A Step-by-Step Immigration Guide for First-Time Visitors
Japan is an exciting, unique, and beautiful destination—but like any international trip, the first hour after landing can feel overwhelming. What do you do first? What documents do you need? And how do you get through immigration smoothly?
This guide walks you through the full arrival process at a Japanese airport, whether you’re landing at Haneda, Narita, or Kansai.
Here’s exactly what to expect, step by step.
📷 If your travels bring you to Kyoto consider booking a tour or photography session with us!
1. Arrival at the Airport in Japan
As soon as your plane lands, you’ll be guided through the airport toward immigration.
Japanese airports are well-marked, clean, and highly organized. Almost all signs are in English and Japanese, and staff members often speak basic English or can point you in the right direction.
Don’t rush—just follow the flow of other passengers and head toward the “Quarantine/Immigration” area.
2. Before Immigration: Prepare Your Documents
Before reaching the immigration counter, make sure you have:
- Your passport
- Your Visit Japan Web QR codes (for immigration and customs)
- Your flight details and hotel address
- Your return ticket or proof of onward travel
Visit Japan Web is a digital system that lets you complete immigration and customs declarations ahead of time. You can fill it out online before departure and save the QR codes to your phone or print them. It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended—it speeds things up and reduces paperwork.
🔍 If you didn’t complete Visit Japan Web, there may be paper forms to fill out on arrival. This takes extra time.
3. Immigration Checkpoint
At immigration, you’ll either pass through automatic facial recognition gates (for some nationalities and passports) or go to a manned counter.
There, the officer will ask:
- “How long will you stay in Japan?”
- “What is the purpose of your visit?”
- “Where are you staying?”
They may also ask to see your return ticket. These are routine questions—just answer clearly and politely.
If you don’t speak Japanese, don’t worry—you can answer in English. Japanese immigration officers are used to foreign visitors and usually speak enough to get through the process.
4. Baggage Claim
Once you pass immigration, you’ll follow signs to Baggage Claim to collect your checked luggage.
Look at the monitors to find your carousel number. Luggage usually arrives quickly, and staff are present to help if anything goes missing or is damaged.
🧳 If your bag doesn’t arrive, go straight to the baggage service desk (near your carousel) and fill out a lost item form. They will contact you when it’s found.
5. Customs Declaration
After you collect your bags, you’ll proceed to customs.
There are two channels:
- Green channel: If you have nothing to declare
- Red channel: If you’re bringing in large amounts of cash, certain goods, or restricted items
If you used Visit Japan Web, show your customs QR code to the officer or scan it at a kiosk. If not, you’ll hand over a paper form.
What might get checked? Luggage scans are rare but possible. Sometimes, you’ll be asked to open your suitcase for inspection—this is routine and usually quick.
❌ Don’t bring fresh fruit, meat products, or illegal medications—Japan has strict import rules.
6. Final Exit: Welcome to Japan!
Once you exit customs, you’ve officially entered Japan!
You’ll now find yourself in the airport arrival hall, where you can:
- Buy or activate a SIM card / Pocket Wi-Fi
- Withdraw cash or exchange currency
- Use free airport Wi-Fi
- Ask for help at information desks
- Head to the train, bus, or taxi area
If you have a Japan Rail Pass, now is a good time to activate it—but only if you’re traveling far the same day. If you’re staying in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka first, it’s often better to wait.
🎌 You made it! Take a deep breath and enjoy your first few minutes in Japan—you’re officially here.
7. Tips for a Smooth Arrival
- ✅ Use Visit Japan Web ahead of time to avoid filling out forms on the plane
- 🏨 Keep your hotel address and emergency contact written down in English and Japanese
- 📶 Don’t rely solely on airport Wi-Fi—download QR codes or instructions before flying
- 🗺️ If you’re overwhelmed, ask airport staff—they’re used to helping travelers
- 📸 Take a picture of your luggage before departure—it helps if it’s lost
Final Thoughts
Entering Japan is straightforward, efficient, and usually stress-free—as long as you prepare in advance.
With the right documents, a bit of planning, and a calm mindset, you’ll breeze through immigration and be on your way to temples, sushi, onsens, and adventure.
✨ Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, landing in Japan always feels like a special moment. Welcome!
🎥 For more travel tips and guides on all things Japan check out the PiQtour YouTube channel!
