Generally, Japan is very safe place to visit. Below, we've detailed everything you need to know about safety in Japan, from the coronavirus to why it's a great destination for solo travelers.
Japan has lifted its COVID-19 restrictions and is now safe for travel!
Here's the latest:
As of October 11, 2022 both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers are permitted to travel to Japan for tourism.
Entry requirements:
Read on for more about staying safe in Japan.
According to the 2019 Global Peace Index, Japan is the 9th most peaceful country in the world. (The report makes its determination based on factors like crime rate, poverty, conflict, and incarceration, among others.)
As such, Japan is ahead of countries like Switzerland, Ireland, and Finland!
On the whole, the Japanese people are kind, courteous, and respectful, making Japan a must-go for female travelers.
Plus, locals tell us that some hotels even offer women-only accommodations for an extra sense of security, and many trains have women-only cars.
Since the #MeToo movement made its way to Japan, cabinet ministers have called for laws to make acts that were once frowned upon—such as groping or harassing—criminal and illegal.
There are pickpockets all over the world, but locals say that even in big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, there just aren’t very many.
The same goes for violence—crime is basically nonexistent in Japan. Basically, you can go anywhere in Japan without fear.
Since a 2011 tsunami destroyed the Fukushima nuclear power station, Japan has entirely contained the contaminated area and has removed the radioactive debris with record speed.
So whether you’re traveling all over Japan or just staying in Tokyo, you’re totally fine!
While there’s always a risk of earthquakes in Japan, it’s no larger than the risk in San Francisco. Additionally, locals tell us that Japan takes natural disaster preparation very seriously. Our trip planners gave us these earthquake tips:
If this is a concern, you can always get a local perspective. Locals can answer any questions you have about natural disasters in Japan.
While some people claim Tokyo is polluted, that’s simply not true. Tokyo is right on track with an average Air Quality Index, or AQI, of 43.18. LA, on the other hand, suffers from a dangerously high AQI of 60.51—almost a full third higher.
Be prepared! Locals say these are good numbers to know:
No matter where you visit in Japan, you'll find tons of must-do activities. And you don't want to worry too much about safety while enjoying all that Japan has to offer!
Travel may be unsafe at the moment, but you can still start planning for future adventures. Work with a local to build your dream trip. Get started today.
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