Japan Entry Rules Explained 🇯🇵 What to Know Before & After Arrival (2025 Update)

Japan Entry Rules Explained 🇯🇵 What to Know Before & After Arrival (2025 Update)

Hi, I’m Toshi from Japan and tourist guide for foreigners. In this video, I will show you 20 things to Know Before & After Arrival in Japan in 2025. Are you planning to visit Japan, but not sure what to prepare before your trip? Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! In this video, we’ll go over everything you need to know before and after landing in Japan — all updated for 2025. From entry and customs procedures, to getting Wi-Fi, using public transport, setting up your Suica or PASMO card, and even luggage delivery services — I’ll guide you through 20 essential tips to make your arrival smooth and stress-free. Japan may feel intimidating at first, but trust me — after watching this video, your first hour in Japan will be a breeze. 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. **Before your Entry to Japan** No1.Visa Exemptions? As of November 2025, Japan allows travelers from 74 countries and regions to enter without a visa. However, it’s important to remember that the length of stay and conditions can vary depending on your country. For example, travelers from countries like Peru or Colombia are technically eligible for visa-free entry, but the Japanese government strongly recommends obtaining a visa in advance. According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visitors from these countries may face stricter immigration checks, and in some cases, even denial of entry upon arrival. So, before you book your flight, make sure to check the latest visa requirements on the official MOFA website. It’s the most reliable source for up-to-date information, and it can help you avoid unnecessary stress when you arrive in Japan. Trust me — a few minutes of preparation now will save you a lot of trouble later. No2.Japan’s New Entry Rule Let’s talk about Japan’s upcoming ESTA-style entry system, known as Japan ESTA. As Japan becomes easier to visit, new challenges are also emerging — including the need to prevent illegal entry and strengthen national security. To address this, the Japanese government is planning to introduce a new pre-travel screening system, similar to the U.S. ESTA program. Originally scheduled for 2028, Prime Minister Ishiba has requested an earlier launch, and preparations are now underway. Under this system, travelers will need to submit personal details, accommodation information, and travel plans before arriving in Japan. This helps authorities identify high-risk visitors even before they board their flights. The good news? Once approved, Japan ESTA is expected to speed up immigration procedures, reduce long lines — especially during peak hours or late-night arrivals — and make the entire entry process much smoother. However, a serious warning: Fake Japan ESTA websites are already online. They claim the system is active and even offer application forms, but the real Japan ESTA has not started yet. Do not enter your personal information on those sites. This update affects everyone planning to visit Japan. Stay tuned — and subscribe to my channel for the latest travel updates. No3.Visit Japan Web Let’s talk about Visit Japan Web, a service designed to simplify immigration and customs procedures when entering Japan. By registering in advance, travelers can significantly reduce waiting times at the airport. The Japanese government highly recommends using this service. Two common questions travelers ask: First, “Is Visit Japan Web still necessary now that the pandemic is over?” The answer is yes. This system is not just for COVID-19 measures. It’s designed to make entry smooth for all travelers. Second, beware of fake apps and websites. Scammers may try to steal credit card information or personal data. Remember, Visit Japan Web is a website, not an app. If you see an app claiming to be Visit Japan Web, delete it immediately and always use the official government URL. Using Visit Japan Web is optional, but highly recommended. Without it, you’ll need to complete a paper customs form and wait in longer lines. When using it, show the QR code generated for customs, and take a screenshot just in case airport Wi-Fi is slow. This simple step can make your arrival in Japan smooth, fast, and stress-free. No4.Mobile Battery Restrictions If you’re traveling to Japan in 2025, you need to know the latest airline rules for mobile batteries. Since July 2025, Japanese airlines no longer allow batteries in overhead bins. You must store them in visible locations, like your pocket or under the seat in front of you. If you charge your devices during the flight, never leave them unattended. Always check the battery capacity before packing. Batteries under 100Wh are fine. For batteries between 100 and 160Wh, you can carry up to two. Anything above 160Wh is strictly prohibited. This rule applies to all 23 Japanese airlines, including All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines. Why the change? There have been multiple incidents worldwide where batteries overheated or caught fire, including flights from Korean and Hawaiian airlines. I personally had a bad experience on a flight with Jeju Air. My battery was confiscated at check-in because it exceeded the limit. It was a huge hassle. So, double-check your portable chargers before flying. No5.List of Prohibited Items When entering Japan, it’s extremely important to know what items are prohibited, because carrying them can lead to confiscation—or in some cases, denial of entry. Here are six common items travelers often get wrong. First, meat products. Most meat items cannot be brought into Japan, whether raw or cooked. This includes popular items like sausages, bacon, or jerky. One of my friends from the U.S. tried bringing a leftover burger from the airport and had it confiscated at arrival. Second, fruits and vegetables. Even common fruits like apples, oranges, or bananas are not allowed, because Japan wants to prevent pests and diseases from entering the country. Don’t worry though, fresh fruits are widely available in Japanese supermarkets. Third, medications. Over-the-counter or prescription drugs from your home country may be restricted in Japan. I’ve personally bought painkillers in the U.S. but found out they weren’t approved for import. Recreational drugs, narcotics, or stimulants are strictly prohibited and carry severe penalties. Always check the official Japanese government website before traveling. Fourth, counterfeit luxury items. Fake designer goods are considered intellectual property violations in Japan. Bringing them in—or selling them—can lead to legal trouble. Fifth, alcohol and tobacco. You can bring them, but only up to a certain limit. Exceeding the allowance can result in high taxes or confiscation. Remember, Japan has plenty of local and international options, so you can buy legally once you arrive. Sixth, certain animal products. Japan follows the CITES treaty, so products made from endangered species like tiger, leopard, crocodile, or exotic reptiles are prohibited. Even possession can be a serious crime, so never bring them. For other items to avoid, check my previous video for a full list. Following these rules will make your arrival smooth and stress-free. No6.Skip the Busy Holidays Planning a trip to Japan but want to avoid the crowds? Here’s a helpful tip. Try to avoid traveling during peak holiday periods when Japanese people usually take time off. These include Golden Week in May, mid-August summer vacation, and the year-end and New Year holidays from late December to early January. During these times, locals often travel at the same time, causing higher prices and very crowded tourist spots. Everything may seem lively and exciting, but the crowds can distract from your experience. The best advice is to plan your visit outside these busy periods. By doing so, you can enjoy Japan more peacefully and affordably, without the hustle and bustle. For more tips on the best and worst times to visit Japan, check out my previous video. No7.Watch Your Arrival Time One important factor to consider when arriving in Japan is your arrival time. Public transportation, like trains and buses, often does not run late at night or early in the morning. If you arrive during these hours, you may not be able to use trains or buses to get to your hotel or the city center. In that case, you’ll need to take a taxi, and as mentioned in our previous video, Japanese taxis can be expensive. For example, a taxi from Narita Airport to central Tokyo, about 70 kilometers, can cost around 25,000 yen. To avoid high taxi fares, consider staying at a nearby airport hotel if you arrive late at night. It’s often cheaper and more convenient. Another option is to find a budget capsule hotel, which can be a fun, unique experience. By planning your arrival time carefully, you can save money, reduce stress, and start your Japan adventure smoothly. No8.Book Your Hotel in Advance After completing your airport procedures, one of your top priorities should be getting to your hotel. But there’s an important thing to keep in mind. Japan is currently dealing with overtourism, and hotels are facing staff shortages. This means that demand for accommodations often exceeds supply. Without a reservation, you could arrive and find no rooms available. Even if you find a room, popular hotels or those in convenient locations may be fully booked. Prices might be higher, or the quality may not meet your expectations. To avoid this, it’s highly recommended to book your hotel at least for the first few nights before you depart. I recommend using Expedia or Booking.com, both reliable platforms I’ve used while traveling to 75 countries. Using these services ensures a smoother experience. If you use Expedia through the link in the description, you can support my channel with no extra cost. Your support helps me create more helpful travel content. Thank you! No9.Book Shinkansen Tickets in Advance If you’re traveling in Japan and plan to visit multiple cities, the Shinkansen, or bullet train, will be your main mode of transport. Japan is a very popular destination, and during weekends or peak seasons, trains can sell out quickly. That’s why booking in advance is highly recommended. There are two key services to help you reserve tickets. First, SMART EX, which covers major routes from Tokyo to Kyushu, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. The process is simple: download the app, enter your trip details, choose your route and seat, and purchase your ticket. Second, Eki-net allows you to book Shinkansen tickets from Tokyo to the northern Tohoku region. While it doesn’t have an English app, the website works well. You can register your details, search for your route, and select your tickets. If you want a Japan Rail Pass, click “Purchase Pass,” otherwise click “Purchase Ticket.” Each service covers different areas, so choose based on your destination. As I mentioned in my previous video, from 2026 onward, Japan plans to integrate train companies, allowing a single platform for Shinkansen reservations nationwide. I’ll keep you updated with any new information, so please subscribe to my channel. No10.Book Activities in Advance If you want to make the most of your Japan trip, there’s one crucial tip: book your activities in advance. Many popular attractions now require online reservations before your visit. For example, Tokyo Disneyland stopped selling same-day tickets in 2024, and Universal Studios Japan followed in May 2025. Without a reservation, you simply cannot enter. It’s not just theme parks. Popular spots like teamLab, Shibuya Sky, Pokémon Café, and the Ghibli Museum also require pre-booking. Travelers who show up without tickets often get denied entry or face long lines to secure a spot. As a tour guide, I often get last-minute requests, but most experiences are already fully booked by then. I also offer unique hands-on experiences, such as traditional tea ceremonies, samurai workshops, sake tasting at heritage breweries, and sushi-making classes with professional chefs. If you’re interested, check out the link in the description. I provide a discount code for my website where you can reserve these experiences in advance. No11.Get Navigation App When traveling in Japan, having a reliable navigation app is essential. There are options like JAPAN Travel or Yahoo MAP, but I strongly recommend using Google Maps. It works smoothly in both big cities and rural areas. With Google Maps, planning your route is simple. Just enter your destination, and it will show the best way to get there. It covers walking routes, trains, buses, and other public transportation, all starting from your GPS-detected location. Another useful app is JAPAN Travel, developed by Navitime. Its standout feature is integration with Japan Rail Pass and other tourist passes. Simply tap the “Tourist Pass” section, select your pass, and check if the routes you want are covered. Many travelers I know rely on both Google Maps and JAPAN Travel during their trips. Using these apps makes navigating Japan easy, convenient, and stress-free. They will definitely enhance your travel experience. No12.Get Translation App When traveling in Japan, you might notice that many locals don’t speak fluent English. This is where a translation app becomes essential. You have options like Google Translate, Papago, or DeepL, but my top recommendation is Google Translate. I’ve traveled to 75 countries, and Google Translate has always been a reliable companion. It has two standout features: voice translation and camera text translation. First, Voice translation. It lets you converse in real time. Speak in your language, and it instantly translates into Japanese. The person responds in Japanese, and the app translates it back into your language. It’s like having a personal interpreter in your pocket. Second, Camera text translation. It is just as amazing. Point your phone at a menu, sign, or any Japanese text, and it instantly translates it into your chosen language. This makes navigating Japan and understanding local information simple and stress-free. Whether you’re talking to locals or reading menus, Google Translate is a must-have tool. It ensures language barriers never get in the way of your Japan experience. No13.Bring Comfortable Shoes When exploring Japanese cities, especially the urban areas, comfortable shoes are a must. Japanese cities rely heavily on trains, which means you’ll be walking through stations, climbing stairs, and covering distances between attractions. Cities like Kyoto also have many hills, making practical footwear essential. High heels may look stylish, but they are not ideal for efficient walking. To give you perspective, when I lived in the U.S., I walked around 3,000 steps per day. In Japan, even a standard sightseeing day can easily reach 20,000 to 30,000 steps. My advice is simple: choose supportive, comfortable shoes. Your feet will thank you, and you’ll enjoy your trip without unnecessary fatigue. No14.Travel Insurance If you’re planning a trip to Japan, there’s one thing you should never forget: travel insurance before you arrive. Ambulance services are free, but medical costs in Japan are very high. As a foreign visitor without Japanese health insurance, a hospital stay or surgery can easily cost hundreds or even over a thousand dollars. With travel insurance, you won’t have to worry about these unexpected expenses. In fact, the Japanese government is considering requiring proof of insurance for entry, due to concerns about unpaid medical bills. If your credit card includes overseas travel coverage, it might help, but always check if the coverage is sufficient before you depart. Even if you forget, some services allow you to purchase insurance on your smartphone after arrival. For a small cost, travel insurance provides big peace of mind, letting you enjoy Japan worry-free. **After your Entry to Japan** No15.Where to Get Money As I mentioned in my previous video, even in 2025, cash remains king in Japan. That means you’ll need some Japanese yen right after arrival. But where should you exchange it? The best exchange rates are usually found in the city, not at airport or hotel counters, which often offer poor rates. So it’s smart to exchange only what you immediately need at the airport—usually around 5,000 yen per person. You can always get more once you reach the city, where rates are generally much better. Another convenient option is using ATMs. You can withdraw yen almost anywhere in Japan using your credit or debit card. Most ATMs support multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean, making it easy to get cash safely. With these tips, you’ll have yen in hand without losing money on bad exchange rates, ready to enjoy your Japanese adventure. No16.SIM or Wi-Fi When traveling in Japan, staying connected to the internet is essential. You have two main options: SIM cards or Wi-Fi devices, both easy to get at airports with no reservation required. Some airports even have vending machines for quick access. If you travel alone or value mobility and convenience, a SIM card is usually the best choice. eSIMs are also growing in popularity. Japan Wireless offers a reliable service with simple setup, and if you use my coupon code, you can get 10% off. Check the link in the description for details. For groups or families, a Wi-Fi device can be more cost-effective. Multiple people can share one device, staying connected while splitting the cost. Pocket Wi-Fi from Japan Wireless or Ninja WiFi has wide coverage, is easy to set up, and very convenient. Plus, my coupon code gives you 10% off as well. Ultimately, the choice depends on your travel style, budget, and group size. Using the right option will keep you connected, help you navigate Japan smoothly, and make your trip stress-free. 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. No17.Train IC Cards for Travelers If you’re traveling in Japan, a transportation IC card like Suica is absolutely essential. These cards are incredibly convenient. You can use them not just on trains and buses, but also at convenience stores, supermarkets, and even vending machines. Depending on your arrival city, you can purchase a card at the airport. In Tokyo, get a Suica at Narita airport or Haneda airport. In Osaka, pick up an ICOCA at Kansai International Airport. Both cards work across most major cities in Japan, which makes traveling seamless. Cards are easy to buy at airport ticket machines. A 500-yen deposit is required, refundable when you return the card to a station. If you’d like to avoid the deposit, the Welcome Suica, valid for 28 days, is a great alternative. My personal favorite is Mobile Suica, which lets you recharge anywhere―super convenient. Just note, it’s only available for iPhone users. Android users will need a physical Suica or ICOCA. For a deeper dive on which card fits your travel style best, check out my previous video. Using the right IC card will save you time and make your Japan trip smoother and more enjoyable. No18.No More Japan Rail Pass? You’ve probably heard that the Japan Rail Pass jumped about 1.6 times in price since October 2023. So the big question travelers ask me is: “Is it still worth buying?” Here’s the short answer: if you’re only traveling the Golden Route—Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima—the Rail Pass is not necessary. But if you’re planning to visit Kyushu or the Tohoku region, it might be worth considering. Let’s break down the costs. A 14-day Japan Rail Pass now costs around 80,000 yen. Traveling the Golden Route with regular tickets—Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka, Osaka to Hiroshima, and back to Tokyo—comes to about 43,000 yen, almost half the pass price. Even if you add local trains for another 10,000 yen, you’re still at around 53,000 yen. Some might think a 7-day pass is cheaper, but realistically, trying to cover the Golden Route in 7 days feels more like a travel marathon than a vacation. The key takeaway? Choose what fits your travel style. That way, you can save money and enjoy Japan to the fullest. No19.From Airport to Downtown Once you arrive in Japan, there are several ways to get from the airport to the city center. You can choose taxis, buses, or trains, including express trains. Your options depend on the airport. For example, at Narita Airport, the Narita Express is convenient, while at Haneda Airport, the Tokyo Monorail is fast and comfortable. These express trains are perfect if you want to avoid crowded commuter trains. If you prefer a taxi, consider booking through an inbound platform in advance to skip waiting in line. You can even use my coupon code for a 500 yen discount—check the link in the description. A more budget-friendly option is the airport bus. Just enter your hotel name in Google Maps or another app, and it will guide you to the right bus. The key is to choose the method that fits your budget and schedule, and don’t hesitate to ask friendly airport staff for help. With a little planning, your trip from the airport can be smooth, safe, and stress-free. No20.Luggage Forwarding Service After a long flight to Japan, the last thing you want is to struggle with heavy luggage. Some travelers head straight to their hotel, but if you arrive early, checking in can take time. This is where luggage delivery services come in handy. With these services, you can send your bags directly to your hotel or another destination ahead of time, so you don’t have to carry them around. If you drop off your luggage before 11 a.m., it may even arrive the same day, depending on the distance. If not, it will be waiting for you at your hotel the next morning. Traveling light makes navigating airports and public transportation much easier, letting you start exploring Japan immediately after arrival. Take advantage of Japan’s convenient luggage delivery services. Leave your heavy bags behind, and enjoy a stress-free start to your trip. How was today’s video? Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and like button. See you in my next video, bye!

Are you planning to visit Japan, but not sure what to prepare before your trip? Don’t worry — I’ve got you covered!
In this video, we’ll go over everything you need to know before and after landing in Japan — all updated for 2025.
From entry and customs procedures, to getting Wi-Fi, using public transport, setting up your Suica or PASMO card, and even luggage delivery services — I’ll guide you through 20 essential tips to make your arrival smooth and stress-free.
Japan may feel intimidating at first, but trust me — after watching this video, your first hour in Japan will be a breeze.

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

⭐️CHAPTERS⭐️
0:00 Opening
1:04 **Before your Entry to Japan**
1:06 1.Visa Exemptions?
1:59 2.Japan’s New Entry Rule
3:18 3.Visit Japan Web
4:26 4.Mobile Battery Restrictions
5:29 5.List of Prohibited Items
7:34 6.Skip the Busy Holidays
8:21 7.Watch Your Arrival Time
9:16 8.Book Your Hotel in Advance
10:15 9.Book Shinkansen Tickets in Advance
11:28 10.Book Activities in Advance
12:34 11.Get Navigation App
13:30 12.Get Translation App
14:42 13.Bring Comfortable Shoes
15:28 14.Travel Insurance
16:21 **After your Entry to Japan**
16:24 15.Where to Get Money
17:15 16.SIM or Wi-Fi
18:36 17.Train IC Cards for Travelers
19:50 18.No More Japan Rail Pass?
20:57 19.From Airport to Downtown
21:56 20.Luggage Forwarding Service

⭐️Related Videos⭐️
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