Japan Has Changed | Top 9 New Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan in 2025 | Border Alert, etc

Japan Has Changed | Top 9 New Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan in 2025 | Border Alert, etc

Hi, I’m Toshi from Japan and tourist guide for foreigners. In this video, I will show you 9 New Things Japan has changed in 2025. Japan is hotter than ever—literally and figuratively! In May 2025, over 3.69 million people visited Japan, a 21.5% increase from last year. But with this surge in tourism, there have been some major changes—some good, and some not so great. From potential increases in departure tax, to new entry procedures, to updated weather forecasts for July and August, there’s a lot you need to know before your trip. In this video, I’ll walk you through 9 key updates that will help make your trip smoother, safer, and way more enjoyable. Plus, I also offer guided tours in Japan, travel itineraries based on trip duration and area, and recommendations for unique cultural experiences. You can find more information in the description below. So, let’s get started. No1.Leaving Japan? Cost more! Did you know that every time you leave Japan, you’re actually paying an “Departure Tax” of 1,000 yen? It’s not something you see directly—it’s usually included in your flight ticket, so many travelers don’t even realize they’re paying it. But here’s the big news: The Japanese government has officially announced a planned increase in this departure tax. While the exact timing isn’t confirmed yet, Prime Minister Ishiba has stated that he intends to raise it to 5,000 yen—that’s five times the current amount—as soon as possible. Now, I’m not here to defend the policy, but to put it in perspective: Other countries charge departure taxes too. For example, in the U.S., it’s around 3,500 yen, in Egypt, about 3,900 yen, and in Australia, as high as 7,000 yen. Also, this tax isn’t just for foreign tourists—Japanese citizens have to pay it too when they leave the country. So, if you’re thinking of visiting Japan on a budget, I recommend you to come to Japan soon. No2.No Insurance, No Entry Japan is currently facing a growing issue: foreign tourists leaving without paying their medical bills. With the surge in international visitors, hospitals have seen more cases of expensive treatments like emergency care and out-of-pocket procedures. In fact, in September 2024 alone, unpaid medical bills by foreign travelers totaled over 61 million yen. To address this, the Japanese government is now considering making travel health insurance mandatory for all foreign visitors before entering the country. This means that in the near future, you might not be allowed to enter Japan without proof of valid health insurance. This change isn’t official yet, but the chances of it becoming part of Japan’s entry requirements are very high. It’s an important update that could affect your travel plans, so stay informed. I’ll keep you updated with any new information, so please subscribe to my channel. No3.New Shibuya Shibuya — one of Japan’s most iconic and vibrant neighborhoods — is currently undergoing a once-in-a-century transformation. A massive redevelopment project is reshaping the entire area around Shibuya Station, including the famous Shibuya Scramble Square and the Hachiko Plaza. At the same time, the station itself is being upgraded and several new plazas and public spaces are being built. One of the most exciting updates is the creation of a new pedestrian deck network, stretching north, south, east, and west from the station. This will make it easier than ever to explore Shibuya on foot and to transfer between train lines. Even better — some of these decks will include free observation areas, giving you incredible views of the famous Scramble Crossing and the city skyline. On top of that, Shibuya is expanding as a hub for shopping, anime merchandise, and cutting-edge fashion. The Shibuya Scramble Square is being extended into what will become one of the largest commercial complexes in the Tokyo area. The full project is expected to finish around 2030, but much of it is already underway. So when you visit, enjoy today’s Shibuya — and imagine the incredible version that’s still to come. No4.Extreme Heat Warning for Summer 2025 If you’re planning to visit Japan in July or August 2025, here’s something you definitely need to know. As I mentioned in my previous video, summer in Japan is already known for being hot and humid, but according to the latest forecast from the Japan Meteorological Agency, this year will be even hotter than usual. One major reason? The La Niña phenomenon. This climate pattern causes ocean temperatures in the Pacific to drop, which leads to warmer and more humid air flowing into Japan from the south. As a result, experts are warning of extreme heat this summer across the country. So if you’re traveling to Japan during this time, please prepare accordingly. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks in air-conditioned places, avoid outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours, and don’t overpack your schedule. That said, summer in Japan is also full of amazing experiences — from traditional summer festivals to beach activities and fireworks. So come prepared, and enjoy the best of Japan’s summer — safely and comfortably! No5.No Non-Reserved Seats this Summer As I mentioned in my previous video, if you are planning to travel around Japan by Shinkansen during the summer holidays, here is something important you should know. During Japan’s major holiday seasons, such as Golden Week from late April to early May, Summer Holiday in mid-August, and the New Year period, many Shinkansen lines eliminate non-reserved seats and operate with reserved seating only. This means that if you do not book your ticket in advance, you may not be able to ride the train at your preferred time, even if you have a Japan Rail Pass. For the summer of 2025, the reserved-seat-only period has already been announced. It will be from August 8 to August 17. If you are planning to travel during that time, make sure to reserve your seat in advance. Also, for your reference, the winter holiday travel period is expected to be from December 26, 2025 to January 4, 2026. I’ll keep you updated with any new information, so please subscribe to my channel. No6.Japan’s Popular Tour Ends Unexpectedly A popular tourist experience in Japan has suddenly been shut down, and here is what you need to know. For many visitors, trying out samurai or ninja experiences is a highlight of their trip. Among these, one of the most exciting was the chance to wear traditional clothing and try real sword-cutting using a genuine Japanese katana. However, this activity has now been suspended. In January, in Murayama City, Yamagata Prefecture—known as the birthplace of Iaido—the police ruled that using real swords in these activities could violate Japan’s strict sword control laws. As a result, the program had to stop immediately, despite being very popular and even recognized by the national government. Similar programs using real swords are still being offered in Tokyo and Kyoto, but this case may influence future decisions across the country. If you are still interested in this kind of cultural experience, you can attend a live demonstration by a licensed master, which is still allowed. It’s a great way to appreciate the skill and tradition without any legal issues. No7.New Ways to Enjoy Japan in 2025 I have some exciting news to help you enjoy your trip to Japan even more. Besides sharing videos on this YouTube channel, I have also started offering real-life services to make your visit unforgettable. Today, I want to update you on two main types of services. First, there is my in-person guided tours. So far, over 200 people have joined these tours, and I’ve had a great time showing visitors the best of Japan. I’ve organized these tours into six main types. You can explore Tokyo, Japan’s world-famous capital; Osaka, the vibrant second largest city; Kyoto, the historic cultural heart; Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak and a beautiful World Heritage site, with an option to stay overnight; Kamakura, a famous day-trip spot from Tokyo; and also customizable tours tailored just for you. The second type is food and bar tours. There are three popular options. One is a bar hopping tour visiting three traditional Japanese bars. Another is a sake tour where you can taste various traditional sakes guided by a sake sommelier across three sake bars. The third combines sightseeing in famous areas like Asakusa with tasting sushi, wagyu beef, and street food. Additionally, I offer cultural experiences through trusted partners. These include making and tasting matcha tea, enjoying authentic Japanese home cooking, and samurai experiences at special rates. Recently, I added a new tasting experience that combines matcha and Japanese teas. If you’re interested, please check the detailed information and booking form on my website listed in the description area. I look forward to meeting you in Japan and making your trip even more special. No8.Osaka Expo 2025 Updates From April 13th to October 13th, 2025, the Osaka Expo is taking place. I visited last month, and it was even more exciting than I expected, with pavilions from 158 countries around the world. There are two exciting updates about the Expo. First, starting in June, a giant projection mapping called MEGA CANVAS began. It’s shown every night on a large warehouse wall inside the Expo site, creating a stunning visual experience. Second, the Expo will hold a special event called Japan Day on July 3rd. This event features traditional Japanese music called Gagaku combined with modern music, and performances mixing Japanese manga with contemporary dance. It’s a celebration of Japan’s culture, creativity, and diversity. At the Expo, you can explore the Japanese pavilion to enrich your Japan trip, visit your own country’s pavilion, or simply enjoy pavilions from other countries and these new events. If you visit Japan in 2025, I highly recommend going to the Expo. No9.Kyoto’s Famous Festival The Gion Festival is one of Japan’s three major festivals, held every year in Kyoto, a city famous for its historical streets and beautiful traditions. It is a summer highlight and is even registered as a UNESCO World Heritage event, attracting visitors from all over the world. The festival lasts for the entire month of July, from the 1st to the 31st, but the main events that tourists can enjoy start from July 10th. The most famous and spectacular part is the parade of elaborately decorated floats called Yamahoko, which takes place on July 17th and July 24th. I am planning to attend this year, so if you see me there, please say hello. Japan’s summer is full of traditional festivals like this, offering a unique experience different from usual sightseeing. I highly recommend you join these festivals to make your Japan trip even more memorable. How was today’s video? If you would like to request a guide in Japan or have any questions regarding your travel itinerary, please contact me from the link in the description section. Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and like button. See you in my next video, bye!

Japan is hotter than ever—literally and figuratively! In May 2025, over 3.69 million people visited Japan, a 21.5% increase from last year. But with this surge in tourism, there have been some major changes—some good, and some not so great.
From potential increases in departure tax, to new entry procedures, to updated weather forecasts for July and August, there’s a lot you need to know before your trip.
In this video, I’ll walk you through 9 key updates that will help make your trip smoother, safer, and way more enjoyable.

⭐️My Website⭐️
https://www.toshi-guide-trip.com/
▶︎*Request my Services here*

⭐️CHAPTERS⭐️
0:00 Opening
1:06 1.Leaving Japan? Cost more!
2:12 2.No Insurance, No Entry
3:11 3.New Shibuya
4:30 4.Extreme Heat Warning for Summer 2025
5:39 5.No Non-Reserved Seats this Summer
6:43 6.Japan’s Popular Tour Ends Unexpectedly
7:55 7.New Ways to Enjoy Japan in 2025
9:49 8.Osaka Expo 2025 Updates
10:59 9.Kyoto’s Famous Festival

⭐️Related Videos⭐️
Don’t come to Japan during these months | Best time and Bad time to visit Japan | Travel Update 2024

Japan Has Changed | New 10 Shinkansen Rules for Traveling to Japan in 2025: Everything You Must Know

⭐️Information⭐️
International arrivals in Japan were up 20% to 3.7 million in May 2025, marking record-high for May
https://www.travelvoice.jp/english/international-arrivals-in-japan-were-up-20-to-3-7-million-in-may-2025-marking-record-high-for-may
Report: ‘Once-in-a-century’ heat wave could be annual event
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15685628
Heat acclimation measures in spotlight as summer weather approaches Japan
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20250512/p2a/00m/0li/008000c
Japan to tighten rules on foreign tourists over unpaid medical bills
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20250605/p2g/00m/0na/010000c
Japanese Swords Banned from Tourist Programs, Putting Damper on the ‘Samurai Experience’

Japanese Swords Banned from Tourist Programs, Putting Damper on the ‘Samurai Experience’

【映像まとめ】京都・祇園祭の山鉾巡行が４年ぶり通常開催【山鉾巡行】

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