japan tourist covid app

Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

A Guide to the Visit Japan Web app and Japan Entry Procedures

While it’s recommended to use the Visit Japan web app, it’s not mandatory. In fact it may be quicker to use the standard paper immigration forms on arrival in Japan.

There are now no Covid protocols for Japan. The Japanese government still recommends that visitors to Japan use the Visit Japan Web app, which replaces the paper arrival card and customs declaration, but you DO NOT HAVE TO USE THE VISIT JAPAN WEB APP.

On our last entry to Japan in October 2023, those not using the app actually moved faster through immigration and customs. So, it’s really up to you: use the app or just go old school and fill out a paper arrival card and customs declaration (and if you don’t get them on the plane, you can pick them up at immigration and customs).

Visit Japan Web

Time required to fill out and instruction manuals

When you first download the app and look at the instruction manual, you may get the impression that it’s going to take a long time to complete Visit Japan Web. In practice, it takes about 15 minutes and is pretty intuitive. I suggest using the simplified manual and quarantine section manuals linked below.

Three parts to Visit Japan Web

Note, Visit Japan Web actually consists of three parts: 1) immigration information (ie, disembarkation card information), 2) customs information (ie, customs declaration), and 3) tax-exemption section. When you successfully complete these sections, you will receive three QR codes. The first two you will show at the airport upon arrival. The third you will show at shops that offer tax-free shopping to tourists.

Important tip

You will need a charged smartphone with internet access for Visit Japan Web to work at the airport when you arrive. Japanese airports have free wifi, so connectivity is not an issue, but be sure to charge your phone before flying. Just in case something goes wrong with your phone or you cannot get online at the airport, it’s a good idea to do two things to print out your immigration and customs QR codes to show at the airport.

Important Visit Japan Web Links

Here’s the Visit Japan Web download site .
Here’s a detailed manual for using Visit Japan Web.
Here’s a simplified Visit Japan Web Manual (scroll down for instructions).

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

Central Kyoto
Northwest Kyoto
Northern Higashiyama
Southern Higashiyama
Downtown Kyoto
Kyoto Station Area
South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Your browser is outdated

Please upgrade to a more modern version to fully experience JapanToday site and for security reasons

Real estate
Classifieds

Travelers entering Japan have to install location confirmation app, Skype on smartphones

This week a new policy went into effect for travelers entering Japan through Haneda and Narita airports, the two major international air hubs for the Tokyo area. Enacted by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the regulation affects all classes of inbound travelers (Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary business/tourism travelers).

As of March 18, inbound travelers are required to install three apps on their smartphones before leaving the airport. The three apps are the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare’s COCOA COVID-19 contact tracing app, Skype, and OSSMA, a location confirmation app. The combined apps are to be used in confirming compliance with the 14 days of self-quarantine that inbound travelers are required to complete before moving about the general population.

So what if you don’t have a smartphone, or are using an outdated model that can’t run the apps? You’ll be required to rent a phone that can from the airport, and pay for it out of your own pocket.

In addition to showing that the apps are installed and running, inbound travelers will also be required to sign a written pledge to comply with the protocols. Failure to do so can result in public publishing of the violator’s name and, in the case of foreign nationals, deportation, including the revocation of residence status for foreigners living in Japan on work or study visas.

The requirement is expected to be expanded to entrants in Japan via other airports in the near future.

Source: Impress Watch via Hachima Kiko

Superfast SIMs for expats & tourists

Explore Japan without limits with Mobal. Stay connected with reliable SIMs and eSIMs, with solutions for both expats and tourists. Get a real Japanese phone number from the best Japan SIM service for English-Speakers - it’s easy to use, there are no contracts, and delivery is free! Join Mobal today.

136 Comments Login to comment

Penfold Mar. 20, 2021 06:50 am JST

Thats no way to treat a guest!

i guess that’s why they call them “cell” phones

jiji Xx Mar. 20, 2021 06:58 am JST

@Penfold.....

very nice!!!!!!

snowymountainhell Mar. 20, 2021 06:59 am JST

Wow!?! A policy and requirements ‘ with teeth ’, presumedly for ‘ visiting foreigners only.

“*...showing that three apps are installed & running, inbound ‘ travelers ’ required to sign a written pledge to comply with protocols. Failure results in public publishing of the violators, ‘foreign nationals’, deported including revocation of residence status for foreigners living * in Japan on work or study visas .’

Do the requirements apply to the ‘spouses’ of nationals with ‘ permanent residency status’?

Do ‘nationals’ have the same requirements or , is this pandemic policy only addressing the ‘ foreign ’ component ?

What is the timeline to loosen the requirement, suspended the program and repeal the the regulation?

Is this a ‘permanent’ solution to ‘track’ visitors?

When does it ‘end’?

Keyakiwalker Mar. 20, 2021 07:05 am JST

Does anyone knows if foreign travelers who are already vaccinated will be able to enter the country? I really want to visit my family but my reentry permit already expired.

Mark Mar. 20, 2021 07:09 am JST

Slowly but surely we are moving towards what Mr. Snowden warned about. Being monitored every step of the way , but this time using COVID 19 as an excuse.

Ricky Sanchez Mar. 20, 2021 07:09 am JST

@Penfold. You must have missed it like I did the first time..

all classes of inbound travelers (Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary business/tourism travelers).

Penfold Mar. 20, 2021 07:15 am JST

@ Ricky Sanchez. Thanks for pointing it out.

Guess it’s time to buy a spare smartphone and strap it on my dog :)

Mark Mar. 20, 2021 07:16 am JST

Give me just ONE reason why should anyone attend the games???

as they say in Japanese, MENDOKSAI.

jiji Xx Mar. 20, 2021 07:45 am JST

just to clarify my earlier post, I was referring to: "i guess that’s why they call them “cell” phones"....

Mr Kipling Mar. 20, 2021 07:55 am JST

Sounds like a reasonable request by the government.... if it works, and that's a big IF!

snowymountainhell Mar. 20, 2021 07:59 am JST

Yes. It speaks of ‘ all classes of inbound travelers (Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary business/tourism travelers)”

*... **BUT, ** it only highlights penalties for ‘foreigners’. ***

“..*.showing that three apps are installed & running, inbound ‘ travelers ’ required to sign a written pledge to comply with protocols. Failure results in public publishing of the violators, ‘foreign nationals’, deported including revocation of residence status for foreigners living ** in Japan on work or study visas .’

’travelers’ are not ‘returning nationals’. What sanctions are there for ‘nationals’ @*P.Smith 6:50a.* ??

gogogo Mar. 20, 2021 08:09 am JST

Sure I will install it... Doesn't say anything about revoking permissions to the app to block GPS and data.

Laguna Mar. 20, 2021 08:10 am JST

What sanctions are there for ‘nationals’

They get their names published.

Luddite Mar. 20, 2021 08:22 am JST

@zichi. A touch disingenuous, foreign residents can reenter Japan.

Numan Mar. 20, 2021 08:38 am JST

What if I just leave my phone at home for 14 days whenever I decide to leave the house?

If you are not wearing a monitoring device like the "ankle bracelets" that suspects wear in the states, it still falls on the honor system.

It just looks like Japan is being more proactive in monitoring the transmission of the virus for travelers.

Garthgoyle Mar. 20, 2021 08:41 am JST

But the COCOA app doesn't work. Or did they finally fixed it? And why Skype? Is it to her used as a messaging app between the health authorities and tourists for for actually tracing?

Jind Mar. 20, 2021 08:45 am JST

Even though I have had both Moderna vaccine shots, I will not come to Japan even though I would have worn a mask and practice social distances.

Japan is acting like a school brat.

Luddite Mar. 20, 2021 08:52 am JST

The skype requirement is weird. We stopped using skype a while back as it was so unreliable.

baroque1888 Mar. 20, 2021 09:00 am JST

I hope this is temporary and not permanent. What if someone wants to visit Japan for there week vacation in 2021????? I guess they cannot?.?.?

It is more obvious day by day that this “COVID-19/CORONAVIRUS”is a fraud/hoax that was orchestrated by various world governments, corporations and pharmaceutical companies including but not limited to the following reasons:

A. Fear Mongering;

B. Loss of Privacy;

C. Getting everyone comfortable with draconian measures

D. Normalizing massive and unemployment;

E. Money Making Scheme ( various world governments, corporations and pharmaceutical companies must be making a fortune from these vaccines).

What is dangerous is the following:

A. Losing Ones Job;

B. Losing Ones Livelihood;

C. Extreme Hysteria;

D. Communal Hostility;

E. Extreme Isolation;

F. Losing Hope;

G. Losing Soul;

H. Losing Freedoms;

I. Loss of community friendliness; and

J. Mental Health Stress.

This whole situation has caused the above factors. We should not have to feel lucky to have a job or those other things.

This is terrible the majority do not realize the consequences of this situation and what is being taken away.

Many are losing their businesses (for instance it is sad that landmark video arcade in Akihabara is out of business)

many are losing their jobs or having a reduced work schedule;

Freedoms are on thin ice (since when it is the government or our employers business as to where someone goes or what someone does on their leisure time??????!!!!!!!!) (since when is it okay to be hostile to someone for questioning anything or disagreeing?????!!!!!!!!)

William Mirrielees Mar. 20, 2021 09:11 am JST

Are they going to continue to do this when people have been vaccinated. I think other countries ought to reciprocate. Keep the Japanese on their own island. Isn't the vaccination and test result sufficient for entering the country.

Yotomaya Mar. 20, 2021 09:13 am JST

This would be reasonable if there was actually testing and tracing within the country. Anyone entering Japan needs a negative test result, unlike people with mild symptoms who stay within its borders. This is just another knee-jerk reaction that implies the virus is a 'foreign' problem, even if J citizens have to install it as well.

Mark Mar. 20, 2021 09:22 am JST

Here is my advise, try to go LOW TECH and move backward by changing your smartphone to just cell phone and feel the relief, a friend did it, I have not been able yet but working on it, he tells me it was a major relief, and now he can focus on himself rather than everyone else.

Erik Morales Mar. 20, 2021 09:23 am JST

They already track you via your cell phone.

Luddite Mar. 20, 2021 09:28 am JST

Yes, unless you are mass testing and tracing these surveillance methods won’t do much to stop the virus spreading, or the introduction of new variants. Also, epidemiologists agree it is impossible to stop new variants entering a country.

vendingmachinemusic Mar. 20, 2021 09:28 am JST

Several questions remain:

Will they pay the data charges to download the app?

Do they all cellphone use now in the baggage claim and immigration areas now? I remember photos every 10 feet that said no cell phone use.

Will they pay my electric bill to charge my cellphone?

Supply me with a solar charger?

Can't we use iphone find my friends app already built into the phone? Just register everyone coming into the country on find my friends. Set a limit on their movements based on registration address?

Ricky Sanchez Mar. 20, 2021 09:31 am JST

all classes of inbound travelers (Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary business/tourism travelers). Why anyone would downvote my comment is beyond me. The haters have risen this morning.

snowymountainhell Mar. 20, 2021 09:32 am JST

Agreed your this observation @*baroque1888 9:00am - We “* hope this is temporary and NOT permanent.”

However, the threat to the health to some individuals’ from “COVID-19/CORONAVIRUS” is real. For ‘lack of self -control’, we ALL played a part in the spread.

Toshihiro Mar. 20, 2021 09:42 am JST

You’ll be required to rent a phone that can from the airport, and pay for it out of your own pocket.

Never let a good crisis goes to waste, as the old adage goes. Stricter state security is coming and I hope it will not stay. Just to share with you guys, my work previously required us to text to the HR our status and whereabouts every 7PM even during the weekends, but they thankfully got tired of enforcing it.

snowymountainhell Mar. 20, 2021 09:44 am JST

They can’t even be trusted to compile and provide an accurate national ’list of known sex offenders’ for, at least’ the ‘ baby-sitters’ and ‘caregivers’ registry. So, where will such a national COVID ‘ shame-list’ be published? - * What sanctions are there for ‘nationals’? - ** @Laguna 8:10a JST They get their names published.”*

Numan Mar. 20, 2021 09:48 am JST

Is the skype call to make regular check-ins and to avoid any fees for contacting them?

didou Mar. 20, 2021 09:55 am JST

The article did not mention that in addition, there is a need for a PCR test before departure, an another test ( antigenic ?) at arrival and for the one from countries where the variant spreads, mostly European countries, a third PCR test at the end of a mandatory 3 days stay in a designated hotel.

So even after 2 or 3 consecutive negative tests, you must obey all these abusive rules and quarantine. For me a quarantine should be for the one not doing any test.

Does Japan is also so strict for its own citizens here. And the ones who have been in contact with a known case? Do they have to download all these apps.

didou Mar. 20, 2021 09:58 am JST

my work previously required us to text to the HR our status and whereabouts every 7PM even during the weekends

I think it is illegal outside the working hours to trace the employees. Did someone complain, or simply not texting ?

didou Mar. 20, 2021 10:01 am JST

Cell phones can stay away in the house while going out. An officer will not be in front of the door to check, so is someone wants to break the rules, it will not be difficult.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 10:10 am JST

(since when is it okay to be hostile to someone for questioning anything or disagreeing?????!!!!!!!!)

Since the dawn of time. Even more so now when crazy conspiracy theories are causing real damage.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 10:12 am JST

I don’t want to hear about the dangers of ‘losing soul’ when millions have lost lives; in no small part to people saying we should go on as normal.

AgentX Mar. 20, 2021 10:15 am JST

Skype? Seriously? Another win for Bill Gates...

happyhere Mar. 20, 2021 10:18 am JST

You nailed it.

Japanese residents are the ones who have been bringing the variants into Japan since no one else can enter.

smithinjapan Mar. 20, 2021 10:37 am JST

The COCOA app never worked to begin with; it's just a money grab, and the tracking thing is ridiculous since they won't track their own people who have the virus, or even track those who leave cruise ships or get off flights inbound from places (or full of people who) are infected.

And Skype? What age are in? More reasons not to come here if you don't need to, and when this is reciprocated watch how the people here cry foul.

Speed Mar. 20, 2021 11:13 am JST

Maybe a little less forced tracking and a little more vaccine.

spinningplates Mar. 20, 2021 11:31 am JST

This is a horribly thought out non-solution. I've been calling for the Government to 'do things', but of course they implement something ineffective, invasive and destined to fail.

I'll deffinately rent a phone for the 14 days if it comes to it; no way I'm putting their unsecure and problematic apps on my own phone.

beentofivecontinents Mar. 20, 2021 11:40 am JST

I don't even have a "smart" phone.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 11:52 am JST

They’re watching you now. Put it away and stop playing with it.

Addfwyn Mar. 20, 2021 12:08 pm JST

Specifically mentioned in the article, if you don't have a smartphone you have to rent one at the airport out of your own pocket.

The tracing apps make total sense, as anyone entering the country is obviously the biggest risk vector for the disease. Skype seems like an odd choice, but maybe a fairly ubiquitous one.

Honestly though, who exactly is rearing to go internationally travel right now unless they absolutely have to? Even if my company allowed us to, I don't think I would want to go anywhere until I am vaccinated at the very least.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 12:42 pm JST

So Japanese Nationals face name and shame.

The rest of us face deportation.

Now no mention of how long this rule will be in effect.

I have no plans on leaving Japan for now, despite having loss family back home and at some point the family will be able to have funerals for them (covid restrictions) but I hoped to be able to go by then.

But if this rule is still in effect that may change my plans.

I never give my line to any one other than family and one cannot have 2 line accounts, Skype is my business line for overseas phone number, and I rarely turn on my GPS.

So if I understand correctly I would be required to give the government my all my contacts, leave my GPS on at all times.

As it is now my phone rarely last the day power wise.

So what happens if my battery dies and the phone is off? Violation and deportation?

In the west in is anti Asian raising it's ugly head.

In Japan it is the usual xenophobia towards foreigners that once again is out in force.

theFu Mar. 20, 2021 12:45 pm JST

Amazing how many posters didn't bother to read the fine article. A reminder:

if you don’t have a smartphone, or are using an outdated model that can’t run the apps? You’ll be required to rent a phone that can from the airport, and pay for it out of your own pocket.

When we arrive in another country, we agree to be a good citizen for the period of our stay. 14 day quarantine for everyone seems excessive, but until at least 70% of Japanese are vaccinated, I can understand why.

Why no mention of lesser quarantine periods for vaccinated people? That's because the vaccine protects me from you, not you from me.

As for privacy, we are supposed to be in a hotel room for 14 days, so it isn't like we can hide. That last app probably sends location validation requests randomly to ensure we don't do ... the following:

Use airplane mode with the phone most of the time. It saves battery and disables cell, cell-data, wifi, and BT RF signals. If you are truly paranoid (I am), then for US$10, an RF blocking cell phone pouch can be bought off amazon which has 3 layers of Kevlar and blocks all RF signals in and out. Handy for passports with RFID chips too.

BTW, phones are still very useful with just GPS and wifi enabled.

Think the last time I used skype was about 2011. Had it setup to replace my home phone connection for a few months. After that failed due to MSFT taking over Skype, I switched to 100% VoIP using stun + SIP. With wifi connection, my tablet can be a phone using SIP VoIP that connects to my paid VoIP service. Making an receiving calls from anywhere with internet just works. I appear to be at home, regardless of where in the world I truly happen to be.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 12:58 pm JST

From the article

So what if you don’t have a smartphone, or are using an outdated model that can’t run the apps? You’ll be required to rent a phone that can from the airport, and pay for it out of your own pocket

I know plenty of foreigners that do not have smartphones or at least not with phone numbers ( a must to have line) they use data only prepaid, they cannot get a smartphone contract because they are foreigners and don't have a credit card. (Most are not from western countries).

So what will the government do when the rental companies refuse to rent these people phones because without a credit card there is little or no chance of renting one!

Will people be deported for not being rich enough to pay cash or get a credit card?

I myself had no credit card when I came to Japan and was consistently refused a Japanese card until just about 10 years ago, my phone contract was in my ex wife's name then in my ex father in law's name then my adult daughter's name.

I finally got a credit card through a certain online retail sales company (I will let you figure out who).

So it is going to be interesting to see how this goes.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 01:06 pm JST

Yep amazing how people don't read.

Those protocols are not written here but as far as I could find, they require that you leave the GPS on at all times and remain connected.

Use airplane mode with the phone most of the time. It saves battery and disables cell, Etc...

Would violate the agreement to comply with the new regulations.

smithinjapan Mar. 20, 2021 01:12 pm JST

addfwyn: "The tracing apps make total sense, as anyone entering the country is obviously the biggest risk vector for the disease."

How so? 20% of the US population alone is already vaccinated, some having received two shots. Other nations are on par or only slightly behind. What's the percentage of the Japanese population vaccinated? Nah, the biggest risk vector is letting Japanese nationals from abroad back in if they have not been vaccinated, and next to that it's Japan that is its own biggest risk.

WA4TKG Mar. 20, 2021 01:40 pm JST

Wow!, I can see the lines backed up now...and I'm sitting on the other side of the world.

Good thing when I come back "Next Time" (sorry, I had to) I won't be flying into Tokyo.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 01:48 pm JST

Japanese Simms can be ordered online before arrival pickup at the airport or your hotel.

Prepaid, often data Only and if it has a Japanese phone number and the number has already been used to register for Line then one cannot get a line account.

I guess the government forgot about line's rules and system.

No phone number no account, no 2 accounts in the same phone number.

bob Mar. 20, 2021 02:04 pm JST

when many of us saw what was coming last summer and said things like this might happen, we were called conspiracy theorists.

More human rights are going down the drain.

stormcrow Mar. 20, 2021 02:16 pm JST

It's a good idea considering all of the twits entering from abroad who have been blowing off orders to self quarantine.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 02:16 pm JST

when many of us saw what was coming last summer and said things like this might happen, we were called conspiracy theorists. More human rights are going down the drain.

What human right? The human right to travel to another country?

You didn’t have that last summer. Try again.

KariHaruka Mar. 20, 2021 02:33 pm JST

Skype? Not by fax machine? Japan is moving up in the technical world!

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 02:34 pm JST

You can buy a Japanese sim with DATA and phone number.

And again, those phone numbers are recycled!

If the number has been previously used to register with Line then it cannot be used again without a long drawn out process.

I know, family came to visit ore covid and the SIM phone number had already been used by the previous temporary user which is not unusual.

So never got to register a Line account.

I suggest learning Line policy and about temporary SIM cards.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 02:41 pm JST

Oh also only IF the non Japanese phone is compatible with the available Japanese frequencies.

Learned this the hard way non Japanese phone imported by a family member had only a single 3G frequency in Japan.

A little knowledge on compatibility is a good thing.

My Japanese phone will not work even with a Local SIM card in certain EU countries and much of the USA and Canada.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 02:52 pm JST

Go on then. What human right is going down the drain in this case? Be specific.

ThonTaddeo Mar. 20, 2021 02:54 pm JST

When we arrive in another country, we agree to be a good citizen for the period of our stay.

TheFu, for those of us who live in Japan, this is home. If we were leaving Japan to visit relatives abroad, that country is home too. There is no "another country" that we should be kowtowing to for graciously allowing us to visit.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 03:41 pm JST

Almost every iPhone works

Total disconnect from the rest of the world.

Again do a little checking.

iPhones are a minor player globally.

Only Japan and North America are they any fairly popular.

iPhones number one reason in Japan is because they are often free to students who then are stuck in the Apple system with no way out but to lose much of the stuff in it.

Android has 71% plus of the phone market share with Apple's share coming almost exclusively from USA, Canada, UK and Japan.

Wouldn't touch an Apple product if it was given to me for free, Apple all the way stating with the first Apple kit PC got played paid through the nose for decades, finally realised cheaper better without Apple.

So to make it clear, most people in the world don't use iPhone.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 03:51 pm JST

Government politicians: wow we really messed up this covid response, what do we do?

Government bureaucrate: I know, lets divert attention from or mess of go to travel, go to eat and shift the focus on people entering Japan.

Politician: wow that is a great idea, but we can't upset citizens,

Bureaucrate: no problem we will make it look like it is a foreigner problem.

Politician: Brilliant, is there any way we can also get some money out of them to our donor corporations?

Bureaucrate: Sure no problem leave that to us.

I wonder if the NTT dinner had anything to do with this?

didou Mar. 20, 2021 03:52 pm JST

as anyone entering the country is obviously the biggest risk vector for the disease."

Yes, but some who spread it were exempted from tests and quarantine. An example was a airline pilot who did not respect the rule to isolate while waiting its next flight.

Pilots and CA have been exempted of the quarantine rules but must stay in a bubble. The same does apply to certain category of people ( sports players ?)

jim4790 Mar. 20, 2021 04:12 pm JST

What if the person just leaves there phone at home for two weeks?

Or rents a phone and does the same thing?

jim4790 Mar. 20, 2021 04:13 pm JST

If you delete the programs after two weeks are you going to get kicked out?

Peter Neil Mar. 20, 2021 04:20 pm JST

Just fly to Osaka and take a Shinkansen to Tokyo . . .

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 04:34 pm JST

Use whatever twisted rational you want, the facts are right in front of you.

The vast majority of those entering Japan are going to be Japanese Nationals.

They can refuse to comply and the worst they will get is their name published on some site no one will ever bother to look at, they can agree then delete the Apps and nothing can or will be done to them.

It is foreigners that are the clear target via threats of deportation, forced to rent a phone, etc...

Anyone saying otherwise or cannot see such a visible thing is in complete denial of the facts right there in the article.

Again other countries have rules regarding those entering their countries, those rules apply to all equally.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 04:43 pm JST

China is the country that has and uses the most iPhones. Prior to the pandemic

More disconnect.

iPhone share of the market in China is 20% that make android by far the dominant OS and Android devices making up 80% of those in use.

Apple iPhone dominates in these 29 countries

You seem confused on how it works.

iPhone is the number one phone brand not the number one OS.

You do realise that Apple OS is and Android OS is what actually counts.

If 20% operate on Apple and 80% Android that means more people are using Android devices.

DocCarlos Mar. 20, 2021 04:45 pm JST

Japan should use the Vaccine Passport as A way to make travel easier. More people in the USA have had their Vaccines 100% and is more than the whole population of Japan. Enter into the airport show your vaccine certificate should be good enough. Seems to be more like isolationist ways.

Goodlucktoyou Mar. 20, 2021 04:46 pm JST

Skype has backdoor held by NSA/5Eyes that can access all your files, browsing, contacts and emails. Also social media and passwords and Cloud. If you use a smartphone connected to a network or wireless for business your computers are compromised. If you have to update your smartphone, you will have to agree to the terms and conditions of the 4 Big Tech companies.

information about is out there, but good luck finding it.

1984 is here, courtesy of Covid.

Courtesy of WEF.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 04:47 pm JST

If you want to travel abroad now there will be a lot of problems.

This is not news to anybody.

Keep your hair on.

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 04:48 pm JST

There are more than one billion iPhones in use globally.

Even if that is true.

There are 4 billion active smartphones making iPhone at most 25% of active phones.the other 75% are Android handsets.

Not sure why that is difficult to understand.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 04:57 pm JST

If someone as well informed as you can’t find or link to it then it must be super top level classified stuff.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 05:14 pm JST

Airports across the globe have been requiring finger, eye or face scans for decades. In addition to passports, visas, criminal background checks and in some countries vaccination documents.

But having to put an app on your phone suddenly gets you in a tizzy about Orwellian dystopias...

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 05:21 pm JST

According to Statista, the current number of smartphone users in the world today is 3.8 billion, and this means 48.41% of the world's population owns a smartphone.

Apple followers delusional wishful thinking.

80% are Android OS look it up so no way could 48% if user in the world be Apple.

But then I suspect you know that and are deliberately avoiding looking it up and sticking to pro apple site.

Brian Wheway Mar. 20, 2021 05:23 pm JST

will still still apply if your a non Japanese resident like me, i will have had the two injections by then, will there be any exceptions, will a tourist still have to self isolate for 10days even if they have had a the vaccine?

Goodlucktoyou Mar. 20, 2021 05:27 pm JST

Microsoft offers the ability to link a Skype and Microsoft Account together to make sign-in and security easier. ... If that password isn't secure or you used it elsewhere then hackers can use it to gain access to Skype , bypassing any two-factor authentication provided by Microsoft

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 05:28 pm JST

Now tell us how any of that tracks us 24/7 ?

You are trying to compare a rock and an Apple.

The cashier at the store whatches you buying an apple ok he knows you bought an apple.

Now he follows you home, then spy through your window to see if you are still home, then follow you to your work, to your date, back home and checks if you 3 in bed.

Knowing you entered a country and knowing your ever move are very different things but I suspect you know that but are just not willing to admit it.

Bob Fosse Mar. 20, 2021 05:30 pm JST

*Microsoft offers the ability to link a Skype and Microsoft Account together to make sign-in and security easier. ... If that password isn't secure or you used it elsewhere then hackers can use it to gain access to Skype , bypassing any two-factor authentication provided by Microsoft*

My uncle saw a UFO once.

Slickdrifter Mar. 20, 2021 05:42 pm JST

Come on seriously?

You’ll be required to rent a phone that can from the airport, and pay for it out of your own pocket.

If you want to leave the airport you must rent a phone with these apps.

Guys seriously? This is getting crazy. How can you force someone to rent a phone?

This is not going work. No one is even using the apps.

HimariYamada Mar. 20, 2021 05:45 pm JST

"Failure to do so can result in public publishing of the violator’s name and, in the case of foreign nationals, deportation, including the revocation of residence status for foreigners living in Japan on work or study visas."

Good, very good!

Antiquesaving Mar. 20, 2021 06:46 pm JST

To all those defending this new policy and trying to make it not seem what it is.

Other countries with entire policies enforce them equally like Canada all must Quarantine not just non Canadians all are subject to the same rules.

Here is a policy that clearly target non Japanese and the Japanese can ignore without any real consequences.

The "it's not your country" "don't have to come if you don't like it" etc..are just trying to avoid admitting that the policy is by nature discrimination.

skotmanforyou Mar. 20, 2021 07:16 pm JST

Just carry a second phone with you and no problem. You can buy a decent one for under 200 bucks

anon99999 Mar. 20, 2021 07:35 pm JST

I hope this will and should apply to all athletes, officials and others coming to the Olympics. They will need to lift the number of rental phones since many foreign phones won’t work in Japan or if the do have expensive costs.

Visitors to the Olympics will have to add this to the other joys of the Olympics here.

But I guess more likely this will be made not necessary for people coming to the Olympics like quarantine is going to be not necessary for them

0rei0 Mar. 20, 2021 08:35 pm JST

anon99999Today 07:35 pm JST I hope this will and should apply to all athletes, officials and others coming to the Olympics... ...Visitors to the Olympics will have to add this to the other joys of the Olympics here.

Not to worry; It's just been announced there will be NO international spectators at the Olympics. One reason was to protect the Japanese people...

Looks like Japan is returning to its 鎖国 policy of yore.

anon99999 Mar. 20, 2021 09:04 pm JST

But what about the athletes, ancillary staff, officials, sponsors and all their guests. The IOC will be out there in full force with families and guests, granted exemptions I am sure

Mike James Mar. 20, 2021 09:08 pm JST

@snowymountainhell

What part of “the regulation affects all classes of inbound travelers ( Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary business/tourism travelers )” did you not understand?

CaptDingleheimer Mar. 20, 2021 09:25 pm JST

If they keep this turned on after Covid clears up significantly, rent a phone at the airport I will... and then I'll leave it at my in-law's house while I go wherever I please in Japan with my own phone in my pocket.

justasking Mar. 20, 2021 09:42 pm JST

Leave your phone in the hotel? Lucky if you have two.

S.I. Mar. 20, 2021 10:11 pm JST

covid 1984 I see. beyond shameful. i for one wouldnt comply.

Chibakun Mar. 20, 2021 10:12 pm JST

A good solution to allow foreigners to come and watch the Olympics.

Brian Wheway Mar. 20, 2021 10:17 pm JST

There some people that are worried about being spied on, by big brother, well there is nothing stopping you going to Japan witha second mobile phone with all of these apps on, so your good to go, then you could just loose it after 3 day or so, may be it might get stolen, just saying.

anon99999 Mar. 20, 2021 10:34 pm JST

Everyone worried about being spied upon seems to have missed the point. You are supposed to be in quarantine for the two weeks after you arrive at your home or hotel, not going anywhere and the point of the apps is to follow up that is what you doing which you sign a pledge to do. So all they are tracking is that you stay at home as you promised. And after the two weeks when you can get up and about you can just delete them!

So all the unhappy people about this , wanting to switch off their phones and all the other ideas, want to do this to break quarantine and break their pledge, and perhaps be responsible for spreading the virus. You are complaining about getting caught lying and worried about penalties that only apply if you lie and break your pledge.

How about just simply following the quarantine and then you have no problem and maybe contribute to the virus not spreading as well.

Antiquesaving Mar. 21, 2021 12:12 am JST

What part of

Failure to do so can result in public publishing of the violator’s name and, in the case of foreign nationals, deportation, including the revocation of residence status for foreigners living in Japan on work or study visas.

Note no actual penalties for Japanese Nationals the only real penalties are reserved for foreigners!

The double standard continues.

Imagine the outrage of Canada said Canadians violating quarantine would get publicly shamed but Non Canadians would be deported or pay fines.

The first Japanese to get caught would set off a flurry of discrimination accusations, etc..

GBR48 Mar. 21, 2021 12:16 am JST

Most of us get a pocket WiFi unit on arrival in Japan, as our smartphones/tablets either won't work or will operate on roaming charges in Japan. These are usually picked up at the PO at Narita, which is well past the security gates. They may need to sort that out.

All governments are using covid as an excuse to roll out their Orwellian state surveillance systems. It's not just Japan. The move to digital is a move to trackable - cash, location, websites visited. They are using Orwell's novel as a manual. They are 'taking back control' of us.

Happy to pre-install the apps for a holiday, although my government is likely to imprison us all until at least 2022. If the Japanese govt. want to waste some cash recording where I go, that is fine. I actually thought Skype had been discontinued. Doesn't everyone use Zoom now? Just have a small, spare smartphone, put the apps on, charge it up and keep it in your bag all day. Charge at night. Folk do the same when visiting China, as they sometimes slip apps on at the airport there.

If the apps are to monitor quarantine, there is little point. Quarantine is a deal breaker for tourism and pointless for those who have been vaccinated/tested negative before flying. Why lock vaccinated/covid negative people in a hotel for two weeks? That is daft. Particularly when your own citizens have not been tested or vaccinated, and are roaming freely.

Even before the pandemic I wore a mask in Japan to avoid gaijin flu. As I've now had my first jab, I may be less of a risk to the Japanese people than almost all of them are to each other.

The Japanese government are very good at mandating rules that effectively ban something, rather than directly banning it. AirBnB hosts were a victim of this. This may be the start of a long term ban on tourism. In which case tourists will have to visit somewhere else. On the other hand, it could just be an example of a nervous government picking policies off the shelf to suggest that they are in control of the situation. It may not matter: I doubt many of us can travel at the moment anyway. By the time we do, the rules are likely to have changed again.

I'm not sure there is going to be much international tourism in 2021. Maybe better to save your cash and have a longer, more exotic holiday in 2022. Eventually, governments will let us out of our national prisons, or we will be able to vote them out of office and replace them with a government that will. Then we can spend our cash in any foreign nation that lets us in, suitably vaccinated, as we always used to be with Hep A. and other jabs.

Wellington Mar. 21, 2021 12:21 am JST

Taiwan has been doing the same since the beginning of the pandemic and have had only 10 pandemic-related deaths with only 1004 reported cases. Of the 1004 cases, 959 have recovered.

Only those with a Taiwanese passport or those who have received special permission are allowed in the country. Upon arrival one must sign a form giving permission to the government health officials to install apps on their cell phone that will allow the health officials to monitor their location.

A 14- day quarantine at her residence was required. She received daily calls, and two in-person visits to her home from the health department during the 14 days.

After the 14 days she was free to move around.

People lie and cheat. The tracing apps are a minor inconvenience that keeps people honest. If you don't like it don't come to Japan.

Wellington Mar. 21, 2021 12:24 am JST

I forgot to add that a co-worker recently visited Taiwan on vacation in the above post.

Sandra Groth Mar. 21, 2021 01:42 am JST

Please read: the regulation affects ALL classes of inbound travelers (Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary business/tourism travelers).

Antiquesaving Mar. 21, 2021 01:57 am JST

Please read: the regulation affects ALL classes of inbound travelers (Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary

Taiwan has been doing the same since the beginning of the pandemic

Note again:

Japanese Nationals that refuse will not be penalised other than having their names published on some obscure government website.

Only non Japanese face any serious repercussions for refusing or breaking the quarantine regulations.

So the "all classes of inbound travelers" is disingenuous even false as Japanese Nationals don't really have to comply.

Taiwan imposes fines for All that violate the conditions and that includes Taiwan citizens. That is very fair unlike Japan.

Note that the majority arriving in Japan are Japanese Nationals and having no enforcement for them makes this whole process a bit useless other than to make The Japanese feel they are safe from the foreign virus brought by foreigners.

Peter Neil Mar. 21, 2021 05:06 am JST

Japan announced that foreign spectators for the Olympics will not be allowed. I think that's a good thing.

Gojupyohapo Mar. 21, 2021 05:52 am JST

How do they intend to enforce this? Are there any stipulations about time lapsed for not answering your phone? What if one does not carry their phone in their house or they lose or misplace it within a residence? What if someone was asleep or on the toilet at the time of a — let's face it, highly unlikely — Skype call and they don't check their phone all day or it runs out of battery and the phone dies? Absolute load of proposturous dung that beggars belief.

DownWind Mar. 21, 2021 06:34 am JST

I own a dumb flip-phone. It doesn't use apps. I make phone calls and text ... that's everything that I expect and need from a phone. It probably won't even operate in Japan where half of our family lives. So now I won't be allowed to see my family in Japan?

mmwkdw Mar. 21, 2021 06:50 am JST

What if you don't have a "Smart" Phone ?

Do you suddenly be forced to return (deportation) and as such get a Criminal record ?

mmwkdw Mar. 21, 2021 06:55 am JST

@Peter Niel -

Yes, but it should also apply to Japanese spectators too.

For example, a Japanese National expat living in the UK, can come back to Japan and be let it without bias (or consideration that they may inadvertently be spreading a new variant of the Virus?)

mmwkdw Mar. 21, 2021 07:03 am JST

Why do you all see the need to Travel overseas ?

Why not instead, look at what your current hosting Country has to offer. And forget the cries from the Airline Industry or the Tabloids trying to Sensationalise things.

TokyoBanana Mar. 21, 2021 10:07 am JST

Easy way around this nonsense: get yourself a burner phone, install these apps on that one, and leave it at your hotel, at home, or wherever you want to have house arrest.

Did you know that things like this are in violation of the constitution?

Specifically articles 11, 13, 14, 18, and maybe 34 too.

Usually these nonsense policies get undone once somebody goes to court and points out the constitution, so let's wait for the first victim of these policies that actually has a brain.

anon99999 Mar. 21, 2021 01:24 pm JST

Easiest way around this is to sty at home and follow the two weeks quarantine and do as you pledged when you arrived in Japan. Why are so many foreigners on this forum interested in not keeping quarantine and then upset there is a penalty for their irresponsible behaviour! Would you prefer the system of other countries where you are forced top pay $1000s of dollars for enforced stay in a hotel room. Here in Japan you are enraged to take personal responsibility and do home quarantine!

Maria 'Bing' Velasquez Reid Mar. 21, 2021 01:52 pm JST

“Enacted by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the regulation affects all classes of inbound travelers (Japanese citizens, foreign residents of Japan, and temporary business/tourism travelers).”

I like this policy and wish my country would do the same so the spread of Coronavirus will be at bay. To control the spread one must implement a good anti-spreader plan.

WilliB Mar. 21, 2021 04:58 pm JST

Another step towards China style population control. The CCP must be smiling, seeing how their model gets adopted.

theFu Mar. 22, 2021 12:07 am JST

For me, it is mostly about battery life. When traveling, I don't really mind being tracked nearly as much as I would a home. I actually enable local GPS tracking during all my trips as another record. None of that data is supposed to be shared elsewhere. https://fossdroid.com/a/tiny-travel-tracker.html

I hope hotels have quarantine wings with all exit points alarmed, video surveilled, or manned 24/7. The phone shouldn't be needed. If they are trusting the honor of short-time visitors, then maybe that isn't a good idea. Who would travel to Japan for 3 weeks to have 2 of those weeks spent in a hotel room? The economics wouldn't work for me.

For residents of Japan, the app makes more sense. Home quarantine wouldn't be nearly the cost of forced hotels.

Anyone have a link to the agreement? Without that, we don't know about any loopholes that can be exploited - perhaps to get groceries and other establishments on the way.

mikeylikesit Mar. 22, 2021 11:04 am JST

That, presumably, it’s where Skype comes into play. The government will call periodically, and the live video evidence needs to prove that you are obeying quarantine. If not, authorities may come around searching.

Sven Asai Mar. 22, 2021 03:03 pm JST

In other words, those are the apps with no or almost no privacy...lol Btw, in the case of ossma, there is not even an information in the App Store, what data are all accessed. In the worst case your whole phone contents is mirrored. And what should Skype be good for? Maybe, only for multichannel attempt, not sure, but don’t expect to get a welcome video call....rofl Cocoa is the one I also have installed, because it’s purpose against corona is obvious and clearly mentioned. But the other ones? I am not planning to learn Chinese for all your new normal surveillance dictatorships, that’s just for your files on me, you little communist bastards.

chugmagaga Mar. 23, 2021 04:45 am JST

Mmwkdw mar. 23, 2021 09:56 pm jst.

Perhaps the J. Govt plans to assist carrier unlocking on phones and to provide a local paid for SIM card ?

Desert Tortoise Mar. 25, 2021 07:48 am JST

And here I am, always emptying my pockets in the car when parking at the airport for a foreign trip. The only thing in my wallet is one credit card and a little card I make with embassy information. I leave the rest of my cards, drivers license and the like in the car. All keys except my car key stay in the car with my cell phone and the stuff removed from my wallet. The only other items I bring are some cash and my passport. So I guess no travel to Japan for a long time. Kind of sad because my wife would like to see it.

Brian Wheway Mar. 25, 2021 04:25 pm JST

you could buy another cheap crappy phone to enter the country with down load the so called wounder app, to appease the goverment, then chuck it in the bin when you get out side the airport. if you get stopped and aked for it, you can say you lost it.

Login to leave a comment

Facebook users.

Use your Facebook account to login or register with JapanToday. By doing so, you will also receive an email inviting you to receive our news alerts.

Login with your JapanToday account

Articles, offers & useful resources.

A mix of what's trending on our other sites

The Best Train Lines for Living in Tokyo: The Asakusa Line

GaijinPot Blog

Old Kurayoshi Line

GaijinPot Travel

2024 Top Jobs in Japan Week 14

The Best Japanese Shows To Get A Sense Of Tokyo

Savvy Tokyo

Utsubuki Park

This Week: Tokyo Area Events for April 22 – 28, 2024

Tokyo Rainbow Pride 2024

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine

My Experience with NordVPN in Japan

Shukkeien Garden

Common Bugs in Japan and How to Get Rid of Them

10 Unique Character Shops in Tokyo

Please view the main text area of the page by skipping the main menu.

The page may not be displayed properly if the JavaScript is deactivated on your browser.

Entertainment

Japan releases proof-of-vaccine app expected for use in foreign travel

December 20, 2021 (Mainichi Japan)

Japanese version

TOKYO -- The Japanese government began distributing an app on Dec. 20 that allows users to show proof of vaccination against the coronavirus.

Its official name roughly translates to the "novel coronavirus vaccine identification app," and it's managed by Japan's Digital Agency. The app is available free from the App Store for iPhone users, while Android users can obtain it from the Google Play Store.

The app is expected to be used as part of the vaccine and testing package that will ease controls on movement even under states of emergency, and in procedures to travel overseas. On a user's smartphone screen, the number of shots, the date of vaccination, type of vaccine and the production lot number for their doses are shown, among other information. Users can hide their name and date of birth. According to the Digital Agency's website, information for the foreign-travel version of the app's proof of vaccination will be displayed in English.

The app is connected to the government-run Vaccination Record System (VRS), meaning users must have a "My Number" individual identification card. Residents of some municipalities will reportedly not be able to use the app from Dec. 20 due to an ordinance specific to where they live, and the Digital Agency has released a list of municipalities where the app can be used on its website.

(Japanese original by Yusuke Matsukura, Business News Department)

News Navigator: What is a 'vaccine passport' and which countries accept Japan's?

Also in The Mainichi

Planning a Trip to Japan?

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp

Useful Apps Download a selection of apps to make your trip to Japan run even smoother. Choose from a list of all-round, navigation, sightseeing and accommodation applications.

Helping You Plan

Travel Info

Tokyo Metro Subway Map

Download a full and interactive map of the Tokyo Metro, plus a handy route planner for getting around. The map covers the Tokyo Metro lines, Toei lines and JR Yamanote line. It works offline to provide support even without an internet connection. With the Tokyo Metro Subway Map app, riding the metro is easy.

Google Play

Japan Travel – Route, Map, Guide

The Japan Travel app provides you with all the information you need as a tourist to truly explore Japan. Find specific information that you need and make recommendations via reviews for other travelers.

Japan Transit Planner

Japan Transit Planner is a multilingual navigation application. Find the route and how to transfer by railways or airplanes in Japan. It can check the route, the fare, and the required time easily when you input the departure station and the destination station.

Google Maps

Navigate your world faster and easier with Google Maps. Get real-time GPS navigation, traffic, and transit info, and explore local neighborhoods by knowing where to eat, drink and go - no matter what part of the world you’re in.

GetYourGuide: Travel & Tickets

Download the GetYourGuide app to discover and book unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you're planning a vacation or looking for things to do in any destination, the app makes booking tours, day trips, and activities easier than ever. Choose from culture, food, adventure, nature, and more experiences.

Viator: Tours & Tickets

Use Viator for world-class travel experiences with traveler-minded flexibility and convenience. With 300,000+ experiences at your fingertips—everything from simple tours to extreme adventures —you're guaranteed to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Yelp: Food, Delivery & Reviews

The famous user-based review site, Yelp, is now in Japan. You can make reservations, order delivery or pickup- all from your phone. Search for nearby businesses such as salons and spas, with reviews to make informed decisions.

Useful apps

Safety tips

Stay safe while in Japan! Find out the latest disaster information including early earthquake warnings, tsunami warnings, volcanic activity and strong weather with this app.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN

NHK WORLD-JAPAN provides the latest news and information on Japan and Asia. It is the international service of Japan’s public broadcaster NHK. (19 languages available - Push notification of emergency information on earthquakes and tsunami *English, Chinese, Portuguese and Vietnamese)

Worried about the language barrier in Japan? VoiceTra is a speech translation app supporting over 31 languages. Enjoy smooth communication in Japan particularly in places such as public transportation, shopping, hotels, or sightseeing spots.

Travel JAPAN Wi-Fi

Accessing free Wi-Fi can be a little difficult in Japan. With the Travel JAPAN Wi-Fi app, you'll be able to find free Wi-Fi while you are out and about. It automatically connects you to Wi-Fi hotspots, so you are never out of the loop.

Japan Connected Wi-Fi

Stay connected with the Japan Connected Wi-Fi app. With over 170,000 spots, tourists can easily access free Wi-Fi all over Japan. Simple and convenient, you'll be able to connect after a one-time registration. You can also search for Wi-Fi hotspots. This app has multi-lingual support.

Taxis & Ride sharing

Uber - Request a ride

Join the millions of riders who trust Uber for their everyday travel needs. Whether you’re running an errand across town or exploring a city far from home, getting there should be easy.

DiDi Rider: Affordable rides

Do you need a ride? Or are you craving for a pizza? Ride wherever you want or order food delivery with DiDi, the world's largest mobility app and professional food delivery platform! Order a car in just three taps for relaxed and comfortable travel.

With S.RIDE, you can hail a taxi with one swipe and the nearest vehicle will be dispatched to you from one of Tokyo’s largest taxi networks. Payment is also cashless and speedy. This app offers a much more comfortable way to move around Tokyo.

GO / Taxi app for Japan

The GO app streamlines travel with quick taxi dispatch, arrival alerts, direct messaging, and cashless payments through GO Pay. It offers advance bookings, specialized vehicles, and an Airport flat-rate service to Tokyo's Haneda and Narita airports.

Did this information help you?

out of found this information helpful.

Thank you for your feedback.

Recommended for you.

Nemophila & Kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

Find Restaurant

Credit card.

Shops now open
About this site
Sign in / Member registration

You’ve come to the right place

SAVOR JAPAN
Japan info - Traveling to Japan During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Traveling to Japan During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Before departure

After arrival.

To shorten the waiting time when entering Japan, travelers (including Japanese residents) are asked for below cooperation: - Installing government-designated apps: MySOS* (Health and location monitoring app) and COCOA (contact-tracing app) - Register for Fast Track in the MySOS app to skip some quarantine procedures before entering Japan (optional) *MySOS can be installed via exclusive link or QR code. For more information, please refer to the following guideline: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/manual/en.html Both MySOS and COCOA will be checked when entering Japan. If you do not own a smartphone, you will be asked to rent one based on Quarantine Act. For more information: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/followup/en/ Pre-registering for quarantine procedures through Fast Track is recommended. Users may skip some quarantine document procedures through MySOS. (The pre-registration must be completed 6 hours before your arrival) For more information: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/fasttrack/en/

Current cross-border travel restrictions in Japan (As of July 10, 2022)

Travelers are to follow the below guidelines to travel to Japan. - The traveler must be from countries/regions grouped “blue” https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/border_category.html - Joining a tour offered by a tour conductor - Following the guidelines designated by Japan Tourism Agency To enjoy your travel safely, please follow the precautionary measures to prevent infections. PDF: https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/content/001485670.pdf

Current quarantine measures (As of July 1, 2022)

Depending on the grouping of countries/regions and possession of vaccination certificates, COVID-19 testing and quarantine measures after arrival may be needed. There are two types of quarantine: - Isolation at home - Isolation at a facility designated by the Chief of the Quarantine Station URL: https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/bordercontrol.html *Japanese residents are exempt from the above restriction. Please check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan for more information. URL (Japanese): https://www.anzen.mofa.go.jp/

Precautionary measures during your travel

When using a facility, please choose the place that follows the instructions from each industry and avoid crowded and dense areas.

Precautionary measures in restaurants

Although removing the masks is unavoidable when eating and drinking, please follow the below precautionary measures in restaurants: - Hand disinfection when entering - Use spaced seats (or seats with partitions) - Wear a mask when not eating or drinking

Transportation
Japanese Currency/ Credit cards
Time difference/ National Holidays
Water/Electricity
Telephone/ Internet access
Accommodation
Restaurant ranking
Browsing history
The Deep Insight into Japanese Cuisine
Feature stories
Discover Oishii Japan
More to savor
Japanese dining etiquette
Japanese table manners

Tours & Experiences
Tailor-made Trips
Bahasa Indonesia

We are happy to see you again!

Continue with

Or use email.

No Account? Create one

Create account

Already have an account? Sign in

Quickly Sign up with

I agree to Japan Travel's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . Terms of--> and acknowledge that Japan Travel's Privacy--> applies to me.-->

Email reset password link

Please check your inbox and click the link we will send to you.

Post-Covid Travel in Japan

About topic.

A collection of articles and resources that can help understand the travel situation in Japan during the Covid-19 pandemic. See our dedicted page with information about the coronavirus in Japan .

The COVID Jab in Japan

I think I can speak for everyone when I say: We are ready!

JAL Trials Three Health Apps for Safe International...

In early April 2021, Japan Airlines (JAL) announced that it was going to begin trials with three health credential apps—Common..

Covid-Recovery: What is Japan Doing?

New incentives and guidelines for staying healthy can improve our chances of getting back to normal faster. So how are businesses..

Go To Eat Campaign

The Go To Eat campaign offers you a chance to dine at your favorite spots for a fraction of the cost. Or try something new. You'll..

Travel by Train: New Discount Campaigns

Travel around Japan for less than usual.

Go to Travel Campaign 2020

With the Go to Travel campaign, you can travel inside Japan to destinations you've been dreaming of visiting.

COVID-19 Precautions From Willer Express

Willer Express offer a range of bus services across Japan, and their night bus services in particular are popular. In the era of..

Japan Travel SafeRide Service

SafeRide is a unique service offered by Japan Travel, in conjunction with a local car partner, with the focus on giving an alternative..

Post-Covid Japan: 7 Lesser-Known Getaways

As Japan emerges from its COVID cocoon after months of self-isolation and self-reflection residents and tourists alike are contemplating..

State of Emergency Declared Over [May 2020]

A decrease in COVID-19 cases ends the lockdown ahead of schedule

Stuck at Home? 11 Virtual Tours for Enjoying Japan

Social distancing got you down? Maybe it's time for a virtual tour or a live feed of Japan to pick you up!

After-Covid: Coworking Spaces in Tokyo

Explore the best coworking spaces in Tokyo to find the ideal place to work. Whether you're freelancing, fed up with working..

Explore topics

Let us know how we can help.

Japan Tourism
Japan Hotels
Japan Bed and Breakfast
Japan Vacation Rentals
Flights to Japan
Japan Restaurants
Things to Do in Japan
Japan Travel Forum
Japan Photos
All Japan Hotels
Japan Hotel Deals
Last Minute Hotels in Japan
Things to Do
Restaurants
Vacation Rentals
Travel Stories
Rental Cars
Add a Place
Travel Forum
Travelers' Choice
Help Center

Covid apps/travelling to Japan without a smartphone - Japan Forum

Asia
Japan

Covid apps/travelling to Japan without a smartphone

United States Forums
Europe Forums
Canada Forums
Asia Forums
Central America Forums
Africa Forums
Caribbean Forums
Mexico Forums
South Pacific Forums
South America Forums
Middle East Forums
Honeymoons and Romance
Business Travel
Train Travel
Traveling With Disabilities
Tripadvisor Support
Solo Travel
Bargain Travel
Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
Asia forums
Japan forum

At one point I understand travellers were required to install 4 compulsory apps on a smartphone (location tracking, track and trace contact, vaccination proof, quarantine compliance with facial recognition etc etc). If this is still required (or will still be required by April), I won't be going to Japan any time soon.

If smartphone users are required to instal such apps, can I just leave my smartphone in the UK if I did go to Japan? Being phoneless would be the lesser of the evils in my book - go back to travelling how it used to be. Or has Japan effectively made possession of a mobile phone with compulsory apps obligatory?

I've had 3 doses of recognised vaccines (2 x AstraZeneca in April and June 2021 followed by a Pfizer Biontech booster in December 2021).

It sounds like you have been reading very outdated information. JNTO's website has a very helpful chart showing what steps you do and where.

https://www.japan.travel/en/practical-coronavirus-information/travelers/

There is an app where you can submit your vaccination details, but if you don't want to load an app on your phone, this can be done via a website. Reply #2 in the link below describes how it worked for them.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g294232-i525-k14135222-Is_MySOS_required_for_entry-Japan.html#115275244

Here is the official page:

https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/fasttrack/en/

As said, use MySoS web and print your paperwork. No need to download an app.

Just note that the majority of the Japanese are still wearing masks everywhere including outdoors. They are afraid to take masks off and will expect everybody to wear a mask. If you don't like wearing a mast, it's something to think about.

Thanks for the replies.

If I can print something from a web page rather than installed apps that's not so bad.

When I go back to Japan next month, I'll wear a mask only where I'm required to do so by ordinance.

Thanks Dr Shibuyakko. Glad I'm not the only one to think this way. Obvious next question is where are masks still required by ordinance? Public transport? I'd been looking forward to trying ekiben on trains so hope eating is still allowed on shinkansen.

Here it is:

https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/mask.html

You can still eat in Shinkansen but you have to wear a mask in between bites. Just kidding. You can take your mask off while eating/drinking. I'm going to keep a bottle of water in front of me while riding Shinkansen😉Technically, you can keep your mask off if the train is not crowded and you're not talking.

Dr Shibuyakko, your Shinkansen water bottle plan is very like my popcorn policy (when masks were required in UK cinemas except when eating or drinking, I'd buy the large popcorn to eat slowly through the duration of the movie).

From what the website link said, so as long as I don't talk to anyone, I can get away without a mask most of the time - my lack of Japanese language skills beyond konnichiwa and arigato may be a help not a hindrance!

Many shops, museums, businesses etc will require you to wear a mask. Hotels can refuse you for not wearing one. It’s the custom here, whether you agree with it or not.

Well, the young American who I walked together today at Harajuku after seeing so many foreigners not wearing masks accused them that they were not thinking about others and quite selfish.

You are supposed to wear masks on trains unless you are the only one on the train. They are making announce to do so also in English.

Given the ineffective masks Japanese wearand how they mob together I would wear my N95s all the time I was near them. I do not want to get sick after spending thousands on a vacation.

cruise port to Norokko Train 3:00 am
Gifu - Kyoto - Osaka Itinerary help 2:43 am
Kyushu 3 weeks itinerary - 22 October 2:39 am
Train tokyo to Yokohama 2:31 am
Ichijo Ekan Sanso & Hokokuji Temple - Eat on the bench? 2:28 am
Transit at Haneda Airport 2:20 am
Maihama, Uruyasu - Theme Restaurant 2:13 am
Laundry near cruise terminal 1:37 am
Tokyo day trip to Nikko, Kamakura and Hakone 1:36 am
where to stay - Tokyo - first time 12:25 am
Bike parking around Kyoto 12:19 am
Where to buy Tsumura medical Chinese herbal preparation ? 12:17 am
osaka or Hiroshima 12:08 am
Please Answer About This Accomodation Tax 12:02 am
'semi double' rooms 5 replies
Pocket WiFi Rental Experience? 315 replies
kyoto-takayama JR or Lmtd express??? 6 replies
Best Japan travel guide book? 29 replies
Best/cheapest time of year to visit?? 3 replies
Radiation danger in Tokyo? 37 replies
Best Skiing in Japan? And When? 3 replies
Japan in 10 days 3 replies
How far is Nara from Kyoto 8 replies
how to get to Hokkaido from Tokyo? confused..pls HELP. 5 replies
2024 public holiday chart in East Asian countries
Where can I find more onsen in Japan?
Driving Information
Catholic mass in English and other languages
How can we access tourist attraction from cruise port?
Pocket WiFi Rental Experience?
Halal Information
Tokyo trip report here

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website uses JavaScript. Please turn on "JavaScript" and use it.

With regards to visa inquiries, you can contact “Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information” or “the Japan Visa Information Hotline” listed on the website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan. Due to the complex nature of visa requirements, we are UNABLE to respond to visa-related inquiries made through this website at the moment. We advise you to contact the Consular Section of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan nearest you for more information and advice.

If you are a foreign national, please click the links below for specific information related to respective subjects.

1. Visa Application Procedures

2. about visa.

3. Visa Application Documents

4. Frequently Asked Questions

5. announcements.

6. Inquiries Concerning Visas
Be aware of fraudulent website, social media, emails in an attempt to extract payments from visa applicants (July 5, 2017)

Short-Term Stay

(A stay of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities)

Click on the nationality of the visa applicant traveling to Japan.

Visa exemption arrangements have been resumed from 0:00 am (JST) on October 11, 2022.

It is highly recommended to purchase international travel medical insurance for your trip to Japan. Overseas travel medical insurance helps you in case of emergency.

Work or Long-Term Stay

(A stay during which the applicant performs remunerative work in Japan or a stay of over 90 days in Japan, etc.)

Procedures chart for long-term stays
The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan
Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening

Visa for Medical Stay

Visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders.

Points to Note and Application Procedures
Visa Processing Time
Validity of a Visa
Criteria of Visa Issuance
Visas and Landing Permission

3. Visa Application Documents (download)

(Note1) Refer to [1. Visa Application Procedures] for details of documents required.
(Note3) Visa application forms that are not in the QR code (PDF) format cannot be saved. Please print a paper copy of the Visa application.
Visa application form
Tell me why you rejected my visa application.
I want to go to Japan. Do I need a visa?
I want to invite a foreign national to Japan. What procedures are necessary?
What should I do to get a Certificate of Eligibility?
The Certificate of Eligibility will not arrive by the time I apply for a visa. Can I still apply for a visa with its copy?
As a “guarantor”, to what extent do I need to be responsible?

Newly introduced visas

Special highly skilled professional (J-Skip)
Designated activities (Future creation individual, Spouse or Child of future creation individual) (J-Find)
Designated activities (Digital Nomad, Spouse or Child of Digital Nomad)

Review on restrictions on new entry of foreign nationals into Japan

Application for Visa for foreign nationals eligible for Phased Measures toward Resuming Cross-Border Travel
Border measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

Statistics for the Number of Visas

Number of Visas Issued in 2021(May 31,2022)

Relaxation of Visa Requirements

Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the Federative Republic of Brazil in Possession of Ordinary Passports(September 30, 2023)
Signing of the Japan-Israel Working Holiday Agreement (April 28, 2023)
Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the State of Qatar based on Ordinary Passport Registration System (April 2, 2023)
Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the United Arab Emirates in Possession of Ordinary Passports (November 1, 2022)
Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (April 3, 2020)
Japan's Visa Policy in Accordance with Measures to Combat Trafficking in Persons (February 2009)

6. Inquiries about Visas Application

Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information

Yotsuya Tower 13F, 1-6-1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0004 Navi-Dial: 0570-011000 (For some IP phones and calls from overseas, please call +81-3-5369-6577) Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00

The Four Apps You MUST Have To Enter Japan

posted on June 30, 2021

Travelers from around the world enter Japan every day, but many don’t realize that a few smartphone apps could make the difference between a simple airport experience, and a logistical nightmare.

That’s because Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare require all travelers entering Japan to install four apps on their phones, in order to assist them in monitoring everyone entering the country while they quarantine, as is required by law under emergency COVID-19 travel rules, and to keep them safe while they remain in Japan.

Anyone entering Japan will need to be able to show that they have these four apps installed, meaning many are welcomed to the country with the stress of figuring out the airport’s WiFi in order to find and download the necessary apps as soon as they arrive – that’s a whole lot of travelers wishing they’d installed the apps at home, before flying to Japan!

Here are the four apps you must have to enter Japan, what each of them does, and most importantly, how to get them!

This allows the HCO (Health Monitoring Center for Overseas Entrants) to confirm your location. You’ll need to use this to check in daily during your 14-day quarantine period.

Download OEL from the Play Store/App Store here.

This is a video call app that the HCO will use to contact you in order to confirm your location at any given time.

Download MySOS here .

3. Location Information apps

Most smartphones won’t need to download a separate app for this, but you’ll need to be able to present your phone’s location history to officials if you test positive for COVID-19. iPhone users don’t need to install an app for this, but other smartphone users that don’t already have it will need to download Google Maps.

Download Google Maps from the Play Store here .

This is Japan’s COVID-19 contact tracing app that can notify you if you may have been in contact with someone who’s tested positive.

Download COCOA from the Play Store/App Store here .

When you arrive in Japan, the airport’s quarantine staff will ask you to show each of these apps on your phone*. Downloading them and installing them before you travel could save you a huge amount of potential stress when you enter Japan!

As we continue to emerge from the pandemic, we know that it can be difficult to keep up with the many ways that travel has changed, and continues to change. At Mobal, we’re committed to being with you every step of the way! Our team of native English-speaking experts support fellow English-speakers in Japan every single day, and can’t wait to welcome you back to Japan!

*According to the Japanese government’s guidance for travelers, ‘ If you do not have a smartphone or have a smartphone on which you cannot install the app, you will be required to rent a smartphone at the airport at your own expense when you enter Japan ’.

« Additional Data Now Available – Putting You In Control of Your Mobal WiFi

Calls to tell japan now free on mobal », leave a comment cancel reply.

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe Digital Print

LDP funds scandal
Latest News
Deep Dive Podcast

Today's print edition

Home Delivery

Crime & Legal
Science & Health
More sports
CLIMATE CHANGE
SUSTAINABILITY
EARTH SCIENCE
Food & Drink
Style & Design
TV & Streaming
Entertainment news

Golden Week crowds greeted with high temperatures as holiday period kicks off

The departure lobby for domestic flights is crowded with travelers at Haneda Airport in Tokyo on Saturday, the first day of this year's Golden Week holidays.

Temperatures soared Sunday across a broad swath of the country, as Japan marked the second day of the Golden Week holiday period, with millions of travelers venturing to both international and domestic destinations.

Meanwhile, Osaka and central Tokyo reached 28 C, well above averages for this time of year, while Nagoya hit 28.3 C. The mercury in the cities of Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, and Fukushima also hit 30 C.

As Japan began its Golden Week holidays, which last until May 6, crowds of travelers headed to airports and train stations for trips to visit their hometowns or resorts, with families carrying hefty suitcases forming lengthy lines at airline counters.

Around 835,200 people were projected to travel through Narita International Airport in Chiba Prefecture for international flights and 263,300 people for domestic flights during the busy holiday period.

An estimated 23.3 million people in Japan, about 90% of pre-pandemic levels, were expected to travel during the 11-day period, according to a report from travel agency JTB.

The Golden Week holidays this year are the first since the government downgraded the classification of COVID-19 to match that of the seasonal flu last May, lifting all remaining travel guidelines due to the virus.

Destinations consistently favored by Japanese tourists such as Hawaii and Guam were popular, while nearby South Korea and Taiwan were choices for those mindful of the weak yen, as reported by NHK.

A total of 2.96 million seats were booked for bullet trains and other reserved trains from Friday up until the end of the holiday period, a 16% increase from last year, according to the nation’s six Japan Railway operators.

But rain could put a damper on plans in some areas on Monday, when a low-pressure system is expected to approach western Japan, with rain likely drenching the Kyushu region from the morning and spreading to the Chugoku and Shikoku areas around noon. Some areas are expected to experience heavy rain and thunderstorms.

In the Kinki region, rain is expected starting in the evening, but the Tokai, Kanto and Hokuriku regions may see some sun with a chance of rain at night. In Okinawa, rain and thunderstorms are likely until around noon, mainly in the southern islands.

Tokyo, Nagoya and Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture, were forecast to see temperatures of 27 C, 25 C and 29 C, respectively.

On Tuesday, rain is anticipated from the Kyushu to Kanto areas, mainly in the morning. In the Tohoku region and Hokkaido, showers are likely to continue into the afternoon, possibly turning into heavy rainfall.

Wednesday will see scattered rain in Okinawa, Kyushu, extending to Kanto, but the skies are forecast to clear on Thursday from Kyushu to Hokkaido, potentially creating ideal conditions for Golden Week outings next weekend.

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

IMAGES

Download
Japan's COVID-19 app reaches 4 million downloads in first week
Japan COVID-19 Entry Requirements Travelers Need To Know
Japan COVID-19 Entry Requirements Travelers Need To Know
Chart: COVID-19 Cuts Down Tourism in Japan
Japan’s COVID-19 app hits 4 million downloads in 1st week

COMMENTS

For Travelers
Last updated: Wednesday, May 31st, 2023. Get ready for your dream trip to Japan! Japan is now open to travelers from all countries or regions! Those who enter Japan on or after April 29th 2023 are not be required to present a valid vaccination certificate or a Covid-19 negative test certificate.
A Guide to the Visit Japan Web app and Japan Entry Procedures
There are now no Covid protocols for Japan. The Japanese government still recommends that visitors to Japan use the Visit Japan Web app, which replaces the paper arrival card and customs declaration, but you DO NOT HAVE TO USE THE VISIT JAPAN WEB APP. On our last entry to Japan in October 2023, those not using the app actually moved faster ...
Information for U.S. Citizens Traveling to Japan
COVID-19 in Japan. Currently, there are no COVID-19 testing , proof of vaccination, or quarantine requirements to travel to Japan. ... the Japan National Tourism Organization's Safety Tips app. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has a Disaster Prevention Information website with information on how to respond to a natural disaster in the area.
New app allows travelers to make paperless entry into Japan
1X. Visitors and returnees to Japan will be able to go through simpler customs, immigration and quarantine procedures by using a new phone app starting next week, the country's Digital Agency said ...
Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions
9. Visit Japan Web. 10. Installation of apps and other requirements upon entry into Japan. All coronavirus-related information on this website is gathered from the government ministries and authorities responsible for handling COVID-19 restrictions and measures. Due to the regularly changing situation and the constant updating of information ...
Travelers entering Japan have to install location confirmation app
The three apps are the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare's COCOA COVID-19 contact tracing app, Skype, and OSSMA, a location confirmation app. The combined apps are to be used in confirming compliance with the 14 days of self-quarantine that inbound travelers are required to complete before moving about the general population.
Japan has released its digital vaccine passport. Here's what you need
Japan launched services on Monday aimed at digitizing the documentation associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and travel. One is a smartphone app, a digital version of the paper-based vaccine ...
JAL Trials Three Health Apps for Safe International Travel
In early April 2021, Japan Airlines (JAL) announced that it was beginning trials with three health credential apps—CommonPass, VeriFLY, and IATA Travel Pass. These apps can help streamline air travel by storing and displaying crucial user data, such as Covid-19 test results and vaccination certificates in a manner that aligns with different countries' entry requirements.
Latest Japan Entry Requirements
Who is currently allowed to travel to Japan? Entry to Japan is back to pre-pandemic visa arrangements. In other words, passport holders of countries including the UK, most of Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand can make use of Japan's 90-day visa-free short term stay arrangements just as it was before March 2020. During the pandemic, the Japanese government separated all countries ...
Coronavirus in Japan: Travel Updates
Learn about the coronavirus (Covid-19) situation in Japan, including latest travel advisories, closures, and cancelled events in Japan. Always check with your local authority regarding their latest travel and health advisories if you are planning to travel to Japan.
Japan releases proof-of-vaccine app expected for use in foreign travel
TOKYO -- The Japanese government began distributing an app on Dec. 20 that allows users to show proof of vaccination against the coronavirus. Please view the main text area of the page by skipping ...
Useful Apps
Japan Connected Wi-Fi. Stay connected with the Japan Connected Wi-Fi app. With over 170,000 spots, tourists can easily access free Wi-Fi all over Japan. Simple and convenient, you'll be able to connect after a one-time registration. You can also search for Wi-Fi hotspots. This app has multi-lingual support.
Traveling to Japan During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Although removing the masks is unavoidable when eating and drinking, please follow the below precautionary measures in restaurants: - Hand disinfection when entering. - Use spaced seats (or seats with partitions) - Wear a mask when not eating or drinking. Traveling to Japan During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Before departure and After arrival ...
Travel to Japan during Covid-19
The basics. It's official: Japan will reopen to tourism on October 11. Ad Feedback. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced the news in September at a press conference. "We will lift the ...
Eight Travel Apps For Japan
It is an offline application so you simply need to take a photo of the writing and wait for the translation to come through. 4. GuruNavi. A data base of food and drink locations across Japan. You can search by area or type of cuisine and has worked in some rather rural regions of Japan. 5.
Post-Covid Travel in Japan
Post-Covid Japan: 7 Lesser-Known Getaways. Japan Travel. As Japan emerges from its COVID cocoon after months of self-isolation and self-reflection residents and tourists alike are contemplating.. 18 9. Planning. State of Emergency Declared Over [May 2020] Serena Ogawa Apr 8, 2020. A decrease in COVID-19 cases ends the lockdown ahead of schedule.
Covid apps/travelling to Japan without a smartphone
There is an app where you can submit your vaccination details, but if you don't want to load an app on your phone, this can be done via a website. Reply #2 in the link below describes how it worked for them. 2. Re: Covid apps/travelling to Japan without a smartphone.
VISA
Review on restrictions on new entry of foreign nationals into Japan. Application for Visa for foreign nationals eligible for Phased Measures toward Resuming Cross-Border Travel; Border measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) Statistics for the Number of Visas. Number of Visas Issued in 2021(May 31,2022)
The Four Apps You MUST Have To Enter Japan
This is Japan's COVID-19 contact tracing app that can notify you if you may have been in contact with someone who's tested positive. Download COCOA from the Play Store/App Store here. When you arrive in Japan, the airport's quarantine staff will ask you to show each of these apps on your phone*.
How do Germans behave when they're ill?
Bergamo counts the human cost of the COVID pandemic The Italian city of Bergamo lost many lives to COVID-19 but is now slowly returning to normal. Health 12/29/2022 December 29, 2022 04:59 min
Passengers at Narita Airport soar 72% in fiscal 2023
"Air travel demand fully recovered in fiscal 2023, thanks to the complete removal of (COVID-19) border measures last May," Narita International Airport President Akihiko Tamura told a news conference.
Travelers flock to train stations, airports as Golden Week begins
An estimated 835,200 people were due to travel through the airport during the 11-day Golden Week period — about 77% of the number during the same period in 2019, before the eruption of the COVID ...
Golden Week crowds greeted with high temperatures as ...
Meanwhile, Osaka and central Tokyo reached 28 C, well above averages for this time of year, while Nagoya hit 28.3 C. The mercury in the cities of Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, and Fukushima also hit ...