Is Japan Safe to Visit? Essential Safety Tips for Travelers

Japan consistently ranks as one of the world’s safest countries. With a low crime rate in Japan and a population that highly values order and respect, most tourists enjoy trouble-free travel.

However, it’s still wise to exercise caution and be aware of potential safety concerns. Here’s what you need to know for a secure and enjoyable trip.

Table of Content

Crime Safety Index
General Safety Tips for Travelers in Japan
Common Scams in Japan
Women’s Safety in Japan
Emergency Numbers in Japan
How to Stay Safe in Japan as a Tourist?
Areas to Avoid in Japan
Nightlife Safety in Japan
Health and Hygiene Standards in Japan
Why Choose OneVasco?
FAQs

Crime Safety Index

Japan has a low crime rate compared to other countries. The crime rate is very low as per the reports.

According to the Crime Index Stats by Numbeo, Japan scored really well in comparison to other cities on the list.

Crime Index Score	Safety Scale Rating
22.85	77.15

In contrast, London has a crime index score of 48.36 highlighting that Japan is one of the safest countries to visit for tourists.

General Safety Tips for Travelers in Japan

While crime against tourists is rare, it’s always smart to take precautions. These general safety tips for travelers in Japan can help you avoid common pitfalls:

Respect Local Customs

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees.
Avoid photographing people without permission. It’s considered rude.
Be mindful when discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion.
Public displays of affection are uncommon. Avoid excessive PDA.

Protect Your Belongings

Keep your passport, cash, and credit cards secure in a money belt or hotel safe.
Be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas like train stations and markets.
If someone bumps into you, check your pockets immediately.

Traffic and Pedestrian Safety

Cars drive on the left in Japan. Look right, then left before crossing streets.
Obey traffic signals. Jaywalking is heavily frowned upon.
Sidewalks are often narrow or nonexistent in cities. Stay alert.
You need a valid driver’s license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Japan.
The minimum age to rent a car in Japan is 18 years old.
Speed limits vary depending on the road type. Urban areas typically have lower limits (often 30-40 km/h), while highways may have higher limits.
Japan has a strict zero-tolerance policy for alcohol while driving. Even trace amounts can result in severe penalties.

From majestic mountains to peaceful gardens, Japan is a haven for nature lovers

Prepare for Natural Disasters

Japan is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.
Download the Safety Tips app from the Japan National Tourism Organization for alerts and guidance.

Common Scams in Japan

Scams targeting tourists are rare in Japan, but it’s still good to be aware of potential risks. Some common scams in Japan include:

Overcharging

Some bars and clubs in red-light districts vastly overcharge foreigners, especially for drinks. Check prices before ordering.
Double-check your bill at restaurants and bars. Mistakes can happen.

Fake Monks

In busy tourist spots, you may be approached by “monks” asking for donations. Real monks don’t solicit money on the street.

Street Touts

In nightlife districts, touts may try to lure you into bars or clubs with promises of discounts. Ignore them.
Never follow a tout to a second location. You could be pressured into paying exorbitant bills.

If you suspect you’ve been scammed, report it to the police or the Japan National Tourism Organization’s Tourist Information Center.

Women’s Safety in Japan

Japan is generally very safe for female travelers, with low rates of sexual harassment and assault. However, groping on crowded trains is an ongoing problem.

To mitigate this, most major cities have women-only carriages during rush hour, usually recognizable by pink signs on the platform. A few tips for women’s safety in Japan:

Avoid the first and last train carriages late at night, as they tend to have fewer passengers.
If you feel unsafe, don’t be afraid to speak up or ask someone for help. Locals are usually very willing to assist.
Consider carrying a personal safety alarm for extra peace of mind.

Emergency Numbers in Japan

In an emergency, knowing who to call is crucial. Here are the key emergency numbers in Japan:

Police: 110
Ambulance/Fire: 119
Japan Helpline (24-hour assistance in English): 0570-000-911

If you need to report a crime, visit the nearest police station (koban). Most police stations have someone available who speaks basic English.

How to Stay Safe in Japan as a Tourist?

By following a few simple precautions, you can minimize your risk of encountering problems. Here are some key tips on how to stay safe in Japan as a tourist:

Secure Your Valuables

Use the hotel safe for passports, extra cash, and electronics.
Carry only what you need for the day. Leave unnecessary credit cards or IDs in the safe.
Invest in a slash-proof backpack or purse for added security.

Stay Connected

Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device or buy a local SIM card to ensure you always have internet access.
Download offline maps of the areas you plan to visit.
Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Study maps in advance so you’re not walking around looking lost.
If an area feels sketchy, trust your instincts and leave.
Avoid flashing expensive items like cameras or jewelry.

Learn Key Phrases

Memorize how to say “help” (tasukete) and “I don’t understand” (wakarimasen).
Keep your hotel’s address written in Japanese characters to show taxi drivers.

Japan’s beauty is a gentle reminder that nature is the greatest artist.

Areas to Avoid in Japan

While Japan is safe overall, a few areas have higher rates of crime. It’s best to exercise extra caution in these places, especially at night:

Kabukicho, Tokyo – Known for hostess bars, drinking, and adult entertainment.
Roppongi, Tokyo – Nightlife district popular with foreigners. Higher risk of drink spiking.
Shinsekai, Osaka – Has a reputation for yakuza (Japanese mafia) activity.
Kamagasaki, Osaka – Japan’s largest slum. Poverty and homelessness are common here.

Stick to well-lit main roads, avoid getting intoxicated, and leave if you feel uncomfortable.

Nightlife Safety in Japan

Nightlife in Japan is lively and generally safe, but it’s important to stay aware. Here are some key nightlife safety in Japan tips:

Stick with your friends. Don’t leave the group alone with someone you just met.
Be cautious of drinks from strangers. Date rape drugs are rare but not unheard of.
Some bars and clubs have cover charges. Check prices before entering to avoid surprises.
In hostess bars, conversation and flirting are the norm, but touching is off-limits. Respect boundaries.
Japan has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs. Avoid anyone who offers you illegal substances.

Health and Hygiene Standards in Japan

Japan is renowned for its cleanliness and high standards of health and hygiene in Japan. The tap water is safe to drink, and restaurants are generally very hygienic. However, there are a few health considerations to keep in mind:

Some medications that are over-the-counter in other countries may require a prescription in Japan. Bring sufficient supplies for your trip.
If you have tattoos, you may be barred from entering public baths (onsen) and swimming pools. Check policies in advance.
In summer, protect yourself from heat exhaustion by staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities during peak temperatures.

From vibrant karaoke bars to stylish rooftop lounges, Japan’s nightlife is an adventure waiting to happen.