re-entry with sightseeing visA

[acesup]

Hi would anyone be kind enough to tell me the rules when leaving and then re-entering japan on a normal sightseeing visa?
I will have been in japan about 3 weeks when i will go to the philippines for a week and then return to japan.
i went to the travel agent to book the flight and he seemed to think i wouldnt be allowed back to my shock!
then the terms, multiple entry and single entry sightseeing visas were thrown around... it all left me worried as to if i should be applying for a re-entry permit or not? i know when i was a nova teacher some years back i was required but thats on a working holiday visa, i know japan loves rules and paperwork but do i really need a re-entry permit on a sightseeing visa??
thanks

[Mike Cash]

Since you're already here, why not ask Immigration?

It would prevent a farcical scene such as you being turned away at the airport and telling the Immigration officers, "But some guy on the internet told me it's alright!!!!!"

[Glenski]

Reentry refers to a permit that visa holders other than tourists must buy. For example, if you are a work visa holder, you need to buy a 4000 yen single-use reentry permit or a 6000 yen multiple-use reentry permit in order to come back to Japan without voiding your visa.

As a tourist, unless you are from a country that actually requires a tourist visa (most don't because the passport serves well enough), you won't need to bother with a reentry permit.

Not sure what you discussed with the travel agent. People who come and go into Japan are sometimes considered suspicious types, depending on various circumstances. Come often enough, or soon enough after leaving, and immigration may wonder what you are up to. Trafficking? So, they may turn you down.

[acesup]

glenski thanks for that... thats along the same lines as i was thinking. ive tried to contact immigration via email (a near impossible feat in japan) as i dont have time to get down there before i leave... mike, u seem like the sort of person people immigrate to avoid. if we ever meet out ill make you my hand puppet. dont waste your, and other peoples time with pathetic posts walter mitty.
cheers.

[Mike Cash]

Is that a threat of personal violence?

At least be man enough to put your name on it.

(Didn't you mean "emigrate"? The other way makes no sense).

[Mars Man]

This particular location appears to the best place for it, so I have moved it. I do hope that the above will go no further.

I don't think I can give you any further advice on that visa matter, am aware that you'd have to have a re-entry of some type before leaving. Again, the best bet would be to get in contact with those who give such, but that would definitely mean going down to the office. I wish you the best !!