Japan: Fingerprint your visitors!

Japan has recently announced a new policy aimed at reducing the threat of international terrorism. Starting November 20th, visitors to the island country will be fingerprinted. The policy includes very few exemptions for adults over 16 years. "Only some permanent residents, and diplomatic visitors" will be exempt. Besides that, everyone will be fingerprinted and photographed upon arrival. Even resident foreigners will have to obide by the policy each time they re-enter the country.

It is unclear whether this policy will have a positive or negative effect on Japanese tourism. Regardless, be sure to look camera-ready when you deboard in Japan!