Japan in 2026: What’s Changing, What’s Opening, and What You Need to Know

#18 In this episode, I misspoke about the Lapras Pokémon Park. I was referring to the second Lapras park opening in 2026. The first Lapras park was built in Miyagi Prefecture that’s my mistake.

Japan is heading into a big year in 2026, and if you’re planning a trip, there are some important changes (and exciting openings) you’ll want to know about.

In this episode, I break down what’s coming for Japan travel in 2026, including money, taxes, arrival updates, transportation tips, new attractions, and how to think about crowds without letting social media scare you off.

Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this episode is about planning smarter and enjoying Japan for what it is.

Money & Taxes

• The yen exchange rate and why it’s still favorable
• Kyoto’s accommodation tax increase (who it applies to)
• Tokyo’s proposed accommodation tax (2027)
• Visa fee changes
• Japan’s departure tax increase

Arrival & Shopping Updates

• How Visit Japan Web works and why to use it
• Why you shouldn’t wait until the last minute
• Tax-free shopping changes starting Nov 1, 2026

Getting Around Japan

• Why the JR Rail Pass no longer makes sense for many trips
• Regional rail passes as an alternative
• Suica cards: physical vs digital
• Why 2026 may be your last chance to get the Suica penguin card

New & Returning Attractions

• Edo-Tokyo Museum reopening
• Pokémon Children’s Parks (including the second Lapras park)
• PokéPark Kanto at Yomiuriland
• Shuri Castle reopening
• Sailor Moon’s permanent Tokyo show
• Yoyogi Park renovations

Crowds, Rural Travel & Safety

• Overtourism reality vs social media exaggeration
• Tips for enjoying the Golden Route
• Why adding one off-route destination helps
• Hiking safety and earthquakes in Japan

2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year to visit Japan, and with the right mindset, it can be one of your most rewarding trips yet.

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📸 @RewardingRoutes

🔗 Helpful Links

• Kyoto Accommodation Tax Explained
  https://thepointsguy.com/news/kyoto-accommodation-tax-change/
  
  
• Visit Japan Web (Official Site)
  www.vjw.digital.go.jp
  
  
• Visit Japan Web Walkthrough
  https://youtu.be/RP2K9OQQKQs?si=UzXojPvokWVS1O5t
  
  by Kensho Quest
• Suica Penguin Retirement News
  https://tokyocheapo.com/editorial/suica-penguin-to-retire-from-tokyo-transport-role/
  
  
• Theme Park Crowds Explained
  https://youtu.be/hrA2qsYGy7A?si=9QbxiJTGSwX5g2cj
  
  by TDR Explorer
• Official Pokémon Children’s Parks Announcement
  https://corporate.pokemon.co.jp/en/topics/detail/144.html

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