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Japan Travel 2025: Safe Destination with New Regulations, Expo Excitement, and Seismic Awareness for International Visitors
- 2025/04/16
- 再生時間: 3 分
- ポッドキャスト
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サマリー
あらすじ・解説
Listeners considering a trip to Japan in 2025 will find that the country remains one of the safest global destinations and is currently under a Level 1 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department, which means travelers should exercise normal precautions. This advisory was last reviewed in January 2024 and ranks Japan at the lowest risk level on the State Department’s four-tier scale. There are no active travel health notices from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization at this time.
Recent events worth noting include a 6.6 magnitude earthquake that struck southwest Japan on January 13, 2025. The earthquake caused minor damage, and the subsequent tsunami advisories for the Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures were lifted a few hours later. However, travelers should remain aware that aftershocks are possible following such seismic events, and it’s always wise to review local updates when visiting areas with recent natural activity.
Japan’s tourism landscape is expected to see record visitors in 2025, especially with major events like the upcoming Osaka Expo. This anticipated influx means travelers should plan ahead, be prepared for busy travel periods, book accommodations and transportation in advance, and familiarize themselves with local regulations.
There are also several practical changes for travelers this year. Cities such as Kyoto and Tokyo have introduced new regulations to address over-tourism—these include a street drinking ban in Shibuya, higher entrance fees for popular tourist sites, a rise in hotel and JR Pass prices, and stricter traffic and cab regulations. The Nozomi Shinkansen, Japan’s fastest bullet train, has reduced the number of unreserved seats as of March 2025, making advance reservations more important than ever. Listeners who prioritize flexibility might choose slower train options or secure their seats well ahead of travel.
Japan is piloting an electronic pre-clearance system starting with some travelers from Taiwan, allowing certain border checks to be completed before departure. Travelers from other countries may see this system phased in over time, aimed at reducing airport wait times and streamlining entry.
Finally, there is an ongoing volcanic alert at Mt. Kirishima’s Shinmoedake crater, with a Level 3 warning in effect asking people not to approach the volcano. Authorities regularly update these alerts, so those heading into regions with active volcanoes should check the latest information.
In summary, Japan remains a welcoming and largely safe destination for international travelers in 2025. Listeners are encouraged to exercise routine caution, stay updated on local developments, and prepare for a dynamic travel environment shaped by both natural events and evolving tourism policies.
Recent events worth noting include a 6.6 magnitude earthquake that struck southwest Japan on January 13, 2025. The earthquake caused minor damage, and the subsequent tsunami advisories for the Miyazaki and Kochi prefectures were lifted a few hours later. However, travelers should remain aware that aftershocks are possible following such seismic events, and it’s always wise to review local updates when visiting areas with recent natural activity.
Japan’s tourism landscape is expected to see record visitors in 2025, especially with major events like the upcoming Osaka Expo. This anticipated influx means travelers should plan ahead, be prepared for busy travel periods, book accommodations and transportation in advance, and familiarize themselves with local regulations.
There are also several practical changes for travelers this year. Cities such as Kyoto and Tokyo have introduced new regulations to address over-tourism—these include a street drinking ban in Shibuya, higher entrance fees for popular tourist sites, a rise in hotel and JR Pass prices, and stricter traffic and cab regulations. The Nozomi Shinkansen, Japan’s fastest bullet train, has reduced the number of unreserved seats as of March 2025, making advance reservations more important than ever. Listeners who prioritize flexibility might choose slower train options or secure their seats well ahead of travel.
Japan is piloting an electronic pre-clearance system starting with some travelers from Taiwan, allowing certain border checks to be completed before departure. Travelers from other countries may see this system phased in over time, aimed at reducing airport wait times and streamlining entry.
Finally, there is an ongoing volcanic alert at Mt. Kirishima’s Shinmoedake crater, with a Level 3 warning in effect asking people not to approach the volcano. Authorities regularly update these alerts, so those heading into regions with active volcanoes should check the latest information.
In summary, Japan remains a welcoming and largely safe destination for international travelers in 2025. Listeners are encouraged to exercise routine caution, stay updated on local developments, and prepare for a dynamic travel environment shaped by both natural events and evolving tourism policies.