Categories: Latest NewsSingapore

Japan Welcoming Tourists From S’pore, Vaccinated Travellers Have To Be In Small Packaged Tours

Japan Allowing Small Tour Groups From Countries Including Singapore

Japan has always been one of Singapore’s most popular travel destinations. Be it the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes or onsen baths, Singaporeans just love to travel to the land of sushi for a relaxing holiday.

Sadly, it’s been over two years since many of us could have an authentic Japanese travel experience.

But now, the wait is finally over, as Japan has just announced that it will be opening its doors to visitors from Singapore. Travellers can start visiting in small groups led by mandatory tour guides.

Visitors from countries such as the United States, Australia and Thailand are also welcome, but they all need to adhere to guidelines once they arrive in Japan, including travelling on packaged tours.

Japan to allow travellers in small-group packaged tours

The move was first released on Japan Tourism Agency’s website on Tuesday (17 May).

In a statement (translated from Japanese), Japan said they would carry out a “demonstration project in the form of a small-group package tour”.

This, they said, will help the country “collect necessary materials for the resumption of tourism to Japan in the future”.

This project had to be postponed after the country took steps to strengthen its border measures for Omicron stocks at the end of Nov 2021.

Travellers to be accompanied by tour guides at all times

The country added that they would verify compliance and emergency responses, formulate guidelines for travel agencies and accommodation operators need to be aware of and disseminate the information to “all concerned parties”.

Channel NewsAsia (CNA) reported that Japan was conducting “test tourism” to gather information ahead of the country’s full reopening to tourism.

 

Starting later this month, the Tourism Agency said small group tours could enter as “test cases”.

Only travellers from the United States, Australia, Thailand and Singapore are permitted to enter Japan.

These countries have lower Covid-19 risks of mutant strains and are also key markets for Japan.

All visitors need to have at least received their three doses of vaccination.

They must also purchase their medical insurance and take part in packaged tours with government-approved itineraries, reported The Straits Times.

Quoting Yomiuri daily, ST said about 50 people from all four countries would be allowed in the trial phase. About 10 to 15 group tour groups are expected. Individual tourists are not allowed for the time being.

Tourists must be accompanied by a tour guide throughout their trips.

The agency stated they would release more details later on in collaboration with the Japan Association of Travel Agents.

Adhere to guidelines while travelling safely

Although it is at the testing stage, this unprecedented move will undoubtedly entice scores of foodies. After all, how long has it been since we tried Japan’s famous street food?

But no matter how excited we are to finally step foot into the Land of Rising Sun, let’s adhere to the country’s guidelines and ensure everyone’s safety during the pandemic.

Hopefully, Japan can slowly ease their restrictions and welcome individual visitors from more countries soon, so others can also have a chance to take in the glorious sight of Mount Fuji.

Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.

Featured image adapted from The Smart Local Japan on Facebook.

Sze Yun Chu

Sze Yun egg-spires to be a living Gudetama who sees the gude (good) in all things. Oftentimes, you can see her jumpin' & poppin' to NCT’s music.

Recent Posts

‘Very big shoes to fill’: PAP’s Gho Sze Kee to contest Mountbatten, 4-term MP Lim Biow Chuan to retire

Ms Gho has been a party activist since 2012 and was branch secretary at the…

20 Apr 2025, 2:05 pm

‘Buying China is life’: Chinese diplomat in Indonesia accuses US Press Secretary of wearing dress made in China

A manufacturer also confirmed that the dress was made in Mabu Town in Pingyang.

20 Apr 2025, 1:18 pm

Ng Chee Meng suggests giant umbrellas to provide shade at Fernvale crossings, netizens divided on usefulness

Some questioned the effects of strong winds on the umbrellas.

20 Apr 2025, 12:45 pm

‘Thought he is the leader of the opposition?’: Pritam Singh says WP not inclined to step aside for other parties

Mr Singh said WP does not take part in talks aimed at preventing multi-cornered fights.

20 Apr 2025, 12:14 pm

GE2025: RDU proposes ‘unconditional cash transfer’ to S’poreans among ‘reimagined 5Cs’ in manifesto

The cash would serve as "a financial safety net" for workers amid job scarcity and…

20 Apr 2025, 1:29 am