Konnichiwa,

If you've been following the news, you probably know: Japan is not open yet. There have been some relatively promising signs though.

Most recently, this past weekend Japan's top Covid-19 official, Shigeru Omi, declared that Japan has entered a less severe phase of the pandemic. While his announcement has no immediate effect on tourism per se, most analysts agree this represents a major shift in the government's approach.

In other small-but-significant developments, Japan officially lifted a wide-ranging ban on foreign nationals entering the country. While this change technically does not yet apply to tourists, it does help lay the groundwork for Japan's eventual reopening to leisure travelers. Additionally, just last week the government began allowing parents of foreign residents to visit (students and business travelers have already been allowed since earlier this spring).

Japan is known for being cautious and this has proven to be true throughout the pandemic, but at least for the moment things seem to be moving in the right direction, even if slowly! For more on the situation and outlook, we continue to update the Covid-19 page on our website.

Thinking of other adventures while you wait for Japan to reopen? Meet our sister company, Boutique Explorer.

When Japan reopens, there will be plenty of new offerings to delight travelers.

Along with countless restaurant and bar openings across the country, and a remarkable addition to the art island of Naoshima, during Covid there have also been too many exciting hotel launches to list.

Here are four of the most outstanding:

​Azumi Setoda​

This stylish, traditional property is located on the tiny island of Setoda, in Japan's Setouchi region, not far from Naoshima (see above) and very near Onomichi. Along with the chance to unwind in this scenic and slow-paced part of the country, enjoy great local seafood and eclectic activities (cycling, sailing, fishing, meditation, and more). Azumi Setoda is also featured in our post on Japan’s Best Boutique and Luxury Hotels & Ryokans.

​The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko​

Even for travelers who typically prefer smaller, boutique properties, The Ritz-Carlton has once again created a sublime hotel experience in Japan. The Nikko area, just a couple of hours north of Tokyo, is already home to plenty of wonderful traditional ryokans. But if you want a slightly less traditional experience (albeit with very tasteful Japanese touches), and a splendid location on Lake Chuzenji, consider The Ritz in Nikko.

​Byaku Narai​

We recently featured this small luxury inn on our Instagram. Located in the post town of Narai, along the Nakasendo Way, this stylish property aims to preserve local architecture and traditions with a well-executed contemporary flair. Along with the authentic historic surroundings, enjoy onsen, local sake, and meals highlighting local Kiso Valley ingredients.

​The Shinmonzen​

A brand-new boutique hotel in the heart of Gion, this fashionable luxury property was designed by legendary architect Tadao Ando (don't miss his new Naoshima gallery featured above!) and features just nine colorful suites overlooking the Shirakawa River.

Like us, it seems a number of people are optimistic about the future, and despite the current restrictions we've continued to book Japan trips for later in 2022 and 2023.

At the same time, things have also gotten busier with our sister company, Boutique Explorer, where we have been planning trips for this year to countries that are currently open, including Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Peru, Italy, Spain, Greece, Norway, and a handful of others.

If you're thinking of another adventure while you wait for Japan to reopen, or if you're starting to think about a Japan trip for the future, please let us know!