This year, Armenia participates in Expo 2025 Osaka, a significant global event that will bring together more than 160 countries and over 28 million visitors. This makes many Armenians set their sights on Japan.
Armenia participates with a cutting-edge pavilion designed by TUMO and the Ministry of Economy, showcasing our country’s culture, tech innovation, and educational vision. Curiosity is growing, and many are wondering if traveling to Japan from Armenia is more accessible than one thought.
At the same time, Japan itself has been quietly becoming more popular among Armenians. Yes, it’s true that a trip to Japan isn’t the cheapest getaway, but its mix of deep-rooted culture, high-tech cities, and breathtaking landscapes is hard to resist.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about traveling to Japan from Armenia and learn how you can overcome all hurdles with the help of Levon Travel.
How to Get to Japan from Armenia?
There are no direct flights from Armenia to Japan, but there are some great options with one layover that will not take much time. The most popular flights are via Doha and Dubai. Major airlines servicing this route include Qatar Airways and Emirates, which offer convenient connections to major Japanese cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.
The flight duration is 12.5 hours. The flight to Doha or Dubai takes around three hours, and there are another 9 hours to one of the Japanese cities. The tickets are rather expensive and may cost up to $1200, of course, depending on the season and booking time. For a cheaper rate, it’s better to book several months ahead, and in this case, you may have longer layovers.
The best time (and more expensive tickets) to visit Japan is in spring for the famous cherry blossoms. However, summer and fall are also tourist seasons, especially great is September and October to enjoy colorful foliage and mild weather.
Visa Issues
Armenian citizens must obtain a short-term visitor visa by applying at the Japanese Embassy in Yerevan. Required papers include visa application forms, two passport-sized photos, a valid passport, a certificate of employment, proof of financial means and other papers. The tourists also have to present a detailed itinerary of their trip.
Appointments are mandatory and must be scheduled via email at least one week in advance. The standard processing time for visa issuance is approximately five business days. However, the embassy recommends applying at least one month before the scheduled trip.
Must-Visit Sites for Those Traveling to Japan from Armenia
Why is Japan attracting so many visitors? Probably it is due to its unique culture and being a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern lifestyle. It’s a place to discover centuries-old temples, ancient calligraphy techniques, and, on the other hand, neon-lit skyscrapers and latest tech devices. Of course, many people are obsessed with Japanese cuisine. While globally popular, it tastes remarkably different and authentic on home soil.
Tokyo
The capital city of Japan never sleeps. It’s a living and ever-evolving organism. Tokyo is a must-visit destination for anyone craving modern experiences. There are vibrant neighborhoods like Shibuya and Shinjuku for endless shopping, nightlife, and pop culture. Food lovers will find Tokyo a culinary paradise, rivaling Kyoto with its world-class dining options.
Many tourists start with Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo’s most iconic intersection. Hundreds of people cross from all directions at once. It’s a thrilling, fast-paced symbol of the city’s energy and organized chaos.
Every district feels like a different world, offering, for example, anime-inspired experiences or tranquil temples. Iconic attractions like the Imperial Palace require reservations, so plan accordingly.
Kyoto
A city where centuries-old temples, serene gardens, and quiet alleys tell stories of Japan’s imperial past. Once the imperial capital, Kyoto is about traditions and authentic cultural experiences. There are several iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Taisha, the shrine at the base of a mountain famous for its endless rows of orange gates. There is also Kinkaku-ji, a Buddhist temple shimmering over a tranquil pond.
In Kyoto, tourists can take part in a traditional tea ceremony or explore bamboo forests. Besides, the ancient capital is famous for its cuisine and traditional dining ceremonies. For example, tourists can enjoy kaiseki dining, a multi-course seafood meal. The art of preparing food is rooted in seasonality and the balance of all ingredients.
If you plan to travel in spring, one of the best and most popular sites to watch cherry blossoms is Maruyama Park.
Osaka
Tourists traveling to Expo 2025, set to take place in Osaka, will have many options for enjoying the city outside the expo pavilion. First, Osaka is the ultimate destination for food lovers. Be sure to try local favorites like takoyaki, a snack made of a wheat flour-based batter and okonomiyaki pancakes.
Osaka is considered Japan’s friendliest and most laid-back big city, offering a lively contrast to Tokyo and Kyoto. Explore the historic Osaka Castle, shop in the underground arcades of Umeda, or spend a day at Universal Studios Japan.
Should You Go with a Tour or Plan Independently?
Japan is a dream country, but it’s also very expensive. High flight prices and accommodation costs are a common thing when you start planning a trip to this Asian destination. Besides, there is a process for Armenian nationals, which makes it more complicated. This is the reason many travelers choose to book a tour.
Whether you choose a tour or are traveling solo, you are better to hand over all work to a reliable travel agency like Levon Travel. Tourists don’t have to join a group to get expert help. Professional tour agents can also tailor independent, customized trips that fit your budget and interests.