Japan Travel Advisory: Your Comprehensive Guide to Safe Travels

Planning a trip to Japan? Ensuring your safety and security should be a top priority. This comprehensive Japan Travel Advisory provides essential information and advice for a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities or serene landscapes, understanding potential risks and taking necessary precautions is crucial.

Safety and Security in Japan

Low Overall Risk: Take Normal Security Precautions

Japan is generally a very safe country with a low risk level for travelers. The official travel advisory is to take normal security precautions, reflecting the country’s stable environment and low crime rates compared to many other destinations worldwide. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to be aware of potential issues and take sensible steps to protect yourself and your belongings.

Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant Area: Restrictions Remain

Following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant incident, certain areas surrounding the plant remain restricted due to potential radiation exposure. These restricted zones are clearly marked and it is imperative to respect these boundaries for your safety.

Key Recommendations:

• Heed Local Authority Instructions: Always follow the guidance and instructions provided by Japanese authorities regarding restricted areas and safety protocols.
• Consult Official Resources: Refer to the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry for up-to-date information on the affected areas and support for residents impacted by the nuclear incident.

Assistance of Residents Affected by the Nuclear Incidents – Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

Korean Peninsula Tensions: Stay Informed and Vigilant

Geopolitical tensions involving the Korean Peninsula can fluctuate and potentially escalate with little warning. Events such as North Korean nuclear and missile tests or military exercises in the region can lead to increased unease.

Safety Measures:

• Maintain Vigilance: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in public areas.
• Monitor Local News: Keep up-to-date with regional developments by following reputable news sources.
• Follow Official Guidance: Pay attention to and comply with instructions from local authorities, including the Cabinet Secretariat’s civil protection guidance.

Cabinet Secretariat Civil Protection Portal

Crime in Japan: Petty Theft and Urban Caution

While Japan boasts remarkably low rates of violent crime, petty crime, particularly targeting foreigners, is a concern in urban centers. Pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas and nightlife districts.

High-Risk Areas in Tokyo:

• Kabukicho
• Roppongi
• Shibuya
• Ikebukuro
• Shinjuku
• Golden-gai

Precautions Against Crime:

• Be Aware of Your Belongings: Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your bags and wallets in crowded places.
• Exercise Caution in Entertainment Districts: Be particularly vigilant in nightlife areas, especially in the listed Tokyo districts, as these are known for attracting petty crime.
• Report Crimes Promptly: If you become a victim of crime, immediately file a police report at the nearest police station.
• Seek Assistance if Needed: If you encounter difficulties filing a report, contact the Japan Visitor Hotline or your embassy/consulate for assistance.

Japan Visitor Hotline – Japan National Tourism Organization

Alt text: A helpful Japanese police officer directs traffic in a busy Tokyo intersection, showcasing the visible police presence and general safety in urban Japan.

Drug Trafficking: Severe Penalties and Unwitting Couriers

Japan has extremely strict drug laws and a zero-tolerance policy. Travelers should be acutely aware of the severe penalties associated with drug-related offenses. There have been increasing reports of unsuspecting travelers being used as drug couriers.

Key Warnings:

• Strict Drug Laws: Penalties for drug offenses, even for minor amounts, are very harsh, including lengthy jail sentences and substantial fines.
• Beware of Package Requests: Be extremely cautious of anyone, even acquaintances, asking you to carry packages into Japan on their behalf. You could unknowingly be transporting illegal narcotics.

Spiked Food and Drinks: A Risk in Nightlife Areas

Incidents of spiked food and drinks, particularly in nightlife districts, pose a risk to travelers. Unsuspecting individuals may have drugs added to their beverages, leading to vulnerability to theft, assault, or fraud.

High-Risk Areas in Tokyo (Spiked Drinks):

• Kabukicho
• Roppongi
• Shinjuku
• Golden-gai

Safety Tips for Nightlife:

• Never Leave Drinks Unattended: Always keep your food and drinks in sight and never leave them unattended, even for a moment.
• Be Wary of Strangers: Be cautious about accepting drinks, snacks, or cigarettes from new acquaintances in bars or nightclubs.
• Be Alert to Over-Intoxication: Be aware of the signs of sudden or excessive intoxication, which could indicate drink spiking.

Fraud and Financial Scams: Credit Card and ATM Awareness

Credit card and ATM fraud is a concern in Japan, as are instances of overcharging, particularly in bars and nightclubs. Disputes over inflated bills have, in some cases, escalated to violence.

Protecting Yourself from Fraud:

• Card Handling: Keep your credit and debit cards in sight when making payments and be attentive to how they are being handled.
• ATM Security: Use ATMs located in well-lit, public areas or within banks or reputable businesses.
• Inspect Card Readers: Avoid using ATMs with suspicious or unusual features on the card reader slot.
• PIN Protection: Shield the keypad when entering your PIN at ATMs and point-of-sale terminals.
• Monitor Accounts Regularly: Check your bank and credit card statements frequently for any unauthorized transactions and report any irregularities immediately to your financial institution.
• Beware of Drugging Scams: Be aware that criminals may drug individuals in entertainment districts and then force them to withdraw money from ATMs while incapacitated.

Overseas fraud

Women’s Safety: Addressing Harassment

Women traveling alone in Japan may experience forms of harassment, including verbal abuse. Unwanted physical contact can occur on crowded public transportation, particularly on subways and trains during rush hour.

Safety Measures for Women Travelers:

• Be Aware of Surroundings: Remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded public spaces.
• Utilize Women-Only Train Cars: On some subway and train lines, women-only cars are available during peak hours, providing a safer commuting option.

Advice for women travellers

Road Safety and Transportation

Road Conditions: Generally Good

Road conditions and road safety standards across Japan are generally very good. However, roads can be narrow, particularly in older urban areas and rural regions.

Japan Road Traffic Information Center (in Japanese)

Public Transportation: Efficient and Safe

Japan’s public transportation system is world-renowned for its efficiency, punctuality, and safety.

Taxis: Reliable but Potentially Overpriced

Taxis are generally a safe and readily available mode of transport.

Taxi Tips:

• Use Official Taxis: Only use officially marked taxis to ensure safety and avoid scams.
• Meter or Negotiate Fare: Either negotiate the fare in advance or insist that the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged.
• Destination in Japanese: Have your destination written in Japanese, as many taxi drivers may not speak English fluently.

Taxis in Japan – Japan National Tourism Organization

Trains and Subways: Convenient and Extensive

Train and subway travel is an excellent and efficient way to navigate Japan. Signage is typically in Japanese, but English signage is increasingly common, especially in major cities and tourist areas.

General Safety Resources

For general emergency information and tourist assistance, the Japan National Tourism Organization provides valuable resources.

Japan National Tourism Organization

Air Travel Safety Standards

This travel advisory does not assess the safety standards of foreign domestic airlines. Travelers are encouraged to research airlines independently.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and Exit Requirements for Japan

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country, and it is the traveler’s responsibility to comply with these requirements. The Canadian government cannot intervene on your behalf if you are denied entry or exit due to non-compliance.

Always verify the most up-to-date information with the Japanese authorities or Foreign Representatives in Canada as regulations can change.

Foreign Representatives in Canada

Passport Validity

Passport requirements depend on your passport type. Always check with your airline or transportation provider about their specific passport validity rules, as they may be stricter than the country’s entry regulations.

Regular Canadian Passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay in Japan. If you plan to travel to other countries in the region, ensure your passport also meets their validity requirements.

Passports for Official Travel and “X” Gender Identifier

Specific entry rules may apply for official travel passports and passports with an “X” gender identifier. Travelers with these passport types should check with the nearest foreign representative of Japan before traveling to confirm entry regulations and potential restrictions.

Other Travel Documents

Travel with temporary passports or emergency travel documents may also have different entry rules. Verify requirements with the Japanese foreign representative prior to your trip.

Visa Requirements for Japan

• Tourist Visa: Not required for stays up to 90 days for many nationalities (check specific requirements based on your citizenship).
• Business Visa: Required for business activities where compensation beyond regular salary is received in Japan.
• Work Visa: Required for employment in Japan.
• Student Visa: Required for studying in Japan.

Important Visa Notes:

• Visa Application Timing: You cannot apply for business, work, or student visas after entering Japan as a tourist.
• Overstaying Visas: Overstaying your visa, including the 90-day tourist visa-free limit, is a criminal offense and can result in fines, deportation, and being barred from future re-entry.

Other Entry Requirements

Japanese immigration officials may request to see proof of a return or onward travel ticket, confirmed accommodation bookings, and evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Japan.

Biometrics at Immigration

Upon arrival in Japan, visitors will be photographed and fingerprinted as part of immigration procedures. Exceptions may apply in certain cases.

Immigration Services Agency of Japan

Hotel Registration Requirements

Japanese law mandates that foreign visitors provide detailed information when checking into hotels and other lodging facilities. Hotels are also required to photocopy passports for record-keeping.

Traveling with Children

Consult resources on traveling with children for specific advice and requirements.

travelling with children

Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

Check the health section for information regarding potential yellow fever entry requirements, although Japan currently does not require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry.

Health Considerations for Travel to Japan

Travel Health Notices

This section outlines potential health risks and ongoing health concerns in Japan. Consult a healthcare professional or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Japan, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), and influenza, as recommended by your healthcare provider.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

Discuss with a travel health professional about recommended or required vaccines and medications based on your itinerary and health status.

Yellow Fever

• Risk: No risk of yellow fever in Japan.
• Entry Requirement: Proof of vaccination is not required for entry to Japan.
• Recommendation: Vaccination is generally not recommended for travel to Japan.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE)

• Risk: TBE is a risk in some areas of Japan, particularly from April to November, and higher for those hiking or camping in forested areas.
• Vaccine: The TBE vaccine is not available in Canada but may be available in Japan or other countries.
• Prevention: Protect yourself from tick bites by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.

Tick-borne encephalitis

Protect yourself from tick bites

Measles

• Risk: Measles is highly contagious, and anyone not protected is at risk, especially when traveling internationally.
• Recommendation: Ensure you are fully vaccinated against measles before traveling.

Measles

Japanese Encephalitis (JE)

• Risk: Low risk for most travelers, but higher for long-term travelers, those visiting rural areas, or during outbreaks.
• Vaccination: Consider JE vaccination if you are at higher risk.

Japanese encephalitis

Hepatitis B

• Risk: Hepatitis B is a risk in all destinations, transmitted through blood and body fluids.
• Vaccination: Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
• Prevention: Practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles, and ensure safe tattooing and piercing practices.

Hepatitis B
Prevent hepatitis B

COVID-19

• Risk: COVID-19 is ongoing globally.
• Vaccination: Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and recommended boosters before travel. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness.
• Entry/Exit Requirements: Verify Japan’s current COVID-19 related entry/exit requirements before traveling.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Influenza (Flu)

• Risk: Flu occurs worldwide.
• Vaccination: Get a flu shot annually, ideally at least 2 weeks before travel.
• Prevention: Practice good hand hygiene and wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms.

influenza
Get the flu shot

Rabies

• Risk: Rabies may be present in wildlife, including bats.
• Prevention: Avoid contact with animals. If bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention immediately.
• Vaccination: Consider rabies vaccination if you will be working directly with wildlife.

rabies

Alt text: A healthcare professional administers a pre-travel vaccine, highlighting the importance of consulting medical experts for health precautions before traveling to Japan.

Safe Food and Water Precautions

Prevent illnesses from contaminated food and water by practicing safe food and water habits.

Key Precautions:

• Food Safety: Follow the “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!” rule.
• Water Safety: Drink bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice unless you know it’s made from safe water.
• Recreational Water: Avoid getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in fresh water. Avoid swallowing water in pools or hot tubs.

eat and drink safely abroad

Typhoid

• Risk: Typhoid is a bacterial infection from contaminated food and water. Risk is higher in rural areas and for longer trips.
• Vaccination: Consider typhoid vaccination, especially if traveling to rural areas or for extended periods.

Typhoid

Insect Bite Prevention

Protect yourself from insect-borne diseases.

Preventive Measures:

• Insect Repellent: Use insect repellent on exposed skin.
• Protective Clothing: Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
• Minimize Exposure: Reduce time spent outdoors during peak insect activity times.
• Mosquito Nets: Use mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors or in non-enclosed accommodations.

insect bite prevention

Chikungunya

• Risk: Chikungunya risk exists in Japan, varying by season, year, region, and elevation.
• Transmission: Spread through mosquito bites.
• Prevention: Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Insect bite and pest prevention
Chikungunya

Dengue

• Risk: Sporadic dengue risk in Japan.
• Transmission: Spread by mosquito bites, primarily during the daytime.
• Symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, potentially severe.
• Prevention: Protect yourself from mosquito bites. No vaccine available in Canada.

Dengue
Insect bite and pest prevention

Animal Precautions

Avoid contact with animals to prevent animal-to-person infections like rabies and influenza.

Safety Guidelines:

• Avoid Animal Contact: Do not touch or approach animals, including pets, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• Avoid Undercooked Wild Game: Do not eat undercooked wild animal meat.
• Supervise Children: Closely supervise children around animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Minimize the risk of person-to-person infections.

Preventive Practices:

• Stay Home if Sick: Avoid travel if you are unwell.
• Cough and Sneeze Etiquette: Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently.
• Avoid Crowds: Limit time in crowded or enclosed spaces.
• Physical Distancing: Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of illness.
• Safe Sex Practices: Practice safe sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and mpox.

cough and sneeze etiquette
washing your hands often
large-scale events
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
HIV

Medical Services and Facilities

Japan offers excellent healthcare services throughout the country.

Important Considerations:

• Language Barrier: English service may be limited, especially in rural areas.
• Cost of Care: Healthcare costs are similar to Canada.
• Payment: You may need to pay upfront or provide proof of payment before receiving treatment as a foreigner.
• Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and hospitalization coverage.

Health and safety outside Canada

Health Insurance for Foreign Workers

Canadians working in Japan must have health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay. If not provided by your employer, you must enroll in the national health insurance plan.

Essential Travel Health Kit

Prepare a travel health kit, especially if traveling outside major cities, as medical services may not be equivalent to Canadian standards in all areas.

travel health kit

Laws and Culture in Japan

Local Laws and Customs

You are subject to Japanese laws and customs during your visit. Be aware that legal procedures and cultural norms may differ significantly from those in Canada.

Legal System Notes:

• Detention Without Communication: Arrested individuals may be denied communication with anyone except their lawyer or consular representative for extended periods.
• Lengthy Detention: You can be held without charge for up to 23 days for even minor offenses and potentially longer during investigations and legal proceedings.
• Questioning Before Lawyer Access: Police may begin questioning you before you have access to legal counsel.

Drug Laws: Zero Tolerance

Japan has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, including recreational and cannabis use. Penalties for drug offenses are severe, even for possessing small amounts.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Medications: Banned and Restricted Substances

Certain medications commonly available in other countries are banned in Japan, including Adderall, amphetamines, codeine, methamphetamines, and pseudoephedrine.

Medication Regulations:

• Allowed Quantities: You can bring a one-month supply of prescription medication or a two-month supply of non-prescription medication, provided they do not contain narcotics (including codeine).
• Banned Substances: Banned substances are prohibited even with a prescription.
• Doctor’s Note: Carry a doctor’s note stating your name, address, reason for medication use, and dosage, along with your prescription.
• Import Certification: For larger medication supplies or medications containing narcotics, apply for import certification well in advance of your trip.

Bringing medicines for personal use into Japan – Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

2SLGBTQI+ Travelers

While same-sex sexual acts are not illegal in Japan, homosexuality is not widely accepted socially. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should be aware of local social norms.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual Citizenship

Japan does not legally recognize dual citizenship. If Japanese authorities consider you a Japanese citizen, they may deny you access to Canadian consular services.

Dual citizens

Family Law

Japanese family law differs significantly from Canadian law. Joint child custody after separation is not typically an option if one parent is Japanese. Access rights for non-custodial parents can be limited. Consult a Japanese family lawyer in case of custody disputes.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and Japan. If your child has been wrongfully taken to or is being held in Japan, seek legal advice immediately and contact the Central Authority in your province or territory.

Identification Requirements

You are legally required to carry your passport or residence card at all times in Japan. Photocopies are not acceptable. Failure to produce identification documents when requested by police can lead to arrest or detention.

Working in Japan

Working in Japan without a valid visa is illegal and can result in imprisonment, fines, and deportation. Contact the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country before pursuing employment offers in Japan.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Teaching English in Japan

Carefully review employment contracts for teaching English positions to ensure all terms and conditions are clearly stated and met by the employer. Incidents of employers not fulfilling contractual obligations have been reported.

More on teaching English in Japan

Tattoos and Public Establishments

Individuals with tattoos may be denied entry to some public establishments like swimming pools, hot springs (onsen), beaches, and gyms. Some establishments may request that tattoos be covered.

Driving Regulations

Traffic in Japan drives on the left side of the road.

Driving Requirements:

• International Driving Permit: You must have an International Driving Permit along with your Canadian driver’s license, or obtain a Japanese driver’s license.
• Japanese Insurance: Obtain Japanese car insurance, including compulsory basic insurance and consider voluntary insurance for broader coverage.

International Driving Permit

Drinking and Driving

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe in Japan. It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol, lend a car to someone who has been drinking, or serve alcohol to someone who will be driving. Passengers in a car with a driver under the influence can also be prosecuted.

Currency and Money

The Japanese currency is the Yen (JPY). While credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, Japan is largely a cash-based society. ATMs are widely available, but many may not accept foreign debit cards.

Alt text: Close-up of Japanese Yen currency, both banknotes and coins, illustrating the prevalence of cash transactions and financial customs in Japan.

Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations in Japan

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change is affecting Japan, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events. Monitor local news for updates on weather conditions that may impact your travel plans.

Seasonal Risks

Snowstorms and Avalanches

Western Honshu and Hokkaido experience snowstorms from December to March. Avalanches are a risk in mountainous areas, including ski resorts, potentially causing power outages, road closures, and hindering emergency response.

Typhoons

Typhoon season in Japan typically runs from June to October, with southern areas like Okinawa being particularly vulnerable. Typhoons can develop rapidly and pose significant safety risks and disrupt essential services.

Typhoon Season Travel Advice:

• Serious Safety Risks: Traveling during typhoon season carries inherent safety risks.
• Flexibility: Be prepared to alter travel plans, potentially on short notice, including trip cancellation.
• Stay Informed: Monitor regional weather forecasts closely.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep airline and tour operator emergency contact information readily accessible.
• Follow Local Advice: Heed the guidance and evacuation orders issued by local authorities.

Seismic Activity: Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Volcanoes

Japan is located in a seismically active zone and is prone to various natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and flooding.

Earthquakes and Tsunamis

Japan experiences thousands of earthquakes annually, some of significant magnitude, potentially triggering tsunamis. Tsunamis can occur rapidly after an earthquake, and the risk can persist for several hours after the initial tremor. If staying in coastal areas, familiarize yourself with local tsunami evacuation plans.

Volcanoes

Japan has numerous active volcanoes. Check for volcanic activity updates and warnings from the Japan Meteorological Agency if traveling near volcanic areas and always follow local authority instructions.

Japan Meteorological Agency

Alt text: Majestic Mount Fuji under a clear sky, representing Japan’s iconic volcanic landscape and the importance of being aware of natural disaster risks when traveling in the country.

By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, you can mitigate risks and enjoy a safer and more rewarding travel experience in Japan. Remember to consult official sources for the most current Japan travel advisory information before and during your trip.