Asia and Oceania

There are few major differences between the laws and customs of Japan and the UK of relevance to most visitors to Japan. In regard to sexual conduct in private between consenting adults, Japan is a tolerant society. However, you should be sensitive to the different culture and people around you and not engage in behaviour, which may cause offence. 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.

 

Japanese family law is very different from UK law and particular caution is needed when, for example, child custody becomes an issue. Also see child abduction.

 

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’s registration card, which must be carried at all times.

 

Detention for minor offences can be longer than in the UK, and prison regimes in Japan are very strict. 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. There have been a number of cases of small quantities of cannabis being sent through the mail to Britons living in Japan, which have resulted in the arrest and detention of the recipients. Japanese Police have been known to require customers of bars to give samples for drug trace testing. Tests proving positive lead to arrest and prosecution, even if the drug was taken before arrival in Japan.

 

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.

 

The use or possession of Vicks inhalers and some other common prescription and over-the-counter medicines (e.g. for allergies and sinus problems) 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 doubt, check with the nearest Japanese Embassy before visiting Japan.

 

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.

 

In general, penalties for most offences are more severe than in the UK. If you are arrested in Japan, even for a minor offence, expect as much as 23 days police detention while your case is investigated. Bail is seldom granted to foreigners. Police interviews can last many hours 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. Police interviews are not recorded. If you are indicted, you can expect up to six months 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.

Japan has signed the Council of Europe Convention of the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. Transfers to prisons in the UK take several months to arrange.
 

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