
Japan Will Change Tax-Free Shopping to a Refund System from November 2026
From Nov. 1, 2026, visitors to Japan will pay tax at shops and claim refunds after customs checks before departure.
Follow the latest travel news across Asia, including rail, bus, ferry and flight updates, new routes, disruptions, and practical traveler information.

From Nov. 1, 2026, visitors to Japan will pay tax at shops and claim refunds after customs checks before departure.

China-Japan flight capacity is sharply lower for July and August 2026. Travelers should recheck routes, prices, visas and backup connections.

Air India Express will launch Navi Mumbai–Abu Dhabi flights from 15 July 2026, giving Mumbai-region travelers a second UAE gateway.

Japan will raise single- and multiple-entry visa fees from July 1, 2026. Check who is affected, what changes, and how to plan.

Japan plans to let local governments tighten or ban minpaku short-term rentals in some areas. What travelers should check before booking.

JR Central and JR West will launch Supreme Class cabins on some Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen trains from October 1, 2026.

Delta is set to raise Los Angeles–Shanghai service to five weekly flights from October 2026, improving nonstop options for China trips.

Vietnam Airlines now flies nonstop between Hanoi and Amsterdam three times weekly, improving Vietnam access for Dutch and Benelux travelers.

Thailand has approved visa-rule revisions affecting Indian travelers, but the 60-day exemption remains valid until an official effective date is annou...