Japan Eases Entry Requirements to Boost Tourism in 2025
Japan is making a bold move to reinvigorate its tourism industry by easing entry requirements for international travelers. Beginning in September 2025, citizens from more than 30 countries, including Brazil, Ukraine, and the Philippines, will be able to enter Japan without applying for a short-term visa. This policy change is expected to significantly increase the number of arrivals ahead of the winter holiday season.
Officials from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) stated that the country aims to welcome more than 40 million visitors by the end of 2025. This surpasses pre-pandemic levels and represents a key step in Japan’s strategy to stimulate economic recovery through international travel. The move comes as airlines, including ANA and Japan Airlines, expand international routes to accommodate the anticipated demand.
In addition to easing visa requirements, Japan is investing heavily in regional tourism infrastructure. Projects include the extension of high-speed Shinkansen lines to less-traveled regions such as Tohoku, Shikoku, and the Japan Alps. These areas offer immersive cultural experiences, traditional cuisine, and scenic landscapes that align with travelers’ growing preference for authentic, nature-based tourism.
Local governments are also rolling out new multilingual services, improving accessibility for foreign tourists. Digital initiatives such as real-time translation apps and AI-powered tourist assistance kiosks will be deployed in major train stations and airports.
Tourism stakeholders believe these measures will help distribute tourism more evenly across the country, reducing congestion in hotspots like Kyoto and Tokyo, while supporting rural revitalization efforts.
The announcement has been welcomed by travel agencies and hoteliers, who expect a boost in bookings for the winter 2025 and cherry blossom season in spring 2026. Travel industry analysts say Japan's timing is ideal, as global demand for Asia-Pacific travel continues to rebound strongly.
