Tourism Agency Discloses Rules For New Tour Groups
The Japan Tourism Agency has disclosed guidelines for travel agencies as the country prepares to allow guided tours groups to visit from Friday.
The guidelines released on Tuesday reflect the results of a trial tour that visited Japan in late May. They require travel agencies to ensure that all tourists follow Japan's infectious disease control measures.
The travel agencies are required to explain to participants that they will need private health insurance in case they require medical treatment in Japan, and obtain their consent.
Officials say people may not be allowed to take part in the tours if they do not abide by these procedures.
The tour guides are expected to meticulously ensure that visitors observe anti-infection measures in various situations.
The travel agencies are being told to confirm in advance who they should get in touch with at local government offices, in case a tourist becomes infected with the coronavirus. They are also required to have tourists visit a medical institution if they become infected, and to identify any close contacts.
Tourism minister Saito Tetsuo said strict adherence to the guidelines will allow the smooth resumption of foreign tourism in Japan.