07/12/2026
Everyone's going to Japan in 2026, and honestly? The hype is earned.
Record 42.7 million visitors last year. A weak yen that makes your dollar stretch. Cherry blossoms, incredible food, and trains that run to the exact minute. It's the most-wanted trip of the year.
But Japan changed a LOT of rules in 2026, and most first-timers don't find out until it costs them. The fake "JESTA" scam. A departure tax that just tripled. Tax-free shopping flipping completely on November 1. And the bucket-list experiences that sell out before your plane even lands.
I'll be straight with you: I haven't been to Japan yet. But planning trips is what I do for a living, and a travel advisor's value isn't a passport full of stamps (though I love looking at mine!). It's knowing how to plan. I did the homework the way I'd do it for any client, and I put it all in one place.
New blog post breaks down what every first-timer needs to know. Link in the comments. 👇
Stress less, travel better.