According to the Schengen Agreement, tourist and business visas issued by a mission of one of the following countries are valid for travel to Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. However, you always have to apply at the Embassy/Consulate of the country of your main destination.

The validity of Japanese Visa ( Residence Card ) has to last until at least three months after the intended date of departure from Germany ( also Schengen area). You can apply for a Schengen Visa six months prior to your intended travel date but no later than 15 days before.