Asia and Oceania

• Travel Summary
• Safety and security
• Local laws and customs
• Entry requirements

• Health
• Natural disasters
• General
 

• Typhoon season runs from June to December. The Japan Meteorological Agency provides information and forecasts (in English) about approaching storms. See Natural Disasters – Typhoons for further information.
  
  
• We advise against all but essential travel to those areas in north-east Japan most affected by the 11 March earthquake and tsunami. This includes those coastal areas of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures which suffered extensive damage. These areas continue to experience disruptions to residential, business and transport infrastructure. There is also a continuing risk of aftershocks. If your travel is essential, you should consult local contacts before travelling.
  
  
• We advise against all travel within a 20km radius of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, and the additional exclusion zones outside this 20km radius identified by the Japanese authorities as shown on this map. This advice is based on guidance from UK Government scientists. For areas outside those subject to restrictions, out to 60 km from the facility, we advise that you exercise a high degree of caution at all times by consulting relevant information on the local situation and by following the advice of the Japanese authorities.
  
  
• The situation in Japan outside of these specific areas has largely returned to normal and most visits are trouble free. 184,045 British nationals visited Japan in 2010. See General – Consular Assistance Statistics.
  
  
• There may however still be some further disruptions to transport, power, communications and water and food supplies. For up to date transport news, please refer to JR East's English site. For information about possible power cuts during the summer months, please check the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) website.
  
  
• There is a continuous risk of earthquakes and tsunamis throughout Japan.  Latest warnings and advisories are published on the Japan Meteorological Agency website.
  
  
• British nationals should observe the advice being given by the Japanese authorities  on the nuclear situation. The 20km zone around the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant has been designated a restricted area. Anyone entering this area illegally is liable to a fine of up to 100,000 yen (approx £735) or detention. Outside the 20km zone, specific areas have been designated deliberate evacuation areas. These areas are shown on this map prepared by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, with the Planned Evacuation Zone marked in pink and the Emergency Evacuation Preparation Zone marked in yellow. On 30 September, the Japanese authorities lifted the evacuation orders in the Emergency Evacuation Preparation Zone. 
  
  

• The Japanese authorities are carrying out comprehensive checks to monitor radiation in the environment surrounding Fukushima and to monitor possible contamination of water, food and produce. They are imposing strict controls where necessary.
  
  

• Although the situation at Fukushima will remain of concern for some time, the risks are gradually declining as facilities to stabilise the reactors are established. The Japanese authorities continue to provide regular updates on developments at Fukushima.
  
  
• For further information see our additional guidance.
  
  
• You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General – Insurance.
  
  
• There is a low threat from terrorism, but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

Safety and Security - Terrorism
There is a low threat from terrorism, but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

See our terrorism abroad page.

Safety and Security - Crime
Japan is generally trouble-free and has relatively low levels of common crime such as theft, mugging, burglary etc. It is generally safe to walk about at night and to travel on public transport. Nevertheless, you should maintain the same level of vigilance as you would at home, and take sensible precautions. This is particularly the case if visiting bars and restaurants in the Roppongi entertainment district of Tokyo, which is considered a higher risk area for crime. There have been instances of British citizens arrested following disputes with bar staff and doormen, which can lead to up to 23 days in police detention while the case is investigated (see the Local Laws and Customs section of this Travel Advice). There have also been reports of drink spiking with drugs such as Rohypnol. Victims have described loss of consciousness for several hours, during which time large charges are reported to have been fraudulently billed to their credit card. 

See victims of crime abroad page.

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Road Travel
To drive in Japan, you must hold an International Driving Licence (IDL) and a current British licence as well as insurance. The IDL is only valid for use in Japan for one year regardless of its date of expiry. Check the Metropolitan Police Department website for further details to be sure that you meet and comply with the necessary requirements. Penalties for driving in Japan without a legal licence are severe.

If you intend to stay in Japan for longer than one year, you should apply for a Japanese driving licence. To do this you will need to prove that you were living in the UK for at least three months after receiving your British licence. You will need both parts of the UK licence when applying (photocard and counterpart paper). For more information and details of offices where you can apply for a Japanese licence, please refer to the Japanese Automobile Federation website. There are two types of driving insurance available in Japan:

(a) Compulsory insurance (jibaisekihoken) which may be insufficient in cases of personal liability.

(b) Voluntary insurance (nin’i no jidoshahoken). We recommend that you buy this in addition to the compulsory insurance. It is compulsory to carry your driving licence with you at all times.

Roads in Japan are well maintained. Traffic travels on the left-hand side of the road, as in the UK. Road rules are, for the most part, the same as in the UK but drivers should pay particular attention to: pedestrians crossing roads at green lights, especially at junctions; cyclists travelling on the pavements, or on the wrong side of the road and without lights at night; and taxi drivers stopping suddenly. Many road signs are written in English and Japanese in urban areas but this is less common in rural areas. In 2010 there were 5,745 road deaths in Japan. This equates to 4.5 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 3.1 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2010 (source: DfT).

See our driving abroad page. 

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Rail Travel
The Japanese national rail network is generally efficient, reliable, safe and affordable (though bullet trains are considerably more expensive than ordinary trains).

Safety and Security - Local Travel - Air Travel
The revised aviation security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 were also implemented in Japan in March 2007. For more details see the Directgov page on Air Travel.

Safety and Security - Political Situation
Japan country profile

Japan is a stable democracy. Civil disturbances and violent demonstrations are rare.

There are relatively few major differences between the laws and customs of Japan and the UK of relevance to most visitors. Nevertheless, differences do exist and you should remember that, while you are in Japan, you are subject to local laws. You should not assume that these laws, and the way they are applied, will be the same as in the UK.

If you are detained on suspicion of breaking the law in Japan, you will be subject to investigation regardless of your nationality. Penalties for most offences tend to be more severe than in the UK. Detention, including for minor offences, is generally longer than in the UK and prison regimes in Japan are very strict.

If you do encounter problems, we will do what we can to help you. However, this does not extend to getting you out of prison, providing legal advice, starting legal proceedings or investigating a crime. For further information about how we can and cannot help, see our Help for British Nationals pages.

Local Laws and Customs - General
Most Japanese people are very friendly and welcoming but can be reserved. Loud, boisterous behaviour is not as acceptable as it is in the UK.

In regard to sexual conduct in private, Japan is a tolerant society. However, public displays of affection are less common than in the UK.

Drinks and meals are paid for at the end of your visit to a Japanese bar. Tipping is not necessary. Be aware that, in some cases, prices can be high. Disputes over bills can lead to the customer’s arrest.

Local Laws and Customs - Carrying Identification
British nationals visiting Japan for up to three months must carry their passports at all times. If you have permission to stay longer in Japan, you must register with the ward office or city office of the district in which you reside. You will then receive an alien registration card, which must be carried at all times.

Local Laws and Customs - Family Law
Japanese family law is very different from UK law and particular caution is needed when, for example, child custody becomes an issue. Also see our child abduction page.

Local Laws and Customs - Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medicines
The use or possession of Vicks inhalers and some other common prescription and over-the-counter medicines (e.g. for allergies and sinus problems or even certain mild painkillers, such as those containing codeine) are banned under Japan’s strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. Customs officials may not be sympathetic if you claim ignorance about these medicines. If in any doubt about customs procedures for such items, you should check with the nearest Japanese Embassy before visiting Japan.

Local Laws and Customs - Drugs
Japan has a zero tolerance policy towards drug crime and there are severe penalties for drug offences, however minor. Detection facilities at airports and post offices are effective. Each year, a number of British nationals are arrested and convicted on drug smuggling charges - Japan is in the top ten in terms of the number of British nationals serving sentences overseas for drug related crimes. British nationals have also been arrested and detained for receiving small quantities of cannabis through the mail, and for returning positive results in tests carried out by Japanese Police on customers in bars - even if the drug was taken before arrival in Japan.

Local Laws and Customs - Drink Driving
There are severe penalties to deter drink driving, including allowing someone else to drink and drive (for example if you are a passenger in a vehicle being driven by a drunk driver). Offences can attract a heavy fine or imprisonment.

Local Laws and Customs - Detention
If you are arrested in Japan, even for a minor offence, expect as much as 23 days in police detention while your case is investigated. Bail is seldom granted. Police interviews can last many hours, will not be recorded and you will not have access to a lawyer while under questioning. You are advised not to sign any document you cannot understand, since it is very hard to amend once signed. If you are indicted, you can expect up to six months or longer on remand awaiting trial. Time spent in detention while on remand or making an appeal does not automatically count in full towards completion of the sentence.

For more general information for different types of travellers see our your trip page.

Entry Requirements - Visas
You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket. British nationals wishing to visit Japan for three months or less for business, tourism or family purposes etc (but not to work for a local employer) may do so without a visa.

If you wish to visit Japan for other purposes (e.g. long-term stay, study, settlement, employment), you should approach a Japanese Embassy or Consulate for advice before travelling, as visas are not issued after arrival in Japan. It is illegal to work in Japan without the correct visa, however informal or temporary the work. Do not overstay your permission to be in the country. Failure to leave, or to renew your residence permit, leaves you open to arrest, detention and heavy fines. There is now a zero tolerance policy, even in cases of genuine oversight. Full details of entry requirements can be found on the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa website.

Entry Requirements - Passport Validity
You must hold a valid passport to enter Japan. Your passport must be valid for the proposed duration of your stay and acceptable to the immigrations authorities. No additional period of validity beyond this is required. However, it is always sensible to have a short period of extra validity on your passport in case of any unforeseen delays to your departure. You do not have to wait until your old passport expires to apply to renew it. Any time left on your old passport when you apply will be added to your new passport, up to a maximum of nine months. For passport applications in the UK, you should apply to the Identity and Passport Service.

Entry Requirements - Entry Procedures
Since November 2007, in accordance with a partial amendment to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, all foreign visitors entering Japan must be fingerprinted and digitally photographed during entry procedures. Those refusing to be fingerprinted or photographed will be denied entry to Japan. Persons under the age of 16 years are exempt.

The Japanese Government has produced a video in English that explains in full the new immigration procedures.

Entry Requirements - Travelling with Children
Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries, including Japan, may ask to see documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing the children to enter or leave the country.

Medical facilities are good, but the cost of treatment is high. Hospitals and clinics are well equipped and staff highly trained. There are very few British doctors practising in Japan, but some Japanese doctors will have had experience abroad and may speak English. You are expected to pay the whole cost of any treatment you receive.

See the Local Laws and Customs section of this Travel Advice for information on Japanese law covering prescription and over the counter medicines.

In the 2010 Report on the global AIDS epidemic the UNAIDS/WHO Working Group estimated that around 8,100 adults aged 15 or over in Japan were living with HIV; the prevalence percentage was estimated at less than 0.1% of the adult population compared to the prevalence percentage in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. See our HIV and AIDS page.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to Japan and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Heath Network and Centre NaTHNaC and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. 

See our travel health page.

Natural Disasters - Earthquakes  and Tsunamis
As Japan is in a major earthquake zone you should familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake or tsunami, and take note of instructions e.g. in hotel rooms. Latest tsunami warnings and advisories are published on the Japan Meteorological Agency website. To enable the Embassy or Consulate-General to help British visitors and respond to enquiries from relatives after an earthquake or tsunami, we recommend that you register with the British consular services in Tokyo and Osaka.

Natural Disasters – Volcanoes
Japan also has several active volcanoes. You should heed advice given by the Japanese authorities about travelling in volcanic areas.

Mt Kirishima in Miyazaki/Kagoshima Prefectures, Kyushu, and Mt Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyushu, are currently at alert level 3 (do not approach the volcano), as advised by the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA). For further information please consult local media.

Natural Disasters - Typhoons
Particular care should be taken when travelling in rural areas, particularly in Wakayama and Nara prefectures where damage caused by typhoon Talas in September means heavy rain will bring an increased risk of landslides.

Travellers to Japan (particularly southern regions) should be aware that the typhoon season runs from June to December with most activity between July and September. As typhoons vary greatly in size and intensity, and can change course rapidly, we recommend travellers pay particular attention to local travel information and consult the Japan Meteorological Agency, which has information in English. You should also check with your airline or transport operator before travelling.

Typhoons are strong tropical cyclones which have intense centres of low pressure. These storms, accompanied by heavy rainfall, can cover areas of up to 500 miles in diameter and generate winds up to 180 miles an hour.

Typhoons that hit Japan are often accompanied by damaging high tides. People living in coastal areas are particularly at risk. Landslides can occur anywhere and are a serious concern during continued periods of heavy rain. The dangers increase when an earthquake occurs shortly after a typhoon has saturated an area.

Being prepared for a typhoon means keeping informed on the progress and severity of the storm, and taking some common-sense precautions to minimise the problems a typhoon may cause for you.

For more information on preparing for a Typhoon in Japan click here.

General - Insurance
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling, including insurance against medical costs, loss of belongings, theft, cancellation of your journey etc. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. Keep belongings, especially your passport, safe. Enter next of kin details into the back of your passport. See our travel insurance page. 

If things do go wrong when you are overseas then see our When Things Go Wrong page.

General – Emergency Services
In cases of emergency in Japan, for the police dial 110.  For the fire or ambulance services, dial 119.  Calls are free of charge from any phone, including pay phones.

General – Lost/Stolen Passports
If your passport is lost or stolen in Japan, you should report this to the local police (at a police station, rather than at a koban/police box) and obtain a police report. You will need to present the police report to the Consular Section at the British Embassy in Tokyo or Consulate-General in Osaka. A full validity replacement passport can be obtained by applying to our Regional Passport Processing Centre in Hong Kong. In cases of genuine emergency, the British Embassy in Tokyo may be able to issue an emergency travel document.

General - The language
Most Japanese people have studied English at school, but not all can speak it well or understand what is said to them. Some people may understand clear and simple English in written form and may be able to write a reply more easily than they can speak, but you should be prepared for situations in which English is not understood at all, e.g. by taxi drivers, restaurant staff, police, doctors. A pen and notebook and a simple phrase book may prove useful.

General - Weather conditions
You should check what sort of weather you can expect in Japan before you travel. June – September can be very hot and humid and you should take sensible precautions (e.g. drink plenty of water, limit time spent in the sun).

General - Mobile phone network
Most UK mobile phones will not work in Japan, even in roaming mode. You should check with your service provider if you wish to use your mobile phone in Japan.

General - Consular Registration
If resident in Japan or just visiting, you should register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.

General - Money
Japan is mainly a cash society. The Japanese currency is the Yen. Credit and Debit cards issued outside Japan, as well as Cirrus, Maestro, Link and Delta cash cards, are NOT widely accepted. Few banks or cash machines will provide cash drawn on such cards.  Japanese post offices do have cash machines, which will accept Visa, Delta and Cirrus cards during hours of business. Citibank and Seven-Eleven ATMs will also take certain foreign credit and debit cards. Cash machines do not operate 24 hours a day. They generally close at 21:00 hours or earlier and may not operate at the weekends. You should check with your bank before travelling and take sufficient alternative sources of money for the duration of your stay.

General - Consular Assistance Statistics
184,045 British nationals visited Japan during the period 01 January to 31 December  2010 (source: Japan National Tourism Organisation). 116 British nationals required consular assistance in Japan in the period 01 April - 31 March 2011 for the following types of incident: nine deaths, seven hospitalisations and 61 arrests, for a variety of offences.