Japan Travel Safety

Road safety

Travel by road is generally safe, but roads may be narrow and are occasionally shared by cars, cyclists and pedestrians.

Identification

You must carry your passport or residency (zairyu) card at all times. Police officers in Japan have the authority to ask for your identification documents at any time. Failure to comply could lead to detention or arrest.

Taxis

If you travel by taxi, have your destination written in Japanese as drivers may not understand English.

Public transportation

Travel by subway and train systems is quick and convenient. Signs are usually in Japanese but signage in English is becoming more common, especially in larger cities and at tourist destinations.

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. In addition, don't flash money or valuables in public. Doing so may make you a potential victim of criminal activity.

Fraud

There have been incidents of fraud, including overcharging at bars and clubs. Disputes over overcharging have led to incidents of violence. If possible, avoid carrying credit cards when frequenting nightclubs in any entertainment district as people paying with credit cards are often targeted.

Crime

While crime against foreigners is generally low, you should always exercise normal security precautions. Be particularly cautious in all entertainment and nightlife districts throughout Japan. If you are victim of a crime, file a police report at the station closest to where the crime occurred.

Spiked food and drinks

Drink spiking, where drugs or very strong alcohol, causing loss of consciousness, are mixed into the drinks of unsuspecting patrons by staff or other customers, occurs at bars and nightclubs. The motive of drink spiking is typically to defraud, overcharge, rob or assault, primarily male victims. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers.

LGBT

Homosexuality is not illegal. Although currently there are no provisions in Japanese legislation guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. While same-sex marriages are not recognised in Japan, some areas of the country have begun issuing equivalent certificates that can be used in civil issues, such as hospital visitation rights. Nichome in Tokyo and Doyamacho in Osaka are the most well-known LGBT areas. The Tokyo Rainbow Pride parade has been held without incident since 2012. In 2019, 10,000 people joined the parade and over 200,000 people took part in the two-day event.

Illegal or restricted activities

Penalties for criminal activities, particularly for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. If you are detained, even for a minor offence, you may be held without charge for up to 23 days. Police officers may begin their initial questioning before you see a lawyer. You could also be in detention for weeks or months during the investigation and legal proceedings.

Driving

Traffic drives on the left. To drive in Japan, you need an International Driving Permit or a Japanese driver's licence. You must also obtain Japanese insurance. There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. Penalties are strict and can include lengthy jail sentences.