Japan Reopening to Canadian Travellers: What You Need to Know

Many travellers have been eagerly awaiting the full reopening of Japan’s borders for the purposes of tourism with bated breath. With each announcement, the country has been inching towards opening its borders in a painfully slow manner.

On September 7, Japan will take another major step towards opening its borders for tourism.

While this doesn’t quite mark the full reopening of this much-loved destination, it does mean that Canadian travellers can now embark on independent, unaccompanied travel to Japan for the first time since the start of the pandemic. 

Japan Travel Restrictions

As of September 7, independent tourists will be able to enter Japan for the purpose of tourism as long as they have booked a package tour with a Japanese travel agency.

Prior to this date, some tourists have been allowed to enter the country for tourism, but only on closely guarded package tours. With the upcoming changes, tourists will no longer have to be accompanied throughout their stay in Japan.

Of course, tourists will have to fulfil other entry obligations, including showing proof of vaccination (including a third booster dose), possessing a valid visa (that must be applied for prior to entry), and filling out a few documents.

Furthermore, the country is increasing the daily arrival cap to 50,000 on September 7, which is up from the 20,000 daily cap imposed in June. This move will allow more foreigners into arguably the most sought-after country to visit after the world closed down more than two years ago.

How Can Canadians Enter Japan?

Until now, business travellers and international students have been allowed to enter Japan by air, most likely through the national capital of Tokyo. Since June 10, foreign tourists have also been permitted entry to Japan, but only on guided tours.

The uptake of the tours has been rather low, which doesn’t come as much of a surprise. 

As of September 7, travellers coming from Canada must present the following:

• Proof of vaccination upon entering Japan
• A valid Japan visa, which requires a package tour purchased from an accredited travel agency in Japan
• A completed health questionnaire

Eligible Canadian travellers may submit their visa applications electronically via the consulates of Japan in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, or Montreal. Visa applications can take 3–5 business days to process. 

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