On March 13, Japan dropped the indoor masking recommendation. So, you no longer need to mask up in shops, restaurants, attractions, on public transport etc. Notably, Japan’s airlines also dropped their masking recommendation, so you no longer need to mask up on Japanese airlines flying to/from Japan or within Japan (most foreign carriers dropped their mask requirements several months ago).
The government still allows individual businesses to ask their customers to mask, so don’t be surprised if you’re asked to mask in a restaurant or small shop. You might carry a mask for such occasions, but shops that ask their customers to mask will likely have a box of masks on hand.
Commentary by Chris
While the Japanese government dropped the indoor masking recommendation on March 13, you might be surprised to see many Japanese wearing masks both indoors and out. And you may hear announcements on some forms of public transport recommending that you wear a mask during crowded times. But, apart from the odd restaurant or shop, you no longer have to wear a mask anywhere in Japan, and that includes public transport. The only place where you are really likely to be asked to mask is at a hospital or clinic.
Useful Link
Where Are These Places Located?
See these places on the Inside Osaka Google map:- Open the Osaka map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Osaka Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Osaka guide
- Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Osaka
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka, Osaka to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Compare flight prices and timings to find the best Japan flight deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
