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Destination Asia hails visa-free entry for Chinese cruisers to Japan

Destination Asia hails visa-free entry for Chinese cruisers to Japan
Japan's decision to allow Chinese nationals traveling on cruises to enter the country visa-free marks a 'significant turning point in the cruise industry within Asia,' Destination Asia said.

In its CruiseAsia newsletter, the tour operator reports a 'positive push in Chinese passenger sourcing' since the regulatory change.

A number of ships were approved for visa-free travel since April, including those of Carnival Corp., Royal Caribbean, Oceania Cruises and SkySea Cruises, Destination Asia said.

Obtaining a Japanese visa required approximately seven working days and many documents including pay checks, bank statements, fixed deposits and proof of home ownership, making a 'long and tiresome process,' according to the tour operator.

The change now enables Chinese passengers to book cruises on short notice.