Japan’s Go to Travel Campaign: Save up to 50% on Domestic Travel

Important notice: The Japanese government has suspended Go To Travel Campaign nationwide. If you have booked your trip please contact your travel agency for details.

The Japanese government has been running “Go To Campaign” since July 22, 2020. The campaign aims to stimulate the demand for domestic tourism which has fallen as a result of the spread of the coronavirus. There are 4 types of campaigns: “Go To Travel Campaign”, “Go To Eat Campaign”, “Go To Event Campaign”, and “Go To Shopping Street Campaign”.

In this article, you can learn about the Go to Travel Campaign, how to apply for it, and how much of a discount you are eligible to receive. All residents in Japan (apart from Tokyo until the end of September) are eligible for this campaign. However, tourists from overseas visiting Japan are not eligible.

What is the “Go to Travel” campaign?

The “Go To Travel” Campaign aims to subsidize up to 50% of travel expenses (upper limit: 20,000 yen per person per night / 10,000 yen per day trip) including accommodation and transport fees. The Japanese government provides discounts of 35% of the total costs and the remaining 15% is covered by regional coupons which were issued from October, usable at travel destinations for shopping, food, and activities.

Who can apply?

All residents in Japan apart from those residing in Tokyo were initially eligible. Tourists from overseas are not eligible.

What kind of travel products are eligible?

1. Package Plans: combinations of accommodation and transportation for domestic travel
2. Accommodations only
3. A Day trip (round trip ticket + meal or sightseeing experience plan)

Individually arranged transportation fees are not eligible. Cruises, night ferries, sleeper trains, and similar items are eligible.

How much of a discount can you get?

Up to 50% of the travel costs was subsidized for domestic trips, with 35% as an immediate discount and 15% as a regional coupon usable in the destination area.

How to apply

You can apply for the campaign directly via a travel agency/reservation website or at an accommodation facility, through major travel agencies participating in the campaign.

Traveling in the New Normal

Enjoy travel while avoiding transmission risks:
– Wear a face mask to protect you and the people around you
– Smile and nod rather than shaking hands
– Refrain from conversation in public transport
– Check the safety protocols for the destination you plan to visit
– Wash your hands throughout your travels
– Avoid visiting places when they are crowded
– Practice social distancing for your own peace of mind