Japan

Scope

A foreign recreational vessel calling at Japan may need to complete separate port, customs and immigration formalities. This entry first verifies the special permission required to call at a non-open port.

Official reference (specific requirements in this section have not each been checked online): How to apply for special permission for foreign pleasure boats t

Ports of entry and departure

A foreign recreational vessel must obtain special permission from the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism before calling at a non-open port (fukaikōba). Permission to call does not mean customs, immigration or quarantine formalities are complete.

Official reference (specific requirements in this section have not each been checked online): How to apply for special permission for foreign pleasure boats t

Pre-arrival notification

Prepare the application form, a copy of the vessel's nationality/registration certificate and a crew list showing each person's position, name, sex, nationality, date of birth and foreign passport number. Confirm the receiving authority and eligible port against the official guidance.

The Japan Customs Okinawa yacht guide requires advance notice of the ETA, intended places of stay, vessel details, crew list and passport copies, and previous and intended ports. Submit through NACCS in principle; if unable to use it, contact the receiving customs office to confirm the email procedure.

Official reference (specific requirements in this section have not each been checked online): How to apply for special permission for foreign pleasure boats t

Foreign nationals are subject to Japan's entry and disembarkation rules, including separate permission to land from a vessel. People must hold valid passports; anyone intending to go ashore generally needs the relevant landing permission. Visa requirements depend on nationality and purpose. Special landing permission for crew applies only to crew members who meet statutory conditions; it is not general entry permission for yacht passengers.

On arrival, submit the applicable documents, including General Declaration C-2000, Crew List C-2065, Passenger List C-2050, Crew Effects Declaration C-5370 and Ship's Stores Declaration C-2040. Follow the receiving customs office's requirements for the vessel.

Official reference (specific requirements in this section have not each been checked online): Guide to entering procedures for yachts etc. on overseas voyages

Japan's Plant Protection Stations say plants and plant products generally must be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate issued by the government of the exporting country, regardless of quantity, purpose or means of transport, and undergo plant quarantine inspection before customs inspection. Exceptions or prohibitions may apply to specific items or origins. This page concerns plant quarantine, not complete yacht-stores quarantine requirements. Before carrying plants, food or animals aboard, confirm and declare requirements with the quarantine authority at the intended port.

Japan Customs lists drugs, firearms and ammunition, explosives and other goods as prohibited imports. Some other items require permits under relevant laws or inspection by the responsible authorities, including hunting guns, swords, protected animals/plants and their products. The page is general import guidance, not a yacht-specific list. Before arrival, confirm declaration and permit requirements with customs for weapons, medicines and other controlled items aboard.

Okinawa Customs has published an arrival guide for foreign yachts that describes customs declarations and vessel/personnel formalities after arrival. The guide applies to Okinawa only; do not assume every port in Japan can process them. Confirm current procedures with customs, immigration and quarantine authorities at the intended port.

Noonsite's Japan yacht guide (marked as updated 15 August 2025) says yacht arrival and departure clearance fees are generally not charged. This does not include berth, agent or other service charges; individual ports may have separate rules. Check with the Japan Coast Guard and the port before arrival.