As of July 21, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has updated and issued the Travel Advice and Warning on Infectious Diseases Level 3 to 146 countries and territories and Level 2 to all remaining countries and territories.

The UK has been categorised as a Level 3 country meaning Japanese citizens are advised against all travel. 

In light of this update, Japanese students who have been planning to study abroad are recommended not to study in countries and regions that have a level 3 infectious disease risk. Those who are planning to study in countries and regions that have a level 2 infectious disease risk are encouraged to reconsider.

MOFA's Travel Advice and Warning on Infectious Diseases:

Level 2 - Avoid Non-essential Travel: Japanese nationals are advised to avoid non-essential travel to the country/area, and to stay alert to the situation and take appropriate safety measures should they decide to travel. Level 2 may be issued regarding a particular infectious disease, when it is decided by the Emergency Committee held under the Article 49 of the IHR that an event constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in accordance with the Article 12.

Level 3, Avoid All Travel: Japanese nationals are urged to avoid all travel to the country/area regardless of the purpose. Japanese residents in the country/area may be advised to consider or prepare for the evacuation. Level 3 may be issued regarding a particular infectious disease, when it is decided by the Emergency Committee held under the Article 49 of the IHR that an event constitutes a PHEIC in accordance with the Article 12 and the WHO restricts trade and travel to prevent further spread of infection.

Source: https://www.mext.go.jp/a_menu/koutou/ryugaku/1405561_00004.htm

Comments by Anna Lee, Head of Education Services, North East Asia:

The UK being listed under level 3 (avoid all travel) of MOFA's latest travel advice will add to the challenges of student recruitment by UK institutions from Japan. It is worth noting that all travel advice is advisory only and there are no specific restrictions on travel (other than challenges such as limited flight options). However, Japanese institutions are actively advising students against studying overseas this September. Marketing messages from UK institutions should focus on the additional measures that the UK HE sector is putting in place to ensure the safety and well-being of international students. Marketing could also focus on alternative options such as starting online or a January start, although a recent conversation with a leading Japanese agent suggested that deferrals, particularly for PG students, were for next September, rather than January.