FAQ Frequently asked questions about traveling to Japan during the new normal
All coronavirus-related information on this website is gathered from the government ministries and authorities responsible for handling COVID-19 restrictions and measures. Due to the regularly changing situation and the constant updating of information, it is essential that you always check for updates and follow the latest guidance from the relevant ministries and official bodies.
Last updated: Tuesday, 20 April 2021
Stay informed
How do I contact the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)?
JNTO operates the Japan Visitor Hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call for tourist information or assistance in the case of accidents and emergencies including COVID-19. Support is available in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese.
From Japan 050-3816-2787
From Overseas +81-50-3816-2787
Chatbot (in case of emergency only)
From Japan 050-3816-2787
From Overseas +81-50-3816-2787
Chatbot (in case of emergency only)
Where can I find the latest information on the COVID-19 situation in Japan?
For the latest travel information, JNTO has a Twitter account, Japan Safe Travel, with information on COVID-19, weather warnings and advisories, and transportation services.
For information on entry restrictions and quarantine measures, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
For information on entry restrictions and quarantine measures, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
Pre-arrival questions
Can I travel to Japan now?
Border restrictions are subject to change. Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website for current information.
What are the entry requirements for visiting Japan?
Border enforcement measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) are subject to change. Visit the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website for current information.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website for current information.
What kind of test do I need to take before visiting Japan?
Persons eligible to enter Japan must obtain a negative result within 72 hours of departure from the country of embarkation. Check the valid testing methods outlined by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW). As entry conditions and procedures may change, check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website for the latest information.
Who can I call if I need help?
There are several helplines available to help travelers who need advice about health during their stay.
The Japan Visitor Hotline is available in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese 24 hours a day.
050-3816-2787
The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare multilingual hotline is staffed from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Information is available in English, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese. Some language support is offered at different times.
0120-565653
The Association of Medical Doctors of Asia Medical Information Center offers telephone consultations in English, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, Spanish, Vietnamese and Portuguese. The AMDA also offers telephone interpreter services.
03-6233-9266
The Japan Visitor Hotline is available in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese 24 hours a day.
050-3816-2787
The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare multilingual hotline is staffed from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Information is available in English, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese. Some language support is offered at different times.
0120-565653
The Association of Medical Doctors of Asia Medical Information Center offers telephone consultations in English, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, Spanish, Vietnamese and Portuguese. The AMDA also offers telephone interpreter services.
03-6233-9266
If I have been vaccinated against COVID-19, do I still need to get a test?
Currently, all people entering Japan require a negative test result for COVID-19, even if they have been vaccinated. For the latest information visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
Arrival questions
What is the procedure for entry when I arrive in Japan?
Persons eligible to enter Japan must obtain a negative result within 72 hours of departure from the country of embarkation. Check the valid testing methods outlined by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW). As entry conditions and procedures may change, check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website for the latest information.
Japan’s airlines All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) also offer comprehensive information on arrival procedures.
Japan’s airlines All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) also offer comprehensive information on arrival procedures.
If I have a negative test result, do I still have to quarantine?
Yes. All arriving passengers must self-quarantine for 14 days. Check the latest information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
If I have to quarantine, can I choose the hotel?
Yes, you can choose your quarantine hotel or accommodation.
For more information about quarantine procedures and accommodation visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
For more information about quarantine procedures and accommodation visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website.
Can I take public transportation after I arrive?
No. During the 14 day quarantine period you cannot use public transportation. Some hotels and airlines provide a special airport–accommodation shuttle. You can organise a hire car service, but regular metered taxis are considered public transportation.
For more information, visit the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) website.
For more information, visit the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) website.
Post-arrival Questions
What should I do if I feel ill?
There are several hotlines available to help travelers who need advice.
The Japan Visitor Hotline is available in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese 24 hours a day.
From Japan 050-3816-2787
From Overseas +81-50-3816-2787
Chatbot (in case of emergency only)
The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare multilingual hotline is staffed from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Information is available in English, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese. Some language support is offered at different times.
0120-565653
The Japan Visitor Hotline is available in English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese 24 hours a day.
From Japan 050-3816-2787
From Overseas +81-50-3816-2787
Chatbot (in case of emergency only)
The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare multilingual hotline is staffed from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Information is available in English, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese. Some language support is offered at different times.
0120-565653
How can I protect myself while traveling?
Prevent infection by wearing a face mask and washing your hands frequently. Avoid closed spaces with poor ventilation, crowded spaces and close-contact settings.
For more information on safety measures, visit the Government of Japan COVID-19 Information and Resources page.
For more information on safety measures, visit the Government of Japan COVID-19 Information and Resources page.
Do I have to wear a face mask?
Although wearing a face mask is not a legal requirement in Japan, you are asked to wear one to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Is it safe to take public transportation?
After completing quarantine, you can travel by public transportation. Public transport operators ask all passengers to wear a face mask. Safety measures include physical distancing, frequent cleaning and disinfecting, and improved indoor ventilation.
Where can I buy a face mask?
Face masks are sold at pharmacies, convenience stores and supermarkets.
