Recent travel updates from across Japan, published within the last month.
From April 1, 2026, Japanese police can issue blue-ticket fines for a wide range of bicycle traffic violations. The system applies to riders aged 16 or older and is relevant to residents and foreign visitors using rental bicycles.
The Edo-Tokyo Museum in Ryogoku reopened on March 31, 2026, after being closed for approximately four years. Updated facilities, interactive displays and multilingual digital guidance were added while major permanent-exhibition landmarks were retained.
MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives opened on March 28, 2026, in Takanawa Gateway City. The new cultural venue presents exhibitions and performances connecting Japanese traditions, contemporary expression and ideas about the future.
Kyoto City introduced revised accommodation-tax rates on March 1, 2026. The charge is calculated per person, per night and increases with the accommodation price, reaching up to ¥10,000 for the most expensive stays.
Japan dropped out of the ten most popular overseas destinations for Chinese travellers during the 2026 Lunar New Year period as diplomatic tensions and official travel warnings continued to affect demand and flight schedules.
Fujiyoshida cancelled the 2026 Arakurayama Sengen Park Cherry Blossom Festival following serious concerns about congestion and disruptive visitor behaviour. The park itself was not closed, and large spring crowds were still expected.
PokéPark Kanto opened on February 5, 2026, inside Yomiuriland in Inagi. The permanent Pokémon attraction includes a forest trail featuring more than 600 Pokémon, a themed town, live entertainment, games, food and exclusive merchandise.
Japan welcomed approximately 42.7 million international visitors in 2025, exceeding 40 million for the first time and surpassing the previous record set in 2024. The result remained strong despite a sharp year-on-year decline in visitors from mainland China in December.
From November 1, 2026, eligible visitors will generally pay Japan's 10% consumption tax when shopping and receive a refund after authorities confirm that the purchased goods are leaving Japan. The reform also simplifies several product and packaging rules.