Recording summary · September 2022
Why I HATE Japan Reopening to Tourists
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Overview
Japan announced the resumption of visa-free individual tourism and the lifting of daily entry caps effective October 11, coming just after Daniel made non-refundable travel bookings and obtained a visa for Thailand.
Daniel previously resided in Japan, divorced an ex-wife, destroyed a spousal visa, and departed prior to pandemic-related border closures, and intends to visit Thailand to meet an online romantic partner prior to considering a trip to Japan.
Daniel tested a self-standing folding phone suited for concealed livestreaming and used it to secretly stream an interaction with Daniel's mother.
Themes
Japan's policy announcement reopening visa-free individual tourism on October 11.
Daniel's shift in travel plans toward Thailand and an online romantic connection.
Daniel's past residence, marriage, divorce, and destroyed spousal visa in Japan.
Testing and using a folding mobile phone for discrete livestreaming.
Developments
The Prime Minister of Japan announces the removal of daily entry caps and the resumption of visa-free individual tourism effective October 11.
Daniel books tickets, reserves hotels, and applies for a visa for Thailand.
Daniel separates from an ex-wife, cuts up a spousal visa, and departs Japan prior to COVID-19 border closures.
Daniel secretly streams while conversing with Daniel's mother about taking down boxes.
Uncertainties & gaps
Whether Japanese authorities abandoned guided-tour requirements due to external pressure and lack of demand, or had planned an October reopening regardless.
Whether Japan will reinstate border closures during the winter due to a new variant before Daniel can visit following Thailand.