Tips on how to get a Japan Visa (for Philippine residents only)

We just came from a trip to Japan last August. 

My husband and I were so excited to share with you some tips on how to travel to Japan without getting lost knowing that there is a language barrier especially if you don't know some basic Japanese language. 

We bought our roundtrip ticket on sale last April 2015. However, it's a bit risky since we still don't have a Japan Visa yet that time. 

Tip #1: Always wait and check-out promo fares! Cause without the promo, the roundtrip fare will cost you a lot. We applied for our visa 3 months before our flight and were granted by the embassy a Multiple Entry for 5 years.

Tip #2: Ready all the requirements before you apply for a Visa.

Tip #3: Check-out hotel good deals via www.booking.com or www.agoda.com 

If planning for a group trip, visit www.airbnb.com, for nice and clean rooms or apartment. Famous Capsule hotels and Traditional Japanese Ryokan are also a good choice.

Tip #4: Learn Japan's culture via online, you may check www.japaninfo.com for updated details about the country or buy a travel handybook as you may need this if you want to start basic conversation with a Japanese.

Tip #5: Rent a pocket Wi-Fi via online before you travel. This is optional. We recommend Global Advanced Communications.

Check this site for details:  http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/guide/service/list/svc_19_1.html#t2

Tip #6: Prepare a detailed itinerary.

Tip #7: They don't use credit cards that often. So prepare cash especially when buying ticket trains.

Tip #8: If you are planning to go from Tokyo to Osaka, Osaka to Kyoto or to any prefectures in Japan: buy a Japan Rail Pass ticket. This ticket is exclusive for tourists only and can be bought in any of the accredited travel agencies in your country.

If you are planning to tour at Tokyo only, there's no need to buy a JR Pass ticket. You just need to buy either a Suica or Pasmo card  which you can use anywhere in Tokyo and these cards are reloadable.

There are other countries wherein Japan does not require a Visa. But if you're a resident here in the Philippines, you need to have one. Here are the requirements you need for a Japan Visa: (for Tourists only)

1. Bank Certificate

2. Income Tax Return

3. Certificate of Employment (optional)

4. NSO certified Birth Certificate (issued within the year)

5. NSO certified Marriage Contract, if married applicants (issued within the year)

6. Passport size 2x2 picture for Japan visa application form

8. Japan Visa Application form - you may download it via online or you may drop by at their office or to any Japan accredited travel agencies.

9. Japan Itinerary Form - download it via Reli Tours online or drop by at their office or to any Japan accredited travel agencies.

10. And of course, your passport

You may check out Japan Embassy page online to know their accredited travel agencies.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post on the comment box below. I will be very happy to answer all your questions.

Dani