Japan
East Asia • JPN
Last updated: September 15, 2026
Japan is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with futuristic technology and stunning natural landscapes. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto, travelers can experience a unique culture, world-class cuisine, and unparalleled hospitality.
Visa Requirements
Many nationalities, including citizens from the US, UK, and EU, can enter Japan visa-free for short-term tourism for up to 90 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Completed Visit Japan Web registration for immigration and customs
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
Popular Attractions
Mount Fuji: As Japan's most iconic landmark, this dormant volcano offers breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking during the summer season.
Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates, this shrine offers a picturesque path leading up a sacred mountain.
Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing: Often cited as the world's busiest pedestrian intersection, this spot captures the high-energy pulse of modern Japan.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A moving tribute to history, this park serves as a center for reflection and a message of global peace.
Osaka Castle: This majestic landmark provides a deep dive into Japanese history with its impressive architecture and extensive surrounding gardens.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as confusing or impolite by service staff.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home, traditional ryokans, or certain areas within temples.
Use both hands when giving or receiving items, such as business cards or money, to show respect to the other person.
Refrain from talking loudly on public transportation, as maintaining a quiet environment for others is highly valued.
Understand that slathering soy sauce directly onto rice or sashimi without using a small dish is considered poor etiquette.
Safety Tips
Japan is exceptionally safe, but always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded tourist spots to prevent pickpocketing.
Learn the basics of earthquake safety, as Japan is seismically active and hotels provide specific instructions for guests.
Always carry your passport with you, as it is a legal requirement for foreign visitors to have identification at all times.
Familiarize yourself with emergency phone numbers, such as 110 for police and 119 for fire or ambulance services.
Use reputable taxi companies or well-marked public transport systems rather than hailing unmarked vehicles late at night.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
No yellow fever vaccination entry requirements for Japan.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live, spend long periods of time (such as a month or more) in areas with Japanese encephalitis, or frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis. Consider vaccination for travelers spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Japan. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Japan.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is also recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to Japan.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to Japan.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines before your trip.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses during travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations
Source: CDC
Ensure your vaccinations are up to date prior to travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers, particularly if you are not up to date on your vaccinations.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination before travel is recommended.
View sourceRoutine hepatitis B vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers at higher risk of being exposed to blood and body fluids.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for protection against COVID-19, especially if traveling from high transmission areas.
View sourceSun protection
Source: CDC
Protect yourself from the sun to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when traveling. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing in hot weather.
View sourceAnimal contact precautions
Source: CDC
Avoid contact with animals to prevent diseases such as rabies.
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know. Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
View sourceSafe food and water practices
Source: CDC
Choose safe food and drinks to prevent travelers’ diarrhea and other diseases.
Eat foods that have been fully cooked and served hot. Do not eat fresh vegetables or fruits unless you can wash or peel them yourself. Drink only bottled, sealed beverages, and avoid ice.
View sourceHand hygiene
Source: CDC
Wash your hands often, especially before eating, to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Take measures to prevent insect bites to reduce the risk of vector-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Follow safe eating and drinking practices to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid undercooked or raw food.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
General precaution to avoid gastrointestinal illness; practice safe food and water habits.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water and eat cooked foods served hot.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Strongly recommended to prevent COVID-19 infection
Check local entry requirements.
View sourceFlu vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for elderly travelers due to increased flu risk during travel seasons.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention practices
Source: CDC
Important in preventing mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceFlu vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended annually for all travelers to reduce the risk of flu.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Recommended to prevent diseases spread by insects (e.g., Japanese encephalitis in certain regions).
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who might consume food or water that could be contaminated.
View sourceRoutine vaccines: MMR, Tdap, Varicella
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to ensure protection against common diseases.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Japanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if planning extended outdoor exposure in rural areas during the transmission season.
Risk is generally low for short-term travelers.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceJapanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Consider for long-term travelers or those spending significant time in rural agricultural areas during transmission season.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Stay protected from COVID-19 during travel; follow local health guidelines.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases, especially in rural areas.
View sourceRabies vaccine
Source: CDC
Consider if engaging in activities that may lead to animal bites.
View sourcePractice food and water safety measures
Source: CDC
To prevent gastroenteritis and other foodborne illnesses.
View sourceTravel health insurance
Source: CDC
Recommended to cover health needs during travel.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual exposure, or require medical procedures.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities or rural areas in Japan.
Particularly important for those who consume food or water outside of major hotels or high-end restaurants.
View source