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Good to know

Faqs - booking japan flights, do children have to use child car seats to travel from the airport in japan.

Whether you’re catching a taxi or hiring a car, you'll need to abide by Japan’s child car seat laws. Children up to the age of six must use a child car seat appropriate for their age and size. Most airlines allow parents to bring child car seats for free, but you’ll need to double-check this with your carrier and let them know how many car seats you intend to bring.

Which airport should I fly into to visit Miyajima?

If you’re keen to meet the deer population and see Miyajima’s famous Torii gate, your most convenient airport will be Hiroshima (HIJ). While there aren’t any direct flights from Sydney to Hiroshima, you should find plenty of single-stop itineraries featuring short stopovers at airports like Taoyuan Airport (TPE) and Tokyo Haneda (HND).

Which airport is convenient for visiting Jigokudani Monkey Park?

If you’re keen to see macaques bathing in the hot springs of Jigokudani Monkey Park, a convenient airport is Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport (MMJ). From there, you can hire a vehicle or take a bus or train to Nagano and then on to the monkey park. Though it is further afield, some travellers prefer to fly into Tokyo and then catch the Shinkansen to Nagano Station.

Which airport is close to Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan?

If you’re heading to the oldest hotel in the world, convenient airports are Shinshu-Matsumoto and Shizuoka Airport (FSZ). These hubs are ideal if you intend to hire a car. If you’d rather use Japan’s famous rail system, it may be more convenient to fly into one of Tokyo’s airports.

Which airport should I choose to visit Tokyo?

As the capital and the largest city in Japan, Tokyo is the country’s international gateway. Tokyo has two international airports, Haneda and Narita. Haneda Airport (HND) is smaller, located just outside of downtown Tokyo, whereas the larger Narita Airport (NRT) is approximately 60 km outside the city. Whilst the Narita Airport is the biggest in the city and receives the most flights and often has the cheapest options of flights, passengers flying into this airport must consider a journey of around 1h 30min by train to get to and from the airport. Costs of train tickets, as well as possible taxi fares, are also exponentially higher. However, the Haneda airport, despite being smaller, is still a modern and busy airport and transport from the city takes roughly 40min, making it a desirable choice for those with early morning or late-night flights.

Do I need a visa to go to Japan?

Australian passport holders do not need a visa to visit Japan. You can visit visa free when travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days. Nevertheless, your passport must be valid for your entire stay.

Which airport should I choose to visit Kyoto?

While the city of Kyoto does not have its own airport, it is still very easily accessible thanks to the Japanese Rail System. Many visiting Kyoto will fly into Narita Airport (NRT) and from there catch a 3h train to Kyoto. If you don’t like the prospect of a longer trip by train, you can choose to fly into Osaka International Airport (ITM), known as the Itami Airport, which is located 36 km and 1h away by train, or the Kansai International Airport (KIX), located 77 km or 1h 30min away by train. Despite the name, the Osaka International Airport handles only domestic flights, whereas the Kansai International Airport is the nearest hub for international flights.

Where do I fly into Japan to visit Disneyland?

Japan’s Disneyland is in Tokyo, in the district of Urayasu, directly across the bay from Haneda Airport. Haneda Airport offers direct shuttles to the Tokyo Disneysea Station where you can catch the Disney Resort Line to key points and entrances around the park. Alternatively, Tokyo’s major airport, Narita, is about 1h from the park, where you can also catch direct shuttle buses.

How long is the flight to Japan?

An average direct flight from Australia to Japan takes 15h 59m, covering a distance of 12373 km. The most popular route is Melbourne - Tokyo with an average flight time of 9h 55m.

What is the cheapest flight to Japan?

The cheapest ticket to Japan from Australia found in the last 72 hours was $341 one-way, and $454 round-trip. The most popular route is Melbourne to Tokyo Narita and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $733.

Which airlines fly to Japan?

Finnair, Qantas Airways & Jetstar fly the most frequently from Australia to Japan. The most popular route is from Melbourne to Tokyo, and LATAM Airlines, Fiji Airways and Qantas Airways fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Japan?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Tokyo (86% of total searches to Japan). The next most popular destinations are Osaka (11%) and Sapporo (2%). Searches for flights to Fukuoka (0.6%), to Nagoya (0.3%) and to Okinawa (0.1%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Japan

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Japan flight deals.
• Tokyo’s Narita Airport (NRT) is a hub for the country’s main full-service carriers, All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines. It’s also a hub for the country’s low-cost carriers, Peach and Jetstar Japan.
• To avoid unnecessary problems at the airport, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your dates of travel to Japan. Your passport must also have at least one blank page for your entry and exit stamps.
• There are a few direct flights that connect Japan and Australia’s major airports. While the most popular route is Melbourne to Tokyo, you can also find direct flights from Sydney and Brisbane.
• If you’re looking to visit the renowned Osaka Castle, you should know that there are several 1- stop flights from Sydney International Airport (SYD) to Osaka International Airport (ITM) and Kansai International Airport (KIX). These airports will also put you in prime location to explore Fushimi Inari-taisha Shinto shrine and the Temple of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) in Kyoto.
• If you’re travelling in March, beware that flights into Japan during this time may be busier and more expensive. Although exact dates change from year to year, this is the beginning of the famous Cherry Blossom season and it attracts many international tourists. Flights to main cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka and Sapporo may be affected.
• If you are looking to visit the northern island of Hokkaido and explore its natural beauties, there are direct flights available with Qantas Airways from Sydney International Airport (SYD) to the New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Sapporo, the fifth largest in the country. On the way back, however, you’ll have to consider 1-stop or even 2-stop routes with stops in Haneda Airport (HND), Narita Airport (NRT) or even Melbourne International Airport (MEL).
• If you are visiting Mount Fuji, the nearest airport you should consider for your trip is the Shizuoka Airport (FSZ). Since there are no direct flights from Australia, you’ll need to take at least two stops, the most popular being at the Haneda Airport (HND), the New Chitose Airport (CTS) or even the Naha Airport (OKA) in Okinawa.

Top 5 airlines flying to Japan

Crew went out of their way for me, not often

Lots of legroom for a small flight. There was in flight entertainment even though it is a short duration. We waited on one passenger to board for a long time after everyone else was on.

At Fukuoka, check in counter stuff was no experience , took long time and took out our preserved sheets to change to emergency exit seats without asking. The flight was late and we missed the flight to go back to SF. My luggage was broken. I had a terrible experience.

Chair was broken. Crew was awesome. Food was eh. Dinner food not so good the sandwich was good ( for airplane food) headphones hurt my ears. It’s hard because no one has plug in earphones

Fast boarding. Cabin temperature was a bit warm, but I guess this is the standard in ANA. The Room seats are spacious, but not long enough for me.

ANA crews are superb, very responsive and caring. Boarding was smooth and so as the landing. Great flights we had with ANA.

Great service, wonderful meals, excellent entertainment, clean bathrooms, top notch experience

The cabin temperature is warmer than I expected and there’s no other way for me to control the temperature. It’s centrally controlled so it’s consistent for everybody. There’s no air flow that I could direct to me if I’m hot. I also noticed people wearing sleeveless shirt. I’m not the only one who noticed that the temp is warm. In a crowded plane, temp should be a little colder, not warm. People can use sweater or use blankets. When it’s warm, there’s no other way to cool down. All 3 ANA planes that I’ve had this trip were all the same. It’s warm. It gets a little claustrophobic if there’s no air flowing or the temp is warm

I loved the Star Wars theme! Hearing C-3P0, R2-D2, and BB-8 was comforting and fun!

ANA was wonderful just needed to upgrade the food and the entertainment.

Once again the meal served was delicious - we got chicken rice

Overall good experience, convenient Changi Airport, even the layover was long.

I loved the comfort of the flight and the hospitality of the flight attendants!

I had to change a flight date and it cost me $800.00 dollars. In the past, if there was room on the flight(which there was), Singapore Airlines simply re-booked me. This might have occurred because the office in Bali where I could interface with a human face to face is now closed since COVID. I naively figured the ability to change my flight into my decision to go with Singapore Airlines as it does cost a bit more. I will still fly on them as they are superior to the other carriers by a fairly large margin, especially for my needs.

They ran out of food for breakfast They did not offer tea or coffee The staff appeared very inexperienced The cabin was very cold, even with a blanket

Leg room and flight sound insulation is very bad. They broke 3 of my bags with bad handling

I had a great experience with Singapore airlines as always. The partner airline, Scoot was fine except my bag was misplaced during the shuffle. Ultimately, my baggage arrived intact. Attempting to inquire about my baggage was impossible.

plus: service and personal assistance minus: online check-in did not work

The Premium economy class is not the same as some other airlines because there are no economy seats on these planes. Basically you’re getting an economy seat that’s a little wider. The seats are not that much more comfortable. The service and food experience is similar to economy class on other Asian airlines. There aren’t enough toilets for the entire plane therefore we are forced to share the business class toilets that are closed off with curtains.

My overall experience with Singapore Airlines is great. Will definitely fly Singapore airline again.

From BOS to HK, the crew had pushed me to choose the pasta for meal multiple times. It was a bad experience. Without this, everything was good.

The crew is amazing, very attentive. They went above and beyond when we had a small spill. the food on this trip was not nearly as good as other Cathay flights. The economy seats are very comfortable, but when the person in front of yo reclines, you need to recline to see your screen or be comfortable.

Cathay Pacific helps me with the planning due to weather delays. Well planed flights.

Flight crew went above and beyond to make sure the flight was enjoyable for us!

Dinner was served at the wrong time as soon as we boarded. Most were sleeping.. there was no food service carts for hours. We had to specifically ask for water, snacks etc. for the 15 hour plus flight, there should have been 3 meals served. Instead we only got the breakfast 1 hour before landing. Will try other airlines like Qatar for future travels.

No proper procedures or announcements for boarding. Not even water was served on flight. Could not check in on line. This option was not available .

I like the paper menu with lists of food, so that I don’t need worry about to pick up the food I don’t like, because crews are busy to do food service, mostly not enough food information they can tell. Well, one of the lady was not friendly at all, I asked three times my daughter wants a cup noodle during the flight, she gave me the reason is they have half an hour for serving food three times. There are more than 200 people on the flight, it takes them more than hour and half to do food serving, think about it, how long we can get food, around two hours. I don’t like she gave a stupid reason other than to make a cup noodle right away. Unfriendly and lazy.

The flight was delayed for half an hour, hope this can be better

Great experience, smooth checking, boarding and flight. Service during flight were great, crew members were very professional. Thank you!

The employees are very nice and good. The delay due to the aircraft is not a good thing. Planning for such problems should be an easy task.

Don't irreparably damage my luggage, don't stand around talking in the kitchen area of the plane when a passenger is waiting to speak to you, don't run out of a meal selection so have me end up eating bread for dinner. Lastly, regarding the code-share flight from DFW to JFK....STOP PARTNERING WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES - THEY ARE THE WORST AIRLINE IN THE WORLD! The delay, followed by another delay, followed by disorganized boarding, followed by stale snacks fit for a rodent, followed by a pilot who literally slammed the plane onto the runway when landing causing quite some concern among the passengers.

Too many passengers are bringing on too many large items as part of carry on baggage where it should be checked in. This is not the fault of Qantas but the stupid mindset passengers have now about trying to bring anything and everything on as carry on luggage where it should be checked in.

Better than expected, normally I don't use this airline because they are too expensive for me, but if you can afford it, good on you, you won't regret it. Regards.

Plane a little late departing, but not an issue. The pilots humour when he said “I will try to make up some time…. I know a few short cuts to Adelaide” made the passengers chuckle. This is what makes Qantas “Australian”.

I have never had a problem with flying Qantas, so this flight was the same as any other.

After British Airways cancelled my London to Sydney and Virgin Australia refused to refund, there was no ways I would try Virgin Australia again, so it was Qantas - what a good flight experience. So much easier to get off an international flight and get a local flight without having to add extra amounts for baggage

The flight was delayed by 1.5 hours and most of the flights bags were not on the flight. Have also had no communication from QANTAS

I was thrilled with the bottle of water, blanket, pillow, earphones, and little packet of toothbrush, toothpaste, earplugs. I was very satisfied with the meals and snacks and drinks. I alao was very grateful to have a seat that backs up against the lavatory, as it made it very easy to get to the bathroom without being jumped in line, as so often happens in the airplane. Of course that was just a random strike of luck, but it really made a difference.

Food was great. Customer Service not so much! Flight Delays.

The plane was delayed about 3 hours so anything else is immaterial

The flight was over an hour late due to staff shortages and due to it being the last evening flight, I got back to Sydney very late

This was the most horrific experience we have ever had. I would advise people to steer clear of this airline at all costs.

Online checkin was a nightmare. They kept popping me into Chinese language site which I can't understand.

The flight take-off was delayed which was fine but the staff seemed pretty over their jobs. The seats are very uncomfortable and the food was pretty average. Overall is was okay.

Note that food has to be purchased in flight. No free food. And no entertainment in flight. So I’ve treated these two items as okay which, in this case, means neutral/not applicable.

My Dad needed assistance to board the plane. The Jetstar staff were excellent with him and made the experience a lot easier😁

No food taken so can't rate also no entertainment so can't rate.

Would be better if can provide small free snacks on a long flight

Boarding was easy and unstressful, though the early "final call" was a bit off-putting. The crew were pleasant, and the seats were comfortable. The prices for food and drink were reasonable, apart from tea and coffee, where simple percolated coffee was charged at espresso prices. Deboarding was OK, though some Jetstar passengers appear to have a bad habit of pushing forward from their assigned rows, making it more difficult to get out for passengers that have paid a premium to sit up-front. Jetstar might want to look to address this to stop it from spreading.

I was allocated an exit row seat and was told to move so it could be given away to someone who had purchased two extra legroom seats and one regular seat but wanted the three to sit together. I was also charged for entertainment after booking but before checking in, and the ground crew couldn't do anything about refunding it. When the whole plane was given access to the entertainment as an apology for the flight being four hours late, I was told they couldn't do anything about that either, so I was charged for something I didn't want even though it would have been free anyway

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Planning a trip to Japan? Here's what you need to know

Topic: Air Travel

From October 11, Australians are once again able to travel to Japan without a visa. ( Unsplash: Bobby Hendry )

From mid-October, Australians will once again be able to travel to Japan without a visa or tour group.

It's great news for Australians who have been waiting to travel to Japan after the pandemic.

But there are some important things to consider if you're planning a trip to Japan yourself.

Here's what you need to know.

How Japan's border restrictions are changing

From October 11, Japan is making several important changes to its border controls .

To break it down for you, the key points are:

• Tourists from Australia (and other countries with visa exemptions) can now travel to Japan without a visa;
• Tourists no longer required to travel on package tours;
• Travellers are no longer required to return a COVID-19 test on arrival unless they are suspected of being infected with COVID-19; and
• There is no longer a cap on daily arrivals to Japan. Previously, Japan was only allowing 50,000 entrants per day.

What documents do you need to enter Japan?

To enter Japan, you will need to provide a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate with at least three doses or provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to departure . 

It's important to note that rapid antigen tests are not accepted — you will need to take an approved test, such as a PCR.

You will also need to fill out a COVID-19 questionnaire as part of Japan's quarantine procedures. 

Japan's authorities recommend you upload your documents and fill out the questionnaire using the 'Fast Track' pre-application system and MySOS app .

When you're in Japan, you can simply open the app your phone to show quarantine officials.

"That's got your medical history. You show that app and it's all very efficient and done very smoothly," says Anthony Luxton, a Japan-focused travel agent in Kingscliff, New South Wales.

Do I need to wear a mask?

In Japan, you'll be expected to wear a mask when you can't social distance.

"Japan is still very conservative in terms of its approach to its pandemic and the virus," Mr Luxton says.

"Mask wearing is a must and social distancing is a must and hand-sanitising and temperature checks are everywhere."

Some restaurants will also enforce social distancing by physically separating diners.

"In restaurants themselves, you [may] have protectors between you and your partner. You can't simply sit and have a meal one-on-one, there is a plastic protector separating you," Mr Luxton says.

If you're planning a trip to a theme park or other major attraction, keep in mind that it might be harder to a purchase a ticket than before the pandemic.

"There's a lot of things that aren't the same: the frequency of some of the transfer services, and entries into the major theme parks [because] they're limiting pre-purchasing of tickets and controlling numbers," Mr Luxton says.

Is it expensive to travel to Japan now?

Japan is a relatively affordable travel destination, but flights are more expensive now than they were pre-COVID.

Mr Luxton says to expect to pay at least $1,700 for return flights from Sydney or Melbourne to Tokyo in coming months. However, there are often cheaper deals available on budget carriers.

"Even though more capacity comes on, pricing seems to creep up," he explains.

"[The airline industry] has to regain a lot of lost territory. There are other factors at play too, fuel prices and so on."

The good news is that once you're in Japan, you'll find your wallet stretches more than it would back home.

"The value for money is fantastic, no question," Mr Luxton says.

While Japan is a relatively cheap destination to start with, Australians might also benefit from the weak yen . 

Each Australian dollar is now worth over 90 yen , a higher rate than at nearly any time in the last five years.

Autumn is a great time to explore Japan's outdoors, travel agent Anthony Luxton says. ( Unsplash: Steven Chua )

What to do in Japan

Whether you want to experience the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, stroll through the ancient capital of Kyoto or visit Japan's famous ski slopes, there's plenty on offer for tourists.

Japan is now entering autumn, which is a great time to explore the outdoors, Mr Luxton says.

"The country is ablaze in colour and the Japanese are great nature lovers," he explains.

"That rolls into the winter season, and there are quite a few Australians who are so keen to get [to Japan's ski slopes] because they haven't been for the last two seasons.

"The ski seasons in Japan have been brilliant [in recent years]."

The peak travel season is spring, from March to May. During spring, the weather is mild, and tourists can see Japan's famous cherry blossoms in bloom.

"It's a wonderful country to visit as the seasons roll on."

"It keeps offering different reasons [to travel] … it's very attractive from that point of view," Mr Luxton says.

Where you can get the latest travel information for Japan

• Embassy of Japan in Australia
• SmartTraveller Japan  
• Information about current border measures from Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Japan.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Japan (PDF 460.84 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.29 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 110 or contact the local police at the nearest police station.

For Tokyo English-speaking Police, call 3501 0110 (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:15pm).

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to the restricted areas near the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant.

• Japan is prone to earthquakes and tsunamis. Japanese authorities have detailed plans to respond to natural disasters. In an earthquake, follow the advice of local authorities and emergency signage. Move to higher ground immediately if you're in a coastal region after a major earthquake. Check the  Disaster Prevention Portal  for more information.
• All major disaster warnings are published by the  Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). We recommend downloading  NHK’s smart phone application  to keep up to date with a natural disaster or other emergency alerts.
• A series of earthquakes occurred in Ishikawa Prefecture in Central Japan on and after 1 January 2024. Some infrastructure may remain impacted. Follow the advice of local authorities if travelling to affected areas. 
• Regional tensions and the security situation, including with North Korea, could worsen with little warning. Tensions, which may affect Japan, could arise because of missile tests by North Korea. For advice see Japan's  Civil Protection Portal Site .
• Japan has a low crime rate. Petty theft can happen, like bag snatching at popular tourist attractions. There's a risk of crime in bars and nightclubs. Crimes include overcharging, credit card fraud, forced withdrawal of large amounts of cash at ATMs, drink spiking and assault. Avoid taking large amounts of money and be vigilant in carrying your debit/credit card) when in bars or clubs and at parties.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Japan has strict rules about bringing medicine into the country, including some ingredients in ADHD and cold and flu medication. If you plan on bringing in medication, check if it's legal before you travel. See the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website for more information.
• Restricted zones exist around the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant. The 2011 earthquake caused the release of lethal radiation. Radiation levels in most parts of Japan, including Tokyo, are within the normal range.
• Medical facilities are of a high standard. You can find English-speaking medical staff in most major cities. You may need to pay upfront before you're treated.

Full travel advice: Health

• You must carry your passport (or Japanese residency card) with you at all times.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Authorities can charge you if they find trace amounts of illegal drugs in your blood or urine.
• Japanese family law, including divorce and child custody, is very different to Australian law. For example, joint custody of a child after divorce is not a legal option, and there are limits to access for a non-custodial parent. The Family Courts in Japan generally consider that it is in a child's best interests for them to remain in their "usual place of residence". Courts, therefore, usually give sole custody to the parent who has taken care of the child most recently. If you're involved in custody or other family disputes, it is important to seek legal advice about your options both in Japan and in Australia. We have produced some  general information about custody, child abduction and parental rights.
• Some employment agents mislead and encourage foreigners to work in Japan without the correct paperwork. If you want to work in Japan, verify the work offered and get the correct visa. Get legal advice before signing a contract.
• Japan has strict alcohol laws. The legal drinking age is 20. It's illegal to drive with any alcohol in your bloodstream. Allowing someone who has been drinking to drive is also illegal. Laws restrict alcohol consumption in specific areas on certain days, such as in Shibuya around Halloween night (31 October) and New Year's Eve. Smoking on the street is illegal in Tokyo and some other cities.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Australians are eligible for Japan's visa exemption scheme for short-stay tourism and business travel. You don't need a visa to travel to Japan for up to 90 days. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. It is your responsibility to verify visa requirements from the nearest embassy or consulate of Japan.
• If you're travelling for any other reason, contact your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate to check if you need a visa, especially if you plan to work in Japan. Penalties may apply if you work in Japan on a tourist visa.
• It's dangerous to climb Mount Fuji from September to June.
• You can drive for up to 1 year with an Australian driver's licence and an International Driving Permit. If you're staying longer, you will need to obtain a local licence. Heavy snowfalls and ice in winter can make driving dangerous. It's illegal to drive with  any  alcohol in your bloodstream. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Tokyo   or the Consulate-General in  Osaka .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Japan has security measures in place at key facilities, such as:

• public transport
• public event venues
• entry ports

More information:

• Terrorist threats

Regional Threats

Regional tensions and the security situation, including with North Korea, could worsen with little warning. Tensions, which may affect Japan, could arise because of missile tests by North Korea. 

The Japanese Government has confirmed an increase in missile launch activity from North Korea towards Japan. At times, 'take shelter' alerts have been issued in some parts of Japan.

To stay safe:

• be alert to developments
• review the  Civil Protection Portal Site  advice from the Japanese Cabinet Secretariat for National Security Affairs and Crisis Management
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• check  NHK World  for the latest information

Japan has a low crime rate. Petty theft can happen, like bag snatching at popular tourist attractions from time to time.

There's a risk of crime in bars and nightclubs, especially in the Roppongi and Shinjuku (Kabuki-cho) entertainment areas of Tokyo. Both men and women have been targeted. You may be targeted with:

• overcharging
• fraudulent credit card charges
• forced withdrawal of large amounts of cash at ATMs
• drink spiking
• illegal drugs

You may be served drinks with higher alcohol content than normal. Some victims have woken in unknown places and discovered high credit card charges. Other victims have been taken to ATMs and forced to withdraw a large sum of cash while under the effects of drink spiking.

In these situations, you may find it hard to get a police report for your bank and travel insurer.

• never leave your drink unattended, and be cautious of accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances
• don't take large amounts of cash to parties, bars, clubs or entertainment districts and be vigilant in carrying your debit/credit card
• Partying overseas

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Mountain climbing and trekking

Trekking and mountaineering can be dangerous. Register your plans with local police before you go into the mountains, and take an emergency locator beacon with you.

Every year, a number of people die while trying to climb Mount Fuji.

Japanese Emergency Services warn against climbing from September to June when it's most dangerous. Check the  official Mount Fuji Climbing website  for each trail's climbing season dates.

Check your travel insurance covers you for extreme activities, such as mountain climbing.

Hikers and other travellers may encounter bears in parts of rural Japan. There have been incidents of fatal bear attacks. Some prefectural governments provide  safety advice  regarding bears. 

If you plan to hike or camp in rural and mountainous areas of Japan:

• follow local  safety advice  and pay attention to
• warning notices

Snow sport safety

Back-country skiing (off-piste) and snowboarding is dangerous in most parts of Japan. You should stay within the boundaries of the ski resort. 

Take an emergency locator beacon with you if you plan to explore other areas of the mountains.

Many travellers have suffered serious head injuries they could've prevented by wearing the right equipment.

Check your insurance policy covers you for snow sports.

Local ski resorts govern rules in each ski region. You can be arrested and detained for unruly behaviour.

If you're skiing in Japan:

• use a helmet and protective gear
• learn local rules and get weather updates from your hotel, a local tourism centre or the local ski resort
• obey local ski region rules
• only visit areas that local authorities mark as safe
• know what your travel insurance policy covers you for

Climate and natural disasters

The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) has lifted its megaquake advisory for large parts of Japan following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake on 8 August 2024. There's a possibility for further earthquakes. Monitor local media and follow advice of local authorities.

A series of earthquakes occurred in Ishikawa Prefecture in Central Japan on and after 1 January. Some infrastructure may remain impacted. Exercise caution and follow local authorities' advice if travelling to affected areas. 

Japan experiences natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• volcanic eruptions
• earthquakes

In an emergency, consular help may be severely limited.

Be prepared to deal with emergencies by:

• maintaining a basic emergency supply kit
• securing your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• follow the advice of local authorities, emergency services and local media updates. Make sure you react to any evacuation orders.

Disaster preparation

The Japan National Tourism Organization provides disaster preparation  Safety Tips  for visitors to Japan and other useful emergency information.

In any emergency or crisis, it's important to keep in contact with family and friends if possible.

The following stations broadcast emergency information in English:

• US Armed Forces station (810 AM)
• Inter FM (76.1 FM) in Tokyo

Japanese public broadcaster NHK provides a free smartphone app , which can be set to receive emergency notifications in English. This includes earthquake, tsunami, volcanic eruption, typhoon, and missile warnings.

If there's a natural disaster:

• follow local authorities' advice
• react to any evacuation orders
• monitor the media, other local information sources, and the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with family and friends

Earthquakes and tsunamis

There's a constant risk of earthquakes and tsunamis.

The Japan Meteorological Agency  provides information in English about earthquakes and tsunamis.

Know the dangers of a major earthquake and the emergency plan information in your area. Know where your local shelter is. This information is available from local or prefectural government offices, such as the  Tokyo Metropolitan Government Disaster Prevention .

Local authorities are responsible during a crisis for helping people living or travelling within their jurisdictions.

If there's an earthquake:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• check the  Japan Meteorological Agency  for earthquake and tsunami information
• move to higher ground straight away if you're in a coastal region
• Latest earthquake information (NHK World News)
• Earthquake safety tips  (Japan National Tourism Organisation)

Typhoons and severe weather

The typhoon season is from May to November, with most activity between July and September.

Local authorities broadcast current typhoon information through the local media ( NHK World News ) and the Japan Meteorological Agency website.

If there's a typhoon approaching:

• check the latest typhoon information from the  Japan Meteorological Agency’s  website
• be alert to landslide risk areas

If there is heavy rain, stay indoors. If necessary, evacuate to a place on the second floor or higher.    Find out the location of your nearest evacuation shelter and move there when safe to do so.

Keep away from areas with:

• steep hills at risk of landslides
• flooded streets

Be careful of fallen electrical lines.

Japan has 110 active volcanoes.

The Japan Meteorological Agency  has a list of the latest volcano warnings.

If you plan to visit a volcanic area:

• be aware of alert levels, which can change at short notice

Winter weather

Parts of Japan experience heavy snowfalls and extremely low temperatures in winter.

Conditions can change suddenly.

Each year, people are injured or killed in snow-related incidents, including:

• motor vehicle accidents
• ice falling from roofs
• prolonged exposure to extreme cold
• ski accidents

Walking alone or under the effects of alcohol, or straying from marked trails, can be fatal.

Avalanches are common and heavy snowstorms can create deep powder snow drifts.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you are travelling while pregnant, confirm that your policy covers both your pregnancy and your baby in the event of a premature birth. Medical services for premature babies can cost over $A 150,000. See the  advice for pregnant travellers  page for more information.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

Different environments, unfamiliar customs and language barriers may worsen existing mental health conditions. They may also trigger new issues.

Mental health treatment and services can differ to those in Australia.

If you need counselling services in English while in Japan:

• call TELL Lifeline (+81 3) 5774 0992
• call TELL Counselling (+81 3) 4550 1146
• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (HealthDirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Japan has strict rules about bringing medication into the country. This affects both medication imports and medication you carry for personal use.

There are 4  categories (PDF 250 KB) of medicine. These are:

• psychotropic

You may need a permit or certificate to take medication into Japan. This will depend on the medication's classification, name and quantity.

Some medication is banned, including:

• the stimulant dexamphetamine, used to treat ADHD
• pseudoephedrine, found in some cold and flu tablets

Authorities could detain you if you're found with them.

For narcotic medications, including codeine, morphine and oxycodone, apply for a Narcotic Certificate. If you don't have this certificate when you enter Japan, authorities may confiscate the medication.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Japan. Take enough legal medication for your trip. See the  Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare  for more information.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• Bringing medication into Japan

Health risks

Restricted areas exist around the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant. The 2011 earthquake caused the release of lethal radiation. Radiation levels in almost all parts of Japan, including Tokyo, are within the normal range.

Monitor advice by the Japanese Government . There are ID checks points into the Restricted Areas . Do not enter without permission.

The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) provides details on radiation in Japan. ARPANSA has assessed the radiation levels in most parts of Japan, including Tokyo, to be within the normal range.

• Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
• Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
• Nuclear Regulation Authority

Insect-borne diseases

Japanese encephalitis can occur in Japan's rural areas. Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Measles and rubella

Measles and rubella cases have been reported in Japan in recent years.

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.

• Infectious diseases
• Measles immunisation service
• Rubella immunisation service

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities are of a high standard. You can find medical facilities with English-speaking staff in most major cities, however, you may have difficulties finding English-speaking medical staff in some parts of Japan.

Medical care in Japan can be expensive. You may need to pay up-front or give a guarantee that you'll cover costs before you're treated.

The Japan National Tourism Organization lists hospitals with English and other foreign language-speaking staff.

There are many hospitals with decompression chambers in areas where diving is popular.

Medical information for Japan

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you within the scope of our  Consular Services Charter , but we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

See the  Australian Embassy Tokyo website  for more information about arrests in Japan.

Be aware that you won't be allowed to make a phone call if you are arrested in Japan. You can also be detained for up to 23 days without any formal charge.

Authorities can arrest and charge you if they find trace amounts of illegal drugs in your blood or urine.

• Carrying or using drugs
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Japanese family law, including divorce and child custody, is very different to Australian law. For example, joint custody of a child after divorce is not a legal option, and there are limits to access for a non-custodial parent. The Family Courts in Japan generally consider that it is in a child’s best interests for them to remain in their “usual place of residence”. Courts therefore usually give sole custody to the parent who has taken care of the child most recently.

If you're involved in custody or other family disputes, consult a lawyer before you leave Australia or if you are already in Japan. We have produced some general information about custody, child abduction and parental rights. 

Australia and Japan are both parties to The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.

If you're concerned that your child has been wrongfully removed to or detained in Japan, contact the Attorney-General's Department in Australia.

• Travelling with children

Employment law

Some employment agents may mislead and encourage foreigners to work in Japan without:

• the correct visa
• financial arrangements in place

This could leave you open to exploitation and prosecution.

Authorities have arrested Australians for working in the entertainment industry while in Japan on tourist visas.

If you want to travel to Japan for work:

• check the true nature of the work offered
• get the correct visa before arriving in Japan
• get legal advice before signing any contract

Living or working overseas

Police powers

Police can stop you on the street, demand identification and search you and your belongings.

If you're in a public place, police can seize:

• knives longer than 5.5cm, including blades and penknives
• any other weapons or things you could use as weapons
• any item they reasonably suspect you stole or have unlawfully

If they find any of these items on you, it’s likely that police will detain you.

If you're arrested, police can detain you for up to 23 days without charge, including for offences you might think are minor. Police might hold you for weeks or months while they investigate and undertake legal proceedings.

The initial police interview could last several hours. Police might record it in writing rather than electronically.

Under Japanese law, you can:

• remain silent
• access legal representation
• have an interpreter provided

However, in Japan police can question you without your lawyer present.

English interpreters may be substandard. Get a  list of English-speaking lawyers around Japan from the Australian Embassy website.

If you're visiting Japan short-term as a tourist or for business, you must always carry your passport.

If you live in Japan, you must always carry your residence card.

It's illegal to:

• buy or drink alcohol if you're under 20 years old
• drive with any alcohol in your bloodstream
• allow someone under the influence of alcohol to drive a vehicle in which you're a passenger

The following activities are also illegal:

• importing or possessing firearms or other weapons without a permit
• smoking on the streets in some parts of Tokyo and other cities
• using UHF-CB radios (walkie-talkies) that don't meet Japanese standards, such as those purchased outside Japan
• resisting arrest or other actions that obstruct an official's duties
• flying a drone without a permit in many areas of Japan. Strict regulations apply under aviation laws
• having illegal drugs in your body (detected by urine testing).

Penalties for serious crimes, such as murder, include the death penalty.

Other sentences can include:

• heavy fines
• lengthy jail terms with hard labour
• deportation

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

Japan recognises dual nationality until the age of 20, after which the dual national must decide which nationality to retain.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australians are eligible for Japan's visa exemption scheme for short-stay tourism and business travel.

You don't need a visa if you're visiting for less than 90 days:

• as a tourist
• for a business trip or conference
• to visit friends and family

After entering under the visa exemption scheme, entry status cannot be changed to another visa status without departing and then re-entering Japan with the appropriate visa, such as a spouse, work, or study visa.

See the  Embassy of Japan in Australia website  for more information (including eligibility and required documents). 

See the Ministry for Health, Labour and Welfare and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs websites for full details on entry requirements. 

More information

• Immigration Bureau of Japan  (Government of Japan)
• Customs and Tariff Bureau of Japan  (Government of Japan)

Border measures

If you're transiting through Japan and your onward flight is leaving from a different airport, you must enter Japan. In order to transit between airports you will need to meet the entry requirements detailed above.

Please confirm any questions about transit directly with your airline.

Other formalities

You'll be photographed and fingerprinted electronically when you arrive, even if you're a permanent resident in Japan. If you refuse, immigration officers could deny you entry.

Travellers aged under 16 years, or who hold a diplomatic or official visa, are exempt.

If you'll be staying in Japan long term, you will need to register your details with the  Immigration Bureau of Japan  before arriving. Once you present the correct landing permission, you'll get a residence card. You must always carry it with you.

Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• in Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• if you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

If you lose your passport while travelling in Japan, try retracing your steps. Lost items are often handed into hotels, shop owners, train stations and police boxes.

It's important to look after your passport carefully. Passports that have gone through a washing machine or exposed to heavy rain will likely need to be replaced. 

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The Japanese currency is the Yen (JPY).

No restrictions apply to bringing foreign currency in or out of the country. Declare all amounts more than JPY 1 million or equivalent, when you arrive or leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Cash is preferred in most places, but cards are becoming more widely used, especially in major cities.

Hotels accept major credit cards. Credit cards are still not widely accepted outside major cities.

Some ATMs at banks and convenience stores don't accept foreign cards.

Ask your bank if your cards will work in Japan.

Local travel

Check the  Japan National Tourism Organization  for emergency updates in English. The site also has advice on safe and hassle-free travel in Japan.

Fukushima and surrounding areas

There are some restricted areas around the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant. This is due to the 2011 earthquake that resulted in the release of lethal radiation. The Japanese Government specifies these areas.

If you must stay overnight in restricted areas, ask local authorities for advice on how to minimise health risks.

Monitor and follow the advice from local authorities.

• Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA)

Travelling in Japan with a Disability

Japan has a number of resources available online with tips and advice on travelling around Japan as a tourist with a disability.

• Japan Travel – Traveling with a disability
• Japan Accessible Tourism Center
• Accessible Travel Japan
• Advice for travellers with a disability

Driving permit

To drive in Japan, you must hold either:

• a valid Japanese driver's licence, or
• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and a current Australian driver's licence

After 365 days, you need to get a Japanese licence.

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

• Driving in Japan
• Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department

Road travel

Roads and vehicles are mostly well-maintained and traffic is orderly.

Vehicles travel is on the left-hand side like in Australia. In Japan it's illegal to drive with any alcohol in your bloodstream.

Heavy snowfalls and ice in the winter can make driving dangerous, especially if you are unaccustomed to driving in these conditions. Ensure your vehicle has the necessary equipment, including snow tyres, chains, and a dig-out kit.   More information:

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check your travel insurance policy covers you for riding motorbikes.

Always wear a helmet.

It's safe to use taxis in Japan.

Taxi drivers usually open and shut the rear passenger doors remotely.

Public transport

Japan has modern and reliable rail and bus services.

Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Japan's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Passenger ferries depart from Tokyo (Yokohama) to many destinations across Japan as well as Asia.

Several international cruises stopover in Japan.

• Going on a cruise

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)’s Tourist Information Center accepts telephone enquiries 24 hours a day. Call (+81 3) 3201 3331.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

You can also contact the National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan’s Consumer Hotline for Tourists. Call (+81 3) 5449 0906 from Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm, excluding national holidays.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For Tokyo English-speaking Police, call (+81 3) 3501 0110 (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:15pm).

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

If a report is hard to get, seek advice from a lawyer or the English-speaking Police.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Mental health services

Call  TELL Lifeline  services in English (+81 3) 5774 0992.

Call  TELL Counselling  services in English (+81 3) 4550 1146.

Living in Japan

English information on living in Japan is available from the:

• Japanese Cabinet Office
• Council of Local Authorities for International Relations
• Tokyo International Communications Committee

In Tokyo, for advice from the  Foreign Residents' Advisory Centre , call (+81 3) 5320 7744.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Tokyo or Australian Consulate-General in Osaka .

Australian Embassy, Tokyo

2-1-14 Mita, Minato-ku

Tokyo 108-8361

Phone: (+81 3) 5232 4111

Fax: (+81 3) 5232 4057

Website: japan.embassy.gov.au

Email: [email protected]

Facebook:  Australian Embassy Japan

Instagram:  @australianinjpn

X:  @AustraliaInJPN

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Australian Consulate-General, Osaka

16th Floor, Twin 21MID Tower

2-1-61 Shiromi, Chuo-ku

Osaka 540-6116

Phone: (+81 6) 6941 9271 or (+81 6) 6941 9448

Fax: (+81 6) 6920 4543

Website: japan.embassy.gov.au/tkyo/location_osaka.html

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Japan?

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Travelling to Japan from Australia: everything you need to know

Visiting Japan from Australia is possible once again. Whether you’re drawn to Japan for its world-class cuisine, culture and arts or impressive ski slopes – we've assembled this guide to help you prepare. Learn all you need to know about border restrictions, vaccination requirements, mask-wearing and more.

23 February 2023 • 4 min read

Your guide to planning Japan travel

Prior to the pandemic, Japan was one of the most popular destinations for Australians , with more than half a million travellers annually experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the Land of the Rising Sun.

While COVID-19 hampered travel plans for several years, the country is open again and travelling to Japan from Australia is back on the agenda. Here, we cover what you need to know about visiting Japan, including border restrictions, vaccination requirements, mask-wearing and more to keep you safe while abroad.

Visiting Japan from Australia is back on the travel agenda

If you’ve been wondering “Can I travel to Japan from Australia yet?” you’ll be happy to know that this popular tourist destination is once again open to the world.

So, whether your Japan travels from Australia will immerse you in the country’s intriguing history, excite your tastebuds with mouth-watering cuisine, or get your adrenaline racing on some of Asia’s finest ski slopes, it’s time to prepare for your trip!

Can Australians travel to Japan again?

Yes! Not only is travelling to Japan from Australia a top priority for many travellers, but you can do so without most of the previous restrictions. As of 11 October, the Government of Japan peeled back a number of measures to make it easier to enter and enjoy the country:

• Daily traveller caps lifted (previously 50,000 entrants per day).
• Visa-free travel reinstated to visitors from select countries, including Australia.
• Travellers are free to book their own flights and accommodation (no longer necessary to buy a packaged tour).
• Testing for COVID-19 both pre-flight and upon arrival at the airport have been scrapped for those with a valid vaccination certificate.

Is it safe to travel to Japan from Australia due to COVID-19?

While generally it is safe to travel to Japan from Australia, it’s important to be aware that COVID-19 is still circulating in the country, particularly in busy metropolitan areas.

The Japanese population managed to avoid a major surge in COVID cases for the first two years of the pandemic, but at the start of 2022 it experienced a significant increase in cases. This was brought under control in the following months, before cases increased once again towards the end of 2022.  

While COVID is present in increased numbers, it’s important to practise good hygiene, follow the local health authority’s advice and stay away from others if you feel unwell. 

What Australians travelling to Japan need to enter the country

Despite the lifting of most restrictions, there are still border rules you must abide by when visiting Japan from Australia.

You will need to provide a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate (i.e. three or more doses) or show proof that you have returned a negative COVID-19 test which was swabbed within 72 hours of your flight’s departure – approved tests only, no rapid-antigen tests.

Australians travelling to Japan will also need to fill out a COVID-19 questionnaire , and the government recommends you download the MySOS app (or use the website) and use the Fast Track service to streamline your entry into Japan.

COVID-19 rules and restrictions for Japan travel

While Japan has lifted most of its emergency pandemic measures, COVID-19 remains a risk throughout the country and mask-wearing is the norm. Some local areas may also be enforcing their own COVID-19 restrictions, so stay on top of the latest news for where you plan to travel and always follow the local health advice.

Also note that Japan has strict rules around the type of medication you can bring into the country – whether or not it is related to COVID-19. Some cold and flu medications, for example, as well as ingredients in ADHD medication may be banned from entering the country.

If you plan to pack medications for your Japan travels from Australia, make sure you check advice from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan before leaving.

Safety advice for Australians travelling to Japan

When you travel to Japan from Australia, there are some additional health and safety warnings you should know about – beyond pandemic-related measures.

Japan is susceptible to earthquakes and tsunamis, with the most activity occurring between July and September. Be sure to check travel alerts regularly to stay across forecasted weather events or warnings.

In winter the country can also experience heavy snowfall and low temperatures. It's these weather conditions we have to thank for Japan’s impeccable ski resorts, but Australians travelling to Japan take note: always wear protective gear and only visit safe areas when travelling for skiing and snowboarding.

The effects of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant disaster in 2011 are ongoing, and there exists a large Exclusion Zone that is still exposed to high levels of radiation. While many parts of the region remain restricted, there are dedicated tours you can book. Make sure you do your own research into the potential short- and long-term health impacts of visiting this area.

Finally, be aware that Japanese encephalitis is active in certain rural parts of the country, and outbreaks of both measles and rubella have been reported in recent years. Make sure your vaccinations are all up to date before visiting Japan from Australia.

Travel insurance, particularly a policy with COVID benefits , can give you peace of mind when travelling to Japan from Australia. Before heading overseas, find out more about Medibank's travel insurance .

COVID-19 Travel Insurance Benefits and inclusions

Whether you're planning a trip within Australia, or heading overseas, our COVID-19 travel insurance benefits can help you relax and enjoy your much needed break. 

https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/japan

https://www.bousai.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/book/pdf/en/01_Simulation_of_a_Major_Earthquake.pdf

https://blog.japanwondertravel.com/report-of-fukushima-exclusion-zone-tour-from-tokyo-10784

Important things you should know:  Limits, sub-limits, exclusions and conditions apply. This is general advice only. Medibank Private Limited, ABN 47 080 890 259, an Authorised Representative, AR 286089, of Travel Insurance Partners Pty Limited, ABN 73 144 049 230 AFSL 360138 arranges the insurance on behalf of the insurer. The insurer is Zurich Australian Insurance Limited ABN 13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507. Please consider your own needs and the  Combined FSG/PDS  to decide if this product is right for you. For information on the Target Market and  Target Market Determinations , visit  medibank.com.au/travel-insurance/help/

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Travel time from Tokyo to Australia

How long does it really take to fly from Tokyo to Australia? Here's a sample itinerary for a commercial flight plan. If you want to know the total travel time to reach Australia, you need to include time at the airports. Eventually, you'll be able to customize this itinerary to select other nearby airports and choose your preferred airline.

Tuesday, 9:07 am :  start in Tokyo drive for about 28 minutes most airlines recommend you get to the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight, so arrive by 10:30 am at the latest

10:05 am :  get your boarding pass and go through TSA security allow enough time for long security lines during busy travel seasons or holidays, and prepare for the wait time

11:05 am :  arrive at the gate once you're ready to board, you can get something to eat in the airport or just relax near the gate

11:35 am :  prepare for boarding check your boarding pass for your group number or listen to the gate agent as they announce boarding, some airlines require you to be in the boarding area 10-15 minutes before departure or risk losing your seat

11:50 am :  board Japan Air Lines Co. Ltd. flight you can scroll down to view other airlines that fly this route

12:00 pm :  this is your scheduled departure time but remember flights can be delayed, so take that into account it takes the plane an average of 15 minutes to taxi to the runway

12:15 pm :  wheels up! take-off from HND fly for about 9 hours in the air

9:25 pm (local time) :   Birdsville Airport (BVI) Australia is 0:15 hours behind Tokyo so the time in Tokyo is actually 9:25 pm taxi on the runway for an average of 15 minutes to the gate

9:40 pm (local time) :  arrive at the gate at BVI deboard the plane, and claim any baggage if you're renting a car, check if you need to take a shuttle to car rental agency, otherwise you can ride in a cab, limo, or Uber for about 20 hours to your destination

Wednesday, 5:42 pm (local time) :  arrive in Australia

Total travel time: 33 hours

How far is Australia from Tokyo? Here's the quick answer if you have a private jet and you can fly in the fastest possible straight line.

Flight distance: 4,334 miles or 6974 km

Flight time: 9 hours, 10 minutes

Compare this to a whole day of commercial travel with the airports and waiting in line for security, which ends up taking a total of 32 hours, 35 minutes .

Flying private is roughly 3.6x faster , and saves you about 23.5 hours in your total travel time.

Because of the curvature of the Earth, the shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or "as the crow flies" which is calculated using an iterative Vincenty formula. For a long distance, this appears as a curve on the map, and this is often the route that commercial airlines will take so it's a good estimate of the frequent flyer miles you'll accumulate as well.

This is a fairly long flight, so unless you have a Gulfstream G650 or your own Boeing or Airbus, you might be booking a commercial flight. In that case, your travel time would really need to include how many minutes to get to your local airport, wait for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other airport, and get to your destination. The flight itinerary at the top of the page takes into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate of your actual flight time .

The most common route is HND to BVI, so that's what we used in the sample itinerary. However, you may want to explore travel alternatives, you could try one of these routes:

• NRT to SYD Narita International to Sydney International
• NRT to MEL Narita International to Melbourne International
• NRT to BVI Narita International to Birdsville Airport
• HND to SYD Tokyo International to Sydney International
• HND to MEL Tokyo International to Melbourne International
• HND to BVI Tokyo International to Birdsville Airport
• OKO to SYD Yokota AB to Sydney International
• OKO to MEL Yokota AB to Melbourne International
• OKO to BVI Yokota AB to Birdsville Airport
• TYO to SYD Tokyo Metropolitan Area to Sydney International
• TYO to MEL Tokyo Metropolitan Area to Melbourne International
• TYO to BVI Tokyo Metropolitan Area to Birdsville Airport

We picked Japan Air Lines Co. Ltd. for your main flight, but there are other airlines that you should check if you're looking for the cheapest flight, or you need a different schedule. Check the websites of these airlines:

• Japan Air Lines Co. Ltd. (JL)
• All Nippon Airways Co. (NH)

Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to Australia. Start by reading the Trippy page on where to stay in Australia . Check out some of the questions people have asked about Australia like Best Things to visit in Australia ? Click the button below to explore Australia in detail.

The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line. But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences so go ahead and check the reverse flight itinerary to fly from Australia to Tokyo , or go to the main page to calculate other flight times .

If you happen to know Tokyo, don't forget to help other travelers and answer some questions about Tokyo!

There are 7 non-stop flights from Australia to Japan.

Jetstar Airways Qantas Airways

See the full list of airline routes and airports to book your trip. You may need to drive to a nearby airport to get a direct flight. Use the form below to search for cheap airline tickets.

More trip calculations

• Airports in Japan
• airlines flying to Japan
• Reverse Nonstop Flight
• How Far To Fly
• How Long To Fly
• How Far To Drive
• How Long To Drive
• How Much To Drive
• How Far Is Halfway
• Time Change

Flight path from Australia to Japan

Open this map directly on Google Maps .

Non-stop flights between Australia and Japan

Here is a list of direct nonstop flights from Australia to Japan. This can help you find the best flight on your preferred airline. We found a total of 7 flights to Japan nonstop:

Airline routes

• Jetstar Airways from CNS to KIX
• Jetstar Airways from BNE to KIX
• Jetstar Airways from CNS to NRT
• Jetstar Airways from BNE to NRT
• Qantas Airways from SYD to HND
• Qantas Airways from BNE to HND
• Qantas Airways from MEL to HND

Airport codes

• Cairns Airport ( CNS )
• Brisbane Airport ( BNE )
• Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport ( SYD )
• Melbourne Airport ( MEL )
• Kansai International Airport ( KIX )
• Narita International Airport ( NRT )
• Tokyo Haneda Airport ( HND )

Connecting flights between Australia and Japan

Here is a list of connecting flights from Australia to Japan. This can help you find a one-stop flight with the shortest layover time. We found a total of 13 flights to Japan with one connection:

• Jetstar Airways   ADL to BNE to NRT
• Jetstar Airways   ADL to BNE to KIX
• Jetstar Airways   ADL to CNS to KIX
• Jetstar Airways   ADL to CNS to NRT
• Jetstar Airways   BNE to CNS to KIX
• Jetstar Airways   BNE to CNS to NRT
• Qantas Airways   ADL to BNE to HND
• Qantas Airways   ADL to MEL to HND
• Qantas Airways   BNE to MEL to HND
• Qantas Airways   CNS to MEL to HND
• Qantas Airways   DRW to MEL to HND
• Qantas Airways   SYD to BNE to HND
• Qantas Airways   SYD to MEL to HND
• Adelaide Airport ( ADL )
• Darwin International Airport ( DRW )

related links

• airports in Australia
• cities in Australia
• airports in Japan
• cities in Japan

Non-stop direct flights

Travelmath provides an online direct flight finder to help you determine whether there is a non-stop flight to your destination. Nonstop flights can be faster, since they don't require you to change planes or stop at a connecting airport. However, sometimes you can't find any non-stop flights between two cities. In that case, you may want to search for a direct connection that goes through an airline's hub. You can use the flight search engine on this site to find the best airline routes for your trip. Enter any city or IATA airport code to check for direct flights.

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