Japan Travel Insurance

For the latest information related to COVID-19 travel requirements for Japan, please visit the official U.S. Embassy site.

Japan is generally rated among one of the safest countries in the world. Crime against foreigners is typically low, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas and nightlife districts. Scams are also a concern, and travelers should be cautious when interacting with strangers and if using credit cards.

If you have never traveled in Japan, it’s a good idea to plan your transportation in advance. Public transportation in Japan is reliable and relatively safe. However, women who are traveling solo may face harassment on crowded train cars. Also, travelers are required to carry their passport at all times, so be sure to keep it in a secure location and keep a photocopy in your hotel safe and with a trusted contact at home.

Japan is also prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons. It is important to keep track of local developments and follow all instructions issued by local authorities. You can also sign up for alerts from the Japan Meteorological Agency for updates on natural disasters.

Visit the U.S. Department of State website for up-to-date information on travel advisory levels and safety information for travelers to Japan.

All U.S. travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service offered to U.S. citizens traveling and living abroad. Enrolling in this program allows you to receive important information from the embassy and helps the embassy contact you in an emergency.

The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen. It is typically best practice to exchange currency before your trip at a bank or credit union for the best rates. However, if needed you’ll easily find ATMs throughout Japan you can use to get Japanese Yen. Cash is typically the most popular method of payment and at smaller businesses may be the only option.

The most widely used language in Japan is Japanese, which has many different dialects. The Tokyo dialect tends to be considered the standard dialect. A vast majority of the population only speaks Japanese, so don’t count on running into English speakers. Learn key phrases before your travels and download a translation app that can work without Wi-Fi so that you’re prepared.

Visas are not required for travelers with U.S. citizenship traveling to Japan as long as your stay is under 90 days. You will need a passport valid for the duration of your stay.

The U.S. Embassy in Japan is in Tokyo. Visit the official embassy government website for a list of up-to-date phone numbers and addresses.

Japan is made up of many islands, which means there is a range of climates across the country. The southern areas of Japan like Okinawa and Amami have subtropical climates with hot and humid summers. The northernmost main island of Japan, Hokkaido, experiences cold winters with heavy snow, especially on the side that borders the Sea of Japan.

Spring and fall tend to be the most popular times to visit Japan. Fewer crowds and comfortable weather create an ideal time for outdoor sightseeing. However, if you’re an avid skier (or looking to try it out) you may want to visit between January and February. It’s not as commonly known but Japan has some of the best skiing in the world – for both experts and beginners.

Japan’s international dial code is +81. When placing international calls, be sure to check with your phone company to avoid unexpected fees and charges and remember connecting to a landline is often less costly than a cell phone.

For retirees traveling to Japan, Travel Guard’s Deluxe travel insurance plan might be the perfect fit. With no boss to report to on Monday morning, retirees can take their time exploring the country. We recommend our Deluxe pan for international trips because of the higher benefit limits that come standard with the plan.