Japan, the land of the rising sun, is a popular travel destination for many Indonesians. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan is a country full of surprises and wonders. However, travelling to Japan requires a visa for Indonesian passport holders. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a Japanese visa and provide you with a sample itinerary to make the most of your trip to Japan.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility for a Japanese Visa
Before applying for a Japanese visa, you need to check your eligibility. To obtain a Japanese visa, you need to fulfil the following criteria:
- You must be an Indonesian citizen with a valid passport.
- You must have a valid reason for travel, such as tourism, business, or visiting relatives.
- You must have sufficient funds to cover your trip.
- You must have a return ticket or onward travel ticket.
- You must have no criminal record.
If you meet these requirements, you can proceed to the next step of the visa application process.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Before applying for a Japanese visa, you need to prepare the following documents:
- A passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages.
- A completed visa application form.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- A copy of your flight itinerary.
- A copy of your accommodation booking.
- A bank statement or letter showing your financial status.
- A letter of invitation from your host in Japan (if applicable).
Make sure that all your documents are complete and in the correct format before submitting your application.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can submit your Japanese visa application at the Embassy of Japan in Jakarta or at one of the Consulate-Generals of Japan in Surabaya, Medan, or Makassar. You can also submit your application through an authorized visa agent.
When submitting your application, make sure that you pay the visa application fee and any other fees required by the embassy or consulate. The visa application fee for a single-entry visa is IDR 360,000.
Step 4: Wait for Your Visa to Be Processed
After submitting your application, you need to wait for your visa to be processed. The processing time for a Japanese visa is usually around five working days, but it may take longer during peak travel seasons.
If your visa application is approved, you can collect your visa from the embassy or consulate. If it is rejected, you will receive a notification explaining the reason for the rejection.
Sample Itinerary for a Trip to Japan
With your Japanese visa in hand, you can now plan your trip to Japan. Here is a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Japan:
Day 1: Tokyo
Explore the vibrant city of Tokyo, starting with a visit to the famous Tokyo Tower. From there, head to the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. In the evening, experience the excitement of Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world.
Day 2: Tokyo
Visit the Imperial Palace, the residence of the Emperor of Japan. After that, explore the trendy neighbourhoods of Harajuku and Omotesando, where you can shop for the latest fashion and try some delicious Japanese snacks.
Day 3: Mt. Fuji
Take a day trip to Mt. Fuji, Japan’s most iconic mountain. You can hike to the summit or take a cable car for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 4: Kyoto
Travel to Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan. Visit the magnificent Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and the peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner and watch a Geisha performance.
Day 5: Kyoto
Explore the historic district of Gion, where you can see traditional Japanese architecture and maybe spot a Geisha or two. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii gates, and finish your day with a relaxing hot spring bath.
Day 6: Osaka
Travel to Osaka, Japan’s gastronomic capital. Visit the bustling Dotonbori district, where you can try some of Osaka’s famous street food. After that, visit the Osaka Castle and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the top.
Day 7: Departure
Say goodbye to Japan and head back to Indonesia, with unforgettable memories of your trip to the land of the rising sun.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Japanese visa may seem daunting, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth process. With this guide and sample itinerary, you can plan your trip to Japan with ease and make the most of your time in this beautiful country. Happy travels!
