This is an important notice to those who are planning to travel to Japan from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and South Korea regarding TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY, an overseas travel insurance policy provided by Tokio Marine & Nichido for inbound travel to Japan.

Effective July 1, 2026, the premiums for this insurance policy will be revised (increased).　In accordance with this change, we would like to remind everyone who is preparing for a trip to take note of the following.

That is, the fee for this insurance is calculated based on the “date of entry into Japan”, not on the “date of application”.

In other words, if you plan to enter Japan on or after July 1, 2026, the “new revised premiums” will apply even if you complete the application procedures now.

The current premiums will apply to this site until June 30, 2026, and will be changed to show the new premiums on July 1, 2026, Japan time.

What is the reason for the premium revision?

The main reason for the premium revision is the rising cost of medical care and labor in Japan.

In recent years, in order to maintain a system that allows travelers to receive medical examinations without language barriers and with peace of mind, medical facilities have been increasing the cost of assigning multilingual staff and receiving operations.

Tokio Marine & Nichido believes that continuing to provide prompt and optimal medical services to travelers and paying appropriate fees to medical institutions that respond 24 hours a day will protect local medical services in Japan and ultimately support safe travel for everyone.

We appreciate your understanding as this is our response to ensure that we can continue to provide the highest level of support in a stable manner.

The price increase will vary depending on the number of days of insurance coverage, but will range from 250 yen to 140 yen per day.

Beware of “Outdated Fee Schedule

Currently, there are various insurance referral sites on the Internet for travel to Japan.

However, we believe that several sites are not prepared for this system change or revision.
(Because there have been such cases in the past.)

Therefore, even after July 1, the “old (lower) premiums before revision” may still be left displayed on the web page.

If you trust the old information and proceed with the procedure, you may suddenly find yourself in a situation where the price is higher than you expected when you get to the final payment screen.

We promise to provide accurate and honest guidance.

We are always ready to reflect correct premium revision information on this website so that visitors to Japan can plan their budgets correctly in advance.

The amount will not change unfairly during the course of the procedure, and you can proceed with your application with confidence based on the accurate information shown.

Visits to Japanese medical institutions are sometimes very expensive.

With 24-hour multilingual interpretation support and cashless medical care, TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY is an indispensable talisman for a safe and secure trip to Japan.

Please do not be misled by inaccurate information due to price differences after July 1, 2026, and prepare for a safe and enjoyable trip through our reliable and proven website.

We wish you a wonderful and memorable stay in Japan.

>>TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY<<

>>JNTO<<

The post July 1, 2026 | TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY Premium Revision first appeared on JAPANESE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

For those of you planning a trip to Japan, here is an overview of the influenza situation in winter 2026 and Japan’s unique culture of preparedness.

By understanding the medical practices in Japan, which are different from those in your country, you can enjoy your trip with more peace of mind.

2026 Winter Influenza Situation

The influenza pandemic for the 2025-2026 season began about one to two months earlier than usual, and as of December 2025, 39 prefectures had exceeded the warning level, an exceptionally large epidemic.

The new mutant strain “Subclade K” has become the mainstream strain, and caution is required because the speed of infection spread is faster than before.

The main symptoms are a high fever of 38°C or higher, runny or stuffy nose, cough, and sore throat.

There is no major difference in severity from conventional influenza, but please be aware that it is highly contagious.

Differences in the way Japanese cope with the situation

While the response in each country may vary, we would like to introduce some of the differences in the response to influenza that are unique to Japan.

1. use of anti-influenza drugs

Characteristics of Japan:
In Japan, all influenza patients, mainly healthy adults and children, are often treated at an early, mild stage with anti-influenza drugs.

This is an old document, but it seems that Japan is the number one country by far, accounting for about 75% of the world’s consumption of Tamiflu, the leading anti-influenza drug, far ahead of the United States, which is in second place with about 20%.
https://www.itmedia.co.jp/makoto/articles/1412/09/news030.html

The old way of curing the disease without drugs.

Sleep with a leek wrapped around your neck.　　I don’t think anyone in Japan today does this, but it was practiced in the past.

Drinking ginger tea.　　Ginger tea has been drunk for centuries and is drunk at home during colds and flu.

Recipe for ginger tea

2. mask-wearing culture

Japan’s unique mask culture:
In Japan, many people on the streets wear masks during pollen season and in winter when colds and other illnesses are prevalent.

In the April 2021 to April 2022 survey, the percentage of respondents in Japan who said they would wear a mask in public remained consistently high, ranging from 89% to 87%.

In Japan, where people are more strict about “causing trouble to others,” it is social etiquette to wear a mask to avoid contracting an illness.

3. medical examination habits

When symptoms of influenza appear, most Japanese are more likely to promptly seek medical attention and undergo testing.

Influenza tests are widely used in Japan, and a diagnosis can be made in about 15 minutes.

Also, many people who are infected, both adults and children, are tested because of their habit of not going to work or school.

4. vaccination concept

Although some people dislike the vaccine, it is often administered to prevent infection of family members or workmates by vaccinating oneself.

In many cases, if you work at a job that does not allow you to take time off at any time, your company will pay for the vaccine.

Since the effects of the vaccine begin to appear approximately two weeks after vaccination, it is recommended that those who have not yet been vaccinated consider vaccination even during the epidemic period.

Many medical institutions in Japan offer vaccinations without an appointment.

Practical advice for visitors to Japan

preventive measure

1. Handwashing and Alcohol Disinfection
   Handwashing, gargling, and hand sanitizing are the easiest and most effective ways to prevent contact infection.　　In Japan, alcohol sanitizers are available at the entrances to many public facilities and stores.
   
2. Wear a mask
   It is recommended that you wear a mask when you cough or sneeze, or if you do not have a mask, hold your nose and mouth with a tissue or the inside of your arm.　　　In Japan, masks are readily available at pharmacies and convenience stores.
   
3. Room Environment Management
   Using a humidifier or similar device to keep the humidity in the room at 50-60% will help prevent the mucous membranes from drying out and reduce the infectivity of the virus.　　　If your hotel room does not have a humidifier, we recommend that you ask the front desk for one.

If you feel unwell.

1. Early Consultation
   If you experience symptoms such as fever over 38°C or general malaise, please consult the hotel front desk or call a medical facility as soon as possible.
   
2. Visiting a medical institution
   In Japan, foreign travelers can also visit general medical institutions.　　However, as a rule, medical care in Japan is not by appointment only, so there may be a waiting period.
   
3. Contact the support desk of your insurance company
   If you have travel insurance, contact the support desk of your insurance company.　　　They may be able to refer you to a multilingual medical facility.
   
4. About Prescription Drugs
   In Japan, anti-influenza drugs cannot be purchased without a doctor’s prescription.　　　
   Please note that this may be different from your country.

Cultural Considerations

In Japan, it is considered social etiquette to always wear a mask when going out when you are not feeling well.

If you have a cough or other symptoms, please be considerate of your surroundings by wearing a mask.

summary

Influenza control in Japan is based on three pillars: emphasis on prevention, early detection and treatment, and consideration for others.

These customs may be different from those in your country, but they reflect the unique social culture of Japan.

In order to avoid getting sick during your stay in Japan, which you have come to look forward to, it is important to practice basic preventive measures and take action as soon as possible if you feel anything unusual.

Please consider using travel insurance if necessary, and enjoy your stay in Japan with peace of mind.

References:.

• Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Influenza Information : https://www.mhlw.go.jp/
• Search medical facilities for foreign visitors : Japan Visitor Hotline (050-3816-2787)

The information in this article is current as of January 2026. Please check official information for the latest status.

Insurance in Japan is available at
>>TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY <<

The post How to Deal with Winter and Flu in Japan in 2026 – A Traveler’s Guide first appeared on JAPANESE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

I had always had an image of Disney at Christmas as something special and had always wanted to go.

However, every year during the Christmas season, it is crowded and far from my home, so I have not been able to go there, hoping that one day I would be able to visit.

The reason we decided to go to Tokyo DisneySea this time around was because the timing was a milestone for myself and my friends who are attending nursing school.

I have been busy over the past year and found that time has flown by.

That is why I decided to go to Disney Sea as a reward for my hard work over the past year and to change my mind to keep working hard.

Once I decided to go, I was more and more excited as the day approached, until the day of the event.

Even the preparation time, such as thinking about what to wear and talking about Disney with friends, was fun, and I couldn’t wait for the day of the wedding.

Christmas Disney decorations and Christmas trees

On the day of the event, we lined up early in the morning and had to endure the coldest weather imaginable, but the moment we entered the park, we were so excited that we forgot about the cold.

DisneySea at Christmas was more special than I had expected, and as soon as I entered the park, I felt a different atmosphere from the usual DisneySea.

Later, as we walked through the park, the decorations and lights were spread out in Christmas colors of red and green, and everywhere we looked we could feel the Christmas spirit.

The decorations blended in with the buildings and streetscapes, sparkling and shining, making it a pleasure to just walk around.

One of the most impressive features was the large Christmas tree, about 15 meters high, towering in front of the S.S. Columbia.

During the day, the colorful decorations on the tree looked great against the blue sky.

In the evening, the sky gradually changed color, and we were able to enjoy the combination of the sunset and the tree, which could only be seen for a short time.

Then, at night, the lights come on and it becomes all the more spectacular.

The atmosphere changes so much that it is hard to believe that the tree was seen in the daytime. I thought it was unique to this tree to be able to enjoy different charms at different times of the day.

The World of Anna and the Snow Queen

DisneySea has many fascinating attractions where you can enjoy the power and thrill of the Center of the Earth, Soarin’, Tower of Terror, and more.

Among them, the most memorable was the “Frozen Journey of Anna and Elsa,” the attraction of “Anna and the Snow Queen.

The world was so detailed that the moment I stepped into the streets of Arendelle, I almost forgot that I was in the real world.

Even the exteriors of the buildings, decorations, and accessories have been carefully recreated, and anyone who has seen a movie at least once will be excited to be in the space.　　　　　Just walking around the building made me feel as if I had stepped into a movie, and my friends and I were very excited.

As the story progressed on the boat, Elsa’s beautiful singing voice was especially impressive.

The film’s story was tightly condensed into its structure, with great scenes packed into a short amount of time.

The characters are so cute and detailed that it is very difficult to see them all in one sitting.

There were many times when I thought , “I wish I could have seen more of this scene,” and talking with my friends, I wanted to ride this attraction as many times as possible.

Believe!　〜Sea of Dreams

At night, “Believe! ~Sea of Dreams~” begins.

When the music begins to play, the dark Mediterranean Harbor is instantly brightened, drawing you in and making you forget that it was cold.

The show is a combination of water, lights, fireworks, and spectacular music, with characters appearing one after another.

It has a storyline, and through the stories of each character, it teaches us the importance of continuing to believe in our wishes.

Each time the scene switches, the view in front of you changes and you enter the world of that story.

Believe is a show that will impress you no matter how many times you see it.

The show looks completely different depending on where you look, and the power and characters are seen differently, so even if it is the same show, you will feel as if you are seeing it for the first time every time.

In addition to the power of the images, the music is also very impressive and stays in your ears long after the show is over.

And every time I return from DisneySea, I listen to Believe’s music in my earbuds, remembering the scenes of the day and basking in the afterglow.

Believe was like the end of a day at DisneySea, and I thought, “I can’t end it without seeing this.

How I felt at DisneySea at Christmas

The Christmas season at DisneySea is arguably the most festive event of the year.

The entire park was decorated in Christmas colors, and the decorations and music made it a place to get away from the usual routine.

When I left, I was sad because I had so much to look forward to, thinking, “Oh, it’s all over…” But at the same time I thought, “I want to come back soon.

That’s how much fun and enrichment we had.

I felt that Tokyo DisneySea is not just a place to play, but a magical place where visitors can be energized.

It reminds us of the excitement and emotion that we cannot feel in our busy daily lives.

The sparkling scenery and music of Christmas and the time spent with my loved ones were unforgettable memories. That is why, on the way home, I was able to look forward and say, “Let’s do it again tomorrow.

Tokyo DisneySea is truly a land of dreams for me, where I can visit again and again and still be impressed and energized in new ways.

Insurance in Japan is available at
>>TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY <<

The post Impressions from a 21-year-old student] You’ll want to go to DisneySea at Christmas time again and again. first appeared on JAPANESE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

In Japan, marathons are held throughout the country in winter.

Many people start running not only competitively, but also as a way to improve their health or as a new challenge, and their ages and backgrounds vary.

With the background of a growing number of people wanting to “run and experience” Japanese cities and nature, the number of runners from overseas has been increasing in recent years.

On the other hand, it is essential to pay attention to time differences and temperatures, as well as meals the day before the race and hydration and aids during the race.

By confirming the actual conditions of the Japanese marathon you will be attending in advance, you will be able to make new discoveries about how to spend your trip to Japan, both for the marathon and for sightseeing.

The Popularity of Marathons in Japan

Marathons in Japan tend to be held in winter (especially from November to March).

In Japan, the summer months are hot and humid, which can be hard on the body, so the winter months are chosen because they are relatively easy to run.
>>Marathon Event Calendar <<

Participants range from businessmen to seniors and women, and many people in their 30s and 40s want to challenge themselves for health reasons, for a change of pace, or for those who have been too scared to try a marathon before!　Many of the participants are in their 30’s and 40’s, and many of them come to the marathon because they want to challenge themselves.

Many events are held with the goal of finishing the race rather than setting a record, and marathons are enjoyed as an extension of daily life rather than a special event.

I finished the race and I feel great~!

Ekiden Culture, the main sports spectacle on January 1.

Many people look forward to watching the New Year Ekiden on January 1, the Japanese New Year.

Ekiden, which originated in Japan, is a long-distance race in which teams link their tasuki together, symbolizing the teamwork that the Japanese are known for.

Ekiden is a team sport, and if one person retires, the entire team will retire.

Every year there is a live TV broadcast, and it can be said that it is a staple of the Japanese New Year’s holidays to quietly cheer the runners’ efforts with family members.

Marathons and ekiden (relay races) have become a popular part of Japan’s winter sports culture, not only for the runners, but also for the spectators who cheer them on and watch them on TV.

More runners from overseas

The number of foreign entries to Japanese marathons is increasing every year.

Fuji Marathon in particular is very popular, with about 70% of all runners being foreign nationals.

Many people are attracted by the well-organized management, safety, and calm support along the route.

Many events can be registered online, so please check each marathon’s website in advance.

There are also smaller-scale events in local cities, and we recommend that you start with a half marathon or 10 km marathon as well as a full marathon.

Challenge!

Don’t overdo it. Preparation is important.

If you are participating from overseas, you should be aware of the strain on your body caused by temperature and time differences.

It is not uncommon for people to fall ill soon after arriving in Japan.

If you feel any discomfort on the day of the event, please take it easy. If you are in a condition that makes it difficult for you to finish the race, you may decide not to participate.

Please understand that all marathons in Japan value and think about the importance of “finishing the race safely” for all runners.

So the meal two days before the competition or the day before is for you. Food similar to what you normally eat Please eat the same food that you normally eat.

For you, Japan is a foreign country.　Getting sick from food you have never eaten can only be frustrating, so cherish the effort you have put into preparing for the marathon.

Important measures on the day of the event

At winter marathons, the wait to start running can often feel very cold.

Although you can start running right away in your normal practice, the time schedule and large number of runners make it difficult to move before the start, and the wind is often cold, so it is essential to be prepared for the cold.

Some conventions have a system for discarding jackets that are no longer needed, but it is a good idea to check in advance.

If you have any questions, one way to find out is to ask Japanese runners or other people involved in the event.

Also, water and sports drinks will be available at the water stations on the day of the race, but it would be better to check the taste of Japanese sports drinks in advance to avoid any sense of discomfort.

Also, there are a variety of foods available for resupply during the race, but not unfamiliar foods, “I know this!” Choose dishes, fruits, etc.

Keep up the good work!　　I’m rooting for you~!

summary

What I want to convey in this article is support.

Regardless of the country or season, the sense of accomplishment of completing the race is a great experience for all runners.

Marathons are grueling events.　We sincerely hope that you will complete the marathon as safely as he did.

Make good memories.

Insurance in Japan is available at
>>TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY <<

The post More and more foreign runners are running marathons in Japan first appeared on JAPANESE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

Running is a popular sport in Japan, and marathons are organized in many places.

More and more foreign tourists are coming to Japan to enter marathons held in Japan.

If you are coming from abroad to run a marathon in Japan, you should consider injury prevention.
(Insurance during your stay in Japan)

The post Secrets of the Japanese Marathon: Why the World is Watching first appeared on JAPANESE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

Winters in Japan are very cold.

There are also views that can only be seen during the winter season and meals that are not available.

Personally speaking, I would say that you will enjoy the winter months more than the summer months with regard to scenery and food, but be aware that you are more likely to get sick during the winter season.

Winter season is a good time to get sick.

While there are no specific “Japan-specific diseases” that foreign travelers are susceptible to in Japan, especially during the winter months, there are some health risks that should be noted due to the season and environment. Below are some health issues to be aware of in winter in Japan.

influenza

Winter is the season when influenza is prevalent.　Since influenza epidemics are seen every year in Japan, it is important to take precautionary measures such as vaccination, hand washing, and cough etiquette.

I would especially like to tell you about influenza.

As of November 17, 2023, 21.13 persons per medical facility were infected with influenza.

There are 179,090 medical facilities nationwide, an increase of 598 facilities over the previous year. Hospitals” totaled 8,372 facilities, down 40 facilities from the previous year, while “general clinics” totaled 102,105 facilities, up 634 facilities, and “dental clinics” totaled 68,613 facilities, up 4 facilities.

I Survey of medical facilities 1 Number of facilities

If Japan as a whole is 179,090 facilities X 21.13 persons, 37,841,717 people are currently infected with influenza.

It is likely to increase in the future, so please take action.

Click here for the latest information

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/special/infection/dashboard/?infection=influenza

Although the influenza pandemic is not limited to Japan, please be careful with little things such as staying away from people who are coughing.

Dryness (skin, lips, etc.)

Dryness during the winter season can cause a variety of health problems.

Dry air can strip the skin of moisture, causing dry, itchy, cracked skin.

The best way to combat this problem is to use moisturizing creams and lotions on a regular basis to retain moisture in the skin.

Many hotels have humidifiers in their rooms, so use a humidifier to maintain proper room humidity.

Dry skin is hard to deal with.

common cold

Cold weather makes it easier to catch a cold. It is important to dress appropriately, regulate your body temperature, and maintain your immune system.

In the winter season, the common cold is the most common illness, but as a symptom,

• Cough: Dry cough or cough with mucus may occur.
• Runny nose: Nasal congestion: The mucous membranes of the nose become inflamed, resulting in a runny or stuffy nose.
• Sore throat : A sore or irritated throat may appear.
• Fever: Mild to moderate fever may occur. Fever may be high, especially in children.
• General fatigue: You may feel tired and sluggish.
• Headache: May be accompanied by headache.
• Muscle pain : Muscle and joint pain may occur.

These symptoms are caused by a cold virus. The common cold is a self-limiting illness and in most cases requires no special treatment, and recovery occurs with adequate rest and hydration.
However, medical attention is recommended if symptoms are severe or prolonged, or in the elderly, young children, or those with underlying medical conditions, due to increased risk of complications.

In addition, cold symptoms are similar to other respiratory infections such as influenza and novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), so caution should be exercised during the winter season.

If symptoms appear, you should try to rest at home and avoid going out to crowded or public places to avoid infecting others.

These illnesses and symptoms are not unique to Japan and are common in winter in many countries.　However, for foreign travelers who are not accustomed to the Japanese climate and living environment, these risks may be increased.

Take care of your health while traveling, If you notice anything out of the ordinary, seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you feel something is wrong, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Travel to Japan, recommended inexpensive insurance

TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY is an insurance policy proposed by a major insurance company in Japan.

Because it covers only illness and injury while traveling in Japan, less expensive than general overseas travel insurance. and also, you can purchase it with your smart phone after you enter Japan. It is easy to apply for the insurance because you can It is easy to apply for the insurance because it can be done with a smartphone after entering Japan.

Please check our website for details.

snow monkey

The post Winter in 2023-24] If you are coming to Japan, beware of influenza! first appeared on JAPANESE TRAVEL INSURANCE.

What should I be aware of when traveling abroad from Taiwan to Japan?

The problems that Taiwanese people may experience while traveling in Japan are as varied as those experienced by foreigners visiting Japan from other countries.

Below are three common problems that Taiwanese travelers should be aware of.

Although Japanese people tend to be friendly toward Taiwan and generally welcome visitors, there are still many things they do not understand due to the differences between the two countries.

Those of you who have been to Japan many times may be familiar with this, but please check again.

Differences between Traditional and Japanese Kanji

In Taiwan, Chinese characters are usually used, but the Chinese characters used in signboards in Japan are not the same as the traditional characters. Some characters are different from traditional characters. (I think they look a lot alike.)

Even if Taiwanese travelers are able to use English, they should find it difficult to deal with English outside of tourist areas.

In places where many tourists gather, it may be possible to have a conversation using an app, but in local restaurants or stores that do not receive many foreigners, there are many cases where they are not accustomed to dealing with foreign tourists and may not be able to explain the menu adequately.

And while transportation may not be a problem in urban areas, please note that when you go to rural areas, you may only be guided in Japanese.

This is a similar case, but in some cases, communication in accommodations can be difficult when going to rural areas.

solution

You probably have a camera function on your own smartphone, but your smartphone’s translation function will translate text on the spot.

If you do not know how to operate the system, we recommend that you ask a friend or family member for instructions.

Study the differences in culture and customs between Taiwan and Japan.

There is a culture and custom of quiet behavior in public places and transportation in Japan.

For example, be careful about talking loudly in public places, such as on a train.

Also,Customs that are different from those in Taiwan, such asseparating trash,smoking in designated areas, and taking off shoes before entering a roommust be adapted to the

Please note that ignorance of these customs can cause discomfort and trouble with local people.

Please note that hotels may have information in traditional Chinese characters, but there may be no such information.

solution

There is no solution.m(_ _ _)m

We believe that a little study by searching the Internet and other sources beforehand will solve the problem.

Or you can ask a friend who often travels to Japan.

Some prices are very different from those in Taiwan

Prices in Japan are often perceived as high, especially in large cities and tourist areas.

Some Taiwanese travelers may misinterpret the prices of Japanese goods and services and experience financial trouble when the actual cost is higher than expected.

Since exchange rates are so volatile these days, you can avoid this kind of trouble by checking prices carefully.

To avoid these problems, it is important to research information about Japanese culture, customs, and prices well in advance, and to observe and adapt to the behavior of local people while traveling.

What is the best travel insurance for travelers in Taiwan for less than 31 days?

Tokio Marine & Nichido, a major insurance company in Japan, offers insurance for foreign travelers for up to 31 days.

This insurance is very inexpensive and is designed specifically for illness and injury during travel.

This is perfect for those who think, “It’s a hassle to buy overseas travel insurance,” or “It’s only for a few days, but the premiums are too expensive.

The reason why it is perfect for travelers from within Taiwan is

You can apply with your smartphone after arriving in Japan.

This insurance can only be applied for online, so please apply from your own smartphone or computer.
(You can only apply within 5 days, including the date of entry.)

I’m sorry.

You cannot enter the application page from within Taiwan, so please apply after arriving in Japan.

For more information, please click below to view our insurance policies.
(This is an explanatory page, so you can view it from anywhere in the world.)

>>TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY<<

We hope you enjoy Japan.

Japanese Calligraphers

The post Travel from Taiwan to Japan – Travel Insurance (up to 31 days) first appeared on JAPANESE TRAVEL INSURANCE.