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What discounts, freebies, and other privileges and preferential events are available to foreigners in Japan?

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For many foreigners, the experience of visiting and living in Japan is a special memory. To further enhance the enjoyment of Japan's attractions, Japan offers a variety of benefits and services for foreign visitors and residents.

This article introduces various discounts, free benefits, and preferential services for foreigners visiting or residing in Japan to make your stay in Japan more fulfilling. From discounts on admission fees to tourist attractions, cultural experience events, transportation discounts, souvenirs and meals, take advantage of the attractive services Japan offers to foreigners and experience the wonders of Japan to the fullest.

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What are the benefits, special offers and events for foreigners in Japan?

Japan offers special preferential services in various areas to make your stay in Japan more comfortable and enjoyable for foreign tourists and residents. By taking advantage of these services, you can experience the charms of Japan to the fullest without feeling any language or cultural barriers.

Preferential services for foreigners can be broadly divided into the following categories

  1. Discounts and free admission at tourist attractions and cultural facilities
  2. Discounted transportation tickets and free passes
  3. Discounts and special offers at restaurants and souvenir stores
  4. Priority participation in Japanese cultural experience events
  5. Foreign-language tourist information and guide services
  6. Special accommodation plans for hotels and inns

By making good use of these preferential services, visitors and residents in Japan can enjoy wonderful experiences in Japan at a reasonable price. From the next section, let's take a closer look at the specific benefits and services for each category.

(1) Free or reduced admission for foreigners

Some well-known Japanese tourist attractions and museums offer free or reduced admission for foreign visitors. These offers provide visitors with an opportunity to experience Japanese culture and history at an affordable price.

(1) 【 Discount 】 Tokyo Tower

The Tokyo Tower is a symbol of Tokyo and offers a spectacular view of the city and its beauty. Foreign visitors receive a discount on the regular admission fee, allowing them to enjoy the stunning views from inside the tower at a reasonable price. You may also be able to save even more by purchasing tickets online in advance.

Reference:Tokyo Tower

(2) 【 Discount 】 Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto is world famous for its beautiful gilded exterior. Combined with its garden, it is a popular spot for visitors to experience the traditional beauty of Japan at its best. Discounted admission fees are available for foreign tourists, making it possible to visit this historic temple at a reasonable price.

Reference:Kinkakuji Temple | Rinzai Sect, Shokokuji School

(c) 【 Discount 】 National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest museum in Japan and exhibits many national treasures and historical artifacts. With special discounted admission rates for foreign visitors, it is the perfect place to enjoy Japanese art and history. A variety of special exhibitions are also held, including comprehensive cultural exhibitions and special exhibitions, so please check the schedule before visiting.

Reference: Tokyo National Museum

In this way, discounts and free admission privileges will make it easier for more foreign tourists to visit Japan's attractive tourist attractions. Checking each facility's official website or pamphlet for information on special offers for foreigners before planning your visit will further enhance the satisfaction of your trip.

(2) Special events and experiences for foreigners

Special events and hands-on programs are held throughout Japan to allow foreigners to experience traditional Japanese culture and arts. There are many opportunities to experience unique Japanese culture, such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and martial arts.

1) Tea Ceremony Experience

The tea ceremony is one of Japan's world-class traditional cultures and is very popular among foreign tourists. At a tea ceremony class, you will be carefully instructed in the basic manners of the tea ceremony, such as how to make tea and handle tea utensils. While enjoying a cup of tea in a quiet Japanese-style room, you will be able to experience the unique Japanese sense of beauty and hospitality.

(2) Kimono dressing

The kimono is one of Japan's most popular traditional costumes, and its beauty and elegance attract tourists from abroad. At kimono rental stores, you can wear kimonos of various patterns and colors and receive instruction from professional dressers. There are various types of kimonos chosen according to season, age, and TPO. The types of kimonos for men and women also differ, so choosing the right kimono for you is part of the fun of renting a kimono.

▶︎ Types of Kimono (Japanese Traditional Costume) - Explained by Gender

Strolling through the streets of the ancient capital in kimono will give you a romantic feeling as if you have stepped back in time. It is also a great place for a memorable and wonderful photo shoot.

Martial arts experience

Budo is a traditional martial art that originated in Japan and includes various disciplines such as judo, karate, and kendo. In the martial arts experience class, you can learn the basic movements and mental attitude of budo from a professional instructor. By actually wearing a dojitsu and participating in a practice session, you will experience firsthand the depth and spirituality of Japanese martial arts. This is a valuable opportunity for cross-cultural exchange through physical exercise.

4) River Rafting

Canoeing and river rafting are popular activities among foreign tourists in Japan's beautiful rivers and valleys. River rafting is a uniquely Japanese experience that allows visitors to enjoy the seasonal scenery as they slowly descend through the great outdoors. We recommend the Hozu River rafting in Kyoto and the Kumano River rafting as well as other famous spots. Please obtain tour information at local tourist information centers or outdoor stores.

5) Seasonal Events

Japan has four beautifully changing seasons and many traditional seasonal events. You can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in spring, fireworks festivals in summer, autumn leaf viewing in fall, and snow festivals in winter, all of which are unique to each season. By participating in these seasonal events, you will be able to experience the charm of Japanese culture from the same perspective as Japanese people. Event schedules can be found on local government tourism websites.

⑥Workshop for making traditional crafts

There are many workshops throughout Japan that allow foreign visitors to experience the making of traditional crafts. Popular programs include those that allow visitors to observe the production of ceramics, lacquer ware, Japanese paper making, Edo faceting, and other crafts while learning the actual techniques. By creating your own original work of art, you will be able to experience the skills and aesthetics of Japanese craftsmen up close and personal.

Reference:Workshop List｜Tokyo Traditional Crafts｜Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs

Special events and experiences that allow visitors to experience the essence of Japanese culture will provide them with excitement and discoveries that they cannot find anywhere else. We encourage you to find a program in your field of interest and make a reservation in advance to participate.

(3) Discounts on souvenirs and meals for foreigners

Shopping and dining are one of the great pleasures of travel, and in Japan, souvenir stores and restaurants offer a variety of discounts and special offers to foreign customers. By taking advantage of the duty-free system and preferential coupons, you will be able to enjoy shopping and dining to the fullest.

(1) Tax exemption and discounts at souvenir stores

Many souvenir stores and department stores offer a tax exemption system whereby purchases over a certain amount are exempt from sales tax. In some cases, you may be required to show your passport, so it is best to check the conditions for tax exemption in advance. Some stores also distribute discount coupons exclusively for foreign tourists. Please check information in guidebooks or at information centers.

(2) Special menus and services at restaurants

Many Japanese restaurants have menus in English and other languages for foreign customers. Thanks to menus with pictures and photos, it is easy to order even if you do not understand the language. Some restaurants near popular tourist spots also offer special discount menus exclusively for foreigners. Please take advantage of this service.

(3) Tasting

Souvenir stores and product exhibitions often have a tasting corner for specialty and local products. This is a very convenient way to freely taste the products and find the souvenir of your choice. When tasting, it is fun to speak simple Japanese such as "delicious (yummy)" or "please give me this". You may be able to get information on recommended products from conversations with store clerks.

(iii) Food delivery service

If you want to enjoy Japanese cuisine at your hotel or in a private residence but have difficulty going out, why not try a food delivery service? In Japan, services such as Uber Eats and Wolt, which can be easily ordered through English-language apps, are becoming popular in major cities. You can enjoy food from reputable restaurants in your room by referring to the reviews and ratings in the app.

The following article provides more information on food delivery services in Japan.
▶︎ Seven popular food delivery services in Japan! Compare features and prices

By taking advantage of the discounts and special offers, you will be able to enjoy your stay in Japan to the fullest and make your souvenir selection and dining experience even more memorable.

(4) Special public transportation services for foreigners

When traveling within Japan, foreign travelers can take advantage of a wide range of transportation benefits services that are both affordable and convenient. Train and bus tickets and excursion passes allow you to enjoy your trip comfortably and affordably.

1) JR discount pass for foreigners

The JR Group has been working on a "foreign tourist" program for foreign tourists.Japan Rail PassWe offer a special free pass called This pass allows unlimited rides on JR Shinkansen (except for some trains) and limited express trains. The pass can be purchased at major stations of JR companies, airports, and travel agencies. For detailed conditions of use, please check the official website.

Please read the following article for more information on the Japan Rail Pass and other convenient free passes and IC cards.
▶︎ Unlimited train rides guide for foreigners｜Includes unlimited JR Pass and convenient IC cards

(2) Discount tickets for foreigners offered by local transportation agencies

Local private railway, subway, and bus companies may also offer discount tickets or free passes exclusively for foreign tourists. For example, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway in Tokyo, Osaka Metro in Osaka, and Kyoto Municipal Transportation Bureau offer one-day passes and two- to three-day round-trip passes. These discount tickets are sold at ticket vending machines and information centers at major stations, so gather information from the websites and pamphlets of the transportation agencies you are visiting.

(3) Multilingual ticket vending machine and navigation application

In recent years, more and more ticket vending machines at train stations have become multilingual. Switching to the English display allows for smooth ticket purchase. Transportation navigation apps for smartphones are also evolving. Many convenient apps have been released that search for the best transportation route by entering your destination in your native language.

4)bus dedicated to sightseeingTour bus

There are a number of buses dedicated to helping foreign tourists tour around Japan. SKY HOP BUS, popular in Tokyo and Kyoto, and sightseeing buses operated by various regions are ideal for efficiently touring famous sightseeing spots. Many tours are accompanied by English-speaking guides, so check them out.

Reference:SKYHOPBUS TOKYO | HOP-ON HOP-OFF SIGHTSEEING BUS TOKYO - SKYHOPBUS TOKYO,SKYHOPBUS KYOTO | HOP-ON HOP-OFF SIGHTSEEING BUS KYOTO - SKYHOPBUS KYOTO

(5) Use of rental cars and shared bicycles

Although Japan has a well-developed public transportation system, it is recommended to use your own car or a shared bicycle when traveling in areas rich in nature or island areas. If you make reservations in advance via the Internet, foreign-language staff at airports and car rental stores in major cities will be able to assist you. Bicycle travel is a great way to explore the peaceful countryside and bike paths as well as sightseeing in urban areas.

Reference:Bike Sharing Service｜Bicycle Sharing

(6) Wi-Fi service for public transportation

Many Shinkansen and limited express trains, major stations, and sightseeing buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi service. Not only can you connect to the Internet, but you can also search for tourist information, upload photos to SNS, and make effective use of your time while traveling.

For more information on Shinkansen free Wi-Fi, please refer to the following article.
▶︎ Shinkansen Free Wi-Fi (Shinkansen Free Wi-Fi) is available in 8 languages! Explanation of usage and precautions

By keeping track of preferential information for foreigners regarding transportation, you can expand your travel options and realize a more flexible and satisfying trip to Japan.

(5) Tourist information service exclusively for foreigners

The Japanese government and tourism industry are focusing on improving tourist information services to make them more understandable and comfortable for foreign visitors. Efforts are underway in many regions to communicate the attractions of the region through the provision of information in multiple languages and the development of ICT-based tools.

(1) Multilingual Guided Tours

Guided tours in English and Chinese are regularly offered at major tourist attractions, and an increasing number of programs allow visitors to join on the day without reservations. With commentary by experienced guides, you will gain a deeper understanding of the historical background of the sights and the unique local experience.

(2) Tourist Information Center for Foreign Visitors to Japan

Multilingual tourist information centers have been established in popular cities for foreign visitors to Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. They provide reliable support in all aspects of travel, including transportation information, the latest information on tourist attractions, and reservations for experience programs.

(3) Convenient sightseeing apps

Free sightseeing apps for smartphones are also a strong ally for foreign travelers. In particular, the "Japan Travel by NAVITIMEis a multilingual, easy-to-use application with a full range of reliable features to help you on your journey, including maps that can be used offline, a search for nearby sightseeing spots, and transfer information.

④Tourist information website for foreign visitors to Japan

."Japan GuideIn addition to the "How to Travel to Japan" section of the website, there are many other tourist information websites for foreign visitors to Japan that offer a wealth of content on everything from how to choose a travel destination to how to spend your time in the area. We hope you will make use of these sites to plan your trip and gather information for reference when you are in Japan.

(6) Special accommodation plans for inbound travelers

Japanese lodging facilities are competing to offer attractive lodging plans that meet the needs of inbound travelers. From Japanese cultural experiences to reasonably priced consecutive-night plans, you will be able to find the perfect lodging style from a wide variety of options to suit your travel objectives and budget.

(1) Taste JapanesenessJapanese style ryokan

Why not experience the charm of a Japanese ryokan, with its tatami-mat rooms, hot springs, and seasonal kaiseki cuisine, with our plans for inbound travelers? You will feel the essence of Japanese culture through the hospitality of Japanese hospitality such as in-room meals and private baths.

▶︎ Japanese Ryokan search isTabistis recommended!

(2) Hotel Experience Program

An increasing number of city hotels and large resorts are offering Japanese cultural experience programs for foreign guests. From introductory classes in traditional culture such as tea ceremony, ikebana, and calligraphy, to the free rental of yukata in the lobby, unique services that make it easy to experience Japanese taste are gaining popularity.

(3) Meal plan with special discount for consecutive nights

If you want to stay in one city for a longer period of time and enjoy all that the area has to offer, we recommend a meal plan with discounts for consecutive nights. If breakfast and dinner are included, you can save money on eating out that way. Look for a plan that is perfect for a long stay and offers great value for money.

4) Accommodations and sightseeing packages

Hotels directly connected to terminal stations and airports, which serve as gateways to famous tourist attractions, offer a wide range of accommodation plans with special benefits for the convenience of foreign travelers. Check out our special services for sightseeing, such as discounted admission tickets to the nearest tourist attractions or a package deal with a free transportation pass.

(7) Information on events for foreign visitors

Seasonal events held throughout Japan provide the perfect opportunity for foreign visitors to experience the diverse attractions of Japanese culture. From traditional performing arts performances to contemporary art exhibitions, from local festivals to large-scale international festivals, there is something to suit your interests.

1) Hands-on event to experience traditional Japanese culture

Performances of traditional Japanese performing arts such as Noh, kabuki, and taiko, as well as traditional cultural events such as tea ceremonies and flower exhibitions, are planned in large numbers with English commentary, making it easy for foreign visitors to participate. From full-scale stage performances to casual workshops, programs that touch the essence of Japanese culture can be enjoyed in various locations.

(2) Festivals rich in local color

Many seasonal festival events are held in various regions of Japan, such as fireworks displays and Bon dances in summer and harvest festivals in autumn. The traditions of the Edo period are handed down to the present day in the "Kanda Festivaland Kyoto's customary "theJidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages)Don't miss the historic festivals such as the "Kacho" (a festival of the Japanese traditional culture). Experience firsthand the spirit of Japan, which is rooted in the local community, through dance and taste.

(iii)Art and Entertainment

In recent years, foreign visitors have become increasingly noticeable at contemporary art exhibitions and pop culture events. Large-scale international art fairs "Art Fair Tokyoand one of the world's largest pop culture events, "Tokyo Comic-Conand other topical events where you can experience the latest in Japanese culture.

4)International Festival

Tokyo's leading international event, "Tokyo International ForumThroughout the year, festivals with a rich international flavor are held throughout Japan with a variety of themes such as food, music, entertainment, and more. These festivals offer a global opportunity to experience cultures from around the world and to interact with other foreigners who have come to Japan or are living in Japan.

(8) Exchange programs with local residents for foreigners

One of the most enriching aspects of living in Japan is contact with local Japanese people. Many opportunities to deepen cultural exchange, such as learning Japanese or learning Japanese home cooking, are available for foreign residents. Feel free to participate in programs in your field of interest.

(1) Language Exchange Meetings

Language Exchange is a program to teach your native language to Japanese people while learning Japanese. Language exchange meetings between foreigners living in Japan and Japanese people are held regularly by international associations and other organizations in various regions. Not only is it a great way to improve your language skills, but it is also a great opportunity to make friends.

(2) Participation in local festivals and events

More and more local traditional events, such as shrine festivals and neighborhood association summer festivals, are welcoming foreign participants. You can join the circle and carry the mikoshi (portable shrine) with them, or help sell food stalls. If you become a part of the festival from the same perspective as the locals, you will experience the warmth of the Japanese community firsthand.

Homestay

Homestay programs allow foreign residents in Japan to experience the daily life of a Japanese family up close and personal, and are a valuable opportunity for cross-cultural exchange. There are also programs with a rich regional flavor, such as farm stays and stays in fishing villages. Through interaction with host families, you will learn about the Japanese view of family and the wisdom of daily life.

4)Experience traditional crafts and local industry craftsmanship

Manufacturing experience programs are also becoming increasingly popular as a way to share the skills of traditional Japanese craftsmen with foreigners. From traditional crafts that are the pride of Japan, such as pottery, lacquer ware, and Japanese paper making, to tours of manufacturing sites of local industries, many locations offer elaborate programs for foreign visitors.

5) Volunteer Activities

Volunteer projects to revitalize local communities utilizing the perspectives of foreign residents in Japan are also taking place in various areas. They include restoration of old private homes, environmental preservation activities in satoyama (a traditional Japanese village), guiding foreign tourists, and many more. This will be a meaningful opportunity to connect more deeply with the local community in Japan.

【 Summary 】 Enjoy special offers, benefits and events for foreigners in Japan!

There are many preferential services and events that both foreign visitors and residents in Japan should take advantage of and participate in in order to spend a comfortable and enjoyable time in Japan. Please enjoy the charms of Japanese culture to the fullest while wisely taking advantage of discounts and free benefits.

Tourist spots are great, but if you participate in an exchange program that is rooted in everyday Japanese life, you are sure to be impressed and learn things that you can only find here. If you are a foreign resident in Japan, please enrich your life in Japan by actively connecting with the local community.

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