Huge change to Japanese travel revealed

The Japanese government has revealed major changes to its border policy since shutting down for Covid-19 in 2020.

Japan has confirmed plans to boost its entry numbers and allow self-guided travel from September 7.

The popular tourist destination had previously flagged in May that it would open its borders in line with other G7 nations.

Japan also recently announced it would remove the requirement for pre-trip and PCR tests upon arrival.

There is no update yet on whether visas will be needed in advance or if trips must be booked with a licensed tour operator.

“We have been waiting a long time for this announcement and this is great news for us as a specialist whose business is 80 per cent self-guided, tailored travel,” InsideJapan co-founder Simon King said in a statement on Wednesday.

Japan is loosening its travel restrictions. Picture: Supplied/InsideJapan

The independent Japan travel specialist was the first Australian tour operator to have customers back in Japan on its small group tours in July.

Demand and sales for travel to Japan had increased to levels comparable to 2019, Mr King said.

“The fact that the restrictions are eased in time for Japan’s peak autumn departures is such a relief for us and all our partners on the ground that rely on our customers business,” he said.

“To be in Japan in time for the Koyo autumn leaf season with temple gardens and mountainsides lit up with the red of autumn leaves will be special.

“Japan has not lost its magic and we can’t wait to show people again.”