What changes for tourists in Japan in 2025? A list and tips

Japan remains year after year one of the most fascinating travel destinations worldwide. Cultural treasures, breathtaking landscapes, first-class gastronomy and unparalleled hospitality attract tourists in droves. However, in 2025 some significant changes will come into effect that will influence both entry procedures and the travel experience on site. In this post you will learn all the important details to optimally prepare your next trip to Japan.

1. Introduction of the Japan Electronic Travel Authorization (JESTA) System

What is JESTA?

Japan plans to introduce the new electronic entry system JESTA (Japan Electronic Travel Authorization). This system is similar to the well-known ESTA in the USA. Travelers from countries that normally do not require a visa for entry into Japan will now have to obtain authorization online in advance.

Why is JESTA being introduced?

• Increased security: By pre-screening travelers, the risk of unauthorized stays is reduced.
• More efficient processes: Online applications accelerate the procedure at the airport and reduce long queues upon entry.
• Phased implementation: JESTA is expected to be fully implemented by 2030, thereby replacing or supplementing conventional visa procedures.

Source: https://corporateimmigrationpartners.com/japan-electronic-system-for-travel-authorization-jesta/

Here is a detailed article on JESTA

2. Pre-Clearance System: Entry Formalities Before the Flight

Pilot Project with Taiwan

Starting in January 2025, Japan will launch a pilot project referred to as Pre-Clearance . In the first phase, travelers from Taiwan will benefit by completing all required border formalities before departure. This means that identity checks and other inspections will be carried out not at the destination airport, but already in the country of departure.

Benefits for Travelers

• Time savings: Shorter waiting times upon arrival in Japan.
• More comfort: Less hassle at the airport, as essential checks are performed in advance.
• Phased expansion: In the long term, the Pre-Clearance system is intended to be available to additional countries.

Source: https://visasnews.com/en/japan-a-new-preclearance-system-for-foreign-travelers-in-2025/

3. Changes in Transport: New Rules for Shinkansen Travel

Reduction of Non-Reserved Seats

Starting from March 15, 2025 a change will come into effect for the popular Nozomi Shinkansen :

• Fewer non-reserved seats: To provide more comfort for passengers, additional compartments in the non-reserved area will be converted into reserved seating.
• Timely reservation recommended: Travelers should reserve their seats in advance, as spontaneous travelers will have limited options for non-reserved seating.

What Does This Mean for Tourists?

• Flexibility vs. Planning: Those who want to remain flexible should opt for other Shinkansen types or plan their itinerary ahead of time and reserve accordingly.
• Increased demand: During peak times (e.g. holidays or festive periods), seats may sell out even faster than before.

4. Tax Changes in Shopping & Dual Pricing

4.1 New Tax-Free Regulations

Starting in 2025, the tax-free system for foreign tourists will undergo several changes. The following five concrete examples describe these changes and their background:

• Pre-payment of consumption tax: When shopping, the full consumption tax is charged, which is then refunded before departure based on the submitted receipts.
• Refund upon departure: Tourists can reclaim the paid tax upon departure by presenting their receipts.
• Personal export obligation: Since the postal shipment of tax-free goods will no longer be available, purchases must be carried out personally – a procedure which facilitates customs verification.
• Digitized refund process: New online services are expected to expedite the refund process and shorten waiting times at airports.
• Expanded merchandise categories for tax refunds: Certain product categories will be treated separately to make the process more transparent and prevent abuse.

4.2 Dual Pricing

In addition to the changes in the tax-free system, pilot projects for Dual-Pricing models will be launched in various sectors starting in 2025. The following five examples illustrate these pricing models:

• Niseko Ski Resorts: In selected ski resorts, foreign tourists will pay around 6,500 ¥ for a ski pass, while locals will pay approximately 5,000 ¥.
• Himeji Castle: To control overcrowding, differentiated entrance fees are being discussed – with foreign visitors expected to pay higher rates than locals.
• Okinawa Theme Park: In a newly established theme park, different admission prices will be tested to manage visitor flow.
• Public Transport in Kyōto: Pilot projects in Kyōto are testing differentiated fares in public transportation to better manage capacity.
• Cultural Attractions in Osaka: Several museums and historical sites in Osaka are experimenting with differentiated entrance fees, with foreign visitors being charged higher fees.

5. Major Events: Expo 2025 in Osaka

Motto and Significance

The Expo 2025 takes place in Osaka under the guiding principle "Designing Future Society for Our Lives" . This world exposition is expected to attract millions of visitors and offers, in addition to cultural and technological innovations, an extensive program of events.

Preparation for Travelers

• Early accommodation planning: As Osaka is already one of the most popular destinations, hotels will be in high demand during the Expo.
• Event tickets and program: Many exhibitions and shows are booked months in advance. It is advisable to book early. For more information, see: https://kodawari-times.net/blog/expo2025-tickets/

Source: https://www.jetro.go.jp/malaysia/research/expo2025.html

6. Focus on Sustainable Tourism

Japan's Goals by 2025

The Japanese government is increasingly committed to sustainable tourism . By 2025, at least 100 regions in the country are to implement concrete measures to operate in a more environmentally friendly and socially responsible manner. Of these, 50 destinations are expected to receive international recognition and awards.

Practical Implications

• Eco-friendly travel options: Regional transport, E-buses and bicycle rental systems may be significantly expanded.
• Local products: Tourists are actively encouraged to support regional economic cycles and local producers.
• Stricter guidelines: Hotels, guesthouses and travel providers might have to meet stricter environmental regulations, resulting in an overall improvement in service quality.

Source: https://www.travelvoice.jp/english/japan-tourism-agency-shows-drafts-of-the-new-national-tourism-policy-by-2025-focusing-on-consumption-goals-rather-than-numerical-goals

7. New Fees and Services

Mount Fuji Hiking Fee

• Increased fee starting summer 2025: The hiking fee on Mount Fuji will be raised to up to 31 Euro .
• Purpose: The revenue will be used to improve the hiking infrastructure and help protect the mountain from the impacts of mass tourism.

Restaurant FastPass System

• Priority at popular restaurants: For a fee, travelers can avoid waiting in line and secure a table more quickly.
• Optimization of the dining experience: This service can be extremely helpful, especially during peak times or in highly sought-after establishments.

Sources:

• Fuji Costs: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/11/25/japan/mount-fuji-yamanashi-fee-increase/
• Fast Pass: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Food-Beverage/Japan-restaurant-reservation-sites-start-catering-to-foreign-tourists

Conclusion

The year 2025 marks a turning point for Japan and its visitors:

• Electronic entry systems (JESTA & Pre-Clearance): Faster and more secure controls.
• New transport rules: Plan your seat reservation in advance.
• Tax changes: Keep your receipts and allow time for refunds.
• Expo 2025 in Osaka: Higher visitor volumes, book early.
• Sustainable tourism: Local communities and the environment benefit from new initiatives.
• New fees and services: Mount Fuji fee & Restaurant FastPass.

Our tip: Start planning your trip for 2025 as early as possible. With good preparation and awareness of the changes, your trip to Japan will remain unforgettable and stress-free despite the numerous modifications. Now is the perfect time to plan your next trip!