Imagine: You and your four-legged friend exploring traditional temples, endless coastal paths, and bustling cities together – all without stress and unpleasant surprises. In this guide, you'll learn how to perfectly prepare for your vacation with your dog in Japan, from the initial planning to the final farewell. Be inspired by practical tips, real insider tips, and loving routines so you're perfectly prepared for unforgettable moments in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Table of contents

1. Planning & preparation for the Japan trip with dog
2. Transport of dogs to and in Japan
3. Arriving in Japan with a dog
4. Accommodation & booking with dog in Japan
5. Activities & excursions with dogs in Japan (including insider tips)
6. Health, care & packing list for your Japan trip with your dog
7. Rules of conduct & etiquette with dogs in Japan
8. Conclusion & further links
9. Frequently Asked Questions

Key take-aways

• Early formalities : Start six months before departure with microchipping, vaccinations, blood test and quarantine registration.

• Comfortable mobility : Use flights, JR Shinkansen and rental cars for stress-free journeys.

• Perfect accommodation : From pet-friendly hotels to ryokans and glamping – find your ideal home with our booking tips.

• Adventurous excursions : Discover parks, beaches, cultural highlights and enjoy our insider tip “A Slow Day in Kamakura”.

• All-round care : veterinary contacts, first aid kit and a well-thought-out packing list ensure the health of your pet.

Planning & preparation for the Japan trip with dog

Prepare yourself and your dog in peace and quiet – ideally six to eight months before the start of your trip.

The right dog breed for traveling to Japan

Choose a medium-sized, sturdy breed with a balanced temperament. Avoid breeds with respiratory problems (e.g., bulldogs), as air-conditioned airplane cabins and air conditioning in accommodations have different effects than at home.

Vaccinations, microchip & health certificate

The Animal Quarantine Service requires:

• ISO-compliant microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard)

• Two rabies vaccinations at least 30 days apart (first vaccination from 12 weeks)

• Antibody blood test (RFFIT) at least 30 days after the second vaccination – only in recognized laboratories

• Health certificate in English, issued not older than 10 days before departure

Quarantine regulations and schedule

If antibody titers are sufficient, quarantine often ends after a few hours; otherwise, it can last up to 180 days. Register your dog online with the AQS at least 40 days before entry.

Step	Deadline before departure	note
Insert microchip	≥ 8 months	ISO standard
First rabies vaccination	≥ 5 months	Age ≥ 12 weeks
Second rabies vaccination	≥ 4 months	30 days after first vaccination
Antibody blood test (RFFIT)	≥ 3 months	30 days after the second vaccination
Registration at quarantine station	≥ 40 days	AQS online form
Health certificate & flight booking	≤ 10 days	From the official veterinarian

Checklist: Documents & Forms

• Vaccination certificate with stamp and laboratory report

• Health certificate (English)

• Quarantine registration confirmation

• Flight ticket with dog reservation

Transport of dogs to and in Japan

Quiet journeys and short breaks make your dog happy.

Air travel with a dog (cabin vs. cargo hold)

• Cabin : Dogs up to approx. 8 kg (including crate) travel with us – ideal for small breeds.

• Cargo compartment : Larger dogs fly as “cargo” in the air-conditioned area.

Tip: Place familiar blankets and toys in the crate to reduce stress. For more information, see our blog post: "Stress-Free Flying with Your Dog."

Train travel: Shinkansen & regional trains

With the Japan Rail Pass, you can travel on Shinkansen and regional trains. Small dogs in approved crates can travel free of charge. Check in advance which train types allow pets.

Rental car & taxi

Rental car companies like Nippon Rent-A-Car and Budget offer dog seats, blankets, and harnesses. For spontaneous trips, the JapanTaxi app offers dog-friendly taxis.

Breaks & Safety

Plan breaks every 2–3 hours for walks. A foldable bowl and plenty of water are a must in your carry-on luggage.

Arriving in Japan with a dog

Now the vacation begins – relaxed and safe for both of you.

Customs and immigration formalities

At the quarantine checkpoint, have all your documents ready: vaccination certificate, lab report, health certificate, and registration confirmation. Friendly and speedy processing is guaranteed.

First steps on site

• Veterinarian contacts : Find 24-hour clinics near you.

• Pet supplies : In major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, there are large specialty stores; if you're in the countryside, it's better to bring some food from home.

Acclimatization

Start with quiet walks, familiar blankets, and short explorations of the neighborhood.

Accommodation & booking with dog in Japan

Whether you are looking for luxury or rural idyll, you will find the right place to stay here.

Hotels & Business Hotels

Chains like APA Hotel or Hotel Mystays often offer special dog rooms (usually up to 10–15 kg) for an additional charge. Look for extras like dog blankets or bowls.

Ryokans with Wanwan seats

Traditional inns offer tatami-covered rooms where dogs are welcome. Often, a food bowl, blanket, and dog toys are included.

Vacation rentals & Airbnbs

Book your own accommodation with a separate entrance—more privacy for you and your dog. Ideal if you prefer self-catering.

Glamping & Camping

In regions like Hokkaido and Kyushu, you'll find glamping lodges and campsites that welcome dogs at no extra charge. Pure nature for two-legged and four-legged friends!

Booking tips

• Use Booking.com or Jalan.net with filter “ペット可 (Pet OK)” .

• Read reviews from dog owners to avoid unexpected fees or rules.

• Check cancellation conditions: Traveling with a dog can sometimes turn out differently.

Activities & excursions with dogs in Japan (including insider tips)

From urban parks to tranquil coasts, enjoy adventure and relaxation.

Walks in parks & gardens

• Yoyogi Park and Ueno Park in Tokyo offer designated dog areas.

• Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto: A quiet promenade along the canal bank, a dream especially in spring.

Dog beaches & swimming fun

• Miyazaki Coast : Wide sandy beaches, shallow water ideal for swimming.

• Okinawa resorts : Private beach areas where dogs are welcome.

Boat tours & water activities

At Lake Ashi in Hakone, you can rent rowboats or pedal boats. Dogs are welcome on deck—just remember your life jacket.

Culinary breaks

• Café & Bar OWL (Tokyo) and Good Morning Cafe (Shibuya) offer terraces, fresh water, and snacks.

• Dog Dept + CAFE on the Kamo River in Kyoto pampers both humans and dogs.

Insider tip: A Slow Day in Kamakura

1. Arrival
   Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to the sea in just 60 minutes.

2. Breakfast at Pide Bakery
   Hearty pide breads, attentive service – your dog will be pampered too.

3. Beach walk & lunch at Magokoro
   Japanese lightness on the wooden terrace with panoramic views.

4. Cultural break at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū
   Pleasant peace under centuries-old cedars, your dog stays on a leash.

5. Coffee break at Verve Coffee Roasters
   Specialty coffee or matcha, a relaxed atmosphere and a water bowl for your best friend.

Health, care & packing list for your Japan trip with your dog

So that both are well – on the road and in everyday life.

Veterinary care & nursing

• Emergency contacts : Create a list of 24-hour clinics.

• Heat protection : cooling blankets, walks in the shade, sufficient water.

• Tick and flea protection : spot-on preparations or tick collars.

Tips for puppies vs. older dogs

• Puppies : Shorter stages, familiar sleeping places, slow habituation to new impressions.

• Seniors : Gentle walks, soft surfaces, carrying assistance if necessary.

Packing list & checklist

category	Objects
Food & Accessories	5 days of familiar food, foldable bowl, drinking bottle, treats
Accommodation & Travel	Transport box, blanket/toy, first aid kit
Documents	Vaccination certificate, laboratory report, health certificate, quarantine confirmation (copies)
Personal items	Passport, camera, smartphone, offline map app
Emergency dossier	PDF scans of all documents, veterinary clinic addresses, embassy contact

Rules of conduct & etiquette with dogs in Japan

This way, you and your dog will remain welcome guests everywhere.

Leash requirement & cleanliness

• Dogs must be kept on a leash almost everywhere.

• Be sure to pick up and dispose of any leftovers.

Cultural subtleties

• Many Japanese people respect distance from strange dogs. Ask permission before your dog greets someone.

• A polite curtsy when leaving a ryokan or café shows appreciation.

Conclusion & further links

With thorough planning, the right accommodations, and a touch of flexibility, your Japan vacation with your dog will be an unforgettable adventure. Explore vibrant cities and tranquil natural landscapes—and be sure to treat yourself to a relaxing day in Kamakura.

Further links

• Animal Quarantine Service Japan

• Japan Rail Pass

• Booking.com – Pet Friendly

• Jalan.net – ペット可