As of June 2025, Japan remains one of the world’s safest and most popular destinations and currently sits at Level 1 in the U.S. State Department’s advisory system, meaning travelers are advised to exercise normal precautions. There are no widespread warnings or significant safety threats, making Japan a generally low-risk country for international visitors, according to the latest update from the U.S. Department of State.

However, listeners considering a trip to Japan should be aware of several important changes and ongoing developments that could affect their travel experience this year. One of the most significant updates is the launch of a new pre-arrival screening system, sometimes referred to as “JESTA” or a pre-clearance system. This system, introduced as a pilot project with Taiwan, allows some travelers to complete all required border formalities before departing for Japan, streamlining arrival processes and potentially reducing wait times at Japanese airports. Authorities have stated that this system may be expanded to additional countries in the future. While this will help many travelers, it is important to check up-to-date information about entry requirements well before departure.

Transportation within Japan is also seeing key updates in 2025. The Nozomi Shinkansen, Japan’s fastest train service between Tokyo and Osaka, has reduced its number of non-reserved seats beginning in March. More compartments have been converted into reserved seating to enhance comfort and manage increasing passenger numbers. This means tourists who prefer flexibility and spontaneous travel may find non-reserved options more limited, especially during holiday seasons or busy periods. Making seat reservations in advance is now strongly recommended, particularly for those using the Nozomi or traveling on high-demand routes.

Japan continues to experience very high visitor numbers, driving concerns about overtourism in popular places such as Kyoto, Tokyo, and the Mount Fuji region. With a new entrance fee for Mount Fuji and global tourist taxes rising, there is a renewed emphasis on respecting local culture and following new regulations at major attractions. Travelers may encounter larger crowds, especially at sites popularized on social media, and are encouraged to plan their trips with consideration for these factors.

An unfounded rumor about a major earthquake in July 2025 circulated online recently, causing some concern and leading to a limited number of cancellations. There is no credible scientific basis for this prediction, but as always in Japan’s seismically active environment, visitors should familiarize themselves with local safety guidelines and know how to respond in the event of any natural disaster.

Entry requirements for different nationalities remain largely unchanged, but with the ongoing rollout of electronic systems, travelers should double-check visa and pre-clearance requirements using official government sources before booking flights.

In summary, there are presently no broad travel advisories or heightened warnings for Japan. Listeners are encouraged to review the latest official updates, plan for changes in train travel and pre-arrival procedures, and respect new rules aimed at managing tourism’s impact on local communities. By staying informed and planning ahead, it is possible to enjoy all that Japan has to offer with peace of mind in 2025.