Unlike anything back in the U.S., Japan has a unique mix of tradition, modernity, and natural beauty all the time. The Sushi, the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, and cherry blossoms (Sakura) all come into mind when visitors think about it.
Then, do you need a visa to go to Japan from the U.S.? What else do you need when packing for a tour in Japan? In this guide, I’ll discuss all aspects you might get trouble with to just guide you for better preparation before your journey in Japan! Let’s dive right in.
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Do You Need a Visa to Go to Japan?
No visa is required for stays up to 90 days as a tourist.
If you stay for short-term business visits (like meetings or conferences), you don’t need a visa either. But if you plan to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for the appropriate visa before going.
Key Passport Requirements for a Japan Tour
A valid passport is mandatory, by the way.
Requirement | Details |
Passport Validity | Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Japan |
Entry Requirement | U.S. citizens can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days for touring |
Blank Pages | At least one blank page is required for entry stamps |
Tip: Please renew your passport if it expires within 6 months of travel to avoid any problems!
Visa-Free Entry & Visa Requirements for U.S. Travelers
Credit: from Jezael Melgoza, Unsplash | Shibuya, Japan
Purpose of Visit | Maximum Stay | Visa Requirement |
Tourism | 90 days | Visa-free |
Business | 90 days | Visa-free for short-term business activities |
Work or Study | Varies | Visa-required |
Tip: Even for visa-free travel, Japanese immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel (e.g., a return flight ticket) or sufficient funds for your stay (roughly $35-$70 per day).
How to Prepare Your Passport & Travel Document before Flying to Japan?
Applying for a New Passport
- Form: DS-11 for first-time applicants
- Proof of Citizenship: Birth certificate or naturalization certificate
- ID: Driver’s license or other government-issued ID
- Photo: One 2x2-inch passport photo with a white background
- Fee: $130 for an adult passport book
- Processing Time: 8–11 weeks standard, 5–7 weeks expedited
Renewing a Passport
- Form: DS-82
- Eligibility: A previous passport must be undamaged and issued within the last 15 years
- Fee: $130
- Processing Time: 8–11 weeks standard, faster with expedited service
Tip: Post offices, libraries, courthouses, or country government offices often serve as passport acceptance facilities; you can also do it online at Travel.State.Gov.
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Entry Process in Japan: What U.S. Travelers Should Know?
Credit: from tokyo-haneda.com
Japan Immigration and Customs Process
- Immigration Check: You’re supposed to present your passport and a completed disembarkation card (given on the plane).
- Customs Declaration: Declare items such as cash over ¥1,000,000 (~$7,000 USD), prohibited goods (e.g., illegal drugs, alcohol, etc., or certain food items.
- Arrival Stamp: Immigration will stamp your passport, indicating your allowed stay duration.
Japan Entry Tips
- Keep a copy of your passport and itinerary: Including your flight and hotel details; a printed copy is quick to show, while a PDF is also available.
- Be prepared to answer basic questions about your stay: Questions might be like the purpose of your visit, accommodation details, and your return travel.
Transportation in Japan
- Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Fast, punctual, perfect for long-distance travel.
- Regional Trains: Connect cities and rural areas.
- Tickets & Passes: The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective option for multi-region travel.
Travel Option | Duration | Estimated Cost |
Tokyo → Kyoto (Shinkansen) | 2h 15m | ~$120 one-way |
Osaka → Hiroshima (Shinkansen) | 1h 30m | ~$90 one-way |
Local Subway (Tokyo) | 30–60 mins | ~$2–$3 per ride |
JR East Pass Official Ticket Reviews
4.7/5
80 reviews
5/5
Buy a voucher here, then go to the JR counter at the designated train station (I exchanged it at Sendai Station). We will then get the actual pass. It's not difficult, very convenient.
5/5
The purchase process is simple and easy. Upon arrival at the airport, you can exchange and pick up your pre-booked Shinkansen reserved seat ticket at the JR service counter. This ticket allows you to travel from Tokyo to Koriyama and then to Sendai.
5/5
A very convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation. The seats are comfortable and it saves a lot of time.
5/5
The usage of the pass is clearly described, the purchase process is very simple, and the price is reasonable, so it is worth buying.
4/5
Big save for the whole trip. Photos of how ro reserve tickets are attached for reference.
Things to Do in Japan
Tokyo for Modern Highlights
As the capital and largest city of Japan, Tokyo blends modern skyscrapers with its historic temples and its pop culture, like anime and gaming.
Credit: from Marek Okon, Unsplash | Tokyo Tower
- Walk in bustling districts like Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku nightlife, and Akihabara’s anime culture.
- Visit iconic spots such as Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, and the Imperial Palace.
Check out more things to do in Tokyo!
Top Things to Do in Tokyo
Asakusa
4.6/5
642 reviewsAsakusa is a favorite among tourists from all over the world, but it also retains a lot of traditional Japanese charm. Explore this area and you'll discover many things.
Imperial Palace
4.7/5
1313 reviewsThis elegant and beautiful city is peacefully situated in the bustling Tokyo city center. It's definitely worth a visit!
Kyoto for Temples & Traditions
Kyoto, once Japan’s ancient capital for over a thousand years, is a city with rich history and tranquility. You can visit serene temples, traditional wooden houses, and peaceful gardens.
- Visit iconic landmarks like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
- Grab a kimono rental or traditional tea ceremony tour on Trip.com.
Check out more things to do in Kyoto!
Top Things to Do in Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Taisha
4.7/5
651 reviewsThe size of the giant salamander is shocking, and the dolphins, seals, garden eels, and jellyfish are worth the money.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
4.7/5
1988 reviewsKiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto is one of Japan's most iconic tourist destinations and a key component of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Ancient Capital Kyoto Cultural Heritage."
Main Features and Highlights:
Kiyomizu Stage: The most famous landmark, supported by hundreds of massive 12-meter-high beechwood pillars using a "suspended" construction technique, entirely without the use of nails or rivets. From the stage, one can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto's cityscape.
Otowa Waterfall (音羽の滝): Located below the main hall, its three springs symbolize "longevity," "academic success," and "health/marriage." Visitors often queue to drink from one of the springs to pray for blessings.
Jishu Shrine: Located within the Kiyomizu-dera grounds, it is famous for its prayers for marriage and is popular among young people.
Four Seasons of Beauty: Kiyomizu-dera Temple offers different scenery throughout the year. Spring brings cherry blossoms, autumn brings fiery red maple leaves, and winter brings a blanket of snow, creating picturesque landscapes. The temple also holds special nighttime illumination events during certain seasons (such as spring and autumn).
History: The temple was founded in 778 AD, earlier than the history of Kyoto as a capital city, and mainly enshrines the Eleven-Faced Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva.
Arashiyama
4.7/5
1790 reviewsStunning natural beauty, definitely a must visit if in Kyoto. Convenient to get to, I took a bus there and train back to hotel. Definitely set aside a good few hours, beautiful scenery overlooking the riverside and lake. Many shops and restaurants in the village. Definitely take the romantic train, stunning views!
Osaka for Food & City Lights
Osaka is such a paradise for food lovers! Known as Japan’s kitchen, you can find the best dining experiences here with bold flavors.
- Take yourself on a food tour in Osaka for 13 dishes at 5 local eateries!
- For skyline views, walk through Osaka Castle Park and the Umeda Sky Building.
Check out more things to do in Osaka!
Top Things to Do in Osaka
Osaka Castle Park
4.8/5
3846 reviewsOsaka Castle is one of Osaka's most famous landmarks and one of Japan's three most famous castles. It is not only a historically important military fortress but also a popular tourist attraction, designated a National Special Historic Site.
Main Features
Tenshukaku (Castle Keep): The core building of Osaka Castle. The current castle keep was rebuilt in 1931 with donations from citizens. It has five stories on the outside and eight stories inside, with an observation deck on the top floor offering panoramic views of Osaka. The building is ornately decorated, with a golden shachihoko (a mythical mythical beast) on the roof and other gold ornaments.
Osaka Castle Park: Osaka Castle is situated within a large park, boasting rich natural scenery with different views in each season, especially popular for cherry blossom viewing in spring.
Moat and Walls: The castle is surrounded by a wide moat and massive stone walls, important defensive fortifications of castles during the Sengoku period.
Historical Background
The history of Osaka Castle is closely linked to two key figures of Japan's Sengoku period—Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Toyotomi Era: In 1583, Toyotomi Hideyoshi began construction of Osaka Castle on the site of the former Ishiyama Hongan-ji Temple, aiming to unify the country and establish it as the center of the Toyotomi regime. At that time, Osaka Castle was magnificent, four to five times its current size.
Tokugawa Era: In 1615, the Toyotomi clan was destroyed in the Siege of Osaka, and Osaka Castle was subsequently burned down. The Tokugawa Shogunate later rebuilt Osaka Castle, making it a crucial stronghold for controlling the daimyo of western Japan.
Modern Era: The castle tower was destroyed by lightning during the Edo period and was not rebuilt until 1931. Some buildings were damaged during World War II and were gradually restored after the war, resulting in its current appearance.
Umeda Sky Building
4.7/5
452 reviewsAn excellent observation deck with multiple levels. You can admire the city from both inside and outside. Good weather and sunset are the best times to visit Umeda Sky. There aren't many people, so you won't have any problems taking photos. Inside, you'll find a shop and a cafe. I definitely recommend visiting if you're in Osaka.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
4.7/5
1100 reviewsOur second time around here, this time more fishes, my little one he really enjoy it specially the dolphins and sea lions they are friendly, our baby he’s really having a good time 😍😅
Meet Nature at Mount Fuji
No trip to Japan is complete without seeing Mount Fuji! It’s Japan’s tallest peak at 3,776 meters and one of the country’s most iconic symbols.
Credit: from wei, Unsplash | Mount Fuji from afar
- For a panoramic cable car experience at Lake Kawaguchi on a Mt. Fuji 1-day tour.
- For popular Instagram attractions with the fragrance of mountains and waters, try this iconic Fuji adventure.
Reviews of the Stunning Mount Fuji
4.8/5
448 reviews5/5
Viewing Mount Fuji from the Plane
Outbound Flight (Taiwan to Tokyo Haneda): Choose a window seat on the left side for a bird's-eye view of Mount Fuji.
Return Flight (Tokyo Haneda to Taiwan): Choose a window seat on the right side for a similar chance to see Mount Fuji.
Notes: It is recommended to avoid the wing area.
You may not be able to see Mount Fuji in bad weather.
The view is more beautiful in winter when the summit of Mount Fuji is covered in snow.
5/5
Mt Fuji is always magnifient. When taking the train from Osaka to Japan, you might have a huge chance to see it - in both local train and bullet train. Aside from Tokyo Side, the Shizuoka side is also good. Always a marvel to see. I would advice the Shizuoka side for less people.
5/5
We took a special day trip to Hakone hoping to see Mount Fuji, but the weather was cloudy and we missed the view. Two days later, while riding the bullet train to Tokyo, the skies cleared—and there it was. Mount Fuji stood tall and majestic, perfectly visible and breathtaking. Though not part of our original plan, seeing it so clearly made the moment even more special. A beautiful reward after a little wait!
5/5
Amazingg. Beautiful mt fuji from chureto pagoda😍
5/5
Mount Fuji is absolutely majestic! The breathtaking view, peaceful vibes, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination. ❤️ It was truly an unforgettable experience for me!
Theme Parks for Family Tours
- Universal Studios Japan (Osaka): Experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World with skip-the-line tickets from Trip.com.
- Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea: Two of Asia’s most magical destinations — pre-book tickets on Trip.com to avoid long queues.
Book for Theme Parks Fun in Japan
Universal Studios Japan
4.7/5
11571 reviewsUSJ was amazing! Even with the regular pass, we got to experience Super Nintendo World (Mario). So much fun and worth it!
Tokyo Disneyland
4.8/5
3158 reviewsI recently visited Tokyo Disneyland, and it truly lives up to its reputation as a "land of dreams and magic." The music that plays as soon as you enter, the colorful decorations, and the Disney characters everywhere made me feel like a kid again, even though I'm an adult.
✔️ What I liked:
1. The overwhelming atmosphere
No matter where you take a picture, it's beautiful, and the atmosphere in front of the castle was especially captivating. The shows and parades were of such high quality that I lost track of time.
2. The friendliness of the staff
The staff were all cheerful and friendly, which really showed me Disney's "level of service." They even gave detailed directions, so I didn't get lost.
3. The quality of popular attractions
Rides like Pooh's Hunny Hunt, Monsters, Inc., and Space Mountain are truly amazing! I especially recommend Pooh's Hunny Hunt for its perfect blend of technology and cuteness! ✔️ Tips
• Be sure to install the mobile app before entering: It's useful for planning your route, as it allows you to check wait times, maps, and show schedules.
• Visit on a weekday and early in the morning: Wait times are significantly shorter.
• Reserve your spot for the parade in advance: The night parade is especially worth seeing.
• Get your merchandise in the morning! Popular items can sell out by the afternoon.
Tokyo DisneySea
4.7/5
2535 reviewsThe place is very beautiful, but since it has been open for a long time, the colors may not be as vibrant as before. However, when the lights come on at night, it still looks beautiful. The rides are more suitable for teenagers than for adults and children. All the food looks delicious, and all the souvenirs look worth buying.
Best Hotels in Japan
Top Hotel Picks in Japan
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FAQs about Japan Visa Requirements
Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Japan?
No, U.S. citizens traveling to Japan for tourism, visiting friends/family, or short-term business do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.Can I work or study in Japan without a visa?
No. Any type of paid work, long-term study, or internships require a specific visa. Short tourist/business trips do not allow work.How long can I stay in Japan without a visa?
You can stay up to 90 days without a visa. For longer stays, you must apply for an appropriate visa before traveling.Do I need a passport to enter Japan?
Yes, a valid U.S. passport is required. It should be valid for the entire duration of your stay.Where can I find official visa and entry requirements for Japan?
The most reliable source is the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in the U.S.