Table of Contents for the Cruise Guide
Key points of this page
- Visit Japan Web is the Japanese government's online service for immigration procedures, but the official instructions assume arrival at the airport by plane (registering the airline name and flight number, and scanning a QR code at the airport terminal).
- When entering Japan by cruise ship, it is essential to follow the procedures outlined by the cruise line. Immigration procedures are typically carried out at the first Japanese port of arrival.
- Foreign passengers can disembark for sightseeing purposes on designated cruise ships with a "shipboard sightseeing shore leave permit" (provided they return before the ship departs).
- Customs declarations are required for all passengers. Declaration forms are available on board the ship.
Last verified: October 2, 2026 (Source at the end of this page)
When traveling to Japan by ship, first check the announcements from the cruise line! The procedures are different from those for air travel.
Can Visit Japan Web be used on cruise ships?
- Visit Japan Web is a service operated by the Digital Agency that allows users to pre-register information regarding immigration procedures and customs declarations.
- The official instructions describe the process of registering your arrival by entering the airline name and flight number, and then showing the QR code to the scanner at the airport. There are no instructions for arriving by ship.
- Therefore, if you are entering the country by cruise ship, please follow the procedures instructed by the cruise line (such as filling out documents distributed on board).
- Whether or not registration is required can vary depending on the ship and route. The most reliable way to find out is to check with the cruise line before boarding.
The process of entering Japan by ship
| procedure | Content |
|---|---|
| Immigration | It will take place at the first Japanese port of arrival. The location (onboard the ship or at the port terminal) and time will be announced on board. |
| Permit for sightseeing landing by ship | This is permission granted to foreign passengers of cruise ships designated by the Minister of Justice to disembark for sightseeing purposes. Disembarkation is permitted for a period not exceeding 7 or 30 days, provided that the passenger returns to the ship before its departure. |
| Customs | All passengers entering Japan are required to declare their belongings. Declaration forms are available on board the ship. |
| Disembarking at a port of call | When disembarking, be sure to bring your cruise card (boarding pass) and any documents that the cruise line has instructed you to carry with you (such as your landing permit or passport). |
Please double-check your passport expiration date and any notices from the cruise line before departure.
Pre-boarding checklist
- Check the expiration date of your passport (the required remaining validity period varies depending on your nationality and the cruise line's regulations).
- Check whether you need a visa to enter Japan based on your nationality.
- Read the immigration procedures guide from the cruise line (including online pre-registration and filling out documents on board).
- Check to see if there are any items that cannot be brought into Japan or that need to be declared.
- If your return flight is from a Japanese airport, choose a plane considering the travel time after disembarking. How to get from Yokohama to Haneda/Narita).
Also worth reading
- Practical guide for port days (landing permits, all-aboard time, emergency contact information)
- Practical information for Japanese cruises (tipping, power outlets, cash, duty-free)
- Can you walk to the city? List of all ports
FAQ
Q1 When entering Japan by cruise ship, is registration with Visit Japan Web required?
Visit Japan Web is the Japanese government's (Digital Agency) online service for immigration procedures. The official instructions describe the process of registering the airline name and flight number and scanning a QR code at the airport terminal, but there is no information on entry by ship. If you are entering Japan by cruise ship, please follow the procedures guided by the cruise line (documents distributed on board, etc.). If you are unsure, it is best to check with the cruise line before boarding.
Q2 If I board a ship from South Korea or Taiwan bound for Japan, where do I go through immigration?
You will need to go through immigration procedures at the first Japanese port you arrive at. The location (onboard the ship or at the port terminal) and time of the procedures will be announced on board the ship.
Q3 Where can I get a customs declaration form?
According to Japanese customs, declaration forms are available on board the ship. All passengers entering Japan are required to declare their belongings.
Q4 What is a "permission to land on a ship for sightseeing"?
This is a simple shore leave permit for foreign passengers on cruise ships designated by the Minister of Justice, allowing them to disembark for sightseeing. Disembarkation is permitted for a period not exceeding 7 or 30 days, provided they return to the ship before departure. Please follow the cruise line's instructions regarding eligibility and required documents.
Source/Reference Information
- Digital Agency "Visit Japan Web Instruction Manual" (Operation Manual)
- Digital Agency "Visit Japan Web"
- Japanese Customs "Procedures of Passenger Clearance"
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan, "Data Section" (Explanation of permission for landing on a ship for tourism)
- Immigration Services Agency: "Landing Procedures for Foreigners"
Last updated: October 2, 2026. Entry procedures are subject to change. Please check the latest information on the official websites of the cruise line and the Japanese government.