Essential Entry Guide to Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia 🇰🇭
This vibrant city offers the lively atmosphere typical of Southeast Asia, along with familiar amenities like AEON Mall, making it a welcoming destination for Japanese travelers. If you have extra time, consider pairing your trip with a visit to Siem Reap, home to the famous Angkor Wat.
📌 Entry Information
✅ Visa Required! (Tourist Visa: $30 USD // Maximum stay of 30 days)
• Online Visa (E-Visa)
Apply via the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia. Typically, you’ll receive a response within three business days after application. Once approved, print the visa and present it at immigration upon arrival.
• Visa on Arrival
If you haven’t applied for an online visa in advance, you can apply and pay for a visa at the airport. However, it can be time-consuming during busy periods, so it’s recommended to obtain your visa beforehand.
✅ E-Arrival Registration
In addition to the visa, you’ll need to pre-register for an electronic arrival card (Cambodia e-Arrival) via the dedicated website or app. Registration is available within seven days prior to your arrival in Cambodia. After completing the registration, you’ll receive a QR code via email. Print this and present it at immigration upon arrival.
📌 Transportation from the Airport to the City
✅ Tuk-Tuk
The most common mode of transportation. There’s a tuk-tuk stand to the left of the airport exit. Inform the driver of your hotel location, and the fare is typically around $7–9 USD. However, negotiating prices and ensuring the driver knows your destination can be stressful. Using the ride-hailing app Grab is a convenient alternative ☝️. You can pre-register your destination, know the fare upfront, and pay online via credit card, minimizing interaction with the driver. Depending on the location, fares are usually around $5 USD, making it a relatively affordable option.
✅ City Bus 🚌
Recommended for seasoned travelers with minimal luggage and flexible schedules! For just 1,500 riel (approximately $0.55 USD), you can reach the city center. Download the "City Bus Official App" to check routes and bus arrival times. Note that buses don’t provide change, so prepare the exact fare (1,500 riel) in advance. Pay upon boarding. Bus stop: Walk left after exiting the airport premises to find the bus stop. Take Bus No. 03 to reach the area near Central Market. Be cautious if your hotel is far from the bus stop ⚠️.
For those concerned about local interactions, using trip.com’s transfer service is a recommended option.
📌 Currency
US Dollars and Cambodian Riel
Both currencies are widely accepted, but when paying in USD, change is often given in riel, which can make calculations tricky 💦. If you’re not accustomed to using USD, it’s better to exchange yen for riel instead of USD. Exchange rates at the airport are not favorable, so limit your exchanges there and opt for currency exchange services in the city. There are plenty of exchange offices in town, making it easy to exchange money.
Enjoy your trip!