Can you go to China for 30 days without a visa now? For many travelers, the answer is yes. In China’s official FAQ, ordinary passport holders from 50 countries can enter China without a visa for up to 30 days for business, tourism, visiting family or friends, exchange, and transit. Japan is on this list, so this rule can apply to many Japanese travelers too. The same FAQ says the policy for most of these countries stays in effect until December 31, 2026. (cs.mfa.gov.cn)

There is also a new update from February 2026. China’s Foreign Ministry announced that Canada and the UK joined the visa-free program from February 17, 2026. Travelers from these two countries with ordinary passports can also stay in China for up to 30 days for business, tourism, family or friends visits, exchange, and transit. This new rule is planned to stay in effect until December 31, 2026. (mfa.gov.cn)

Still, “visa-free” does not mean “no rules.” The policy is not for people who want to work, study, or do news reporting in China. Chinese border officers may check why you are coming, so it is smart to carry helpful papers such as hotel bookings, flight tickets, or an invitation letter. You also need a valid ordinary passport. The official FAQ says the policy can be used more than once, and at the moment there is no limit on the number of entries or total days of stay, as long as your activities match your travel purpose. (cs.mfa.gov.cn)

So, for many people, a short trip to China is now easier than before. If you have a Japanese passport and your trip is for sightseeing, visiting friends, or a similar short stay, 30-day visa-free entry may be possible. But before you buy your ticket, check the newest official information. If you want to stay longer than 30 days, or if you plan to work or study, you still need the correct visa. (cs.mfa.gov.cn)