Japan | Asia

Japan is a sovereign island nation in East Asia. As of 2026, the economy is characterized by a "Post-Expo" transition following the Osaka World Expo 2025, with a national focus on the "Smart Nation" initiative and addressing overtourism through regional revitalization; the capital is Tokyo.

Visa & Entry Policy

EU, US, and UK passport holders are granted visa-free entry for tourist stays of up to 90 days.

Visit Japan Web: Completion of immigration and customs declarations via the Visit Japan Web portal is highly recommended prior to arrival to utilize QR-code entry lanes.

Proof of Onward Travel: Immigration officers frequently request proof of a return or onward ticket and evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

Six-Month Rule: Unlike many neighbors, Japan does not strictly enforce a six-month passport validity rule; your passport must simply be valid for the duration of your intended stay.

Language & Communication

Japanese is the official language. English proficiency is moderate in major metropolitan areas (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto) and high within the tourism industry. As of 2026, real-time AI translation devices and apps are integrated into most major transit hubs and "Tourist Information Centers" to facilitate communication in rural prefectures.

Currency & Payment Systems

The official currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY).

Digital Shift: Japan has rapidly transitioned away from its historical cash-dependency. Contactless payments (Visa/Mastercard tap, Apple Pay, Google Pay) are standard in urban retail.

IC Cards: Suica, Pasmo, and Icoca cards remain essential for transit and small purchases. Mobile versions are preferred for instant recharging.

DCJPY: In fiscal 2026, Japan Post Bank is launching DCJPY, a yen-backed digital currency, to streamline instant settlements for individual and corporate clients.

Cash Necessity: Physical yen is still required for temple entrance fees, traditional ryokans in remote areas, and some small-scale "hole-in-the-wall" eateries.

National Transport Grid

Shinkansen: The high-speed rail network remains the primary inter-city link. As of 2026, the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension has fully integrated regional hubs, and testing continues on the Maglev (Chuo Shinkansen).

Urban Transit: In Tokyo, the Takanawa Gateway City development is fully operational as of Spring 2026, serving as a primary "Global Gateway" hub on the Yamanote Line.

Osaka/Kansai: The permanent extension of the Osaka Metro Chuo Line to Yumeshima Station (the former Expo site) now provides direct access to the emerging entertainment and casino district.

Digital Infrastructure

5G-Advanced: 5G coverage is nearly 100% in populated areas. As of 2026, Japan is a global leader in Open RAN architecture and has begun large-scale commercial trials of Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) technology, a precursor to 6G.

Network Sunsets: Major carriers (NTT Docomo, SoftBank, AU) have decommissioned 3G networks. Travelers must use 4G/5G-ready devices.

Connectivity: High-speed public Wi-Fi is ubiquitous in cities. Rental "Pocket Wi-Fi" remains a popular choice for constant connectivity in rural hiking regions.

Climate & Seasonality

Spring (March–May): Cherry blossom season; mild weather ($10°C–20°C$).

Summer (June–August): Extremely hot and humid with a rainy season (Tsuyu) in June/July.

Autumn (September–November): Peak travel season for fall foliage and stable, crisp weather.

Winter (December–February): Cold; world-class skiing in Hokkaido and the Japan Alps.

Health & Safety

Japan maintains one of the world's lowest crime rates.

Natural Disasters: The country is seismically active. Visitors are advised to download the "Safety Tips" app or NHK World-Japan for real-time earthquake and tsunami alerts.

Health: Tap water is potable nationwide. No mandatory vaccines are required.

Laws: Identification (Passport) must be carried at all times. The legal drinking and smoking age is 20. Japan has zero-tolerance policies for drug possession and driving under the influence (0.00% BAC).

Emergency: Police 110; Fire/Ambulance 119.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Kanto: Hub: Tokyo (Global megacity).

Kansai: Hub: Osaka (Food/Nightlife) and Kyoto (Traditional culture).

Hokkaido: Hub: Sapporo (Nature/Winter sports).

Local Cost Index

1L Water: 130 JPY ($0.90 USD)

1 Domestic Beer (0.5L): 600 JPY ($4.15 USD)

1 SIM Card (Unlimited 30-day): 6,500 JPY ($45.00 USD)

Facts & Legends

Japan is an archipelago of over 6,800 islands. Local folklore features Yokai (supernatural monsters), such as the Kappa (water imp) and Tanuki (shapeshifting raccoon dog). A central national legend involves Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess, from whom the Imperial family claims descent. Historically, the nation underwent the Meiji Restoration, a rapid transition from a feudal Shogunate to a modern industrial power in the late 19th century. Geologically, Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano and the country’s highest peak, considered a sacred site and a symbol of national identity.