Do my visiting parents need a visa for Japan?
Many Western passports get a visa-free short stay of up to 90 days. Other nationalities need a visa arranged in advance. A pre-screening system (sometimes called JESTA) is planned for around FY2028 and is not live yet. Check the official immigration pages for their nationality; we do not give visa advice.
Is the JR Pass worth it now?
Often not. After the 2023 price rise the nationwide pass only pays off for long, multi-city itineraries. Use the JR Pass calculator to compare your actual legs against the pass and regional passes.
How do my parents pay for trains if their phone cannot add Suica?
Most Android phones bought abroad cannot add a mobile Suica. Get them a physical Welcome Suica (about 2,000 yen, valid 28 days) or PASMO Passport. On iPhone they can add Suica in Apple Wallet.
Does Japanese health insurance cover visitors?
No. Visitors are not covered by Japanese national health insurance, and medical care is expensive. Buy travel insurance in their home country before they fly.
Can I buy tax-free for my visiting family?
No. From 1 November 2026 tax-free shopping becomes a refund at departure: the visitor pays tax in the shop, shows the goods at the airport kiosk and gets the refund. There is a 5,000 yen per shop per day minimum, and residents are not eligible, so you cannot buy tax-free on their behalf.
How much medication can a visitor bring?
As a rough guide about 1 month of prescription medicine and 2 months of over-the-counter medicine, and some stimulant ingredients are banned outright. Larger amounts need a Yakkan Shoumei. Check the MHLW pages before they pack.
What is the departure tax?
A 3,000 yen international tourist tax applies when leaving Japan (since 1 July 2026). It is already included in the airline ticket, so there is nothing to pay at the airport.
How do we get from the airport to my place?
Pre-book the airport train or limousine bus. From Narita the Skyliner is about 2,580 yen; Haneda uses the Keikyu line or monorail; Kansai has the Haruka and Rapi:t. See the airport-to-your-place guide.