Proper preparation is key to passing through airport security smoothly and avoiding any unexpected issues.
This practical guide will help you understand the steps you need to follow both for your departure from Europe and your arrival in Japan, so you can start your trip stress-free.
What Documents Should You Prepare Before Leaving for Japan?
Entering Japan requires a few essential documents and precautions. Here’s a list of mandatory items to ensure you don’t encounter any unpleasant surprises.
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A valid passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days after your arrival in Japan. -
A return ticket
Although Japanese immigration doesn’t typically ask to see your return ticket, you are required to have a ticket proving your departure from Japan within 90 days of your arrival.
Tip: Check out our guide on budgeting for flights to Japan to help you find the best fares. -
A reservation for your first night
You must have a reservation for your first night in Japan. While it’s not necessary to book every night in advance, this first night is required for administrative purposes. -
Complete immigration and customs forms online
Before departure, you’ll need to complete the necessary paperwork through the Visit Japan Web site (available in English), ideally two weeks before you leave. These forms concern Japanese immigration and customs and are used to generate a QR Code which will be presented once in Japan. Additionally, it's recommended to download the Visit Japan Web app on your phone, so you can access your QR codes even without internet.
Formalities for going to Japan
Departure from France: What Are the Steps?
When departing from a French airport, the process is usually swift, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to avoid unnecessary stress.
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Collect your boarding pass
At the terminal entrance, you can use the self-service kiosks to print your boarding pass and luggage tags. -
Check your luggage
After tagging your luggage, head to the baggage drop counters. Be mindful of the weight limit, which is generally 23 kg. Verify with your airline if any exceptions apply. -
Pass through security
Your carry-on items will be inspected as you go through security. To save time, follow the restrictions on liquids and prohibited items in your hand luggage.
Tip: Organize your carry-on so that electronics are easily accessible. Also, avoid wearing too many metal accessories, as you’ll need to remove them during screening. -
Board the plane
Once security checks are complete, all that’s left is to relax before boarding. Make sure to check your gate and boarding time to avoid delays.
The entire boarding process takes about 1.5 hours, so it’s recommended to arrive at the airport 2 to 3 hours before your flight departs.
Preparing for Your Arrival in Japan While Onboard
During the 14-hour flight to Japan, you’ll want to stay occupied. Check out our article "How to have a good flight to Japan" for tips on making your trip as comfortable as possible.
If you haven’t completed the online forms through Visit Japan Web before your departure, you’ll need to follow the old arrival procedures.
Guide to Arriving at the Airport in Japan
The direct flight to Japan takes around 14 hours, giving you plenty of time to prepare for your arrival.
If you haven’t filled out the Visit Japan Web forms online, use your flight time to complete the old paper immigration forms. Flight attendants often hand them out during the flight.
If you pre-purchased a SIM card, remember to insert it into your phone (and don’t forget the small tool to open your phone’s SIM slot).
What to Expect Upon Arrival at the Airport in Japan
Arriving in Japan can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t speak Japanese. Fortunately, with a bit of preparation, everything will go smoothly. Here’s a summary of what to expect once you land.
For a more detailed version, check out our Arrival Guide for Japan.
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Connect to Visit Japan Web
Once you arrive at the airport, connect to the free Wi-Fi or use your SIM card to log into your Visit Japan Web account or app. This will allow you to display the QR codes needed for immigration and customs.
Important: A screenshot or printed version won’t be accepted. Immigration officers need to verify your documents directly from your phone. -
Go through immigration
At immigration, you’ll need to present your QR code. They’ll also take a photo of your face and fingerprint scans of your index fingers. -
Collect your luggage
After immigration, head to the baggage claim to retrieve your checked luggage. This step often takes the longest and provides a good opportunity for a quick restroom break. -
Clear customs
In Japan, customs checks are automated through kiosks. You’ll simply scan your customs QR code from the Visit Japan Web site or app. -
Exit the airport and begin your adventure!
Once you’ve cleared customs, you’re free to start exploring Japan!
The entire process usually takes less than an hour if you’ve prepared everything in advance. The most time-consuming part tends to be waiting for your checked luggage.
Formalities for Returning to France
Returning to France is much simpler. Here’s what to expect when departing from Japan.
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Collect your boarding pass
As with your departure, you’ll need to collect your boarding pass and checked luggage tags from the self-service kiosks.Drop Off Your Luggage
Be mindful of your luggage’s weight to avoid extra fees. -
Pass through security
Your carry-on will be inspected just like it was on your way to Japan. -
Board the plane
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to board.
The entire boarding process takes about 1.5 hours, so aim to arrive at the airport 2 to 3 hours before your flight departs.
What to Expect Upon Arrival in France
When you arrive back in France, the process is typically quick for French citizens. Here’s what to expect.
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Pass through immigration
As an European citizen, you’ll only need to show your ID or passport for a brief check. -
Collect your luggage
This is usually the longest part, but with a bit of patience, your bags will arrive. -
Pass through customs
For most travelers returning from Japan, there are no specific customs checks.
By following these simple steps and preparing in advance, your journey to Japan will be smooth and hassle-free, from your departure in France to your return home.
