More Robots, Less Cash, New Shibuya Await Tourists Back to Japan

After almost three years, visitors should expect some things to be a bit different

Visitors outside the Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto. — Visitors outside the Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto.
Photographer: Soichiro Koriyama/Bloomberg

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By Kurumi Mori and Ryotaro Nakamaru

October 7, 2022 at 11:00 PM UTC

Japan is opening up again after closing its borders due to the Covid-19 pandemic for almost three years. Vaccinated tourists from most countries will be allowed in from Oct. 11, without the need to quarantine or submit to PCR tests.

When visitors arrive, they’re bound to notice (and appreciate) the affordability of dining, accommodation and shopping, thanks to a much weaker yen. There are also some new places to visit.