Mount Fuji with cherry blossoms

Japan Travel News

The latest travel developments affecting visitors to Tokyo and Japan. Curated for trip-planning and on-the-ground decisions.

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Japan Travel News

The latest travel developments affecting visitors to Tokyo and Japan. Curated for trip-planning and on-the-ground decisions. Updated: 8 September 2025

World Athletics Championships begin in Tokyo, Sep 13–21

Expect event-day crowding around Japan National Stadium and on key JR/Metro lines. Book attractions and restaurants in advance during finals days.

Official event info & tickets · Event overview

Haneda Airport flags Terminal 3 security congestion; parking fees revised

Allow extra time for security at T3 during peaks and consider rail access; airport parking has updated pricing. Aim to arrive 2.5–3 hours pre-flight.

Security congestion notice · Airport important notices

Japan outlines plan to require private health insurance for tourists

Authorities have proposed making private health insurance mandatory for inbound visitors. Implementation timing and details are pending—check updates before travel.

Policy report

JR East revises prices for select regional rail passes

Several JR East–area passes (incl. East–South Hokkaido) saw price adjustments. For many itineraries, point-to-point tickets or regional passes may be better value than the nationwide JR Pass.

JR East price revision (PDF)

Welcome Suica: sales locations updated, one per person

JR East confirms where visitors can buy the Welcome Suica IC card. In principle, sales are limited to one card per individual—carry passport for purchase.

JR East multi-language info

Airport & Transport Alerts

Airport & Transport Alerts

Haneda (HND)

  • Check real-time security wait guidance and crowd advisories before leaving for the airport.
  • Parking can be heavily congested during events/holidays—prefer rail/limousine bus.

Latest notices · Parking status

Narita (NRT)

  • Skyliner and Narita Express provide the fastest links—reserve seats during peak travel weeks.
  • Allow extra buffer during typhoon advisories (late summer to autumn).

Airline airport guides

Rail & IC Cards

  • Regional passes often beat the nationwide JR Pass for focused routes (Kantō, Kansai, Alps).
  • Buy or reload IC cards (Suica/PASMO) at major stations and convenience stores; keep one per traveler.

JR Pass overview · Welcome Suica info

Smart Planning Tips for Right Now

Busy Weeks

  • Mid-September “Silver Week” can spike crowds and prices.
  • During the Championships (Sep 13–21), stay near lines away from the Stadium if you’re sightseeing.

Weather & Safety

  • Typhoon season peaks late summer—watch advisories and build buffer days.
  • Carry a compact umbrella; many venues provide umbrella lockers.

Money & Connectivity

  • Contactless is common, but keep some cash for small eateries and shrines.
  • eSIMs and rental Wi-Fi are widely available at both airports.

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