach the serving implements and food. I would then sit on one of two seats (the second having a cross on it), both of which were partitioned off from the next pair of seats. Seats with another seat opposite were separated by another plastic partition. If I wanted to return to the buffet for more food, I first had to remask and re-glove. Once I forgot the gloves, and was politely turned back before I could touch the serving implements.

It is not uncommon for Japanese hospitality venues to give high priority to cleanliness, but there seems to be super-high priority now. Where in New Zealand I might expect a quick wipe over of a table between customers, in Tokyo it now appears to be a thorough and sometimes deep clean.

The precautions in no way reduced my pleasure in revisiting Tokyo. And they increased at least my perception of being protected.”

September 2022 – Jackson, American visitor: “Traveling to Japan reminded me of the COVID situation in Hawaii a year ago. People go about their day with a medical mask. Every store front has hand sanitizers and thermo cameras. COIVD testing and vaccination clinics are common place. Despite these COVID precautions, Japanese residents and businesses continue to welcome visitors with refreshing grace and hospitality. Japan’s  omotenashi , beautiful scenery, and extraordinary delicacies are worth exploring and appreciating, but can tempt visitors into overlooking the uncertainty that underlines Japan. I hope visitors will take the time to learn about the challenges of the Japanese people and reciprocate Japan’s hospitality with a gracious thank you.”

Aug 21 2022 – Y., American Japanese dual citizen: “ I returned from visiting family in Japan two days ago. Travel is still tough. The plane was empty – only 20 passengers on a big airplane. My pre-travel Covid test was 10 minutes earlier than the required 72 hours so I was turned away at the airport. I scrambled to find a last minute PCR test with rapid results and rush back to the airport.”

August 2022 – Christine, American visitor: “Japan isn’t currently open to tourists. I was there for a school conference, and had to get a conference visa. One has to get a visa for Japan in advance and you can only get one with an EFRS form filled out from someone in Japan.

I had to have a negative PCR test from within 72 hours of departure time. There’s eased quarantine procedures, which depend on the countries you’ve been to in the previous 2 weeks. And you have to have the MySOS app on your phone because they might check up on you. It also expedites your entry because you can upload all the necessary forms/COVID test/questionnaire ahead of time.

Everyone wears a mask everywhere, and they’re available for cheap at convenience stores. Because I was on a university’s campus most of the time, I had to report my temperature and if I was having any symptoms to the University every day.”

July 2022 – Brandon of https://zimminaroundtheworld.com , Expat in Japan: “Currently Japan is only doing guided tours for international tourism. Travel entry for normal tourism is not an option at the moment. I recently took a trip around central Japan and visited a variety of cities and saw hardly any tourists. It’s nice to get great photos of popular attractions without crowds of people in the photos. But at the same time, it is taking a toll on the economy. I’ve seen shops and restaurants struggle to survive here and locals begging for tourism to come back.

Masks have been worn in Japan even before Covid. To this day, the majority of the population wears masks and obeys the rules, this includes both foreigners and locals. I wear a mask when leaving my apartment and only take it off when social distancing can be achieved or while eating at a restaurant. The positive aspect about Covid is that there are no long lines to enter attractions or eating establishments. I feel public transportation is safe here as the Japanese are very good and sanitizing everything.”

Planning a trip to Japan?

Check out our other Japan travel resources: – Great Things To Do Around Iwakuni, Japan

If you have questions or updates about travel to Japan during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

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Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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Hi Great article ! I noticed you have been vaccinated once with JJ (same here) . You mentioned the requirements for boosters but it sounds like you haven’t had a booster? I tried to sort through the link page but couldn’t find any further info. So my question is I’m planning to travel after May 8th with 1 JJ vaccination, I’m Canadian, but will be coming from Indonesia. Thanks for any insight you might have

Hi and thanks for visiting our blog. While we had the single JJ vaccination, we also had boosters. I mentioned it because the Japan entry form allows you to essentially count JJ as two shots out of the three that are required. In other words, at least one booster is currently required for entry to Japan. That said, vaccine documentation will no longer be required after May 8 so you shouldn’t have to worry about it.

I am travelling to the US from Australia via Japan in September. I fly with JAL, from Melbourne (MEL) arriving at Haneda International Airport (HND), but need to fly out of Narita International Airport (NRT) to New York (JFK).

I would like to know if I will be allowed to travel, via Japan, in September.

Australia is in Blue Category and I have had 3rd dose of Covid vaccination.

I look forward to your reply soon.

Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to say what will be possible in September, as we do expect the rules to change over time. Currently, foreign travelers are limited to package tours and may not use public transit. To find out if any exceptions can be made for transit between airports, you can try the Japan visitor hotline .

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COVID-19 Health & Safety Information

Please note this page is no longer being updated..

For the latest information on entry to Japan, please visit the following page:  COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan

Information on the easing of travel restrictions to Japan (as of 11 November 2022)

*For passport holders from other countries, please see the links below for the Embassies and Consulates-General of Japan for more information.

PCR tests or quarantine on arrival are not required, regardless of vaccination status. For more information on the process and entry requirements, refer to the below image or visit  this page  to view the information in checklist form. 

Process Map

Useful Resources

Au / nz government travel advisories , visit japan / jnto sites .

The  Coronavirus travel restrictions page  is a travel advisory updated regularly in line with the official information provided by the Government of Japan.

COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan is an information page built to help travellers plan a safe trip around Japan.

See specific measures taken by Japanese organisations below.

Airlines & Airports

The ANA Care Promise set of health and safety initiatives has been awarded a 5-Star COVID-19 Safety Rating from SKYTRAX, the highest possible rating, and one that only a few airlines worldwide has achieved.

The JAL FlySafe set of health and safety initiatives has been recognised by Skytrax with a 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating, along with a Diamond Certification by APEX Health Safety powered by SimpliFlying.

Haneda Airport’s webpage includes information on how to use airport facilities safely and measures to prevent the spread of infection, especially in regards to the 3 Cs: closed spaces, crowded spaces, close-contact settings.

Narita Airport has implemented nine key initiatives to prevent the spread of infection including the installation of transparent barriers, ensuring optimum air ventilation and stringent cleaning practices.

Kansai International Airport has a number initiatives in place to prevent the spread of infection including the use of thermographic cameras, increased cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and social distancing measures.

Railway Companies

Japan has an expansive railway network that is owned and operated by many companies.  Japan Railways (JR) is the most well-known thanks to the popular  JR Pass  and high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains). Its vast and elaborate network can be a bit daunting to navigate at first - it's actually operated by six separate companies: JR Hokkaido, JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Shikoku, JR Kyushu.

In particular, please note the popular Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen (Tokyo to Hakata) is run by both JR Central and JR West – JR Central operates the section from Tokyo to Osaka, and JR West operates the section from Osaka and Hakata. 

JR Hokkaido services the northern island of Hokkaido and also operates the section of the shinkansen route between Shin-Aomori Station on Honshu and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station in southern Hokkaido. Download the ‘Major actions on preventing the spread of novel coronavirus’ PDF from their website for more information.

JR East services eastern Japan including the capital of Tokyo and the north-eastern region of Tohoku. It also operates the Hokuriku Shinkansen which stops at cities such as Nagano, Kanazawa and Niigata.

JR Central services central Japan and operates the Tokaido Shinkansen, a popular route that runs between Tokyo and Osaka travels through major cities such as Yokohama, Nagoya and Kyoto. The ‘COVID-19 Protective Measures’ PDF is available to download from their website.

JR West services western Japan, including well-known cities such as Nara, Osaka, Kyoto, Wakayama, Kobe and Hiroshima. It operates the Sanyo Shinkansen which runs from Shin-Osaka Station to Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu.

Tobu services the area of Tokyo and surrounds, providing connections to popular destinations such as Nikko, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree and Kawagoe. Information on the latest measures to prevent the spread of infection is available to download from their website.

Kintetsu Railway services the areas of Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Ise-shima (Mie Prefecture) and Nagoya. As part of a number of measures implemented to prevent the spread of infection, Kintestsu has sprayed the interior of its train carriages with an antiviral and antibacterial treatment.

Nankai Electric Railway services southern Osaka Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture. It connects the southern hub of Namba to Kansai International Airport, Wakayama and Koyasan. Information on health and safety measures that have been implemented is available to download from their website.

JR-West Hotels have implemented new 'Clean & Safety' hygiene standards, and have received the coveted Trusted Cleanliness Badge, a certificate issued by Trust You, one of the top class platforms in the hotel industry. (JR-West Hotels brands include Hotel Granvia, Hotel Vischio by Granvia, Nara Hotel and Potel.)

Prince Hotels has developed the Prince Safety Commitment, a set of new protocols for hygiene and disinfection to be applied to all the hotels under their brands. These will enable Prince Hotels to provide guests with a safe and clean environment during their stay.

Palace Hotel Tokyo has achieved the GBAC STAR™ Facility Accreditation and has become Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™ with Forbes Travel Guide. These accreditations show Palace Hotel Tokyo is committed to implementing best practices and operating as safely as possible.

Imperial Hotel Osaka has received GBAC STAR™ accreditation and is Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™ with Forbes Travel Guide. These demonstrate the hotel meets international hygiene standards for infectious disease prevention measures and is committed to following best practices to ensure the safety and comfort of its guests.

Destinations

Miyazaki Prefecture Tourism Association has produced a video to introduce the safety measures taken by the Miyazaki Tourism Industry for the post-COVID-19 era.

Attractions

Read about the health and safety measures that are in place at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea as well as update on the status of rides, attractions, restaurants and other facilities at each theme park.

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• COVID-19 Health & Safety Information

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askST: What do I need to know about travelling to Japan now?

SINGAPORE - Japan reopened its borders in June this year to leisure travellers on tour packages. On Wednesday, it eased more of its travel restrictions and will now allow foreign tourists to travel on non-guided tour packages .

The Straits Times explains the latest changes.

Q: Can I travel and plan my own trip to Japan?

A: Yes. Travellers can do so under a non-guided tour package offered by travel agents that are recognised by the Japanese authorities.

Under these non-guided tour packages, travellers must book their flights and accommodation in advance with these agents.

The agents must arrange round-trip tickets and accommodation for the traveller's stay in Japan. This means that travellers are not allowed to stay at a friend's or family member's home in Japan.

Travellers must remain contactable at all times through phone calls, e-mails and SMS.

Q: Can I book tickets to Japan on my own?

A: Yes, you can do so when going for guided package tours. But the Japan-based travel agency or travel service provider acting as the receiving organisation needs to be aware of your itinerary and monitor your movements from entry into Japan till departure.

With these tours, you can have free time in your itinerary. However, you need to meet your guide at least once a day.

Q: Do I still need a visa to enter Japan?

A: Yes. Visas remain mandatory for all travellers. Visas were not required for Singaporeans before the Covid-19 pandemic. Travellers from all countries must apply for a visa through the authorised travel agents.

It can take at least five working days to process these visas, according to the Japan Tourism Agency. Travel agents said it could take weeks for a visa application to be approved.

Q: Do I need to take a pre-departure polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test?

A: No. You need to take a PCR test only  if you have not received three jabs of an approved vaccine. Japan does not recognise Chinese-made vaccines.

Q: Do I need to submit a certificate of Covid-19 test before entering Japan?

A: No, you do not. You no longer need to submit a certificate of Covid-19 test conducted within 72 hours before you depart from Singapore to Japan if you have a valid vaccination certificate.

Q: Do I need to wear a mask in Japan?

A: It is advisable to wear a mask in Japan. The Japanese authorities have recommended that you wear a mask in certain situations. Examples include talking to someone outdoors within a 2m distance or when you cannot maintain a physical distance from others on a train. 

Q: Do I need to serve quarantine upon arriving in Japan?

A: The need for on-arrival Covid-19 tests and quarantine depends on which country or region you stayed in before entering Japan.

Japan allows entry from countries and regions where infection levels are low. These are divided into three categories - red, yellow and blue - depending on their assessed virus risk.

Travellers from countries and regions on the blue list, including Singapore, can enter Japan without taking any on-arrival Covid-19 tests or serving quarantine.

Q: What is the daily limit for all arrivals now?

A: The daily limit for all arrivals - including Japanese nationals, foreign residents and those entering on business and tourist visas - has been increased to 50,000 from 20,000 people previously.

*For the list of travel agencies listed under the Japan National Tourism Organisation Singapore office, visit this website.

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