How Does Crime & Safety Work in Japan?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Japan is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists — violent crime is essentially zero.
2What You Need to Know
Japan consistently ranks among the world's safest nations. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, and solo travelers including women can walk city streets at night without significant concern. Lost wallets and phones are almost always turned in to the nearest Koban (police box) and returned intact. The primary safety concerns for tourists are natural disasters: Japan sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and volcanic activity. Download the NHK World app or Yahoo Bousai (Japan's government disaster alert app) for real-time warnings.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Download the NHK World app or Yahoo Bousai app for earthquake and tsunami alerts in English
- 2Learn the J-Alert signal — a distinctive alarm broadcast on phones and public speakers during emergencies
- 3In the event of an earthquake, drop, cover, and hold on — follow instructions from hotel staff immediately after
Important Warning
Natural disasters pose a genuine risk in Japan. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes at your accommodation and keep travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation.
How does this compare?
Crime & Safety rules in nearby and similar countries:
Thailand is generally safe for tourists, with petty theft and motorbike bag snatching the most common risks — violent crime against tourists is rare.
Singapore is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the world — violent crime against tourists is essentially nonexistent.
India is generally safe for tourists at major sites but women should exercise significant caution, especially at night, and petty theft is common in crowded areas.
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More About Japan
Do not tip in Japan. Tipping is considered rude and may cause embarrassment.
Updated 2025-01
Buy a Suica or Pasmo IC card at any major station. It works on all trains, subways, and most buses nationwide.
Updated 2025-01
Japan has excellent hospitals but they are expensive for uninsured tourists. Always bring travel insurance. Many hospitals do not speak English.
Updated 2025-01
Japan has strict drug laws, zero tolerance for drunk driving, and laws against jaywalking in some areas. Ignorance is not a defense.
Updated 2025-01
Police: 110. Ambulance & Fire: 119. Tourist helpline (English): 050-3816-2787.
Updated 2025-01
Japan is generally relaxed about clothing, but remove shoes when entering homes and many temples. Dress modestly at religious sites.
Updated 2025-01
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