The Japanese visa policy relaxation for Chinese citizens announced last year will officially take effect on January 19 this year. Compared to the previously stricter visa policies, the main changes this time focus on making it easier to apply for multiple-entry visas. Japan will issue multiple-entry visas to ① businesspeople and individuals in cultural and academic fields, and will no longer require proof of previous travel to Japan or a guarantor’s letter from a Japanese sponsor. ② Individual tourists traveling to Okinawa and the three northeastern prefectures can apply for multiple-entry visas if they “have a certain level of financial means and have traveled to Japan for short stays within the past three years, along with their family members.” The maximum consecutive stay is 30 days. ③ If you are a high-income individual, there will be no restrictions on your first destination in Japan (valid for 5 years, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit). This relaxation of visa application requirements is expected to attract more Chinese tourists to Japan, fostering friendly cultural exchanges between China and Japan. At the same time, since individuals applying for multiple-entry tourist visas are likely to choose Okinawa as their first stop in Japan, Okinawa will become an even more popular holiday destination.
Compared to cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Okinawa may not yet be very familiar to many people in China. Okinawa is a long, narrow island, home to world-renowned stunning scenery—crystal-clear blue seas, pristine white sandy beaches, beautiful coral reefs, and a variety of subtropical plants and landscapes. In addition to its natural beauty, Okinawa also boasts many mysterious ancient cultural traditions and heritage sites that attract numerous visitors. There is a rich variety of attractions in Okinawa, whether it’s the breathtaking “Manzamo” sea view, the historically rich Shuri Castle, or the bustling Kokusai Dori street known for Japanese pop culture—all can meet the diverse travel needs of different visitors. In addition, a wide range of golf courses and diving shops make Okinawa a paradise for golf and diving enthusiasts.
For Chinese tourists, Okinawan cuisine is perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of visiting the island. Okinawa has deep historical ties with China, and its food culture has been greatly influenced by Chinese cuisine. Their popular “Chanpuru” stir-fry dishes are similar to Chinese stir-fries, while soba noodles and taco rice (taco-flavored rice)—noodles and rice—are also two staple foods familiar to the Chinese palate. Okinawa is truly a land of longevity, and much of its secret lies in the healthiness and nutrition of the local diet. Dishes such as umibudo (sea grapes) and peanut tofu are among the most iconic Okinawan specialties and are must-try culinary experiences during a trip to Okinawa.