Planning Your Japan Trip as a Nepali Citizen

If you’re thinking of visiting Japan, get ready for an adventure like no other! For Nepali travelers, Japan offers a fascinating mix of things that will feel strangely familiar, and at the same time, incredibly new. From ancient temples that might remind you of our own religious sites to ultra-modern cities that seem to come from the future, Japan welcomes visitors with its legendary safety, cleanliness, and hospitality.
So, are you ready to explore the Land of the Rising Sun? Let’s dive into how you can make that dream trip happen — starting with your Japanese tourist visa.

Visa Types: Which One’s Right for You?

For most Nepali travelers, the Temporary Visitor Visa for Tourism is the way to go. This visa allows you to stay in Japan for up to 90 days, perfect for sightseeing, relaxation, or just soaking in the culture. It’s all about leisure and adventure, no business meetings involved!

Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process

Getting your visa is an important first step — but don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way.

Essential Documents for Japan Tourist Visa Application

Before you start your visa application, here’s a quick checklist of the documents you'll need. Gather everything in advance, and the process will be smooth sailing.

1. Visa Application Form

• What to do: Fill out a separate form for each person, including children.
• Important: The form should be printed on both sides and must include your contact number.

2. Valid Passport

• What to do: Ensure your passport has at least one blank page for the visa stamp.
• Important: It should be valid for at least 6 months after your planned return.

3. Passport-sized Photograph

• What to do: Provide a recent passport photo (45mm x 35mm).
• Important: The photo must have a white background and should be a full-face view taken within the last six months.

4. Travel Arrangements

• What to do: Provide confirmed round-trip flight bookings and a detailed travel itinerary.
• Important: Let the embassy know how you plan to travel around Japan (e.g., transportation details).

5. Accommodation Details

• What to do: Provide proof of where you’ll be staying, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Japan.

6. Financial Proof

• What to do: Submit recent bank statements to prove you have enough funds for the trip (covering accommodation, meals, and sightseeing).
• Important: Ensure the statements are up to date.

7. Employment Verification

• What to do: Submit a letter from your employer confirming your job, salary, and approved leave.
• If self-employed: Include your business registration documents.

8. Proof of Family Relationships (if traveling with family)

• What to do: If traveling with your spouse or children, provide marriage or birth certificates to prove the relationship.

Pro Tip: Make sure all documents are originals — no photocopies allowed!

Submit Your Application

Once you’ve got all your documents together, head to the Japan Visa Application Centre in Kathmandu to submit everything. Important: Only original documents are accepted, so no photocopies.
Processing Time: The usual processing time is around 6 working days. But, as always, apply early to avoid any last-minute stress.

Pay the Fees

Now, for the money side of things. Here’s the breakdown of the visa fees:

• Single Entry Visa: NPR 2,860 per person
• Multiple Entry Visa: NPR 5,710 per person
  Plus, there may be additional service charges if you apply through the visa application center.

Traveling with Family? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you're bringing along your family — whether it’s your parents, spouse, or kids — there are a few extra steps to keep in mind:

• Individual Applications: Everyone (yes, including kids) needs to submit a separate application with all the required documents.
• Proof of Relationship: Official documents like your marriage certificate for your spouse and birth certificates for children will be needed to show the family connection.
• Financial Support: If one person is sponsoring the trip, include their financial documents and a sponsorship letter.
• Consent for Minors: If you're traveling with children, both parents need to give their consent. If one parent can’t be there, you’ll need a notarized letter from them giving permission.

Additional Tips and Info

Before you submit your application, keep these things in mind:

• Visa Hotline: If you have questions, you can call the Visa Hotline at 1-800-001-0169 (available 24/7, English only).
• Original Documents Only: The embassy only accepts original documents — so no faxes or emails allowed!
• Timing is Key: Apply at least 10 working days before your departure date to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Budgeting for a 7-Day Trip to Japan

A trip to Japan is an unforgettable experience, but you’ll need to plan your budget carefully. Here's a quick breakdown of what you can expect to spend on your 7-day adventure:

Visa Fees

• Single Entry Visa: Around NPR 2,860 per person.

Flights

• Round-Trip Flights: Flight prices from Kathmandu to Tokyo can range between NPR 70,000 to NPR 100,000 depending on the airline, booking time, and season.

Accommodation

Accommodation costs vary based on your preferences:

• Budget Hotels: Around NPR 5,000 to NPR 8,000 per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Expect to pay NPR 10,000 to NPR 15,000 per night.

For a 7-night stay:

• Budget Stay: Total of NPR 35,000 to NPR 56,000.
• Mid-Range Stay: Total of NPR 70,000 to NPR 105,000.

Daily Expenses

Here’s what you’ll need for meals, transportation, and sightseeing:

• Meals: Around NPR 2,500 to NPR 5,000 per day.
• Local Transportation: Approximately NPR 1,500 to NPR 3,000 per day.
• Sightseeing: Expect to spend NPR 2,000 to NPR 5,000 on daily activities.

For 7 days, your daily expenses will total anywhere between NPR 42,000 and NPR 91,000.

Travel Insurance

Plan on spending around NPR 5,000 to NPR 10,000 per person for insurance to cover any potential emergencies during your trip.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Don’t forget extra expenses for shopping and surprises!

• Shopping/Souvenirs: Budget around NPR 10,000 to NPR 20,000.
• Contingencies: Set aside NPR 10,000 for anything unexpected.

Total Estimated Cost Per Person

• Budget Traveler: Approx. NPR 174,860
• Mid-Range Traveler: Approx. NPR 338,860

Let’s Revise Your Japan Trip Budget!

Planning a 7-day adventure to Japan is exciting, but knowing how much to budget is just as important. Whether you're traveling on a budget or looking for a more comfortable experience, it’s essential to plan ahead. Here's a quick breakdown of what you can expect to spend for both budget and mid-range options.

Cost Breakdown for a 7-Day Trip to Japan

Budget Traveler

If you’re looking to make the most of your trip without splurging too much, you’ll be looking at an estimated total of NPR 174,860 for the week. This includes basic accommodation, affordable meals, and local transportation. You’ll still get to enjoy the main sights and experiences Japan has to offer without breaking the bank!

Mid-Range Traveler

If you prefer a bit more comfort, mid-range options will bring your total closer to NPR 338,860. This will cover better accommodations, more dining options, and a bit more flexibility when it comes to sightseeing and shopping.

Extra Tips for Traveling Around Japan

• JR Pass: If you’re planning to travel across Japan, consider getting the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for around NPR 29,000. It gives you unlimited access to JR trains, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains).
• Currency Exchange: Make sure to exchange some Nepali rupees into Japanese yen before you go, or look for exchange options when you arrive.
• Peak Seasons: Be mindful that traveling during cherry blossom season or holidays can hike up your costs, as flights and hotels tend to fill up quickly.

Conclusion

Getting a Japanese tourist visa as a Nepali citizen is a simple process if you have all your documents in order and plan ahead. Whether you're traveling solo, with your partner, or with the whole family, Japan offers something for everyone. From its beautiful temples and serene parks to its lively streets and high-tech wonders, Japan is waiting to offer you an experience you’ll never forget.

Plan ahead, budget wisely, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Japan!

For the latest information and updates, make sure to check out the official website of the Embassy of Japan in Nepal or contact the Japan Visa Application Centre directly.