Do Americans need a tourist visa for Japan? Find out below!
Without a doubt, Japan is one of the most famous destinations among travelers. Just like us, you're probably itching to go shopping in Tokyo, visit the Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan, and marvel at the beauty of Hokkaido's scenic nature. But, before planning out your trip, it's important to prepare all your Japan travel requirements first, like whether or not you need to secure your visa requirements. With that, we've put together this essential guide for travelers who plan to visit Japan anytime soon!
Good news! You don't need any visa requirements to enter Japan
A total of 67 visa-exempt countries were announced by the Japanese government. This includes the US, where citizens are visa-free for both short and long-term stays.
Travel Requirements Before You Enter Japan
All travelers who plan to enter Japan no longer need to submit any COVID-related requirements. You don't need to bother getting a tourist visa or any visa requirements if your country is part of the visa-exempt countries. Here are other entry requirements that you'll need to prepare instead:
1. Make sure to have a valid passport so you can enter Japan
This is the most important one of them all—your passport! Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay in Japan. Remember to bring your passport with you at all times during your trip as some establishments may require you to show your passport to get a tax refund. If you feel that carrying your passport with you every day increases your risk of losing it, you can opt to print the important pages instead or keep a soft copy on your mobile.
2. Save time and complete your Customs and Immigration requirements via Japan Web
You will be required to complete a customs and immigration form directly on Japan Web. All you have to do is:
- Create an account
- Fill in your details, as well as for any accompanying children
- Fill in when you plan to enter Japan
- Complete the entry procedure that includes Immigration Disembarkation Card and Customs Declaration
- Upon completion, there will be a QR code generated for both the Immigration and Customs procedures
These are the documents you need to prepare for registration:
- Passport
- Flight details
- Accommodation address
3. Get an International Driving Permit
If you're planning to rent a car or drive a kart during your Japan trip, then best secure a driving permit! Anyone with a driver's license can apply for an International Driving Permit. US citizens can go to the American Automobile Association to get a permit.
And hey, while travel insurance is not part of the list of required documents, we highly recommend you get travel insurance so you can be ready for any unforeseen events like accidents, natural disasters, and more.
Upon Arrival in Japan
As your enter Japan, your airline may hand you a few info sheets and the usual immigration and customs forms. You do not need to fill in any of the physical forms if you've already filled them out via Japan Web. Just make sure to have your QR Code saved as proof.
You will then be required to show your passport and Japan Web for review. There are many counters available at this station and the review takes only a minute. Once completed, you can then proceed through immigration and customs.
Klook Tip: Data is needed to verify the details submitted through Japan Web. You can connect to the airport WiFi while queueing if you do not have a mobile data connection yet.
And that's it! You're finally ready to explore the best of Japan!
Book these Japan trip essentials!
Visit Japan fuss-free and book these travel essentials:
1. eSim
Getting an eSim is your best way to stay connected during your stay in Japan. There's no guarantee that there will be free Wi-Fi everywhere, so it's best to get an eSim that already comes with a high-speed and stable Internet connection. That way, you can easily navigate your way around using your preferred map app. Another good thing about getting an eSim is that you don't have to remove your already existing SIM card to replace it with an international SIM for your trip.
To know more, check out this Japan eSim guide.
2. Narita Airport Train
Getting to the city from the airport is another important thing that you should prepare ahead for. Whether you're going to Tokyo, Osaka, or Shinjuku, it's best to know how you'll get there beforehand. Good thing there's a Narita Airport Train that can take you there! On the Klook app or website, simply the Narita Airport Terminal that you'll be landing on, then select the city or destination you're going to, input the date, and the train schedule for that day will show. From there, you can select your preferred time and seat (1st or 2nd class), book it, and you're good to go. To ensure your seats, make sure to book ahead of your trip!
Here are more ways for you to get to Tokyo from Narita Airport!
But hey, if you're coming from Haneda Airport instead, this essential guide is for you.
3. Luggage Delivery Service
If you're doing last-minute shopping on your last day in Japan and you've checked out of your hotel already, carrying your luggage with you as you go around can be tiring. To get the load off your back, you'll need this luggage delivery service — from your hotel to the airport or another hotel, depending on what you need.
4. Bullet Train Tickets
And of course, one of the most important of them all, getting around Japan. The price hike of the JR Passes may not be budget-friendly for all types of travelers, which is why it's probably best to get individual JR Shinkansen or bullet train tickets instead! To make it even more affordable, use SKS10OFF to get 10% off!
Oh and check out more promo codes, deals, and giveaways here!
More essentials for your Japan trip~
🇯🇵 Japan Travel Essentials 🇯🇵
Top things to do in Japan
- Attractions in Tokyo: teamLab Planets | SHIBUYA SKY | Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea | Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo | Go Kart Experience
- Attractions in Osaka: Universal Studios Japan | teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka | Osaka Castle | Go Karting
- Visiting multiple attractions in a city? Get the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo (up to 48% savings) or Klook Pass Osaka (up to 43% savings)!
Getting around
- Airport transfer from Tokyo: Skyliner Narita Express | JR Narita Express (NEX) | Airport Limousine Bus
- Airport transfer from Osaka: Nankai Rapi:t Kansai Airport Express | JR Haruka Kansai Airport
Stay connected with our Japan 4G eSIM and find the best places to stay in Japan — plus exclusive hotel promos and bundle deals!
