For Foreign Travelers Planning Domestic Travel in Japan on August 27, 28, and 29: The One Best Course of Action to Avoid the Impact of Typhoon
The Only Way to Avoid the Typhoon’s Impact
With Typhoon No. 10 approaching, railway and airline companies have announced the possibility of planned suspensions of Shinkansen (bullet train) services and flights on August 27 and 28. This could significantly impact travel plans, especially for the busy Tokyo-Osaka route. Foreign travelers unfamiliar with typhoons may be greatly affected.
The best course of action to avoid the Typhoon’s impact is to adjust your itinerary and refrain from traveling on August 27, 28, or 29. If you have a return flight scheduled, moving closer to the departure airport in advance is crucial. Staying near your departure airport ensures you can reach the airport safely, even if the typhoon disrupts your original travel plans to visit other tourist destinations. While it’s disappointing to miss out on planned sightseeing, it’s better than potentially missing your return flight due to transportation issues. Additionally, tourist attractions are often near airports, so you can still enjoy your trip.
Important Notice: Potential Shinkansen Suspensions Due to Typhoon No. 10
According to JR Tokai’s announcement (as of 9:15 AM on August 25), “The Tokaido Shinkansen may experience planned suspensions or prolonged delays across all or part of its route from August 27 to 28 due to heavy rain and strong winds expected along the line with the approach of Typhoon No. 10.” They have also announced that tickets for August 27 to 28 can be changed or refunded without fees. Therefore, anyone planning to travel on those dates should revise their travel plans as soon as possible.
Consider Changing Your Travel Plans if You’re Moving on August 29th
Even if you’re planning to travel on August 29, it’s wise to reconsider your plans. If there are suspensions on the 27th and 28th, there will likely be a surge in passengers on the 29th. If you have reserved seats, you may be fine. But if you plan to use non-reserved seating, it’s worth considering a change.
Lessons from August 16: The Importance of Early Action
Recently, due to the impact of Typhoon No. 7, many railway and airline companies suspended operations on August 16, including the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Nagoya. This left many travelers stranded or unable to return home.
However, travelers who participated in our Kagurazaka tour (dyeing, street walking, izakaya hopping, geisha bars) on August 14 avoided such issues by changing their flight to Hokkaido from the 16th to the 15th. This example shows the importance of early action when possible.
Act Today or Tomorrow for Your Safe Travels!
Foreign travelers planning domestic travel on August 27, 28, or 29 should revise their plans today (August 25) or tomorrow (August 26). Disruptions like those on August 16 can ruin your trip. Early decisions are crucial. Safe travels!