Visa Information

Pleas check official government website for your country of residence.

For UK residence: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/japan/entry-requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Japan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Japanese Embassy in the UK.

You can get a visa on arrival in Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days. You do not need to apply before you travel.

If you need a multiple-entry visa, you must ask the immigration officials when you arrive.

If you want to stay longer, you can apply at your nearest immigration office for an extension for another 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the period of the extension.

Tourism Health Information

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 119 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Japan
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Japan including:

• dengue
• biting insects and ticks

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Japan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

It is illegal to carry some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines under Japan’s strictly enforced law on anti-stimulant drugs. This includes:

• Vicks inhalers
• medicines for allergies and sinus problems
• cold and flu medication containing pseudoephedrine
• some over-the-counter painkillers containing codeine

Foreign nationals have been detained and deported for these offences. If you’re travelling with medication, check its status with the Japanese Embassy in the UK.

Healthcare in Japan

Medical facilities in Japan are of a high quality, but treatment is expensive. Expect to pay the whole cost of any treatment you receive.

Medical facilities may check your insurance, which could delay your treatment.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Japan where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Japan.

Weather & When To Go

Japan’s weather varies by season. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, while summer (June to August) is hot, humid, and rainy. Autumn (September to November) offers cooler weather with colorful fall foliage, and winter (December to February) is cold with snowfall in northern areas and ski resorts.

The best time to visit Japan is typically in spring for cherry blossoms (March-April) or autumn for fall colors (October-November), when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is stunning.

Flight Details