While most other countries in the world have already reopened to travelers, Japan has been taking things especially slow. Now, after running a “test tourism” trial, the Asian country is hesitantly letting travelers visit again. However, Japan’s entry policy is complicated, to say the least. For the time being, international travelers will be required to be accompanied by a local guide throughout their stay.

Japan opens borders to international travelers

It is now more than two years since the COVID-19 pandemic started, disrupting the whole world. For quite some time, travel was an impossibility, but gradually, the world is reopening again. However, Japan is still taking its time returning to normal tourism. Recently, it was reported that the country was running a tourism trial with limited numbers of tourists. Now, Japan is taking another step in returning to “normal.”

For those longing to explore exciting Tokyo or the amazing attractions of Kyoto, you can now do so. However, for now, you can only visit the country as part of a guided tour.

Entry rules for Japan

The country reopened its borders to international travelers from most countries on Friday, June 10, However, this was only if travelers were accompanied by local guides on package tours, “from entry to departure.”

Meanwhile, visitors must wear face masks, and adhere to all other COVID-19 measures as the Asian nation makes a cautious return to tourism. This comes after Japan had probably the strictest border restrictions in the world. As so many other countries have relaxed measures such as mask-wearing, this will likely be uncomfortable for many people.

A statement from the Japanese Tourism Agency reads:

Tour guides should frequently remind tour participants of necessary infection prevention measures, including wearing and removing masks, at each stage of the tour.

Even outdoors, the wearing of masks should continue in situations where people are conversing in close proximity.

Tourism limits

On top of this, there is also a daily limit on the number of international travelers who will be allowed into the country. Currently, that limit is around 20,000 per day. Meanwhile, all visitors must take out health insurance to cover any medical costs in the event they contract COVID-19.

Travelers will also be required to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within three days of their departure date. Moreover, they must install the MySOS app, where their test results can be registered.

Visas to visit Japan

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the country offered visa-free entry to travelers from around 68 countries, including Australia, Malaysia, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States. However, according to the Foreign Ministry, everyone requires a visa, at least for now, no matter where they travel from.

Travelers can apply for a certificate for registration to ERFS (Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System) through their travel agency when booking their tour. Once processed, they will receive a document to take to their local Japanese embassy or consulate.

Alternatively, after getting the documentation, they can apply for the visa direct with their travel agency. It will then take approximately five working days to receive the visa.

Vaccination requirements for Japan

The country categorizes countries into blue, yellow, or red, based on their COVID-19 risk. Travelers from blue countries do not need to present proof of vaccination. Those countries include Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Singapore, the US, UK and more. Readers can view the full list of countries here.

Meanwhile, those from yellow and red countries face additional entry requirements, including testing on arrival and quarantine.

When can you travel without a tour guide?

According to officials in Japan, it will be some time before international travelers can visit for independent tourism, as they could before the pandemic. In fact, at this time, they have no indication or update on when individual tourism can resume.