Japan Travel Update – August 2026

August 1, 2026

Last updated: August 1, 2026, 11:00 a.m. JST

This article summarizes the most important Japan travel developments announced in July 2026 or affecting travelers in August, along with practical advice for the month ahead.

Because conditions in Kumamoto are changing quickly, check the latest official transportation and attraction information before traveling to the affected area.

Japan Travel Updates at a Glance

Here are the most important points for travelers this month:

The July 28 Kumamoto earthquake continues to affect railway travel between Kumamoto and southern Kyushu.
Flights at Aso Kumamoto Airport are expected to operate normally, although individual services may change.
All Nozomi trains will operate with reserved seating only from August 7 to 16.
Japan’s visa fees increased substantially on July 1 for travelers who require a visa.
Japan’s International Tourist Tax is now ¥3,000 per departure.
Mount Fuji climbers must follow route-specific entry rules and pay a ¥4,000 hiking fee.
Dangerous summer heat is affecting many parts of Japan.

1. Kumamoto Earthquake Continues to Affect Travel in Southern Kyushu

What Changed

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the Kumamoto region at 4:27 p.m. on July 28, 2026. The earthquake reached a maximum seismic intensity of 7 on Japan’s Shindo scale.

The Japan Meteorological Agency says seismic activity remains active. Travelers in areas that experienced strong shaking should remain alert for further strong earthquakes, landslides, damaged structures, and changing local conditions.

The most significant travel disruption is currently on the railway network.

JR Kyushu’s August 1 operating plan shows that Kyushu Shinkansen services remain suspended between Kumamoto and Kagoshima-Chuo. Travelers can still reach Kumamoto from Hakata, but delays or cancellations may occur, so check the latest operating information before departure.

JR Kyushu has also stated that service between Kumamoto and Shin-Minamata is unlikely to resume during August. The reopening schedule for the Shin-Minamata–Kagoshima-Chuo section remains under consideration.

As of July 31, Aso Kumamoto Airport expected flights to operate normally, although individual services could change depending on aftershocks and airline decisions.

Kumamoto Castle announced a temporary closure on July 28 while safety inspections were carried out. Because no reopening notice was available when this article was checked on August 1, confirm the latest official status before visiting.

Why Travelers Should Care

The earthquake does not mean that transportation throughout Japan or Kyushu has stopped.

Travel between Fukuoka and Kumamoto remains possible, but journeys continuing south from Kumamoto toward Shin-Minamata or Kagoshima may require a major change of route.

This is especially important if your itinerary includes:

Kumamoto and Kagoshima
Yatsushiro
Minamata
Southern Kumamoto Prefecture
Rail connections between northern and southern Kyushu
Kumamoto Castle or other temporarily closed attractions

Even when flights are operating, airport buses, local roads, railway connections, and attraction opening hours may change at short notice.

What You Should Do

If you are traveling in or through Kumamoto:

Check every railway segment separately instead of relying on the itinerary originally issued with your ticket.
Confirm the latest JR Kyushu information on the morning of travel.
Check your airline’s website before going to Aso Kumamoto Airport.
Confirm airport ground transportation separately from your flight.
Check directly with your hotel if you are unsure whether the surrounding area is accessible.
Do not enter closed, damaged, or restricted areas.
Keep your plans flexible if traveling south of Kumamoto.

Travelers visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hokkaido, or other destinations far from the affected area should not assume that their trip is disrupted simply because the earthquake is receiving national news coverage.

Travelism Tip

Do not cancel an entire Kyushu itinerary before checking the location of the disruption.

Fukuoka and Kumamoto may still be accessible even when the railway south of Kumamoto is unavailable. However, continuing to Kagoshima by land could take considerably longer than expected.

Compare the latest JR information, flights, and long-distance bus options before choosing an alternative. Also check cancellation and refund conditions before buying a replacement ticket.

For practical advice on earthquakes, emergency alerts, evacuation signs, typhoons, and traveler support, read our guide:

Natural Disasters in Japan: What Every Traveler Should Know

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Official Information

For the most up-to-date information, please refer to:

2. All Nozomi Trains Require Seat Reservations During Obon

What Changed

From August 7 through August 16, 2026, all Nozomi trains operating on the Tokaido and Sanyo Shinkansen between Tokyo and Hakata will operate with reserved seating only.

Nozomi trains will not have regular non-reserved seating during this period.

Hikari, Kodama, Mizuho, Sakura, and Tsubame trains will continue to have non-reserved cars. However, these trains may also become crowded as travelers look for alternatives.

JR Central and JR West recommend reserving seats as soon as your plans are confirmed.

Why Travelers Should Care

Obon is one of Japan’s busiest domestic travel periods. Many people return to their hometowns or take family trips, placing heavy demand on trains, planes, buses, and accommodation.

The rule is particularly important if you plan to travel between:

Tokyo and Nagoya
Tokyo and Kyoto
Tokyo and Osaka
Osaka and Hiroshima
Hiroshima and Fukuoka
Any combination of cities served by the Tokaido or Sanyo Shinkansen

A non-reserved ticket will not give you a seat on a Nozomi train during the designated period.

Travelers with certain non-reserved tickets may be directed to stand in the ordinary-car deck area, but this depends on operating conditions and staff instructions. It should not be treated as a reliable substitute for a seat reservation.

What You Should Do

Reserve your Shinkansen seat before arriving at the station.
Avoid waiting until the morning of travel during August 7–16.
Check several departure times if your preferred train is full.
Consider traveling earlier in the morning or later in the day.
Allow extra time at Tokyo, Shinagawa, Kyoto, Shin-Osaka, and Hakata stations.
Reserve seats together early if traveling as a family or group.

You can reserve eligible trains through SmartEX, other official JR reservation services, station ticket machines, or JR ticket offices.

Travelism Tip

If your preferred Nozomi train is full, first search for a different departure time rather than immediately switching to an unreserved Hikari or Kodama.

Non-reserved cars on alternative trains may also be crowded. A slightly earlier or later reserved train will usually provide a more comfortable journey than standing or waiting in a long platform line.

Our complete guide explains ticket types, reservations, luggage rules, and where to buy tickets:

How to Buy Shinkansen Tickets in Japan

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Official Information

For the most up-to-date information, please refer to:

3. Japan’s Visa Fees Increased on July 1

What Changed

Japan revised its visa fees for applications accepted by Japanese embassies and consulates on or after July 1, 2026.

The standard fee, converted into Japanese yen, is now approximately:

¥15,000 for a single-entry visa
¥30,000 for a multiple-entry visa

Payment is generally made in the local currency of the country or region where the visa is issued.

The final amount may differ depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, bilateral arrangements, and local currency conversion. Some applicants may be exempt.

Travelers applying through an approved agency may also need to pay a separate agency handling fee.

Why Travelers Should Care

This change only affects travelers who need to apply for a Japanese visa.

Travelers from visa-exempt countries do not pay a visa fee simply to enter Japan for an eligible short stay. However, visa exemption depends on nationality, passport type, purpose of travel, and permitted length of stay.

The higher cost may be significant for families or travelers applying for multiple-entry visas.

What You Should Do

Before applying:

Check whether your nationality requires a visa.
Use the website of the Japanese embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence.
Confirm the fee in local currency.
Check whether an approved application agency is required.
Budget separately for agency or service charges.
Apply early enough to allow for processing and any additional document requests.

Do not rely on an older blog post or saved screenshot showing the previous fee.

Travelism Tip

Visit Japan Web and a Japanese visa are different things.

Visit Japan Web can help you complete immigration and customs procedures, but registering on the platform does not give you permission to enter Japan. Check your visa status first, then prepare your arrival procedures.

For help preparing your immigration and customs information, read:

How to Use Visit Japan Web: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

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Official Information

For the most up-to-date information, please refer to:

4. Japan’s Departure Tax Is Now ¥3,000

What Changed

Japan’s International Tourist Tax is now ¥3,000 for each departure from Japan by aircraft or ship.

Airlines and cruise operators generally collect the tax from passengers. In most cases, it is included within the total ticket price rather than paid separately at the airport.

A transitional measure allows the previous ¥1,000 rate to apply to certain eligible transportation contracts concluded before July 1, 2026.

The tax applies regardless of nationality or whether the trip was for tourism, business, or another purpose.

Exemptions include:

Children under two
Certain transit passengers leaving Japan within 24 hours
Aircraft and ship crew members
Travelers departing on certain government aircraft or ships
Several other limited categories

Why Travelers Should Care

You may notice a slightly higher total when purchasing an international flight or cruise departing from Japan.

For one traveler, the increase may seem modest. For a family or group, the combined difference can become more noticeable.

Travelers who purchased tickets before July may see the previous rate, depending on whether the booking qualifies under the transitional rules.

What You Should Do

Check the taxes and fees section of your international ticket.
Do not expect to pay the tax at an immigration counter.
Allow for the higher charge when comparing airfares.
Contact your airline or travel agency if you are unsure which rate applies to an older booking.
Remember that the tax is charged when departing Japan, including on a return journey from Japan to your home country.

Travelism Tip

When comparing airfares, compare the final price rather than the advertised base fare.

The cheapest-looking ticket may become more expensive after airport charges, fuel surcharges, baggage fees, seat selection, and the International Tourist Tax are added.

For a broader overview of transportation, payments, accommodation, and trip preparation, see:

A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors to Japan

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Official Information

For the most up-to-date information, please refer to:

National Tax Agency: International Tourist Tax

5. Mount Fuji Climbers Must Follow Route-Specific Entry Rules

What Changed

August is part of the official Mount Fuji climbing season, but you can no longer arrive at the mountain without checking the entry rules for your chosen trail.

For the Yoshida Trail in 2026:

The official climbing season runs from July 1 to September 10.
The hiking fee is ¥4,000 per person per climb.
The gate is closed from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m. the following day.
Climbers staying at a mountain hut are exempt from the gate-closing restriction.
Entry is generally limited to 4,000 climbers per day.
Required equipment is checked at the fifth station.

The required equipment includes cold-weather clothing, separate waterproof jacket and pants, and footwear suitable for mountain climbing.

The Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya routes on the Shizuoka side have their own registration and entry procedures. Travelers should confirm the rules for the specific trail they plan to use.

Why Travelers Should Care

Climbing Mount Fuji is not the same as visiting a normal sightseeing attraction.

Arriving without the correct registration, equipment, clothing, or route information could prevent you from entering the trail.

Poor planning can also place you at risk from:

Cold summit temperatures
Sudden weather changes
Altitude sickness
Darkness
Exhaustion
Inadequate equipment

Temperatures near the summit are much lower than in Tokyo or at the fifth station, even when Japan is experiencing extreme summer heat.

What You Should Do

Before traveling to Mount Fuji:

Choose your trail before reserving transportation.
Check the official opening dates and current weather.
Complete any required registration or online learning.
Pay the hiking fee through the official system.
Reserve a mountain hut if your plan requires one.
Carry suitable hiking shoes, warm clothing, and proper rain gear.
Save screenshots of your reservation and payment information before arriving.
Do not attempt to climb through the night without rest.
Leave enough flexibility to cancel the climb in unsafe weather.

Travelism Tip

Avoid planning a “bullet climb,” where you travel directly to the mountain, climb overnight without sleeping, watch the sunrise, and immediately descend.

A mountain hut reservation and a slower schedule may cost more, but they provide time to rest, adjust to the altitude, and respond to changing weather.

Mobile coverage around the fifth station may be unreliable. Save your registration, payment confirmation, and mountain hut details on your phone before traveling.

Official Information

For the most up-to-date information, please refer to:

6. Dangerous Summer Heat Is Affecting Travel Across Japan

What Changed

As of 5:00 a.m. on August 1, Heat Stroke Alerts were in effect across 29 forecast regions in Japan.

A Heat Stroke Alert is issued when the predicted heat stress level indicates an extremely high risk of heat illness.

Official guidance recommends avoiding unnecessary outdoor activity, using air conditioning, taking frequent breaks, and drinking fluids regularly.

Heatstroke can occur indoors as well as outdoors. Severe symptoms may include vomiting, confusion, impaired judgment, or an inability to drink without assistance.

Because Heat Stroke Alerts are updated daily, check the latest official information each morning rather than relying on the August 1 figure throughout your trip.

Why Travelers Should Care

Visitors often underestimate Japan’s combination of high temperatures and humidity.

A sightseeing schedule that feels reasonable in spring or autumn may be exhausting in August.

The following situations can increase the risk:

Walking long distances between attractions
Waiting in outdoor theme park or attraction lines
Visiting exposed temples, gardens, or observation areas
Carrying suitcases or heavy backpacks
Spending long periods without an air-conditioned break
Drinking alcohol without replacing water

Children, older travelers, people with health conditions, and travelers who are not accustomed to humid weather need to take particular care.

What You Should Do

Check the Heat Stroke Alert and weather forecast each morning.
Visit outdoor attractions early in the day.
Move indoor sightseeing to the hottest part of the afternoon.
Carry water and drink before you feel thirsty.
Replace salt as well as fluids when sweating heavily.
Use a hat, parasol, sunscreen, and breathable clothing.
Take regular air-conditioned breaks.
Avoid carrying heavy luggage around the city.
Return to your accommodation if you begin to feel dizzy, unusually tired, nauseated, or confused.

If someone cannot drink independently or is not responding normally, call an ambulance on 119.

Travelism Tip

Build cooling stops into your itinerary before you leave your hotel.

Large railway stations, department stores, museums, shopping centers, cafés, and convenience stores can provide reliable places to cool down.

A 15-minute air-conditioned break can make a full sightseeing day much safer and more comfortable.

Official Information

For the most up-to-date information, please refer to:

Travelism Tips for August 2026

Check Kumamoto transportation information on the day you travel.
Reserve Shinkansen seats before the Obon period begins.
Confirm whether you need a visa and budget for the revised fee.
Compare the total price of international flights, including taxes and surcharges.
Register and prepare properly before climbing Mount Fuji.
Plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning.
Keep at least one flexible day in your itinerary in case of extreme weather or transportation disruption.
Download or bookmark official disaster and transportation information before arriving in Japan.
Avoid planning tightly timed connections during periods of disruption.
Save important reservations and travel documents for offline access.

Looking Ahead to September

Mount Fuji’s official climbing season ends on September 10, although access may close earlier because of weather, remaining snow, or trail conditions.

September also remains part of Japan’s main typhoon season. A typhoon does not automatically require canceling your entire trip, but it can cause temporary flight, railway, ferry, and attraction closures.

Travelers visiting Kyushu should continue checking JR Kyushu’s restoration updates. The company has said that it will release further information during August about the sections affected by the Kumamoto earthquake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel to Japan after the Kumamoto earthquake?

The disruption is concentrated in parts of Kumamoto and southern Kyushu. Most destinations elsewhere in Japan continue to operate normally.

Check the specific prefectures and transportation routes included in your itinerary rather than treating the earthquake as a nationwide closure.

Natural Disasters in Japan: What Every Traveler Should Know

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Can I travel from Fukuoka to Kumamoto by Shinkansen?

Yes. Shinkansen travel between Hakata and Kumamoto is available as of August 1, but delays or cancellations may still occur.

Check JR Kyushu’s latest operating information before departure.

Can I take the Shinkansen directly from Kumamoto to Kagoshima?

No. Under JR Kyushu’s August 1 operating plan, Kyushu Shinkansen services between Kumamoto and Kagoshima-Chuo are suspended.

JR Kyushu has said that reopening the Kumamoto–Shin-Minamata section during August is unlikely. Check the latest official information before choosing an alternative route.

Is Aso Kumamoto Airport operating?

As of July 31, the airport expected flights to operate normally. However, individual flights may change depending on aftershocks and airline decisions.

Check your airline’s website and airport ground transportation before traveling.

Is Kumamoto Castle open?

Kumamoto Castle announced a temporary closure on July 28 while safety inspections were carried out.

No reopening notice was available when this article was checked on August 1. Confirm the latest status on the official Kumamoto Castle website before visiting.

Do all foreign visitors have to pay the new visa fee?

No. The fee applies to travelers who submit a visa application.

Visa-exempt travelers do not pay a visa fee for an eligible visa-free visit. Requirements and exemptions depend on nationality, passport type, and travel purpose.