By Aravind Gopal
Japan is without a doubt among the most beautiful places on the planet. Nature and culture abound in the country, from balmy beaches to icy peaks, sophisticated skylines to ancient monuments. From the lavender meadows of Furano in Hokkaido to the crystal clean beaches of Okinawa, this petite country is rich with lovely scenery, futuristic galleries, mountaintop monasteries, and, of course, the beautiful cherry blossoms in springtime.
After one of the harshest lockdown restrictions during the pandemic, Japan re- opened in June, only in season for summer travel. Based on the Immigration Services Agency reports, only 1,500 foreigners traveled to the country during the first month. This is 95% less than the number of travellers during the same period prior to the epidemic. Visa concerns, together with rigorous travel agency standards and a mandatory guide, are stumbling barriers in rebuilding the industry.
Finally, it seems the Land of the Rising Sun, which is perhaps among the world’s most pandemic-careful countries, intends to properly welcome foreign visitors. Authorities in Japan relaxed Covid-19 entrance rules this week, with travellers no longer being required to submit a clear PCR test result if they have taken three immunisation doses. Short-term tourists will no longer have to seek for tourist visas from October 11.
Individual travel and visa-free entrance will return on October 11, according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, speaking in New York City, as the world’s third-largest economy strives to reconnect with the rest of the globe. Prior to the pandemic, Japan permitted visa-free short-term travel from 68 countries and regions, including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, and the United States. It will also be easier to visit because there would be no need to organise tours through travel agents.
As per the recent tweet by Japan’s minister of digital affairs, Taro Kono: “Finally, Japan will reopen the border. Visa waiver is back, no daily limit and free individual visits.” Japan ranks first in the World Economic Forum’s Annual Travel & Tourism Development Index, published in May, because of its cultural richness and convenient airport infrastructure.Taking full benefit of the weak yen, the Japanese government seeks to improve the GDP through inbound tourism.