First Trip to Japan from the Philippines: Visa, Budget in PHP & 5-Day Tokyo Itinerary
Why I wrote this guide I was born in the Philippines, lived there until I was 11, and now live in Tokyo. That means I know what Filipino travelers worry about before a first Japan trip, and what actually matters once you land. This guide covers everything you need for a first trip: the visa, when to go, flights, a realistic budget in pesos, a 5-day Tokyo itinerary, and the local tips I wish every visitor knew. Do Filipinos need a visa for Japan? Yes. Philippine passport holders need a visa for a tourist trip to Japan, and there are now two ways to get one. Regular tourist visa: Apply through the Japan Visa Application Centre (run by VFS Global) or an embassy-accredited travel agency. This is the route for independent trips, visiting family or friends, and multiple-entry visas. eVisa (since May 15, 2026): Apply online if you live in the Philippines and join a package tour run by one of the embassy's designated travel agencies. It is single-entry and allows a stay of up to ...