We often get asked questions aboutJean Paul and LaLa moved to Tokyo back in December! shipping pets to Japan from the US.  Not only is Tokyo a common destination for executives relocating for work, Japan is also home to US military installations like Kadena Air Force Base in Okinawa, Misawa Air Force Base and Yokata Air Force Base.

Know the import requirements for Japan -- and plan ahead!

Because of the fact that Japan is rabies free, the requirements to get a pet into the country can be quite difficult.  The first step when considering a move with pets to Japan is to be aware of the import requirements, including all of the bloodwork and paperwork.  We have a list of the steps for moving pets to Japan, which you can print out and take to your veterinarian.  It's important to note that this process typically takes six months to complete if you are planning on avoiding quarantine.

Select your flights and routing

If you are moving to Tokyo, finding a pet-friendly airline to take your pet should not be too difficult.  Remember that the flights typically go out of major airports, like LAX in Los Angeles, JFK or Newark in the New York area, and Houston Intercontinental in Houston.  If you are not located in one of those major cities, you will need to arrange a flight that can take your pet there -- or just get in the car and drive! 

If you're moving to another place outside of Tokyo, things can get somehwat tricky.  Most airlines will not fly directly into Misawa or Kadena, which means that pets will need to clear through customs in Tokyo.  From there, your pet will need to be booked on a connecting flight to one of the smaller airports.  The tricky part about onward forwarding to Okinawa is that Narita Airport does not have flights suitable for pets.  Pets must be transferred to Haneda and then sent onward.