What documents do I need when entering Japan?
To enter Japan you need a passport valid for the duration of your stay, a completed Japan Visit Web entry record, and proof of onward travel.
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Documents required for Japan
Japan is one of the easier countries to enter if you hold a passport from a visa-exempt country, but you still need the right paperwork ready. trip1 lets you pay for your Japan hotel with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDC, but immigration will need to see traditional documents on arrival.
- A passport valid for at least the duration of your stay in Japan.
- A completed Visit Japan Web QR code (digital immigration and customs declaration).
- Proof of onward or return travel, such as a flight ticket out of Japan.
- A hotel booking confirmation from trip1 or proof of accommodation.
- Proof of sufficient funds (rarely checked but occasionally requested).
Who needs a visa for Japan?
Japan offers visa-free entry for short tourist stays to citizens of around 70 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, all EU countries, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Singapore.
If your country is not on the visa-exempt list, you must apply for a tourist visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate before traveling. The visa requires a passport, application form, photo, itinerary, and proof of funds.
What is Visit Japan Web?
Visit Japan Web is the official online service for completing immigration and customs declarations before arrival. You enter your passport details, flight information, and where you are staying - and receive QR codes to scan at the airport.
Using Visit Japan Web is not strictly mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Without it, you complete paper forms on the plane and stand in longer lines at immigration.
Hotel check-in requirements in Japan
Japanese hotels must record your passport details if you are a foreign visitor. Bring the passport you used at immigration and your trip1 booking confirmation. Some traditional ryokan inns also ask for the address of your next destination.
What documents do I need when entering Japan - FAQ
Japan requires your passport to be valid for the full duration of your stay. There is no 6-month validity rule for Japan, unlike many other countries.
Citizens of 70+ countries including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Other nationalities must apply for a tourist visa in advance.
Visit Japan Web is not legally mandatory, but it dramatically speeds up immigration and customs. Without it, you fill out paper forms and queue for longer.
Tourist stays in Japan generally cannot be extended beyond 90 days. To stay longer, you must apply for a different visa category in advance.
Short-term visitors do not need to register a local address. Your hotel handles all required reporting to local authorities automatically.
