Starting in 2025, climbing Mount Fuji will come with new rules and a mandatory fee, designed to tackle overtourism and protect the mountain’s pristine environment. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a first-time visitor, here’s everything you need to know about the updated climbing fees, online reservations, and trail restrictions. …

Overview of the Memorial Ceremony On June 23, 2025, a memorial ceremony took place at Peace Memorial Park in Itoman City, Okinawa, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II’s ground battle in the region. The event was attended by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Okinawa Governor …

How Kyoto’s New Accommodation Tax and Regional Tourism Initiatives Are Shaping Sustainable Travel Japan is taking bold steps to manage its booming tourism industry. With Kyoto introducing a significant accommodation tax increase and the government promoting lesser-known regions like Hokkaido, Okinawa, and the Japanese Alps, these efforts aim to balance …

In May 2025, Japan welcomed a record-breaking 3.7 million foreign tourists, a 21.5% increase from the previous year, marking the highest monthly figure ever recorded. The cumulative total from January to May reached 18.1 million, up 23.9% compared to the same period in 2024. This remarkable growth is driven by …

Key Points Mount Shinmoedake erupted for the first time in seven years on June 22, 2025, with a plume of smoke reaching 500 meters.   A safety advisory has been issued, warning of the danger of falling large rocks and pyroclastic flows within 2 kilometers of the crater.   The …

Overview: Yamanashi Prefecture is planning a new transportation system called the “Fuji Tram” to connect the base of Mount Fuji to the 5th station. Technology: The tram will use magnetic induction and rubber tires, aiming to protect the environment while improving tourist access. Cost and Connectivity: The project is estimated …

Japan is grappling with an unprecedented heatwave, with heatstroke alerts issued across multiple regions. This period, typically marked by the rainy season, has instead seen an early onset of extreme heat due to climate change, significantly impacting both tourists and residents. On June 18, Tokyo recorded a high of 34.4°C …

Overview of JESTA JESTA is a new system similar to the U.S. ESTA, designed to streamline entry for tourists while addressing overtourism and security. It’s expected to require travelers to get online authorization before their trip, making entry smoother but adding a pre-travel step. Target Countries and Impact It will …

The Japanese government is exploring a groundbreaking plan to make private health insurance mandatory for all inbound tourists starting in 2026. Policy Overview and Purpose Japan is tackling a growing problem: tourists receiving medical treatment and leaving without paying. To combat this, the government is considering requiring all inbound tourists …

Yamashita Honki Udon, operated by Garden Co., Ltd., will offer a limited-time menu item called “Gold and Cherry Blossom Dance: White Mentaiko Cheese Cream Udon” from April 1, 2024 (Monday) to April 30, 2024 (Tuesday) at all Yamashita Honki Udon stores nationwide1. This indulgent udon dish combines the popular No. …