Earlier this year, Japan announced that it was accepting international visitors – but only if they were part of a sponsored tour group. Unfortunately, this resulted in a stark decline in foreign tourism, so the Japanese government began to consider loosening its strict travel rules. Well, that time has finally come: Japan is permanently opening back up to Australian (as well as many others) travellers, with them putting a decisive end to pretty much all travel restrictions that are all set to kick off on October 11, 2022. Yep, that soon.
The tour group requirement will be nixed, and Australians looking to visit our Pacific island neighbour will be able to independently book their own flights and accommodation. On top of all this, Japan has also scrapped their arrivals cap and their visa-waiver system for Aussies, meaning that you can enter the country without having to get a pesky visa first.
If you have been fully vaccinated (including a COVID-19 booster shot) you will not have to undergo a PCR test before leaving Australia, and will also be exempt from being tested on arrival. Because Australia is classified as a ‘blue country’, regardless of your vaccination status, you will not be required to self-isolate upon arrival if you’re travelling from there, but if you are not vaccinated and are coming from a ‘yellow country’ you may be subject to up to five days of self-isolation.
Now, to enter, all you’ll need is this completed questionnaire and a Covid-19 vaccination certificate (you don’t have to be vaccinated to enter, but if you’re coming from a ‘yellow country’ that isn’t Australia, you can provide this to reduce your quarantine) in order to make sure you get in. Note: If you do have to quarantine, you'll need a signed copy of this written pledge.
Other than all that, recent reports show that the Japanese Yen has slumped to its lowest point in 25 years, meaning that for Aussies wanting to take the trip, this is looking like a pretty good (and fairly cheap) time to do it.
What are you waiting for?