On Friday this week, Japan will lift its entry ban from 106 countries, including the US and the UK. However, for those dreaming of exploring the streets of Tokyo or Kyoto, you will still have to wait a while.

Travel ban lifted in Japan

The government of Japan released a statement on the Foreign Ministry website to state that the ban on 106 countries is set to be lifted from Friday. Among the countries on the list were the US and the UK. However, despite this step, international travelers from those countries visiting for pleasure reasons will still have to wait a while.

Basically, business travelers, students and foreigners traveling to the country for a long-term stay are allowed, but no tourists can travel.

Speaking to the Japan Times about the statement, a Justice Ministry official said that in reality, there will be no change to who is allowed to enter Japan. “There won’t be anyone new who will be able to enter Japan as a result of this change,” the official added.

The changes come at a time when the Asian country has lowered the COVID-19 risk category for countries such as the US and the UK. However, the government will still restrict the issuing of visas. Besides this, visa-free travel is also still suspended, so no tourists are welcome as yet.

When can international travelers visit Japan?

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, Hirokazu Matsuno, spoke at a news conference last week. He said, “Japan plans to increase international movements of people in stages by taking into account the infection situation at home and abroad and border control measures that other major nations have taken.”

However, the secretary gave no timeline as to when tourists may be able to return to the country.

Following the announcement of the lifting of the entry ban, a spokesperson for Japan’s tourism board said they still have no indication or update on when tourism may resume.

A statement on the US Embassy in Japan’s website reads: “Travel for tourism and most other short-term purposes is still not permitted, and there is no indication that this will change in the short term.” The embassy added that visa-free travel is still suspended.

Japan in the COVID-19 pandemic

Like most of the world, the country closed its borders in March 2020 as the pandemic took hold. The country instituted one of the toughest COVID-19 border policies in the world. The Asian nation has only recently started to open up to welcome some international students. The country has further accepted some business travelers and foreign nationals living abroad.

What are we missing while travel is banned?

Looking at major cities like Tokyo, on the surface, Japan looks truly modern. The cities are buzzing with life and flashing neon signs catch you on every corner.

However, traveling around the country gives visitors a look at Japan’s traditional culture. Travelers can spend the night in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), sleeping on futons and tatami mats. They can also spend time meditating with the monks. Meanwhile, watching the beauty of a Kyoto geisha dance also gives a true glimpse into the country’s beautiful culture.