japan to china travel

$172 Find cheap flights from Tokyo to Beijing

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from tokyo to beijing departing on 6/13. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to beijing.

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Cheap flight deals from Tokyo to Beijing (TYO-PEK)

Recent round-trip flight deals from tokyo to beijing, recent one-way flight deals from tokyo to beijing, recent last minute flight deals from tokyo to beijing, recent direct flight deals from tokyo to beijing, cheap bus & train deals from tokyo to beijing, all round-trip flight deals to beijing, flights from tokyo to beijing - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from tokyo to beijing to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest tokyo to beijing capital airport flight route, our data shows that the cheapest route for a one-way flight from tokyo to beijing capital airport cost $169 and was between tokyo haneda airport and beijing capital airport. on average, the best prices are found if you fly from tokyo narita airport to beijing capital airport. the average price for a return flight for this route is $312., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from tokyo to beijing, for tokyo to beijing, tuesday is the cheapest day to fly on average and sunday is the most expensive. flying from beijing back to tokyo, the best deals are generally found on monday, with sunday being the most expensive., what is the cheapest month to fly from tokyo to beijing capital airport, the cheapest month for flights from tokyo to beijing capital airport is may, where tickets cost $354 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are august and march, where the average cost of tickets is $616 and $613 respectively., can i save money by flying with a layover from tokyo to beijing capital airport, yes, flying with a layover may cost you more time, but you can also save money on the route, with a 1 stop layover the cheapest option at $218 on average, how far in advance should i book a flight from tokyo to beijing capital airport, to get a below average price on the flight from tokyo to beijing capital airport, you should book around 1 day before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 28 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from tokyo to beijing, in the last 72 hours, the cheapest one-way ticket from tokyo to beijing found on kayak was with shenzhen airlines for $172. shenzhen airlines proposed a round-trip connection from $295 and air china from $298., which airlines fly most frequently between tokyo and beijing, air china connects tokyo to beijing with up to 4 flights per day. ana also offers 2 flights per day, while japan airlines follows with 2 flights per day., which airlines fly non-stop between tokyo and beijing capital airport, there are 4 airlines that fly nonstop from tokyo to beijing capital airport. they are: ana, air china, hainan airlines and japan airlines. the cheapest price of all airlines flying this route was found with air china at $188 for a one-way flight. on average, the best prices for this route can be found at japan airlines., how many flights are there between tokyo and beijing capital airport per day, each day, there are between 8 and 9 nonstop flights that take off from tokyo and land in beijing capital airport, with an average flight time of 4h 03m. the most common departure time is 8:00 am and most flights take off in the afternoon. each week, there are 60 flights. the most frequent day of departure is tuesday, when 15% of all weekly flights depart. the fewest flights depart on a sunday., which cabin class options are there for flights between tokyo and beijing capital airport, there are 3 cabin class options for the route. these are business, economy and prem economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from tokyo to beijing take, direct flights take on average 3h 40m to travel the 1,295 miles between tokyo and beijing., what’s the earliest departure time from tokyo to beijing, early birds can take the earliest flight from tokyo at 8:30 am and will be landing in beijing capital airport at 11:15 am., what’s the latest departure time from tokyo to beijing, if you prefer to fly at night, the latest flight from tokyo to beijing capital airport jets off at 7:40 pm and lands at 10:40 pm., good to know, when to book flights from tokyo to beijing, faqs for booking tokyo to beijing flights, as a u.s. citizen, will i need another visa to get from tokyo to beijing.

Before traveling to China, it is essential to obtain a visa in advance and ensure that your passport remains valid for at least six months from your planned entry date. Failure to meet these requirements may result in fines and immediate deportation. If you plan to work in China, it is of utmost importance to obtain the appropriate work visa. Working on a student or tourist visa is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, possessing a valid visa is necessary for exiting China.

What is a good choice for an airline that is very environmentally friendly?

Korean Air is actively committed to promoting fuel efficiency and reducing aircraft carbon emissions, aiming for sustainable growth and minimizing environmental impact. They strive to meet the rising demand for air transportation services while addressing climate change and pursuing carbon neutrality. To contribute to these goals, Korean Air has launched the GREEN SKYPASS project, which involves the creation of an eco-friendly forest.

Is there an airline on this route that supervises kids flying alone?

ANA offers the ANA Junior Pilot program to provide support for children ages 5 to 11 who are traveling by themselves. As part of this service, your child will be given an ANA Junior Pilot holder to wear until they reunite with the parent upon arrival. ANA staff members will accompany the child to the arrival lobby, where the designated person picking up the child will be required to present their identification card and sign a release form. This program is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of young travelers throughout their journey with ANA.

Which airlines on this route offer special meals for those with a limited diet?

Japan Airlines provides an extensive range of specialized meals to cater to various dietary needs and preferences. They offer meals specifically designed for babies and kids, as well as options for vegetarians and vegans. Passengers with religious dietary requirements can also request meals that adhere to their specific dietary restrictions. Additionally, Japan Airlines offers meals for health-conscious individuals and a diverse selection of allergen-friendly meals to accommodate passengers with specific food allergies.

What is the cheapest flight from Tokyo to Beijing Capital Airport?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Tokyo to Beijing Capital Airport was $172 for a one-way ticket and $291 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between Tokyo and Beijing?

A passport is required to fly from Tokyo to Beijing.

Which airports will I be using when flying from Tokyo to Beijing?

There are 2 airports in Tokyo (Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita.) and only 1 airport in Beijing (Beijing Capital). The cheapest flights are generally found on the Tokyo Narita Airport to Beijing Capital flight route.

Which airlines offer Wi-Fi service onboard planes from Tokyo to Beijing?

Lufthansa, and ANA offer inflight Wi-Fi service on the Tokyo to Beijing flight route.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from Tokyo to Beijing?

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the Tokyo to Beijing flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from Tokyo to Beijing?

Star Alliance, oneworld, and SkyTeam are the airline alliances operating flights between Tokyo and Beijing, with Star Alliance being the most commonly used for this route.

On which days can I fly direct from Tokyo to Beijing?

There are nonstop flights from Tokyo to Beijing on a daily basis.

Which is the best airline for flights from Tokyo to Beijing, Japan Airlines or Air China?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from Tokyo to Beijing are Japan Airlines and Air China. With an average price for the route of $449 and an overall rating of 8.3, Japan Airlines is the most popular choice. Air China is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $427 and an overall rating of 6.8.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Tokyo to Beijing?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Tokyo to Beijing.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Tokyo to Beijing?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Beijing from Tokyo is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Tokyo to Beijing?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Beijing with an airline and back to Tokyo with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Tokyo to Beijing?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Beijing from Tokyo up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from Tokyo to Beijing

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $259 or less one-way and $361 or less round-trip.
• One of the best ways to get from central Tokyo to Narita International Airport (NRT) is by taking the Narita Express train, which leaves from Tokyo Station and takes you to the terminal in about 1 hour, with trains leaving every 30 minutes or so.
• When flying with ANA, your carry-on bags should be appropriately sized to fit either in the overhead are or under the seat that is in front of you. The dimensions of your carry-on bags must not exceed 22 x 16 x 9 inches. Additionally, it's important to adhere to the maximum weight limit of 22 lb.
• If you are going to check bags when flying on Asiana Airlines, the linear dimensions of your bag can't be bigger than 62 inches, and they may not weigh more than 50 lb.
• For those travelers that plan on taking a one-stop flight on this route, some common layover airports include Incheon International Airport (ICN), Fuzhou Changle International Airport (FOC), and Gimpo International Airport (GMP).
• When flying with Jetstar Japan, you have the flexibility to bring your golf clubs and bag with you. However, it's crucial to note that there is an oversized item handling fee applicable to items with any side longer than 39 inches, which includes wheels, handles, and packaging.

Prefer to fly non-stop from Tokyo to Beijing?

Find which airlines fly direct from Tokyo to Capital, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Tokyo to Beijing Capital

ANA, Air China, China Eastern, +4 more

ANA, Air China, +5 more

ANA, Air China, China Eastern, +3 more

ANA, Air China, +4 more

Nonstop returns

Beijing Capital to Tokyo

Top airlines flying from tokyo to beijing.

Great service but food taste and options have gone down a few notches.

This airlines is always my favorite. Very consistent customer service and food is good. My last flight with them, I had no idea we landed because it was just that smooth of a land.

Excellent crew, immediate attention for any request. Both ways on time (rather before time arrival at Haneda). Only complaint was that the seats are not reclining like rest of the airlines that I travelled. The Backrest is fixed. The reclining is only within the box seat, so you slide down forward for reclining, not backward. So it was bit uncomfortable. The food for the day trip was excellent. For the night flight, no breakfast was served, only dinner, which was disappointing.

At least it was not very cold inside the plane. I noticed there was now a bidet in the bathroom and that’s good! I didn’t like the window seat. Flight was smooth except for 1 turbulence. Plane was on time. Thanks. Food was not that great. Miso and green tea were good! As usual movies were old and there were no changes.

Food as always. PA was not clear, especially the English ones. Very limited Hollywood movies. Unlike the first flight I had, this plane has less leg room and less room for my under seat baggage.

Please change menu every now & then bc I fly twice within the year and serving the food the same

The Experience was fantastic, it's a quick flight so no entertainment or food. Just a refreshment

Great crew, Japanese domestic flight is just a drink service but crew are very attentive

First of all I had dozed off. And when I woke up, my food was on a tray without telling me the food was there or asking me if I wanted something to drink. They never came back to ask me if I wanted anything to drink and I tried to stop them several times. I personally have a problem swallowing food without something to drink with it. so therefore I could not eat., second thing for the entertainment. There was no place to plug the headset in because the tip had been broken off into the monitor to where you couldn’t even watch a movie or hear any music that was annoying .

JAL is a flawless airlines. Perfect customer service. On-time boarding, clean airlines, and incomparable in-flight dining.

The flight was delayed for almost 5 hours, but I understand that it was not up to the company, however how they could handle the situation better, they never apologized for that delay, moreover despite passengers being there for 7 hours only thing they did was to give a bowl of instant noodles, afterwards on the plane tiny snacks, people were there starting from lunch time and we’ve arrived to destination at almost midnight

Flight was delayed for 2 hours for no reason, then we spent almost an hour after boarding because of the weather conditions. If we left on time we could avoid that 😾

Book cheap flights from Tokyo to Beijing

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Find cheap flights from Japan to China

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to china.

Save 28% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Good to know - Cheap tickets from Japan to China

Faqs for booking flights from japan to china, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from japan to china.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Japan to China.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Japan to China?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to China from Japan is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Japan to China?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to China with an airline and back to Japan with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Japan to China?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to China from Japan up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Flights to China

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Kantaro writes about everything from Japan's economic indicators to North Korea's missiles to global regulation on AI companies. His previous stories have been published in the Associated Press, Bloomberg, the Japan Times and Rest of World. A Tokyo native, Kantaro graduated from DePauw University in the United States and was the recipient of the Overseas Press Club Foundation 2020 Scholar Award.

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Japan to ease COVID rules for visitors from China on April 5

Negative test results will not be required for travelers with 3 vaccine shots

TOKYO -- Travelers to Japan from China with proof of three or more COVID-19 vaccine doses will not need to submit negative test results, starting on April 5.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and senior government officials confirmed plans for easing entry rules in a meeting Thursday.

Japan relaxes mask guidelines in COVID milestone

Slow return of chinese tourists stalls japan's hotel recovery, china emerges from covid, but flu epidemic concerns grow, japan lags behind u.s., u.k. in curbing pandemic deficits, singapore closes gap with hong kong on pricey business trips, japan's niseko attracts flurry of investment from hong kong, thailand's dusit readies japan hotel debut in kyoto with cultural flair, thai school uniform boom in china fuels hope for tourism recovery, latest on coronavirus, malaysia and singapore put guard up as covid cases surge, china's delayed funeral data clouds extent of december covid surge, japan to shorten quarantine for covid infections to five days, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..

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• How to Plan a Trip to China and Japan

China and Japan appear frequently on Asia bucket lists: they are the top representatives of Eastern culture. Both countries are now open for travel. Experience both for rich and distinctive Oriental culture on a memorable (and romantic) big trip or a wonderful family time.

In China you can visit the well-preserved Forbidden City and Terracotta Warriors, climb the magnificent Great Wall, see the lovely round pandas, and ride a bamboo raft on the Li River... In Japan you can have an afternoon tea dressed in kimonos with beautiful geishas, visit the symbol of Japan — Mount Fuji, and stay at a traditional ryokan (inn) with an onsen (hot spring bath)...

In this article, we are going to look at how to plan your first tour of China and Japan.

• 1. Do I need a visa to visit China and Japan?
• 2. What to See in China and Japan?
• 3. How Many Days Are Needed?
• 4. How Much Do They Cost? ?
• 5. Best Times to Travel

Do I need a visa to visit China and Japan?

Japan has restored the visa-waiver system from October 11th, 2022 . If your country is in the list of Exemption of Japan Visa like Australia , Canada , USA , UK and almost all European nations , you can visit Japan without applying for a visa in advance.

China has officially announced resumption of all visas including tourist visas (L visas) from March 15th, 2023. If your 10-year China visa, obtained before COVID-19, is still within its expiration date, you can enter China now without applying for a new one.

China has also reinstated its 144-hour visa-free transit policies, which allow you to enjoy a long stopover stay (6 days) in China without a visa. This policy option currently only applies to passengers transiting through China via the following cities: Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Dalian, and Shenyang. This policy is valid for travelers from 53 countries including the US, the UK, Singapore, and Canada.

Book a tour with us and we will provide you with the invitation letter needed to apply for a Tourist Visa.

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What to See in China and Japan?

No matter whether you're travelling for a family vacation, anniversary, or birthday, China and Japan will not disappoint you.

Top Things to Do in China

• Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an are must-see cities for China first-timers.

1) Maximize your experience of Chinese history and culture in Beijing (3–4 days) with a close-up tour of the Forbidden City where you'd see the best-preserved wooden palaces in China, climb the Great Wall and be a 'hero', bike through the hutongs to experience traditional Beijing, and sample Beijing Roast Duck.

2) Appreciate a striking blend of modernity and history in Shanghai (2–3 days): take a leisurely walk in Yu Garden — a classical garden built in 1559, ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower for a full view of Shanghai, and see charming night views on the Bund.

3) Discover ancient and imperial China in Xi'an (2–3 days): visit the amazing Terracotta Army, make your own terracotta warriors at a cave dwelling, and bike on the Ancient City Wall.

4) To extend your tour, maybe supplement the culture and history with some of China's natural wonders: enjoy attractive idyllic scenery in Guilin (2–3 days), see cute pandas in Chengdu (2–3 days), and visit the Hallelujah Mountains in Zhangjiajie (2–3 days)

Most of China's cities are connected by a high-speed train ride of 5 hours or less.

Suggested reading: 11-Day China Classic Tours

Top Things to Do in Japan

• Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are the top cities for a first-time trip to Japan

1) Experience the highly-modernized and history-filled in Tokyo (3–4 days): sample sushi at famous Tsukiji Market, view the spectacular Mount Fuji, try on samurai armor at Samurai Museum, satisfy your children's interest in anime, and take a day tour in Hakone for hot springs.

2) Soak in the strongly-traditional atmosphere of Kyoto (3–4 days): have an afternoon tea with beautiful geishas in kimonos, participate in a classical tea ceremony, sleep on a tatami at a traditional ryokan (inn), and have a close encounter with friendly deer in Nara National Park.

3) In the flourishing trade city of Osaka (1–2 days) , you can visit outstanding Osaka Castle, sample delicious street food in Dotonbori, and have fun in Universal Studios.

Our travel consultants provide 1-to-1 service. Contact us and we'll design a fulfilling, personalized trip based on the length of your holiday, preferences, and interests.

How Many Days Are Needed?

An awesome trip full of the main highlights of both China and Japan requires at least 2–3 weeks: 8–11 days in China and 7–10 days in Japan.

China is a big country with a rich culture and attractions that deserve more time to explore. Japan is a medium-sized country that you can visit the essence of at a more relaxed pace. Below are suggested itineraries for your inspiration.

1) An itinerary full of the essence of both countries:

• Days 1–2: Shanghai, China (the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower, Yu Garden)
• Days 3–4: Xi'an (the Terracotta Warriors, biking on the Ancient City Wall)
• Days 5–8: Beijing (the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Summer Palace, roast duck)
• Days 9–12: Fly to Tokyo, Japan (samurai, anime, Tsukiji Market, Mount Fuji...)
• Days 13–15: Kyoto (geisha, kimonos, ryokan, tea ceremony, feed deer in Nara)
• Day 16: Osaka and departure

If you have more holiday, you can add two or three days in Guilin, Chengdu, and/or Zhangjiajie.

2) A visa-free itinerary (using the 144-hour visa-free policy in China):

• Days 1–2: Osaka, Japan
• Days 3–4: Hiroshima and Miyajima (Peace Memorial Park and Itsukushima Shrine)
• Days 5–7: Kyoto sightseeing
• Days 8–11: Explore Tokyo
• Days 12–14: Fly to Beijing, China
• Day 15: Departure from Beijing

Just let us know your interests and requirements , and we can help make it happen.

How Much Do China and Japan Cost?

A two-week trip to China and Japan costs around US$7,500–9,000.

• Private tour costs in China are about US$200–250 per day per person, and the costs in Japan are US$350–500 per day per person , including 4-star hotels, tickets for attractions, private cars and private guides.
• Prices can double in peak season, especially airfares and hotels. At peak times, we recommend you plan ahead and book flights and hotels at least 6 months in advance.
• Ryokans are a worth a night's stay to try out traditional Japanese accommodation. They cost around US$300–450 per night.
• Direct flights from Beijing or Shanghai to Tokyo are about 3½ hours and cost US$400–1,000.

Best Times to Travel to China and Japan

China (central and northern) and Japan have similar climates, with distinct seasons.

• The tourism-friendly weather and the peak season in both countries is in spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when there is less rain, more clear days, and comfortable temperatures. In both countries, spring is the time to appreciate flowers, like cherry blossom, pear flowers, and peach blossoms. Meanwhile, autumn is the time to enjoy red maples and golden ginkgoes. >>> How to Plan a Japan Cherry Blossom Trip
• June to August is hot and rainy in China and Japan, but it won't affect your journey. China and Japan have plenty of air-conditioned facilities, and the rain usually won't continue for too long. Summer is the festival season in Japan and there are amazing firework-shows. We recommend coming to China in June, because it is cooler and less crowded than in July and August. Our private tours come with air-conditioned cars and private guides who help to book your tickets in advance and flexibly include meaningful indoor activities to dodge the heat and downpours.
• November to March is winter in much of Japan and China, when it gets cold and dry, and some northern Chinese and Japanese cities will see snow. It's the perfect time to go skiing and see snowy scenery. Christmas and New Year is the busiest time in both countries: hotels and flights are easily booked up. Thus, we suggest you make reservation at least 6 months in advance. >>> How to Plan a Family Ski Holiday

The weather is good/okay in compromise months November and March, generally speaking, and prices are relatively cheap.

Let us help you plan your trip! Contact us and we will customize a trip based on your available time, budget, interests, and other requirements.

Suggested reading: Best (& Worst) Times to Visit Japan >>>

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Japan or China: Where to travel next?

Because sometimes the hardest part of travelling is choosing where to go. ..

If you’re anything like me (and have an ever-growing bucket list), then it’s not easy choosing where to travel next. Especially when it’s between Japan and China. Both countries are steeped in history and boast incredible landscapes, world-class cuisines and more adventures than you can poke a chopstick at. Sigh .

If you’ve hit a brick wall, fear not. We’ve put together a handy guide comparing all the top considerations to help you out – we’re talking culture, food, cities, landscapes and weather. Failing this, you can always flip a coin.

Japanese culture is a fascinating mix of old and new. On the one hand, there are thousands of years of traditions influenced by Shinto, Buddhism and Confucianism, but on the other is a trailblazing society setting trends in tech, fashion-forwardness and architecture. Sleek bullet trains whoosh past centuries-old temples and tea houses, and you might see geishas using state-of-the-art vending machines selling everything from lettuce to lobsters (only in Japan!).

Although the younger generations continue to push the cultural boundaries, social harmony is the pillar of Japanese society, and traditional values like saving face, humility and respecting your elders are just as important today. Ancient Japanese philosophies are also integrated into daily life, including ikigai (reason for being), omotenashi (providing impeccable hospitality without expecting anything in return) and kaizen (continuous improvement).

As one of the world’s oldest civilisations, China has an intriguing history of dynastic rule and ancient cultures influenced by Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. Relics of China’s dynastic past are littered throughout the country, including the iconic Great Wall and the Forbidden City. China has also gifted the world with many cultural riches including martial arts, Chinese medicine, kungfu, tai chi and Chinese calligraphy. 

With 56 ethnic groups (the largest being the Han), modern Chinese culture is rich and complex. Though China continues to grow and change at a rapid pace thanks to a booming economy, centuries-old philosophies are interwoven in daily life – including the theories of the five elements and yin-yang – and traditional values such as family, social harmony and loyalty remain at the heart of society. This contrast between the ancient and the modern is particularly strong in cities like Shanghai where giant skyscrapers loom over traditional lilong houses. 

SEE THE HIGHLIGHTS OF CHINA

Japan brought sushi, ramen and tempura to the world (and for that, I’ll be eternally grateful), but there’s so much more on offer. Japanese cuisine is renowned for its fresh, seasonal produce and meticulous preparation. Most dishes comprise rice or noodles, a few side dishes and soup. Meat is a popular ingredient, though seafood is where Japan shines (hello, sashimi). Popular dishes include unagi (grilled eel), takoyaki (octopus dumplings), karaage (Japanese fried chicken), yakitori (meat skewers) and shabu-shabu (Japanese-style hot pot).  

Feeling thirsty after all that soy sauce? Quench your thirst with a cold beer or glass of sake. Or swap your morning coffee for a matcha latte or antioxidant-packed green tea. Tea is a big deal in Japan, and if you attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony you’ll never look at a cuppa in the same way again.

GO ON A REAL FOOD ADVENTURE IN JAPAN

China is massive – and so nearly every region has its own cooking style. Generally, Chinese food tends to be heavier than Japanese with more spices, chilli and oil. It’s also meatier with lots of beef, pork and duck, though seafood and tofu are also popular. Famous dishes to try include kung pao chicken, Peking roast duck, Mapo tofu and char sui. A word of warning: it can be hard to find vegetarian and vegan food in China, but it can be done.

If you like it hot, then Sichuan is calling your name. This province is known for the fiery, sweat-inducing Sichuan pepper, which, according to ancient Chinese medicine, helps the body to expel dampness and prevent disease. You’ll definitely sweat after slurping on a Sichuan hot pot!

If you need to quench your thirst after all that pepper, try a refreshing beer (Snow and Tsingtao are two of the most popular brands), a baijiu cocktail or a glass of mijiu (a sweet, slightly bitter wine made from glutinous rice). Stay hydrated throughout the day with green, white or black tea – like Japan, tea is an integral part of Chinese culture.

GO ON A REAL FOOD ADVENTURE IN CHINA

It’s impossible to deny the allure of Japan’s cities – even if you’re more of a nature lover than an urbanite. Tokyo is known as one of the coolest cities in the world with a fusion of futuristic technology and ancient landmarks. Get lost in the neon-lit streets, sip matcha in a quirky café in Harajuku or scramble your way through the famous Shibuya Crossing.

If you’re looking for culture, head to charming Kyoto to discover hundreds of colourful shrines and temples, relax in serene gardens and walk through Gion, Kyoto’s famous Geisha district. To get under the skin of Japan, head to Matsumoto to explore impressive castles, traditional storehouses and amazing soba noodles. History buffs should also go to historic Hiroshima to discover its shrines, peace parks and sizzling food scene.

China has some of the oldest and biggest cities in the world. They might be crowded and chaotic, but they’re littered with landmarks that reveal China’s fascinating past. For culture, head to the sprawling capital of Beijing to visit seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, wind through a labyrinth of hidden hutongs, stroll along a section of the Great Wall and watch a dazzling Chinese opera show. 

There’s also the frenetic Shanghai with its intriguing blend of cultures and architecture (think art deco buildings and lantern-lit canals hidden among towering skyscrapers). Enjoy the city’s eclectic food scene, see the Tudor mansions of the famous Huaihai Road or take a short train ride to Xitang – a charming water town that was once a hub for 19th-century trade. 

Japan has been blessed by Mother Nature in many ways with a diverse landscape of towering peaks, dense forests and pristine coastline. It’s also home to more than 100 volcanoes, including the majestic Mt. Fuji, due to its location on the Ring of Fire. Even in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you’re only ever a short train ride away from a beautiful nature escape.

If you like hiking, tackle one of the many trails of Mount Takao or head to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto to walk among towering bamboo. For water-based pursuits, cruise through the stunning Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki or soak in Hokkaido’s mineral-rich onsens. It’s also worth visiting Miyajima Island off Hiroshima to meet some of its four-legged residents (spoiler alert: they’re deer). 

HIKE, BIKE AND KAYAK THROUGH JAPAN

China is the third-largest country in the world and so the landscapes are incredibly diverse. In fact, China is a ‘megadiverse’ country with over 550 species of mammals, 1200 species of birds, 31,000 types of flora and 27,000 species of fungi. From beautiful wetlands to vast plateaus, and sweeping deserts to cascading rice terraces, there are breathtaking scenes to explore in every province. 

Make your way to Guilin to admire karst hills from the picture-perfect Li River, witness the remarkable colours of the Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye Geopark, hike to the Golden Summit of Mount Emei to stand above the clouds or discover the floating peaks of Zhangjiajie (you might even recognise this scene from the iconic movie,  Avatar ).

RELATED: 6 SURREAL LANDSCAPES TO EXPLORE IN CHINA  

When it comes to weather, Japan has it all. Most regions sit in a temperate climate zone with four distinct seasons. There’s never a ‘bad’ time to travel to Japan, but spring (March to May) is one of the most popular seasons when the stunning cherry blossoms are in full bloom. There’s no sight quite like it!

September to November is also a fabulous time of year when the landscapes turn red, orange and gold with autumn foliage. Winter is mild in places like Osaka and Tokyo which get a light dusting of snow, while northern Japan gets dumped with powder – this means one thing: hit the slopes! Winter is the quietest time of year, but perfect if you want to explore the usually busy streets in solitude. Plus, a piping hot bowl of ramen hits differently when it’s cold outside. 

With so many climate zones, the weather varies a lot in China. Depending on when and where you visit, you might experience intense heat and humidity in summer and thick blankets of snow in winter. China’s northern regions have hot, dry summers, while destinations along the eastern coastlines and in the south are more humid. Snow is possible in winter in many regions, but especially in the northern reaches.

Hiking and outdoor activities are best in summer and autumn, though tourism usually peaks between June and August so bear this in mind if you want to dodge the crowds. Winter is the low season, but it’s a fantastic time for cultural festivals with the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival and Chinese New Year. For mild weather and smaller crowds, a shoulder month like October or May might suit.

RELATED: BEST TIME TO VISIT CHINA

The verdict

This one’s a solid draw. Both destinations promise to deliver with delicious food, culture, history and breathtaking landscapes. Japan is smaller than China and so it might be easier to cover more ground and experience more culture in a shorter space of time, but you’re bound to have an unforgettable adventure no matter which country you choose.

Feeling inspired? Check out Intrepid’s small group tours in China and Japan .

Feeling inspired?

Cliona Elliott

Originally from Jersey (the tiny island in the English Channel), Cliona now lives in Melbourne, Australia. When she's not writing about all things travel for Intrepid, you'll find her chasing flavours, getting lost in local markets or waking up at a ridiculous time to watch the sunrise from the top of a mountain.

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China Travel Restrictions & Travel Advisory (Updated April 25, 2024)

Amazing News for Selected Country Travelers!

Visa-Free Access to China

Great news for our esteemed customers from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Malaysia! You can enjoy China's beautiful culture and scenery visa-free for 15 days until December 31st, 2025. No extended waiting, less hassle, and more time for planning your perfect China adventure.

And for our fortunate travelers from Singapore—you can relish visa-free access to China for up to 30 days, indefinitely!

Seeking a Longer Stay or Arriving from Other Countries? Try China Highlights' Port Visa Service

If your home country isn't listed above or if you aim to discover China for more than two weeks, no worries — we offer our Port Visa Service! Once your tour booking is confirmed with us, we can arrange your visa for just US$50 (valid until June 30th, 2024). Forget the stress of embassy visits and visa interviews.

Start booking your dream Chinese vacation with us .

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• What Ways to Enter China
• Do I Still Need a PCR Test to Enter China
• Hong Kong/Macau Travel Restriction

International Flights to China

What to expect when traveling in china, best times to travel to china, 8 ways to enter china: all open now.

Since China has fully permitted visa applications, there are now several ways to enter the country.

If you still hold a valid Chinese visa (any type including a tourist visa, 10-year visa, a port visa, etc.), you can use it to enter China.

If you don't have a Chinese visa or your visa has expired, you can apply for a new one. All visas can now be applied for, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and so on. (International visitors can apply for a tourist visa to the Chinese Mainland in Hong Kong.)

For the documents required for a visa application, you can refer to the information given by a Chinese embassy/consulate . Please submit your application at least two months in advance.

To apply for a tourist visa (L visa), you will be asked to provide an invitation letter issued by a Chinese travel agency or individual or round-trip air tickets and hotel bookings.

When booking a private tour with us, we can provide you with an invitation letter, which is one more thing we do to make your travel more convenient, giving you more flexibility with your air tickets and hotel bookings.

Now it is very easy to apply for a visa . You can easily apply by yourself without an intermediary. The following is how one of our clients successfully applied for a Chinese tourist visa:

• First, fill out the form at the China Online Visa Application website ;
• Second, make an appointment on this website to submit your visa materials on Appointment for Visa Application Submission website ;
• Third, take the required documents to the embassy to submit;
• Finally, you will get a return receipt if your documents are qualified.

Usually, you will get your visa after 7 working days. The application fee is about USD185 for US citizens.

Q: What if my passport expires but my visa doesn't?

A: You can travel to China on the expired passport containing valid Chinese visa in combination with the new passport, provided that the identity information (name, date of birth, gender, nationality) on both passport identical.

If there is a change to any of the above details, you must apply for a new visa.

2. 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy

If you do not apply for a Chinese visa, you may still have the opportunity to visit these areas of China visa free: the Shanghai area (including Suzhou, Hangzhou, etc.), the Beijing area (with Tianjin and Hebei), the Guangzhou area (Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.), and more. Take advantage of the 6-day visa-free entitlements.

Find out if you could use the 144-hour visa-free transit policy with our information on China's 144-hour Visa-Free Policy (Eligible Entry/Exit Ports, Applicable Countries, Documents to be Prepared...)

You can also obtain entry and exit control policies through the 24-hour hotline of the National Immigration Administration:

• Beijing: 0086 (+86)-10-12367
• Shanghai: 0086 (+86)-21-12367
• Guangzhou: 0086 (+86)-20-12367

Quick Test: Will My Route Qualify for China 72/144-Hour Visa-Free Transit?

1. I will depart from (only applies to direct or connected flight):

2. I will arrive in China at [city], [airport / railway station / port].

3. My arrival date is...

4. I will leave for [country/region] from China (the bounding destination on the air ticket):

5. My departure date is...

6. My nationality is...

8. I have Chinese visa refusal stamps in my passport.

You qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour visa-free policy.

You qualify to enjoy China's 144-hour visa-free policy.

You don't qualify to enjoy China's 72-hour or 144-hour visa-free policy.

Reason you don't qualify:

• You must be in transit to a third country or region.
• You must leave the city area (prefecture or municipality) after the 72/144 hours (the 72/144-hour limit is calculated starting from 00:00 on the day after arrival, i.e. 24:00 on the arrival date).
• Your passport must be valid for more than 3 months at the time of entry into China.
• Your passport nationality is not eligible for the 72/144-hour visa exemption program.
• You have Chinese visa refusal stamps in your passport.

3. Port Visas (Landing Visas)

If you don't have time to get a visa, or if you find it cumbersome to apply for a tourist visa, you could consider traveling to China through a port visa.

Port visas can be applied for a group at least including 2 people. You need to enter the country within 15 days after you get your entry permit. The port visa allows a stay period of 1 to 2 months.

Applicable ports include Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Guilin, Xi'an, Chengdu, etc.

Note: Tourists from America are not granted a port visa in Shanghai.

Book your China trip with us and we can help you apply for a port visa.

4. Visa Exemption for ASEAN Tour Groups to Guilin

In addition, tour groups from ASEAN member countries, including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Myanmar, Brunei, and the Philippines, can visit Guilin for 144 hours without visas as long as they meet the visa-free transit policy requirements.

5. Shanghai Visa-Free Policy for Cruise Groups

Shanghai has a 15-day visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via a cruise. You must arrive and depart on the same cruise and be received by a Chinese travel agent at the Shanghai Cruise Terminal (or Wusong Passenger Center).

6. Hainan Visa-Free Access

No visa is required for staying on Hainan Island for up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders from 59 countries. Groups and individual tourists must book a tour through an accredited travel agency.

Find out whether you qualify for the policy here .

7. Visa Exemption for the Pearl River Delta Area

International travelers from Hong Kong or Macau are able to visit the Pearl River Delta area (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, etc.) visa-free as long as they go with a registered tour provider, such as us.

8. APEC Cards

If you hold a valid APEC business travel card, you can simply enter China with the card without applying for a visa.

Travelers who hold a valid APEC business travel card can stay in China for up to 60 days.

• 4-Day Beijing Private Tour - Essence of Beijing
• 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai Tour - Classic Wonders
• 13-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai Educational Family Vacation

Do I Still Need a PCR Test or Antigen Self-Test to Enter China

No. Starting from August 30, all travelers entering China will no longer need to undergo any COVID-19 testing. You do not need to submit any test results for COVID-19 before departure.

• 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Shanghai Private Tour - China Golden Triangle
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Hong Kong / Macau Travel Restriction

Hong kong entry requirements.

Travelers from any region bound for Hong Kong will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test) from April 1.

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong could be a good gateway for your China trip. See suggestions on China Itineraries from Hong Kong (from 1 Week to 3 Weeks).

Direct high-speed trains from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Hong Kong are available now. In preparation for the Canton Fair, it is expected that direct high-speed ferries will be launched from Guangzhou Pazhou Port to Hong Kong's airport in mid-April.

• 10 Top China Tours from Hong Kong

Macau Entry Requirement

From August 30, travelers from any region bound for Macau will no longer need to take pre-flight COVID-19 tests (no PCR test, no RAT test).

There is also no need for any tests when traveling from Macau to the Chinese Mainland.

Inbound and outbound international flights in the week beginning March 6th rose by more than 350% compared with a year earlier, to nearly 2,500 flights, according to Chinese flight tracking data from APP Flight Master.

At present, there are one or two direct flights a week from New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, Seattle to Shanghai, London to Guangzhou, etc.

There are also many flight options with stopovers that are more frequent and affordable. Testing at transit airports is now not required!

The Coronavirus outbreak in China has subsided. China looks like it did in 2019 again. No special measures (like PCR tests or health codes) are required when traveling around China. All attractions are open as normal.

Wearing a mask is not mandatory when traveling. In hotels, masks are off for the most part. But in some crowded places, such as airports or subway stations, many people still wear masks.

Weather-wise, the best times to visit China are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when most of the popular places have their most tourism-friendly weather, except for the "golden weeks" — the first week of May and of October — when most attractions are flooded with Chinese tourists.

If you are looking for smaller crowds, favorable prices, and still good weather, you should consider March and April or September.

Tourism in cultural and historical destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an is hardly affected by weather conditions. They are suitable to be visited all year round.

• 11-Day Family Happiness - Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin/Yangshuo-Shanghai
• 13-Day Private Tour: Beijing – Xi'an – Chengdu –Yangtze Cruise – Shanghai - China Essence and Panda Tour
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Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Tour China with Us

We've been building our team for over 20 years. Even over the past three years we have continued, serving over 10,000 expats with China tours and getting a lot of praise (see TripAdvisor ).

We are based in China and can show you the characteristics and charm of China from a unique perspective. Just contact us to create your China trip .

Our consultants will listen to and answer your inquiries carefully and prepare the best plan for you.

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• Best China Tours 2024/2025: Top Tours for First & Return Trips
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• 8 Days in China: Top 15 Tours and Itineraries (2024/2025)
• China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
• China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
• China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
• China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
• China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
• China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
• China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
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A Travel Comparison for Vacations, Honeymoons, and Tours Japan vs. China

Should you visit japan or china, which country is cheaper, china or japan.

Should I visit Japan or China? This is a popular question for many travelers. By figuring out which country is more expensive, you'll understand where you'll get more bang for your buck. A week in China can cost you about $555 (per person), while a week in Japan may cost you around $0.00. These differences become even more noticable if you plan to spend a longer time in the country. 10 days , two weeks , or even one month of travel to China or Japan can really add to your travel budget.

Accommodation is often cheaper in Japan compared to China ($0.00 vs. $34). Budget travelers often stay in cheaper hostels and guest houses, while nicer hotels usually appeal to families and upscale travelers.

Or, compare hostel and guesthouse prices between China and Japan to find the cheapest accommodation here: China hostels and Japan hostels .

When comparing food in Japan vs. China they are not just different in cuisine, but also in price. Meal and restaurant costs in Japan ($0.00) are often cheaper than China ($23).

• Japan Prices China Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Japan $ 0.00 China $ 79
• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Japan $ 0.00 China $ 34
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Japan $ 0.00 China $ 68
• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Japan $ 0.00 China $ 16
• Food Meals for one day Japan $ 0.00 China $ 23
• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Japan $ 0.00 China $ 17
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Japan $ 0.00 China $ 11
• Water Bottled water for one day Japan $ 0.00 China $ 0.99

How much are flights to Japan and China?

The price of a plane ticket may help you decide which country you should visit.

Find a Hostel in Japan or China

Hostels, guest houses, and locally owned B&B's are often the cheapest form of accommodation.

Related Articles for Japan

Related articles for china, when is the best time to visit japan and china.

Why is Japan more expensive than China?

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How you can save money when visiting Japan and China?

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It Just Got Easier for Americans to Visit China—Here's What to Know

By Matt Ortile

I was recently applying for a new passport, dreaming of all the new stamps and visas I’d collect, when I wondered: “Can Americans travel to China?” As it turns out, some recent policy changes out of Beijing have made it easier than ever to marvel at the Great Wall of China , take in the cosmopolitan bustle of Shanghai , and devour spicy Sichuan -style dishes at the source.

As of January 1, 2024, US travelers applying for tourist visas to China are no longer required to present proof of roundtrip tickets for travel, hotel reservations, or specific itineraries. The development came after a declaration in December by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States that states both countries mutually agreed to simplify the visa process in an effort to “facilitate people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States.”

To learn more about how US passport holders can travel to China, I reached out to travel specialists with deep expertise in tourism in China and Asia more broadly: Mei Zhang, the founder of WildChina and a member of Condé Nast Traveler ’s Global Advisory Board ; and Catherine Heald, co-founder and CEO of Remote Lands , a luxury travel advisor specializing in destinations throughout Asia.

Here’s what you need to know about traveling to China with a US passport in 2024.

Can Americans travel to China?

Yes, Americans can travel to China for tourism purposes. The country previously upheld travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, from early 2020 to March 2023. At the time, a quarantine period was required of anyone who entered the country; additionally, Zhang of WildChina explains, flights between the United States and China were extremely limited, and so tickets were prohibitively expensive .

Interest in travel to China has increased in recent months, says Heald of Remote Lands, thanks to the new visa application rules that have come into effect in 2024: “Even when the country opened, obtaining a visa was somewhat difficult, so it did not really see an influx of travelers from the US until this year.”

What kind of visa do I need to visit China?

US passport holders need a visa to visit China, obtained in advance of travel, i.e. there is no “visa on arrival” option. Tourist visas valid for ten years and good for multi-entry use must be acquired though a Chinese embassy or consulate, or a visa service. Currently, for US citizens, the cost for a tourist visa for travel to China is $140, whether for single-use or multi-entry use. This is a reduced fee, in effect until December 31, 2024 .

According to the Chinese embassy in the United States, the tourist visa application requirements include: a passport with at least six-months’ validity and two blank pages; a photocopy of the passport’s ID page; a completed application form, filled out online and printed; proof of residence, like a driver’s license or a utility bill; and a completed “ Where You Stay Form ” that attests the applicant is currently applying for a visa from within the US.

Admittedly, the steps are a bit more involved than the path you’d walk (or fly) to countries to which US citizens easily have access, or to destinations that offer visa-on-arrival programs. “When it feels too convoluted to navigate on your own, we recommend using a visa service like CIBT to make it easier,” Zhang says.

If you’re just transiting through China (if you have a 12-hour layover in Shanghai, for example, and want to go into the city before flying to your final stop), you’re in luck: Heald says that in certain Chinese cities, foreign nationals from 54 countries, including the US, are eligible for the 24-, 72-, or 144-hour transit visa-free policies, as long as they stay within certain areas and can present proof of confirmed dates of travel to a third country.

For first-timers visiting China, experts suggest an itinerary that includes one, two, or all three of the Chinese metropolitan triumvirate: Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai.

When is the best time to visit China?

Spring and fall are the best times to travel in China, according to Zhang and Heald. “ Summer can be very hot, depending on where you are in China, and also busier than usual, since kids are on summer break and traveling with their families during this time,” Zhang says.

She also recommends to plan travel around the calendar of Chinese national holidays, since travel can be more challenging due to the heightened amount of activity. “The main holidays to avoid are Chinese New Year, the May Day holiday in the first week of May, and Golden Week, which is the first week of October).” It’s a fair point, but if those times are what work for you, don’t let the craze of the crowds stop you. I imagine it would truly be an awesome sight to see, a Chinese city or town celebrating the Lunar New Year .

I’m visiting China for the first time—what city should I visit?

Both Zhang and Heald suggest an itinerary that includes one, two, or all three of the Chinese metropolitan triumvirate: Beijing , Xi’an, and Shanghai. Go for the Forbidden City and the Great Wall in the capital, see the iconic Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, and head to the Bund for the skyscraper-laden cosmopolitan side of China (where you can stay at the Peninsula Shanghai , an editor-favorite hotel featured on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List for 2024 ).

Sarah James

Caitlin Morton

Jahnavi Bhatt

Alex Erdekian

If you’re keen to get a little bit of all three—including the Sichuan city of Chengdu—Heald recommends the Classic China tour offered by Remote Lands that highlights some of the country’s most significant historical and cultural sites. (Also: pandas.) Speaking of nature, don’t be afraid to venture out of the cities, if time permits. For getting off the beaten path, Zhang recommends the mountainous province of Yunnan, while Heald mentions that travelers seeking spiritual experiences are going to Tibet (which requires another entry permit).

What else should Americans know before traveling to China?

It’s important to remember that the Great Firewall of China is very real: Websites like Google (including Gmail), YouTube, Facebook, and others are blocked in the country, Heald says, “especially if they touch on sensitive subjects.” She recommends downloading a VPN (virtual private network) to all of your devices before entering China, which allows you to freely use the Internet as usual. “If you do not wish to get a VPN, then plan accordingly and notify any concerned parties that you may be out of touch for a few days,” she says.

Still, China is changing at a rapid pace, Zhang notes. “Some of our recent travelers have described it as stepping into the future .” In the main cities, taxi cars are mostly electric. Sustainability is taking a leading role in development, and high-speed trains connect the entire country, with new rail lines opening regularly. Digital payments have swept every corner of the nation—“everybody from luxury stores to street food carts has a QR code”—and almost no one carries cash or credit cards. Zhang says, “For those who have visited China before, it has changed. And for those who have not visited before, you’re in for something wholly unexpected indeed.”

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Information Updated: November 1, 2023

From 1 November 2023, a 'health declaration' is no longer required when entering or leaving China.

The "MySOS" App has been integrated with the "Visit Japan Web". In order to use the“Fast Track”service for quarantine procedure, account registration at the Visit Japan Web is required.

Traveling from Japan to China

Traveling from china to japan, before you travel, conditions of travel.

For the latest information, please check the website of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of both Japan and the People's Republic of China

COVID-19: Current Japanese Border Measures | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/bordercontrol.html

Measures for Resuming Cross-Border Travel | Ministry of Foreign Affairs https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/cp/page22e_000925.html

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/eng/

At the Airport

• Stricter inspection procedures are in place, so departure and arrival terminals may differ from usual, and yours may have been changed since the time your booking was made. Please check the Peach website for updates prior to boarding.
• Due to travel restrictions, automated check-in kiosks may not be available. You may also have to wait for longer than usual because of enhanced quarantine and other precautionary measures. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
• Peach's Hygiene Measures: Requests to Customers

After You Arrive

Check in advance the policies of your destination region regarding quarantine and restrictions on movement, and comply with their requirements. For more details and the latest information, please check associtaion's webiste and the website of Centers for Disease Control.

Border measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) | Ministry of Foreign Affairs https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page4e_001053.html

Check the entry or re-entry requirements and visa restrictions before you plan your trip.

Entering Japan from Overseas | Ministry of Justice website https://www.isa.go.jp/en/nyuukokukanri01_00151.html

Entry and Re-entry of Foreign Nationals with “Special Exceptional Circumstances” | Ministry of Foreign Affairs https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page6e_000208.html

For those who are entering Japan from China starting April 5th, 2023. | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/001031449.pdf

Required procedure（Fast Track）

Please check the website of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.

https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/fasttrack/en/

• You may have to wait for longer than usual at immigration because of enhanced quarantine and other precautionary measures. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
• At Narita International Airport, Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) and Kansai International Airport, you can use Electronic Customs Declaration Gates (“E-gates”).
• Use of electronic declaration is recommended in order to limit contact with others to prevent infection.
• Electronic Customs Declaration Gates (E-gates) are Available at 7 Airports | Japan Customs https://www.customs.go.jp/english/passenger/egate.htm

Infection prevention measures such as testing, quarantining and health monitoring may be required. For information on matters such as quarantine measures, places of stay and use of transportation, please check the Q&A page on the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare website.

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare | Q&A on the New Border Measures https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/001002920.pdf

COVID-19: Current Japanese Border Measures | Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/bordercontrol.html

If you are denied permission to enter or leave Japan, tickets and accommodations cannot be changed and are non-refundable. You are solely responsible for checking and conforming with all entry and exit requirements at your arrival and return destinations. If you have booked a ticket through an external agent other than Peach, please contact the agent who made your booking. Click here for a refund if your reservation is canceled due to travel restrictions or any other restrictions.

China extends visa-free travel rules for 11 countries

D ue to a history of strained geopolitical relations  with the Western world, China has long been a challenging destination for Americans, Canadians, Australians and Brits to visit. 

While holders of these passports can visit hundreds of nations visa-free, seeing Beijing or Shanghai as a tourist required a visa application process in which one had to purchase a  round-trip air ticket and reserve a hotel before being granted one.

Related: China just made it a lot easier for Americans to visit

As part of its efforts to jump-start a tourism industry that took a big hit during the pandemic, the Chinese government has been slowly loosening some rules for foreigners who want to visit. In January 2024, it changed the rules so that Americans would not have to purchase trips without knowing whether they’d be granted entry and could instead apply for a visa at a local embassy with basic passport and employment information.

Citizen of these countries? You can now enter China visa-free

At the start of 2024, China also introduced a visa-free travel policy for citizens of Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland. Originally intended to run until Nov. 30, 2024, the program has now been extended into 2025 to continue to draw in tourists from those nations.

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Malaysian citizens have also been allowed to visit China for tourism for up to 30 days at a time since November 2023 and are included in the extension going into next year. Citizens of the European countries get visa-free travel for up to 15 days.

Here is why China makes it easier for some Westerners to visit

“The extension of the short-term visa-free policy until the end of 2025 will undoubtedly further boost confidence and enthusiasm for traveling to China, and will contribute to the growth of inbound tourism as well as aid in the prosperity of the industry," President of the China Tourism Academy Dai Bin told the Global Times.

Prior to the pandemic, China allowed visa-free entry only to citizens of Brunei, Singapore and Japan. Borders were closed fully during the pandemic. While the former two countries have been regranted access in 2022, citizens of Japan now also have to apply for visas amid rising tensions between the two countries over the South China Sea.

But for countries with which China has relatively good relations, the slackened visa rules come down to the issue of needing to bring in money. The 35.5 million foreigners who entered and left China in 2023 is a steep drop from the 97.7 million recorded in the last year before the pandemic in 2019.

At the time of announcing the new visa-free rules for European countries, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that it would help “facilitate the high-quality development of Chinese and foreign personnel exchanges and high-level opening up to the outside world.”

The U.S. Department of State currently has  China under the Level Three “reconsider travel” advisory in large part due to the “arbitrary enforcement of local laws" and the "risk of wrongful detentions" of citizens of countries the Chinese government considers unfriendly.

Related: Veteran fund manager picks favorite stocks for 2024

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Can Japan and China bridge their ever-widening ‘perception gap’?

The complex dynamics between the two nations and their histories prevent them seeing eye to eye.

I am writing this from Guangzhou, my first such trip to mainland China in nearly seven years, visiting Beijing and regions along the Pearl River, including Shenzhen and Dongguan.

The Japanese view of China

On the political front, the Japanese view of China is worsening. A typical perception is that China is a scary country. There's a fear that even if one does nothing, they can be detained on suspicion of espionage, making travel there feel unsafe. Even I have long hesitated to visit China as many of my friends have joked that I would be detained if I went there.

On the economic front, too, China’s outward image has not improved. This is evident in various aspects: The Chinese economy has already passed its peak. While an immediate collapse is unlikely, sustained high growth is no longer feasible. The subsequent erosion of confidence in investing there is further exacerbated by concerns over economic security. Some Japanese companies have even begun to seriously consider decoupling or derisking.

The Chinese perception of Japan

The Chinese perception, however, is quite the opposite. On the political side, I heard comments there such as: "The Japanese say they are afraid of being detained, but as long as they obey China's laws, they will have no problems," "If the Japanese don't come back to China soon, they will miss the bus." "Japan is no longer a major power and why does Japan continue to rely on the now-failing U.S.? Why not side with China?" The gap on the political front seems to be widening even more than before.

The situation is the same on the economic front. For example, some cling to baseless optimism, claiming that "the Japanese economy is already dysfunctional," or that "while the current Chinese economy is not doing well, it can never be like Japan's." Additionally, many average Chinese citizens believe that, unlike Western countries, China's economy will continue to grow due to its expanding relationship with the Global South.

Where is the truth?

As far as Japan-China relations are concerned, the truth doesn't necessarily lie in the middle. The two neighbors have a long and complicated history. One is a nation that returned to democracy after 1945 and now has a free market economy, while the other is a socialist dictatorship led by the Chinese Communist Party that has controlled the state since 1949.

It is natural that there are more than two views about the state, history or legitimacy of governance. Knowing this, I venture the following thoughts:

There is a certain basis in Japan for a “fear” of China on the political front. For example, I myself visited China on official business this time, using my official passport instead of my private one. Although I had many Chinese friends in Beijing during my assignment in the early 2000s with whom I could frankly discuss international issues, I did not contact them. I do not want to put them in an unnecessary predicament by my making unnecessary contacts.

Looking back, many of these fears seem unfounded. The likelihood of ordinary Japanese citizens being suddenly detained and interrogated is not likely, unless a specific Chinese government agency suspects espionage is taking place. Perhaps due to the widespread use of surveillance camera systems with facial recognition capabilities throughout the country, I did not feel any physical surveillance or overt pressure. After all, it's not cost-effective to monitor and detain a ”nobody” like me, an ordinary citizen.

There are also a questions over China's view of Japan on the diplomatic front. Japan is not dependent on the U.S. because of our declining power. It is only because it is in Japan's national interest to respect universal values such as freedom, democracy, the rule of law, human rights, humanity and to maintain the status quo of international order. That is why Japan is cooperating with Western countries, including the United States, that share the same values. Conversely, with China, which does not share such values, there is little interest for Japan, no matter how the power of the U.S. changes.

In terms of the economy, China's perception of Japan is somewhat misguided. Ten years ago, a Chinese economist I met in Japan confidently claimed to have thoroughly studied the collapse of Japan's bubble economy and its lost decades, asserting that China wouldn't repeat the same mistakes. However, China now faces more challenging issues than Japan did, including the middle-income country trap, youth unemployment and an inadequate social security system. These challenges are compounded by a balance sheet recession resulting from the bursting of the real estate bubble.

On the other hand, Japan's view of the Chinese economy may also be overly pessimistic. For instance, during my visit to the Pearl River Delta region, I witnessed examples of the nation's manufacturing capabilities. China's BYD produces 3 million EV vehicles a year in this region, supported by a countless number of various manufacturers and industries that bolster the area's high-tech companies. This region, with its strong resemblance to manufacturing sectors in Japan, holds great potential for the emergence of numerous startup industries.

How should Japan and China narrow the perception gap between their peoples? In all honesty, there seems to be no silver bullet. The complicated history of bilateral relations, and more recently, the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, may partly be responsible for the low level of free, nonpolitical personal exchanges or economic activity between the two nations.

That said, the more political the bilateral relationship becomes, the more important it is to take action before making comments. What is needed now is for China to decide to resume exchanges of people, including political leaders at the summit level.

Kuni Miyake is president of the Foreign Policy Institute and special adviser at Canon Institute for Global Studies. A former career diplomat, he also serves as a special adviser to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s Cabinet. The views expressed here do not necessarily reflect the positions of the Japanese government.

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What's the best state for you », south korea's foreign minister to visit china next week.

South Korea's Foreign Minister to Visit China Next Week

South Korea's Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul speaks during a joint press conference following an Australia and South Korea Foreign and Defence Ministers' meeting in Melbourne, Australia, May 1, 2024. REUTERS/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake/ File Photo

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's foreign minister Cho Tae-yul will visit China between Monday and Tuesday next week at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, Seoul's foreign ministry said on Friday.

It will be Cho's first trip to Beijing since taking up his post and marks the first visit by a South Korean foreign minister in more than six years.

The two will discuss issues ranging from bilateral relations to a trilateral meeting with Japan and the situation on the Korean peninsula, the ministry said in a statement.

Cho will also meet South Korean business leaders and exchange views on how to boost economic exchange between the two countries.

(Reporting by Hyunsu Yim; Editing by Ed Davies)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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