Japan travel FAQ

Citizens of many countries and regions can enter Japan visa-free for short-term tourism, often for up to 90 days. The list and conditions change, so check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa exemption list for your passport. See our visa & entry guide.

Visit Japan Web is the government's online service for registering immigration and customs information before arrival, so you can use QR codes at the airport. It's optional but can speed things up. Official site: vjw.digital.go.jp.

Yes. Foreign tourists are required to carry their passport at all times, and you'll need it for tax-free shopping and hotel check-in.

Less than it used to be — credit cards and IC cards are widely accepted in cities. But small restaurants, shrines, rural areas and some ticket machines are cash-only, so carry some yen. 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs generally accept foreign cards.

No. Tipping isn't customary and can cause confusion. Good service is standard. Some high-end ryokan or tours may be exceptions, but it's never expected.

It varies hugely with your travel style. Use our budget calculator and budget guide for approximate ranges.

Only if your itinerary includes enough long-distance JR travel. Try our JR Pass helper.

Rechargeable IC cards for trains, buses and many shops. You can also add them to a compatible phone wallet. See our IC card guide.

You need an International Driving Permit issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention (or an official Japanese translation of your licence for certain countries). Driving is on the left. Check the rules on the National Police Agency site.

Uber and similar apps operate in some cities, mostly connecting you to licensed taxis. Taxis are easy to hail in cities; GO is a popular local taxi app.

Policies vary. Many traditional baths still restrict tattoos, while others welcome them or allow covered small tattoos. Private baths (kashikiri) are a good alternative. See our onsen guide.

Signage in cities and on transport is widely in English, but spoken English varies. A few phrases go a long way — see our phrase guide — and translation apps help.

It's generally frowned upon in many places, and some areas (like parts of Kyoto and Nara) ask visitors not to. Eat at the stall or a designated area.

Type A (two flat pins), 100V. Frequency is 50Hz in eastern Japan and 60Hz in the west. Most phone and laptop chargers handle 100–240V, but check other devices.

Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout Japan.

Police: 110. Fire and ambulance: 119. The JNTO Japan Visitor Hotline (+81-50-3816-2787) offers 24-hour multilingual support.

Japan has a reputation as one of the safer countries for visitors, but normal precautions apply. Women-only train cars operate on some lines at rush hour. See our safety guide.

Spring (late March–May) and autumn (October–November) are the most popular. Each season has its appeal — see our seasonal calendar.