At Last, Japan's Borders Have Fully Re-Opened
Kon'nichiwa: Japan has finally lifted its entry restrictions after more than two years and is already welcoming travelers in search of ancient culture and vibrant city life.
October 15, 2022
After more than two years, the wait is finally over: on October 11, 2022, Japan re-opened its borders, allowing travelers from 68 countries to finally visit without restrictions. If you're planning a trip to Japan, you can do so without a visa for up to 90 days and even enter the country as an individual, i.e. not as part of a tourist party.
Back to Japan at last: travelers will finally be able to cross the famous Shibuya intersection again. © Daryan Shamkhali
Anyone visiting from Germany, Austria and Switzerland will only need a recent negative PCR test or a valid triple Covid 19 vaccination before departure. Vaccinated people don't need to show a negative test. All quarantine and testing requirements upon arrival have been completely waived. However, a declaration of commitment and a completed questionnaire must be presented at the airport of entry. You can simplify the formalities by pre-registering via the MySOS website.
Two years without tourism
Japan took some hesitant first steps toward opening back up in June. Now the country has finally opened its borders in full. © Evgeny Tchebotarev
Up until recently, Japan had completely closed its borders for a full two years, i.e. since the declaration of the pandemic in spring 2020. In June of this year, the first hesitant steps toward opening up were taken: tourists were allowed into the country as part of a travel group, which required an expensive Japanese permit.
Japan's capital, Tokyo, is located in the temperate climate zone, making it worth visiting year-round. © Shutterstock
Opening the country up for tourism again is mainly due to economic reasons, in hopes that foreign visitors will give a substantial boost to the economy.
Continue reading: Why You Should Travel to Japan Right Now
Return to the Far East
Those who can't wait for the Sakura cherry blossom in spring will benefit from the geographical nature of the island nation. Thanks to the long north-south extension, the country is an attractive destination year-round.
Dreamy beaches and subtropical temperatures await in the south of Japan. © Vladimir Haltakov
While renowned ski resorts await in the north of Hokkaido, which lies in the cold-temperate climate zone, the south of the island chain beckons with a subtropical paradise even in winter. Or how about an autumnal stroll through Kyoto, steeped in history?
Related: A Long Distance Trip to Japan and The Best Hotels, Restaurants and Souvenirs in Japan
