Japan allows tourists for first time in two years as it relaxes COVID-19 restrictions – but visitors will need a chaperone | World News
Japan is opening its doors to foreign tourists after two years of strict COVID-19 travel restrictions, but visitors will need to be accompanied for the duration of their stay.
The country has imposed some of the harshest pandemic border controls in the world, barring most non-residents from entering.
One of the last countries to lift restrictions, Japan The Japan Tourism Agency (JTA) said it will start allowing entry of tourists from Friday.
However, only visitors on the package tour will be allowed to enter the first phase and they will have to wear a mask, buy private health insurance and be accompanied for the duration of their stay.
The JTA said: “Tour guides should regularly remind tour participants of the necessary infection prevention measures, including wearing and removing masks, at each stage of the tour.
“Even outdoors, wearing a mask should continue in situations where people are conversing in close proximity.”
Read more: Wales set to lift last remaining coronavirus restrictions
Announcement of COVID-19 safety measures at Narita International Airport amid widespread Omicron variant
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has pledged to take border measures in line with other rich nations.
The government recently started a relaxing masking guideline for the general public even though masking is very popular.
James Jang, a travel agent from Australia who took part in a pilot tour, said the rules will likely put some people out of work now.
“Customers will be fine with wearing masks indoors, but wearing them 24 hours is a nuisance,” he said.
“The cost of having a guide all the time can deter clients until later when they have more flexibility.”
Japan will be one of the last countries in the world to remove bars for tourists in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Countries that have strict restrictions on international arrivals include:
- China: The entry of foreign nationals is still suspended under certain circumstances. Strict testing requirements are in place for those who are granted entry.
- Cameroon: Commercial flight options are available for entry into the country, but access across land and sea borders is limited due to COVID-19.
