According to latest report, Japan is planning to reopen for international tourists around spring 2021 ahead of the once postponed Tokyo Olympic Games. The country has already eased travel restrictions for foreign residents and business travellers, but continues to remain closed for tourism as of now.
As the rescheduled yet anticipated dates of Olympic Games starts to inch closer, Japan has already began working on the health and safety protocols, not just for athletes, but for visitors travelling from all around the world. Therefore, it is likely that the country might consider lifting the strict entry ban as early as April 2021, which is also Japan’s peak season.
Reports from various sources stated that the Japanese government will possibly request visitors to download a health check app to monitor their condition daily, which will replace the currently required 14-day quarantine. International tourists may also be required to purchase private medical insurance prior to their trip.
Additionally, the government might also consider setting up special consultation centres for foreign tourists to deal with any health issues related to the coronavirus. Testing before and upon arrival is also likely to be mandatory for all travellers.
On the other hand, Japan is also deciding on relaxing the entry restrictions on business travellers for stays of up to three days in a bid to revive economic activity. As of now, the government is planning to relax curbs for people from 30 countries and regions with which Japan has strong business ties including China, South Korea and Taiwan.
In accordance to the latest set of actions, business travellers will be required to take a coronavirus test, avoid public transportation and submit an itinerary of their activities during their stay, but they will not be required to quarantine in their hotels.
Tags: Coronavirus, Covid-19, Japan , Japan Tourism
