Fees · Country Guide
Coral to drift ice: Japan's full-spectrum water adventure
Updated Dec 7, 2025 • 20 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- International Tourist Tax (departure tax) - JPY 1,000 per departure
- National park and protected-area rules (no collecting, no damage) - No standard fee
- Typical payment pattern: Japan does not have a single nationwide diving permit system.
What people usually pay
Japan does not have a single nationwide diving permit system. Instead, expect a mix of general protected-area rules (especially in national parks), operator policies, and occasional local facility or access fees.
The one consistent national traveler fee is the International Tourist Tax collected on departure.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Tourist Tax (departure tax) | JPY 1,000 per departure Per departure from Japan by air or ship (with exemptions) | Most international travelers departing Japan | Typically included in your airline or ship ticket | This is a national tax collected on departure rather than an entry fee. If your itinerary includes multiple departures from Japan, it may be applied each time. |
| National park and protected-area rules (no collecting, no damage) | No standard fee Always | All visitors in protected coastal and marine areas | Not applicable | Many prime islands sit within national parks or protected zones. Expect strict expectations around coral protection, wildlife approach distances, and respecting marked boundaries or seasonal closures. |
| Local beach and facility fees (showers, parking, managed beaches) | Varies by site Per use or per day (site-specific) | Snorkelers and shore divers at managed access points | On-site kiosks, parking meters, or local staff | Some popular beaches and shore entries charge small facility fees or parking fees that support maintenance. Carry cash for smaller islands. |
| Ogasawara nature activity rules (wildlife tours and restricted zones) | Tour fees vary Per tour | Wildlife tours, snorkel trips, and some access-managed zones | Licensed local operators | Ogasawara has strong ecotourism management. Follow operator briefings carefully and assume certain areas may be restricted or seasonally limited to protect wildlife. |