Is Tourism Open in Japan?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you may be wondering whether tourism is currently open in the country. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected travel and tourism worldwide, and Japan is no exception. In this article, we’ll explore the current state of tourism in Japan and what you need to know if you’re planning a visit.

Current Situation

As of September 2021, Japan is currently allowing tourists to enter the country under certain conditions. However, these conditions are subject to change at any time depending on the state of the pandemic both in Japan and globally.

Entry Restrictions

Currently, only foreign nationals who meet certain criteria are allowed to enter Japan. These include:

  • Business travelers with special permission
  • Students enrolled in Japanese universities or other educational institutions
  • Spouses or children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents
  • Long-term residents of Japan
  • People with other special circumstances such as medical emergencies or humanitarian reasons.

If you don’t fall into one of these categories, you won’t be able to enter Japan at this time.

Testing and Quarantine Requirements

Even if you are allowed to enter Japan, there are strict testing and quarantine requirements that you must follow. All travelers entering Japan must provide negative COVID-19 test results taken within 72 hours of departure and undergo a PCR test upon arrival at their own expense.

Additionally, all travelers must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Japan. During this time, they are not allowed to use public transportation or leave their designated location except for medical emergencies.

Tourist Attractions

While many tourist attractions in Japan have reopened since the initial outbreak of COVID-19, some remain closed or have limited hours and capacity. It’s important to check the status of any attractions you plan to visit before you go.

COVID-19 Measures

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, various measures have been implemented at tourist attractions throughout Japan. These include:

  • Mandatory mask-wearing
  • Temperature checks
  • Physical distancing measures
  • Limited capacity
  • Increased cleaning and sanitization

It’s important to follow these measures when visiting tourist attractions in Japan to help keep yourself and others safe.

Conclusion

Tourism in Japan is currently open under certain conditions, but these may change at any time. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, be sure to check the latest entry requirements and quarantine measures before you go.

Additionally, be prepared for changes or closures at tourist attractions due to COVID-19. By staying informed and following all necessary precautions, you can still enjoy the beauty and culture of Japan while staying safe during these challenging times.