Latest travel news, local updates, and tourism information in Japan.
Updated Apr 2026 Reopening schedule confirmed. See our companion guide: Togakushi Shrine Reopening 2026 — 9 Dates & Access. Togakushi Shrine Closes Famous Cedar Avenue Until Spring 2026 NAGANO, JAPAN – In an unprecedented move, Togakushi Shrine has completely closed…
2026/01/12(Mon)For travelers planning a trip to Japan in early 2026, there’s exciting news: the famous Kawazu Sakura (cherry blossoms) in Shizuoka Prefecture are predicted to bloom earlier than ever, offering a rare chance to see Japan’s iconic flower well before…
Current date: 2026-01-02 (JST) What Happened Japanese experts are reminding the public that Mount Fuji, which has not had a major eruption in over 300 years, remains an active volcano. While there is no immediate sign of an eruption, volcanologists…
Current date: 2025-12-27 (JST) What Is Happening The traditional winter phenomenon known as “Omiwatari” (御神渡り), or “The God’s Crossing,” on Lake Suwa in Nagano Prefecture has not occurred since the winter of 2018. If the lake does not freeze completely…
Updated for 2026: Visit Japan Web now issues a single, unified QR code for immigration and customs. Older guides referencing two separate codes are out of date — most travelers in 2026 only need to show one screen at the…
Current date: 2025-12-19 (JST) What Happened Shibuya Ward will implement a revised ordinance to address the growing issue of littering in its busiest districts. Starting June 1, 2026, individuals caught dropping trash in public spaces will face a 2,000 yen…
Current date: 2025-12-19 (JST) What Happened Across Japan, local municipalities are moving from requests to concrete actions to manage the effects of high tourist numbers. Instead of national-level policies, specific towns and districts are implementing their own rules, including fines,…
Current date: 2025-12-18 (JST) What Happened Japan’s National Police Agency announced a record number of enforcement actions against illegal taxi operations, known locally as “shirotaku” (白タク), through October 2025. According to a report from Kyodo News, there were 113 cases,…
Published: November 24, 2025 As winter descends upon Tokyo, the city undergoes a magical transformation. The crisp, cool air is electrified by millions of twinkling lights, turning everyday streets into breathtaking spectacles. From classic, elegant displays to massive, jaw-dropping light…