What is the story about?
Japan has quietly climbed to the top of many Indian travellers’ bucket lists and for good reason. From cherry blossom season (sakura) in spring to snow-covered
landscapes in winter, Japan offers something magical almost all year round. Add neon-lit Tokyo nights, Kyoto’s bamboo forests, bullet trains, sushi counters and Mount Fuji views, and it’s easy to see why interest in Japan travel from India keeps rising. But before planning your itinerary or booking flights, there’s one essential step: sorting your Japan visa for Indians. Here’s a simple guide answering the most searched questions around Japan tourist visas, cherry blossom travel, documents, fees and application steps.
Do Indians Need A Visa To Visit Japan?
Yes, Indian passport holders need a visa to travel to Japan. However, the process has become much easier in recent years. Since 2024, Japan has introduced an eVisa facility for Indian travellers, allowing eligible applicants to apply for a short-term tourist visa online.The Japan tourist eVisa is issued for single entry and allows Indian travellers to stay in Japan for up to 90 days, making it ideal for cherry blossom trips, sightseeing holidays and short-term travel.
Can Indians Apply For A Japan Visa Online?
Not directly. While Japan offers an eVisa, you cannot apply independently without an authorised channel. Indian applicants must submit their visa application through the Japanese Embassy or authorised visa partners like VFS Global.Documents Required For Japan Tourist Visa From India
This is one of the most searched queries, and also where most applications get delayed. Make sure you prepare all documents carefully.You’ll need:
- A completed and signed Japan visa application form
- A valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Passport validity of minimum six months beyond return date
- Recent passport-size photographs (2x2 inches)
- Cover letter (self-written if self-employed, employer-issued if sponsored)
- Salary slips (last 6 months) or
- ITR for last 2 years
- GST certificate if self-employed
- Leave approval or NOC from employer (if applicable)
- Confirmed hotel bookings and a day-wise travel itinerary
- Planned flight tickets showing entry and exit from Japan
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements or employer sponsorship letter)
- Travel insurance covering your Japan trip
How To Apply For Japan eVisa From India (Step-By-Step)
If you’re wondering about how to apply for Japan visa from India, here’s the simplified process:- Visit the official VFS Global Japan visa page
- Select Japan Tourist Visa / eVisa
- Download and carefully fill out the visa application form
- Arrange scanned copies of all required documents
- Submit your application through VFS (or authorised agent)
- Pay the visa fee during submission
- Once approved, you’ll receive your Japan eVisa PDF by email
- Show the visa issuance notice on your mobile device at the airport
Where To Apply For Japan Visa In India?
Japan visa applications are accepted at VFS Global centres in major Indian cities, including:Delhi
Mumbai
Chennai
Bengaluru
Kolkata
Hyderabad
The Japan visa processing time for Indians is usually 5–7 working days, though it may increase during cherry blossom season due to high demand.
Japan Visa Fees For Indian Citizens
- Single-entry tourist visa: approx ₹500
- Multiple-entry visa: higher fee depending on eligibility
- VFS service charges apply separately
- Fees are subject to change, so it’s best to confirm before applying.
Best Time To Visit Japan From India (Cherry Blossom vs Winter)
Cherry blossom season in Japan usually falls between late March and early April, making it the most popular, and expensive, time to visit. Flights, hotels and visa slots get booked fast.Flights From India To Japan
Several airlines operate direct and connecting flights from India to Japan, with major departure cities including:Delhi
Mumbai
Bengaluru
Chennai
Popular arrival airports include Tokyo Haneda and Narita. Airlines such as Air India, ANA, Japan Airlines and Singapore Airlines offer routes with an average flight time of 7–9 hours.
