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Embassy of Japan in Singapore

For Travelers to Japan (Entry/Re-Entry to Japan)

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Travelling to Singapore Travellers should refer to the  ICA website  for the latest information on travelling to/from or transiting through Singapore. For the latest updates on Singapore's COVID-19 situation, please refer to the MOH website at  https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19 .   

Entry and Exit

Singapore passport holders are not required to apply for visas for short-term entry into Japan (less than 90 days).

Travellers intending to travel to Japan should refer to the Embassy of Japan in Singapore’s website and Japan National Tourist Organisation’s website for the latest entry requirements.

Travellers may also refer to the Embassy of Singapore in Tokyo’s website and Facebook page for the latest travel updates. 

Safety and Security

While the crime rate for petty crimes in Japan is generally low, travellers should remain vigilant and ensure that valuables such as passports and cash are not left unattended.  There have been occasional reports of foreigners being targeted for credit card fraud and extortion in Tokyo’s entertainment and nightlife districts. Travellers are advised to avoid touts. Travellers should note that the Japan Police may not provide a copy of the police report of the incident. Instead, a report number (with no content) will be issued to acknowledge that a report has been lodged at the police station. Hence, it may be useful to take note of the Police Station where the report is filed.

The legal age for consuming and purchasing alcohol and tobacco in Japan is 20 years old.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for Singaporeans to drive in Japan. As it is illegal to drive without the original IDP, car rental companies will not be able to rent cars to foreigners who are unable to produce the original IDP. For application procedures, please refer to the website of the Automobile Association of Singapore ( https://www.aas.com.sg/our-services/international-driving-permit-idp.html ).

Possession of prohibited drugs is a crime and can lead to heavy penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Travellers should note that prohibited drugs can include prescribed drugs for personal consumption. Travellers importing prescribed drugs should check with the Japan Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare ( http://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/topics/import/index.html ) or the Japanese Embassy on the application for an import certificate, before bringing the drugs into Japan.

Additional Information

The Japan National Tourism Organisation ( www.jnto.go.jp/safety-tips/eng ) provides safety tips and useful emergency information for travellers to Japan. The NHK World (mobile) app provides push notifications on disaster and emergency information in English. This includes alerts on earthquake, tsunami, volcano warnings issued by JMA, as well as information from J-Alert. The NHK World app is available for free on Google Play and App Store.

General Travel Advice

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website ( www.mfa.gov.sg ) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas  Mission  or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

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Travel Advisories

Travel restrictions vary from time to time. If you plan to travel soon, please check the travel advisories on the  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  website or relevant local authorities for the latest passport, visa and health requirements. If you have any connecting flights, and your transit city and destination have different requirements, please fulfil the stricter requirement.  Please note that you are responsible for complying with all travel requirements to enter your intended destination and transit country.

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Japan Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Singapore to Japan

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Recommended in public spaces.

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Can I travel to Japan from Singapore?

Most visitors from Singapore, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Japan.

Can I travel to Japan if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Singapore can enter Japan without restrictions.

Can I travel to Japan without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Singapore can enter Japan without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Japan?

Visitors from Singapore are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Japan.

Can I travel to Japan without quarantine?

Travellers from Singapore are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Japan?

Mask usage in Japan is recommended in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Japan?

Restaurants in Japan are open. Bars in Japan are .

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askST: What do I need to know about travelling to Japan now?

SINGAPORE - Japan reopened its borders in June this year to leisure travellers on tour packages. On Wednesday, it eased more of its travel restrictions and will now allow foreign tourists to travel on non-guided tour packages .

The Straits Times explains the latest changes.

Q: Can I travel and plan my own trip to Japan?

A: Yes. Travellers can do so under a non-guided tour package offered by travel agents that are recognised by the Japanese authorities.

Under these non-guided tour packages, travellers must book their flights and accommodation in advance with these agents.

The agents must arrange round-trip tickets and accommodation for the traveller's stay in Japan. This means that travellers are not allowed to stay at a friend's or family member's home in Japan.

Travellers must remain contactable at all times through phone calls, e-mails and SMS.

Q: Can I book tickets to Japan on my own?

A: Yes, you can do so when going for guided package tours. But the Japan-based travel agency or travel service provider acting as the receiving organisation needs to be aware of your itinerary and monitor your movements from entry into Japan till departure.

With these tours, you can have free time in your itinerary. However, you need to meet your guide at least once a day.

Q: Do I still need a visa to enter Japan?

A: Yes. Visas remain mandatory for all travellers. Visas were not required for Singaporeans before the Covid-19 pandemic. Travellers from all countries must apply for a visa through the authorised travel agents.

It can take at least five working days to process these visas, according to the Japan Tourism Agency. Travel agents said it could take weeks for a visa application to be approved.

Q: Do I need to take a pre-departure polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test?

A: No. You need to take a PCR test only  if you have not received three jabs of an approved vaccine. Japan does not recognise Chinese-made vaccines.

Q: Do I need to submit a certificate of Covid-19 test before entering Japan?

A: No, you do not. You no longer need to submit a certificate of Covid-19 test conducted within 72 hours before you depart from Singapore to Japan if you have a valid vaccination certificate.

Q: Do I need to wear a mask in Japan?

A: It is advisable to wear a mask in Japan. The Japanese authorities have recommended that you wear a mask in certain situations. Examples include talking to someone outdoors within a 2m distance or when you cannot maintain a physical distance from others on a train. 

Q: Do I need to serve quarantine upon arriving in Japan?

A: The need for on-arrival Covid-19 tests and quarantine depends on which country or region you stayed in before entering Japan.

Japan allows entry from countries and regions where infection levels are low. These are divided into three categories - red, yellow and blue - depending on their assessed virus risk.

Travellers from countries and regions on the blue list, including Singapore, can enter Japan without taking any on-arrival Covid-19 tests or serving quarantine.

Q: What is the daily limit for all arrivals now?

A: The daily limit for all arrivals - including Japanese nationals, foreign residents and those entering on business and tourist visas - has been increased to 50,000 from 20,000 people previously.

*For the list of travel agencies listed under the Japan National Tourism Organisation Singapore office, visit this website.

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Japan fully reopens to tourists from Singapore on 11 October

Great news for Japan lovers, with the news we’ve been eagerly anticipating – the popular destination is relaxing its border restrictions to allow tourists to enter visa-free and restriction-free from 11th October 2022, allowing proper two-way quarantine-free trips for the first time in over two-and-a-half years.

Singapore citizens and those holding passports issued in 67 other countries are set to benefit, which will see the vast majority of Lion City residents eligible to make a long-awaited trip to “the land of the rising sun” once again.

This relaxation, announced by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at a news conference in New York, will allow travellers to visit Japan without the need to make travel agency bookings in advance, nor apply for a visa in most cases.

To be eligible, you must be fully vaccinated and boosted with one of Japan’s recognised vaccines, or simply have a negative pre-departure PCR test if you are unvaccinated or your jabs don’t comply (e.g. Sinovac / Sinopharm).

The loosening of restrictions comes ahead of both the autumn travel season and the winter ski season, also paving the way for the first truly “free and easy” opportunity for four years to visit Japan during the upcoming sakura (cherry blossom) period, which runs from March to May 2023.

The weak Japanese yen will also stretch your cash on a Japan trip in the short-term, with your Singapore dollar going 25% further than it did in pre-COVID times, though actually getting to and from the country looks set to be an expensive affair, with flight capacity remaining limited in the months ahead.

Japan’s reopening will come just a few days before Taiwan also intends to allow free and easy travel once again, with Hong Kong also set to remove quarantine sometime in October.

Japan’s tourism reopening

Under the latest move, from 11th October 2022 Japan will:

• scrap its requirement for most travellers to obtain an entry visa
• ditch the idea that you must enter under a North-Korea-style guided tour format, or with a pre-arranged travel agent booking, and
• do away with its 50,000 person daily limit on overseas entries.

In most cases, that means you will be able to visit just like you could during pre-pandemic times, organising your own flights and hotel accommodation independently.

Japan already removed pre-departure testing for fully vaccinated travellers in early September 2022.

Who’s eligible: Nationalities

As with before COVID-19, Japan will once again allow those with one of 68 nationalities to enter visa-free for visits of up to 90 days, including Singapore Citizens.

The full list of eligible nationalities for visa-free entry into Japan from 11th October 2022 is outlined below (click to expand).

* Stays of up to six months, under bilateral agreement.

Who’s eligible: Vaccination or testing

To be eligible you’ll typically need to be fully vaccinated and have received a booster dose, in both cases from a relatively selective list of vaccines, with Sinopharm and Sinovac unfortunately not on the list.

That means having had either two or three vaccine doses, depending on which brand you received.

Japan “fully vaccinated” requirement

Vaccine doses from different brands on the above list received in combination are also acceptable, provided you have completed the primary course (any combination) and had a booster dose (of the same or a different vaccine).

For example:

• 1st dose AstraZeneca, 2nd dose Pfizer, 3rd dose Moderna (3 doses) is acceptable
• 1st dose J&J, 2nd dose Novavax (2 doses) is acceptable
• 1st dose Pfizer, 2nd dose Pfizer (2 doses) is not acceptable

Note in particular that the Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines are not recognised by Japan.

Update 26 September: Japan’s Government has announced that from 11th October 2022, three doses of any WHO-approved vaccine will be regarded as acceptable for entry, including China-made Sinopharm, Sinovac and Convidecia.

All is not lost if you don’t meet the vaccination criteria though.

A negative pre-departure PCR test result within 72 hours of departure will also suffice in place of fully vaccinated and boosted status.

These tests now start at only S$50 in Singapore , a fraction of the early 2021 rates of ~S$200! There are also a wide range of options in the S$68-80 range, plus home testing from S$98.

The test certificate must be in English and the test type can be via nasal swab or the less invasive saliva method (which starts from S$88 in Singapore ).

Singapore is on the ‘Blue List’

Good news for those looking forward to a trip to Japan – Singapore is on the country’s ‘Blue List’ , whereby no testing or quarantine is required, regardless of your vaccination status.

Japan entry requirements by country category

* Pre-departure test ^ On-arrival test

Your travel history in the last 14 days prior to entry into Japan determines the category you must adhere to, with the strictest being enforced.

The full list of countries by category is  available here .

There are currently no countries on the Red List at the time of writing, but do be aware that Yellow List countries include India, Fiji, Turkey, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and the Maldives .

That has potential implications if you don’t meet Japan’s strict vaccination criteria and you returned to Singapore from one of these countries in the last 14 days before a Japan trip, since you will then be subject to on-arrival PCR testing and quarantine.

What about children?

Children aged under 18 entering Japan can follow the same rules as their parent(s), even if they are not fully vaccinated, provided they are accompanied by fully vaccinated and boosted parent(s).

Japan’s reopening has been painfully slow

Japan closed its borders to non-nationals back in March 2020, with only Japanese citizens and residents eligible to enter the country for a period of over two years.

Since then it’s been a piecemeal reopening, including the following ‘milestones’, if you can call them that:

• November 2021: Business visitors and students allowed to enter with three days of quarantine, instead of 10 days.
• April 2022: Entry ban lifted for foreigners from over 100 countries, but they were still required to apply for a visa, which would not be granted for tourism purposes.
• May 2022: Small groups of tourists, totalling just 50, from Singapore, Australia, Thailand and the USA, were invited to visit on prearranged package tours.
• June 2022: Daily arrival cap doubled from 10,000 to 20,000, including returning citizens and residents. Removal of on-arrival testing and quarantine in most cases.
• June 2022: International visitors permitted on prearranged guided package tours.
• September 2022: Pre-departure testing removed for fully vaccinated travellers, primarily helping Japanese citizens return from overseas more easily.
• September 2022: Daily arrival cap increased to 50,000, foreigners allowed to book non-guided tours through a travel agent (visa still required).
• 11th October 2022: Visa-free tourist travel restarts for 68 nationalities, no daily arrival cap, fully vaccinated and boosted travellers welcome to make free and easy travel arrangements, or have a pre-departure PCR test if vaccination criteria is not met.

As you can imagine, opening to guided tour groups and travel agent itineraries with visa approval required didn’t even move the needle on inbound tourist numbers, but this latest relaxation will be a serious shift-change.

Thousands per day will now descend on Japan once the restrictions cease from 11th October, and that is already ensuring that ticket prices are sky-high and flight award space is nearly non-existent .

Prepare to be flexible with dates or part with plenty of cash just to reach Japan and return home again in the coming months.

Japan didn’t need tourists back in a hurry

Prior to the pandemic Japan welcomed over 2.6 million foreign tourists per month, prompting many to wonder why it has been so slow to reopen its borders.

However, as a rich country with a large affluent population, tourism spend only accounted for 0.8% of Japan’s gross domestic product (GDP) pre-pandemic, significantly eclipsed by its huge services and manufacturing sectors.

Even with the broader impact of tourism estimated to be around 2.2% of GDP, border reopening wasn’t a high priority for Japan like it was for countries such as Thailand, for example, where the industry drives a quarter of the economy.

In some senses it’s therefore not surprising that Japan has taken a slow and cautious approach to welcoming tourists again, despite the obvious frustration it’s caused for many of our readers eager to return!

Singapore – Japan flights (October 2022)

Japan was linked to Singapore Changi Airport by over 190 direct weekly flights prior to the pandemic, including the major cities like Tokyo and Osaka through to less-well-trodden locations like Hiroshima and Okinawa.

In October 2022 it’s a far cry from those kind of flight volumes, with only 79 direct weekly flights on offer , which means years of pent-up demand will inevitably be funnelled on less than half the number of services previously available.

Here’s how the schedule looks.

Singapore – Japan flights (from November 2022)

For the upcoming winter season starting in November 2022, there are already some planned increases on Singapore – Japan routes.

• Tokyo from 21/wk to 28/wk
• Osaka from 7/wk to 14/wk
• Fukuoka from 2/wk to 3/wk
• Tokyo from 14/wk to 21/wk
• Tokyo from 10/wk to 14/wk
• Osaka from 5/wk to 7/wk
• Sapporo launches 4/wk via Taipei plus 3/wk non-stop

In total, these additional 41 flights per week will bring Singapore – Japan direct services back to 64% of pre-COVID volumes, but that almost certainly still won’t be enough to temper high fares and near-zero award space , as “revenge travel” to the country inevitably takes hold.

What about other Japan routes?

SilkAir permanently axed its non-stop flights from Singapore to Hiroshima in March 2020 due to weak demand, while there’s no word yet on whether Jetstar will restart its five-times-weekly Singapore – Okinawa services, in light of this border relaxation.

Jetstar was also serving Osaka from Singapore 22 times per week before the pandemic, via either Taipei, Manila or Clark, but no return to these routes has been confirmed at the time of writing.

Let’s hope that by cherry blossom season, starting in mid-March 2023, there will be several more options than the current published winter schedules suggest!

Awards (or a lack thereof!)

As you might imagine, award space on these limited flights between Singapore and Japan is nearly non-existent for the rest of 2022.

In common with Europe and US routes, the supply / demand equation is simply killing this option on most flights, particularly non-stop SIA-operated ones, and driving cash fares sky-high.

If you can find an award seat, here are the latest KrisFlyer award rates between Singapore and Japan, when flying on Singapore Airlines.

We did find some sporadic SIA Business Class award space one-way from Japan to Singapore at Advantage levels in December, but don’t be in any doubt – this isn’t a country coming up on Spontaneous Escapes any time soon!

Remember you can also use British Airways Avios points (including those transferred across 1:1 from Qatar Airways Avios points) to book oneworld awards to and from Japan with JAL.

Alaska Miles and Asia Miles are also options for oneworld flights.

No mask mandates in Japan

Japan does not legally impose mask-wearing in most settings, provided you maintain social distancing.

Mask-wearing is already optional on Singapore Airlines and Scoot flights to and from Japan, however do note that ANA, JAL and Zipair are currently maintaining their own mandatory mask mandates for all passengers.

Remember airlines are private transport operators – so you must comply with their own mask-wearing requirements, even if they are stricter than those of your origin or destination country.

It’s taken some time, but it’s fantastic to see Japan reopen its borders to visa-free tourist travel again next month, reinstating free and easy trips to and from this popular destination for Singapore citizens and those with 67 other nationalities, just like pre-COVID times.

This means from 11th October 2022 it will no longer be a requirement to make bookings through a travel agent or arrange a guided tour, nor will a visa application be necessary for most visitors.

Vaccination is still required for a hassle-free trip, but even if you don’t meet Japan’s strict “jab criteria” it’s still possible to visit with a negative pre-departure PCR test, now costing as little as S$50 in Singapore.

Sadly seat capacity on flights between Singapore and Japan is woefully poor compared to pre-COVID times, even with a few planned increases coming through from November.

Let’s hope for announcements of additional travel options between Singapore and Japan soon, since looking at both fares and award space this coming winter is enough to bring pained expression to the face of even well-versed frequent flyers.

Are you booking a Japan trip following this latest news? Let us know in the comments section below.

(Cover Photo: Shutterstock)

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15 comments

hi, is Japan restriction ease? Still cannot find confirmation update on Japan Embassy website (Singapore).

Yes from 11th October. It will take them time to update the website, this was only announced by the PM a few hours ago.

alright. didnt see any official update so didnt dare to make bookings.

Hi Andrew, do you think that even without the update on their official website it should be safe enough to book unrefundable plane tickets (as there are great prices for now which will likely keep increasing fast)? Thanks!

are you aware if i transit in BKK onwards to Sapporo flying thai, will i be able to get into Japan as if i am flying from Singapore. Any restrictions flying from Thailand to Japan in Dec after Oct 11?

Both Singapore and Thailand are “Blue List” countries for Japan, so no issue 👍🏼

Why is Sinovac/Sinopharm Covid 19 vaccines not recognized by Japan when they are recognized by WHO? Seems like Japan does not want visitors from China.

They are recognized from 11 October onwards. See latest update here:

https://www.sg.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/PDT_00001.html

Wonder if you know for sg children under 7 years old, but not vaccinated at all, would they require PCR test, thanks?

No need pcr but must travel with adult who are fully vaccinated with booster shot

Hi Robin what if the adults are vaccinated w sinopharm and booster w novavax? They are not recognised in japan and will be taking pcr tests. What abt the children traveling with them?

There is a table (I saw is when I was browsing can’t locate it at this moment) where they show the types of vaccines are accepted by Japan’s authority.

If I can find I will share the link here.

I used to have a 5-year tourist visa to japan, but they suspended all visas in 2020 when pandemic hit. (at the same time they suspended visa waiver agreements with other countries) Now that they are lifting the latter suspension, i wonder if they will do the same to the first…

“Japan didn’t need tourists back in a hurry” the most important section in the article…Japan is and will be xenophobic…don’t that make you feel like a sucker to wanna be so desperate to go travel there?

Latest update: All vaccines on the WHO EUL list are accepted by the Japanese government for entry from 11 October onwards. Yes, that includes Sinopharm and Sinovac which were previously not recognized.

Source: https://www.sg.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/PDT_00001.html

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COVID-19 Health & Safety Information

Please note this page is no longer being updated..

For the latest information on entry to Japan, please visit the following page:  COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan

Information on the easing of travel restrictions to Japan (as of 11 November 2022)

*For passport holders from other countries, please see the links below for the Embassies and Consulates-General of Japan for more information.

PCR tests or quarantine on arrival are not required, regardless of vaccination status. For more information on the process and entry requirements, refer to the below image or visit  this page  to view the information in checklist form. 

Process Map

Useful Resources

Au / nz government travel advisories , visit japan / jnto sites .

The  Coronavirus travel restrictions page  is a travel advisory updated regularly in line with the official information provided by the Government of Japan.

COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan is an information page built to help travellers plan a safe trip around Japan.

See specific measures taken by Japanese organisations below.

Airlines & Airports

The ANA Care Promise set of health and safety initiatives has been awarded a 5-Star COVID-19 Safety Rating from SKYTRAX, the highest possible rating, and one that only a few airlines worldwide has achieved.

The JAL FlySafe set of health and safety initiatives has been recognised by Skytrax with a 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating, along with a Diamond Certification by APEX Health Safety powered by SimpliFlying.

Haneda Airport’s webpage includes information on how to use airport facilities safely and measures to prevent the spread of infection, especially in regards to the 3 Cs: closed spaces, crowded spaces, close-contact settings.

Narita Airport has implemented nine key initiatives to prevent the spread of infection including the installation of transparent barriers, ensuring optimum air ventilation and stringent cleaning practices.

Kansai International Airport has a number initiatives in place to prevent the spread of infection including the use of thermographic cameras, increased cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and social distancing measures.

Railway Companies

Japan has an expansive railway network that is owned and operated by many companies.  Japan Railways (JR) is the most well-known thanks to the popular  JR Pass  and high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains). Its vast and elaborate network can be a bit daunting to navigate at first - it's actually operated by six separate companies: JR Hokkaido, JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Shikoku, JR Kyushu.

In particular, please note the popular Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen (Tokyo to Hakata) is run by both JR Central and JR West – JR Central operates the section from Tokyo to Osaka, and JR West operates the section from Osaka and Hakata. 

JR Hokkaido services the northern island of Hokkaido and also operates the section of the shinkansen route between Shin-Aomori Station on Honshu and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station in southern Hokkaido. Download the ‘Major actions on preventing the spread of novel coronavirus’ PDF from their website for more information.

JR East services eastern Japan including the capital of Tokyo and the north-eastern region of Tohoku. It also operates the Hokuriku Shinkansen which stops at cities such as Nagano, Kanazawa and Niigata.

JR Central services central Japan and operates the Tokaido Shinkansen, a popular route that runs between Tokyo and Osaka travels through major cities such as Yokohama, Nagoya and Kyoto. The ‘COVID-19 Protective Measures’ PDF is available to download from their website.

JR West services western Japan, including well-known cities such as Nara, Osaka, Kyoto, Wakayama, Kobe and Hiroshima. It operates the Sanyo Shinkansen which runs from Shin-Osaka Station to Hakata Station in Fukuoka Prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu.

Tobu services the area of Tokyo and surrounds, providing connections to popular destinations such as Nikko, Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree and Kawagoe. Information on the latest measures to prevent the spread of infection is available to download from their website.

Kintetsu Railway services the areas of Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Ise-shima (Mie Prefecture) and Nagoya. As part of a number of measures implemented to prevent the spread of infection, Kintestsu has sprayed the interior of its train carriages with an antiviral and antibacterial treatment.

Nankai Electric Railway services southern Osaka Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture. It connects the southern hub of Namba to Kansai International Airport, Wakayama and Koyasan. Information on health and safety measures that have been implemented is available to download from their website.

JR-West Hotels have implemented new 'Clean & Safety' hygiene standards, and have received the coveted Trusted Cleanliness Badge, a certificate issued by Trust You, one of the top class platforms in the hotel industry. (JR-West Hotels brands include Hotel Granvia, Hotel Vischio by Granvia, Nara Hotel and Potel.)

Prince Hotels has developed the Prince Safety Commitment, a set of new protocols for hygiene and disinfection to be applied to all the hotels under their brands. These will enable Prince Hotels to provide guests with a safe and clean environment during their stay.

Palace Hotel Tokyo has achieved the GBAC STAR™ Facility Accreditation and has become Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™ with Forbes Travel Guide. These accreditations show Palace Hotel Tokyo is committed to implementing best practices and operating as safely as possible.

Imperial Hotel Osaka has received GBAC STAR™ accreditation and is Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™ with Forbes Travel Guide. These demonstrate the hotel meets international hygiene standards for infectious disease prevention measures and is committed to following best practices to ensure the safety and comfort of its guests.

Destinations

Miyazaki Prefecture Tourism Association has produced a video to introduce the safety measures taken by the Miyazaki Tourism Industry for the post-COVID-19 era.

Attractions

Read about the health and safety measures that are in place at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea as well as update on the status of rides, attractions, restaurants and other facilities at each theme park.

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Singapore added to Japan’s blue list; no on-arrival test or quarantine required

From 1 June, travellers from Singapore will not require on-arrival testing or quarantine in Japan- but leisure travellers must join approved tour groups.

Japan’s will-they-won’t-they reopening dance continues in earnest, as the country prepares to welcome tour groups from 10 June 2022 , the first leisure travellers since borders were closed more than two years ago. 

It’s a far cry from the claim that Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida made in early May that Japan would be as easily accessible as other G7 nations from June — last I checked, the USA, Canada, Germany et al. didn’t require North Korea-style tour groups with strictly-controlled itineraries and constant monitoring — but this is as good as it gets for now. 

In preparation, Japan has announced a new set of border control measures that split countries into three categories: Red, Yellow and Blue. 

From 1 June 2022 , Singapore and 97 other countries will be added to Japan’s Blue List , which exempts travellers from on-arrival testing & quarantine regardless of vaccination status. 

Pre-departure testing will still be required, and all leisure travellers must travel as part of approved tour groups. 

Pre-departure testing

All travellers to Japan are required to present a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to departure, which can be any of the following:

• Next Generation Sequence
• Quantitative Antigen Test (CLEIA/ECLIA)

It should be noted that a Quantitative Antigen Test is not the same as the ARTs we know and use at home. For all intents and purposes, travellers to Japan from Singapore will need to get a PCR test  (both nasal and saliva testing are accepted).

Children under the age of 6 are exempt from the testing requirement, provided they are accompanied by caregivers with negative test results. 

On-arrival testing & quarantine

On arrival in Japan, the relevant testing and quarantine measures depend on your 14-day travel history  and vaccination status. 

If your 14-day travel history cuts across various categories, the restrictions of the strictest one will apply. 

Red List travellers are subject to on-arrival PCR testing, regardless of vaccination status. 

Unvaccinated travellers must do a mandatory 3-day hotel quarantine, and produce a negative PCR test result at the end of this period. 

Vaccinated travellers have the option of doing a 3-day home quarantine and producing a negative PCR test result at the end of this period, or a 7-day home quarantine with no exit testing required. 

Yellow List

Yellow List travellers who are not vaccinated are subject to an on-arrival PCR test, as well as a choice of 3-day home quarantine + exit PCR test, or 7-day home quarantine with no exit test.

Yellow List travellers who are fully vaccinated do not require either on-arrival testing or quarantine.

Blue List travellers do not require any on-arrival testing or quarantine, regardless of vaccination status.

This is the category that Singapore falls into, as well as Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, the UK and USA. 

How does Japan define “fully vaccinated”?

This doesn’t matter so much for Blue List travellers, since border measures are the same regardless of whether you’re fully vaccinated or unvaccinated.

But just for the record, Japan recognises the following COVID-19 vaccinations:

• Comirnaty/Pfizer
• Vaxzevria/AstraZeneca
• COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna/Moderna
• Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine/Janssen
• COVAXIN/Bharat Biotech
• Nuvaxovid/Novavax

Mixing of different vaccine types is accepted. If you have received the Pfizer, Moderna or Novavax vaccine, you must have taken a booster shot (i.e. three doses). 

Sinovac, Sinopharm, or other vaccines not listed above are not recognised. 

Children under the age of 18 will be treated as fully vaccinated regardless of actual vaccination status, provided they are accompanied by guardians who meet the definition of fully vaccinated.

Other requirements

Travellers to Japan will be required to install the MySOS mobile app . Registering before arrival is not mandatory, but will save time on arrival. Registration involves: 

• Completing a questionnaire
• Completing a Pledge
• Submitting vaccination certificate
• Submitting pre-departure test results

Upon completion, a green screen and QR code will be generated. 

This can be shown to authorities on arrival to expedite processing. 

Japan will add Singapore to its Blue List from 1 June ahead of reopening to foreign tour groups on 10 June. It’s far from the reopening we hoped for, and initial reports describe a level of nannying that will deter all but the most hardcore of Japanophiles.

That said, it’s the first step in what will hopefully be a broader reopening in the coming months, and I personally hope to go as soon as unsupervised travel is permitted. 

Are you planning to join a Japan tour group?

Similar Articles

Hack: skip the immigration lines in kuala lumpur with priority pass, details: changi terminal 2 northern wing reopens.

Headed to Japan in about a week but I have a special entry visa for spouse of Japanese nation. But very happy they got rid on PCR test on arrival. Definitely wouldn’t be going otherwise.

That’s great – will be first time back without some form of quarantine.

Intend to travel to Tokyo in Feb 23, hopefully all restrictions to be lifted by then.

lol. I dont need tours to japan.. been there 9 times.

going to jp on a tour group is like being asked to have chilli crab without the chilli

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Travel websites, firms see spike in enquiries following Japan's move to ease tourist restrictions

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SINGAPORE — Hours after Japan's announcement of the further reopening of its borders, travel websites and companies have reported a spike in enquiries, with one seeing a 90 per cent increase in online searches. 

• Travel companies have seen a spike in inquiries on trips to Japan after the country on Thursday announced easing of border restrictions
• Low-cost airline Scoot said it will increase its flights to Japan during the holiday season to keep up with the demand
• One money changer has also seen a 50 per cent increase in customers looking to buy Japanese yen 

Lou Si Yuan

SINGAPORE — Hours after Japan's announcement of the further reopening of its borders , travel websites and companies have reported a spike in enquiries, with one seeing a 90 per cent increase in online searches. 

One money changer also saw 50 per cent more customers looking to buy Japanese yen while some travellers have promptly made new travel plans to Japan.

Low-cost airline Scoot meanwhile said that it will be increasing the number of flights to Japan in anticipation of greater demand.

In response to queries by TODAY, a Scoot spokesperson said that it currently operates four flights a week to Osaka as well as to Tokyo via Taipei.

"To meet the expected increase in travel demand to Japan during the year-end period, our service to Tokyo via Taipei will be increased to daily flights by end October 2022," the spokesman said.

Scoot's Osaka service will also be increased to daily flights in November.

Travel booking website Expedia Group said that flight searches to Japan on its platform "almost doubled (+90 per cent) on the day of the announcement".

"Search demand for hotels in Japan (also) saw an 85 per cent increase on the day of the announcement, compared to the last 14-day (Sept 8-21) average,” said the company's Asia head of public relation Lavinia Rajaram.

Travel agency EU Holidays also saw enquiries for travel to Japan going up by "20 to 30 per cent" since Thursday, said its marketing manager Mandy Chen, 30.

All of this comes after Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced the lifting of the restrictions on Thursday (Sept 22), allowing visa-free travel and individual tourism in Japan once again for fully-vaccinated tourists, from Oct 11 onwards.

Japan will also scrap daily arrival caps.

Prior to this, Japan had one of the strictest border measures, only opening to tourists in June, for guided tours.

In early September, it removed mandatory pre-arrival Covid-19 tests for fully-vaccinated travellers as well as raised the daily arrival cap from 20,000 to 50,000 and allowed foreign tourists on non-guided tours.

It however still required visitors to apply for a visa, which wasn't required for 68 countries, including Singapore, previously.

Thursday's announcement to resume visa-free travel was welcomed by travellers.

Ms Julie Tan, 48, a housewife, told TODAY that she changed her original flight to Tokyo from Oct 7 to Oct 11 after the announcement.

She is visiting her daughter who is studying in a Tokyo university to celebrate her birthday on Oct 10. 

Ms Tan also planned on going back to Japan again in February next year with the rest of her family.

“Everything is so convenient and ... easy to plan…even with elderly or with younger kids…Japan is clean. So it's very elderly friendly and is also very children friendly,” she added.

Ms Rachel Leung, 50, a housewife and part-time human resource executive, said she booked air tickets last week for a trip to Japan in December when she heard that the country could be easing travel restrictions.

This is even though the S$1,700 cost of the Singapore Airlines tickets was about S$700 more than before the pandemic. 

She said she missed “the atmosphere and food” in Japan badly and used to visit the country with her family every year prior to the pandemic. 

"(In) December, wintertime, we usually go and eat crabs (there),” she said.

Mr Abdul Malek Mustapa, 33, an e-commerce worker, told TODAY he was excited to explore Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto for the first time, without the restrictions, during his trip at the end of October.

“There's this deer park I do want to go to. I think it's part of the temple where you can go there and feed the local deers,” he said. 

Apart from travel agencies, some money changers have also seen a rise in business for Japanese yen on Friday.

A sole proprietor of a money exchange at The Arcade who wanted to be known only as Mr Rahim, 45, told TODAY that he saw around 50 per cent more customers changing Japanese yen.

A spokesperson from CashChanger, a website that aggregates exchange and remittance rates, added that, compared to August, "there is an increase of 50 per cent in traffic of people looking for (the) Singapore dollar-Japanese yen exchange rate”.

Thin Margin, an online currency exchange company, also told TODAY that the number of people changing Singapore dollar for Japanese yen is “about the same” as compared to before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Singapore dollar has strengthened this year against the yen, rising from a rate of S$1 to 85.32 yen on Jan 1 to S$1 to 102.57 yen earlier this month.

The current exchange rate is about S$1= 100.35 yen, which means Singapore travellers are still getting 17.6 per cent more in yen than the start of the year .

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