The Japanese Embassy has urged Filipino travelers to apply for tourist visas at least two months before their planned departure amid a significant rise in visitors from the Philippines.
The advisory applies to those seeking a Temporary Visitor Visa, valid for stays of up to 90 days, and a Multiple Entry Visa for Temporary Visitors.
“Due to the rapid increase in the number of visitors from the Philippines, examination of visa applications for tourism purposes may take several weeks longer than the standard processing time. Therefore, we highly recommend for applicants to please apply at least two months prior to the date of travel,” the embassy stated.
The warning comes ahead of Japan’s cherry blossom season, which peaks from late March to April. The season is expected to attract more Filipino tourists eager to witness the iconic sakura blooms in Tokyo and other scenic locations.
Data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) revealed that over 710,000 Filipinos visited Japan between January and November 2024, marking a 30.7% increase compared to the same period in 2023. In November alone, 87,100 Filipino tourists visited Japan, a 37% year-on-year increase, setting a record for the highest growth rate from an ASEAN country.
Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya expressed gratitude, stating on social media that he hopes Filipino visitors enjoyed their stay.
The Philippines now ranks as Japan’s eighth largest source of tourists, following countries such as the United States, South Korea, and China.
