Japan Travel 2025: Safe Journey Ahead with New Tourism Upgrades and Record Visitor Numbers

Japan remains one of the safest destinations in the world, and as of May 2025, the U.S. Department of State maintains a Level 1 Travel Advisory for the country, meaning travelers are advised to exercise normal precautions. This advisory was reissued in mid-May 2025 after review, indicating stability and no significant new risks for international visitors, according to the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Japan. This Level 1 status is the lowest advisory and a strong indicator of Japan’s overall safety for tourists.

In recent months, Japan has witnessed a record surge in tourism, with more than 3.25 million foreign visitors arriving in February 2025—a nearly 17 percent increase over last year. This tourism boom comes alongside several changes in travel regulations and infrastructure upgrades. Notably, major airports such as Haneda, Narita, and Kansai have implemented new electronic entry systems and improved ticket machines to streamline arrival procedures for foreign travelers. Japan is also piloting a new Pre-Clearance system that, for now, allows certain travelers to complete all required border checks before departure, reducing wait times upon arrival. While initially launched for visitors from Taiwan, this system is expected to expand to other countries over time, enhancing airport efficiency.

There are also important updates that impact travel within Japan. From March 15, 2025, the Nozomi Shinkansen, which is the fastest bullet train on the Tokaido line, has reduced the number of non-reserved seats. Now, more compartments are dedicated to reserved seating, so travelers are advised to book their tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods and holidays, to ensure availability. The tourism boom means seats may sell out more quickly, making advance planning essential for a smooth journey.

Travelers should also be aware of specific regional alerts. The Japan National Tourism Organization reports a Volcanic Alert Level 3 for Mt. Kirishima (Shinmoedake) as of April 2, 2025. This means visitors should not approach the volcano, and it is wise to monitor local advisories if you plan to travel in volcanic regions.

As Japan continues preparations for major international events and further tourism growth, some fees related to international departures are expected to increase. Additionally, new campaigns such as free domestic flights for foreign tourists are being launched, making local travel even more attractive and accessible.

In summary, Japan presents very few safety risks for travelers, but those planning a visit should take note of evolving entry procedures, changes in train ticketing, and select regional travel alerts, such as volcanic warnings. Staying informed about these updates will help ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience in the country.