Visa
The UK is one of the countries with Visa Exemption Arrangements with Japan. So UK nationals do not require a visa for stays in Japan of up to 6 months.
For full details, updates and list of nationalities with visa exemption, see Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website (link on left).
Entry status: normally, if you specify "sightseeing" on your immigration card on arrival in Japan, your passport will be stamped with the entry status "temporary visitor."
This is the entry status which is essential if you are intending to use a Japan Rail Pass. Your passport must be shown at the time of presenting the Exchange order for the Rail Pass, so that your immigration stamp can be checked. No other entry status (eg. "Trainee", "Entertainer", or "Reentry Permit") is permissible for exchanging the Rail Pass Exchange Order.
Immigration checks for Japan:
From 20 November 2007, all foreigners entering Japan are fingerprinted and photographed at immigration.
Download official poster (pdf).
Japan's Ministry of Justice produced an information video (5 ½ mins) before the checks were introduced, which shows the procedure and the equipment used.
Taking medication into Japan
For information on taking medication into Japan for personal use, please refer to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor & Welfare (see link on left).
Nasal sprays: although these are available over the counter in the UK, the following medications are prohibited in Japan since they contain narcotic or stimulant ingredients in excess of the Japanese standard:
Tylenol Cold
Nyquil
Nyquil Liquicaps
Actifed
Sudafed
Advil Cold & Sinus
Dristan Cold ("No Drowsiness")
Dristan Sinus
Drixoral Sinus
Vicks Inhaler
Lomotil
Methylphenidate - a medication prescribed for individuals (usually children) who have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):
- is allowed to be taken into Japan but only 1 month's supply (30 days).
Official doctor or specialist's letter advisable
For queries contact the Japanese Embassy in London on 0207 465 6500.
