Things you need to know about Japan’s “Go To Travel” Campaign from my own experience
Hi readers! I hope you’ve been staying safe.
Today, I would like to answer some questions that you might have about Japan’s “Go To Travel” campaign. All answers are based on my very own experience as I went on a short trip to Nagano last week. I booked and stayed in a hotel for 2 nights and from the “Go To Campaign” I will be receiving a cash back!
If you don’t know what this “Go To” campaign is, you can read about it here. It’s basically a government move to help revive the domestic economy and support the businesses surrounding it. In simpler terms, it means discounts! In hotels, restaurants, events, transportation and more!
It sounds pretty simple but actually, not everybody can have access to this program. Keep reading to know whether you are allowed to avail this or not.
Can I book directly at any hotel?
Yes, you can book directly but not at any hotel. It has to be one that is registered under the campaign.
Your hotel stay has to be between 22nd of July to the end of August (first phase of the campaign).
Last but most importantly, you should not be a Tokyo resident. This last criterion is just temporary as COVID-19 cases are currently increasing in the metropolis. I’m not sure when they will remove this part.
What requirements do I need to prepare if I will book directly at a hotel?
After confirming your eligibility to avail the benefits of this campaign, there are documents that you and your chosen hotel will need to prepare.
Documents from you:
- Application form in Japanese;事後還付申請書（様式第１号）
- Bank information form in Japanese;口座確認書（旅行者用）（様式第２号）
- Copy of your bank passbook or card
- Copy of your ID (ex; Drivers license, Residence card, etc.)
- Commitment form about the address;同行者居住地証明書（様式第21号）
Documents from the hotel that you need to get:
- A document explaining your stay (ex. How many people, etc.) in Japanese it’s 宿泊証明書
- A document showing the amount you paid and other details, in Japanese it’s 支払の内訳が分かる書類
How do I submit these requirements?
Submission will be done by mail or online.
[Mail] You will send to ＊You can copy and paste↓↓↓
〒105-0003
東京都港区西新橋1丁目 24−14 西新橋一丁目ビル6階
Go To トラベル事務局 還付申請係 御中
[Online]
If you apply via online, you will receive an email after you apply.
When is the deadline?
You need to send your documents between August 14 to September 14.
Can I also get discounts through travel agencies?
Yes, this option is actually easier and you can get up to 35% off! Just choose from any of these registered agencies. (as of 28th July 12:00)
What about trips after August?
That would be the 2nd phase of the campaign.
July 22 to August 31： 35% discount (or cash back)
From September 1： 35% discount and 15% discount coupon for meals, activities, etc.
Questions?
If you have some questions about this campaign, about government subsidies in Japan related to the coronavirus pandemic, or any concern that I may be able to help you, please feel free to ask me here! (*’▽’)
Stay safe always!
AKIKO
*photos are not mine
