Must-Read Before Visiting Japan! 6 Major Changes in 2025 Affecting Transportation, Accommodation, and Itinerary Planning
- 768miramar
- Aug 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 23
Japan has always been one of the most popular travel destinations in Asia. From Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto to Mt. Fuji and Hokkaido, it attracts tens of millions of visitors every year. With record-breaking tourist numbers, the Japanese government and local tourism boards have rolled out new measures and services.
Traveling in Japan in 2025 will feel different from before. Here are 6 key changes every traveler should know—helping you avoid mistakes and enjoy the latest convenience.
1. Universal Studios Osaka: New “Donkey Kong Country”
Launched at the end of 2024, this new themed area has quickly become a major attraction at Universal Studios Japan. With its vibrant jungle design, visitors can:
Ride the thrilling Mine Cart Madness roller coaster.
Explore the Golden Temple and Donkey Kong’s Treehouse.
Try limited-edition food and buy exclusive merchandise.
This expansion makes Osaka an even hotter destination in 2025, especially for families and gaming fans. Advance ticket purchase and express passes are highly recommended.
2. Narita Skyliner Introduces Face Recognition Boarding
Starting January 2025, the Skyliner express train between Narita Airport and central Tokyo now supports facial recognition boarding. After registering upon ticket purchase, passengers can simply scan their face at Ueno, Nippori, and Narita Airport stations.
Benefits:
No more searching for tickets or QR codes.
Much easier when traveling with luggage.
Multi-language support for foreign travelers.
Japan’s transport system is clearly entering the “contactless era,” faster and smoother than ever.
3. Suica Transportation Card Upgrade
The must-have Suica card is getting a big update in 2025. The new Welcome Suica will be available from March:
Validity extended from 28 days to 180 days—great for long stays and repeat visitors.
Mobile Suica now has a full English interface.
By 2026, Suica will connect directly with bank accounts for easier top-ups and payments.
This means foreign visitors can rely almost entirely on Suica for trains, shopping, and dining across Japan.
4. Shinkansen Seat Reallocation: Fewer Non-Reserved Seats
From March 2025, the Tokaido Shinkansen’s Nozomi trains will adjust seating: Car 3 will become reserved only, leaving non-reserved seating only in Cars 1 and 2.
Impact on travelers:
Fewer non-reserved seats (about 250 reduced to 165).
Harder to find a seat during peak hours (Tokyo–Nagoya–Osaka route).
Advance reservation strongly recommended to avoid standing tickets.
Independent travelers will feel this change the most.
5. Kyoto Accommodation Tax Increase & Osaka Smoking Ban
To address overtourism pressure, major cities are tightening rules:
Kyoto Accommodation Tax: From spring 2026, tax will be charged based on room price. Luxury hotels may require up to ¥10,000 per night in taxes.
Osaka Smoking Ban: From January 27, 2025, smoking (including e-cigarettes) will be banned across city streets and parks. Violators face a ¥1,000 fine. From April, restaurants will also implement stricter no-smoking policies.
Tip: Smokers should locate designated smoking areas in advance to avoid fines.
6. Overtourism Measures: Mt. Fuji Fees & Visitor Limits
Japan welcomed a record 36.8 million visitors in 2024, leading to congestion and environmental concerns.
Mt. Fuji 5th Station: Entry fees and daily visitor caps will be introduced.
Onsen Areas: Some towns now add a small “bath tax.”
Tourist Behavior Guidelines: Kyoto, Kamakura, and others have rules to prevent intrusive photography or entering private residential areas.
Though these measures may feel inconvenient, they help preserve the environment and local life quality—ensuring sustainable tourism.
2025 Japan Trips: More Convenient, More Planning Needed
This year brings both exciting attractions (Donkey Kong Country, Skyliner facial recognition) and stricter policies (fewer Shinkansen seats, higher taxes, smoking bans).
Travel tips:
Check new transport and ticketing rules before departure.
Allow extra time for seat reservations and ticketing.
Budget for new taxes and fees.
Enjoy new experiences while respecting local rules.
With these changes in mind, your 2025 Japan journey will be smoother, richer, and more memorable.
Want more updates on traveling in Japan?Stay tuned—we’ll be covering Japan’s golf courses, must-see attractions, and transportation tips on our blog. Don’t miss out on the latest travel insights!
Comments