Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.
\n\nYour travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Before you travel:
\n\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nThe Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Japan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Japanese Embassy in the UK.
\n\nIf you’re visiting Japan, your passport must be valid for the length of your stay. No additional period of validity is required. You need a blank page for your visa stamp.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nYou can get a visa on arrival in Japan for tourism or business for up to 90 days. You do not need to apply before you travel.
\n\nIf you need a multiple-entry visa, you must ask the immigration officials when you arrive.
\n\nIf you want to stay longer, you can apply at your nearest immigration office for an extension for another 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the period of the extension.
\n\nFor long-term stays or to work or study, you must meet the Japanese government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa you need. It is illegal to work in Japan without the correct visa no matter how informal or temporary the work.
\n\nIf you overstay your permission to remain in Japan, you risk arrest, detention and a heavy fine.
\n\nFor residency information, see the Japanese Immigration Services Agency website and read about living in Japan.
\n\nFor details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Japan guide.
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Japan. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nIt is illegal to bring meat products including sausages, bacon and ham to Japan without permission from the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service. Penalties include a heavy fine and prison sentence.
\n\nWhale meat is available in Japan but importing it into the UK and EU is illegal. If you import whale meat to the UK, you can get a fine of up to £5,000 and a prison sentence. Customs officers will seize the meat.
\n\nJapan is still a predominantly cash-based society. You may have difficulty using credit and debit cards issued outside Japan. Cirrus, Maestro, Link and Delta cash cards are not widely accepted. Japanese post offices, 7-Eleven stores and JP Post Bank have cash machines that will accept some foreign cards during business hours.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"This guide also has safety advice for regions of Japan.
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nAlthough there’s no recent history of terrorism in Japan, attacks cannot be ruled out.
\n\nCivil disturbance and violent demonstrations are rare in Japan. Occasionally, there are pro-nationalist demonstrations that express hostility towards foreign countries. If you become aware of protests, leave the area immediately.
\n\nThe level of tension and security situation in the Korean Peninsula can change with little notice. Tensions can rise after missile tests by North Korea and during the regular South Korea-US military exercises, which take place throughout the year.
\n\nNorth Korea frequently launches missiles towards Japan as part of missile testing, and is likely to continue doing so.
\n\nYou should follow the advice of local authorities and check NHK World for the latest information. See advice on missile alerts from the Japanese government.
\n\nSee also travel advice for South Korea.
\n\nTake the same precautions you would at home and get local advice on areas where you might need to be more alert.
\n\nTokyo’s entertainment districts carry a higher risk of crime, particularly at night in and around clubs and bars. Foreign nationals have been targeted for extortion, robbery, assault and sexual assault.
\n\nBe aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings in sight when travelling. Place valuables in a secure place such as a hotel safe when you can.
\n\nRape and sexual assault are rare but can happen. Japanese law puts a high burden of proof on victims to demonstrate sexual relations were not consensual and committed through assault, intimidation or force.
\n\nFemale passengers travelling on commuter trains have experienced inappropriate behaviour. This includes touching and upskirting – taking photos or videos from below when women walk or stand nearby. Police advise you should shout at the perpetrator to attract attention and ask a fellow passenger to call train or station staff.
\n\nThere are increased reports of drink spiking and credit card fraud. Victims have described waking up with no memory of what happened and discovering large amounts of money billed to their credit card. The amount of money taken ranges from hundreds to tens of thousands of pounds. Risks are higher in all entertainment and nightlife districts across Japan. In particular, the Japanese police have identified the following areas in Tokyo as high-risk zones:
\n\nMost British victims have reported being targeted in Kabukicho, a popular tourist destination in Shinjuku. Victims claim to be approached in English by street touts known as “kyakuhiki”. Do not follow street touts into bars.
\n\nYou can reduce the risk and impact of spiking by:
\n\nFor more information on drink spiking, and how to reduce the risk, please visit our travel aware website here.
\n\nJapan has strict laws around drug use. If the police find an illegal substance in your bloodstream, you may be charged, regardless of whether you consented or were aware of taking the drugs. If you refuse to take a test if asked to by the police, you could be arrested and detained for ‘obstructing police duties’.
\n\nIf you take blood tests at medical institutions, they are usually obliged to report to the police if they detect any illegal substances.
\n\nBritish nationals have been arrested at clubs and bars following disputes with staff and doorpersons over excessive bar bills. These disputes are often seen in the high risk areas outlined above. Ensure you see a menu with prices before you enter a bar or restaurant. Keep track of what you order and confirm the price of admission to clubs on entry.
\n\nProstitution and street touts are illegal but commonplace, especially in the high risk areas outlined above. Do not accompany street touts to bars or clubs. Street touts often encourage people to enter an establishment by misrepresenting the services on offer. You may incur an entry charge so do not enter on the promise of a free drink or to have a look, as you may not be free to leave.
\n\nJapanese and UK law are very different. In Japan, you can be arrested and detained without charge for up to 23 days, even for minor offences such as theft or trespassing.
\n\nYou must always carry your passport or Japanese residence card with you. The police can arrest you if you cannot show proof of your visa or residence status.
\n\nIn general, drinking alcohol in public places is not illegal. However, there are bans on drinking alcohol in specific areas on certain days, for example New Year’s Eve.
\n\nSmoking is illegal on the streets of Tokyo and some other cities. Smoke only in designated areas.
\n\nThere is zero tolerance of drug crime and the penalties are severe. British nationals have been arrested and detained for receiving small quantities through the post or if they test positive when the police raid clubs or bars. British nationals convicted of drug trafficking have received sentences ranging from 6 to 17 years and fines of 3 to 4 million yen. Prisoners in Japan are assigned labour or factory work as part of their sentences.
\n\nSame-sex sexual activity is not illegal, but Japanese law does not protect against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Same-sex marriages are not recognised, but some local authorities issue certificates of recognition that can be used for civil issues, such as hospital visitation rights.
\n\nShinjuku Nichome in Tokyo and Doyamacho in Osaka are well-known LGBT+ areas.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIt is illegal to possess or use some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines under Japan’s strictly enforced law on anti-stimulant drugs. Ignorance of the law does not count as a defence. See Health.
\n\nJapanese family law is different from UK law. Parents may choose joint custody of a child after divorce, or they may choose for one parent to hold sole custody. Access to a child of the non-custodial parent can be difficult. Legal custody disputes can be lengthy and expensive, and rulings to return or secure access to a child may take time to be enforced. See child abduction, custody and parental rights in Japan.
\n\nMost Japanese people are welcoming and friendly, but can be reserved. Loud, boisterous behaviour may receive negative attention. Showing affection in public is less common than in the UK.
\n\nTattoos have a historical association with organised crime in Japan. While acceptance is increasing, some public facilities do not admit people with tattoos – for example, public swimming pools, hot springs, beaches and some gyms. Other establishments request you cover tattoos while using the facilities.
\n\nBear sightings and attacks have increased in parts of Japan, especially in mountainous and forested areas, including near populated zones.
\n\nFollow local advice and alerts, and take precautions if travelling in these areas.
\n\nYou should
\n\nIf you’re planning to drive in Japan, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the Japan Automobile Federation driving guide.
\n\nYou’ll need the 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) plus your UK driving licence and insurance documents with you in the car. You could be arrested and fined for driving without the correct documents.
\n\nYou cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. You can use an IDP for one year, regardless of its expiry date. See information on driving and the IDP from the Tokyo police.
\n\nIf you plan to stay longer than one year, see how to apply for a Japanese driving licence.
\n\nHire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a minimum age.
\n\nThere are 2 types of driving insurance available in Japan: compulsory insurance (‘jibaisekihoken’) and voluntary insurance (‘nin’i no jidoshahoken’). The compulsory insurance on its own may be insufficient in cases of personal liability.
\n\nDrink-driving is a serious offence in Japan, and the legal limit of alcohol in your system is about a third of the UK limit. If you are found to be over the limit, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment. There are also penalties for allowing someone to drink and drive. The passenger could face arrest if the police suspect they were aware of the driver’s alcohol consumption.
\n\nRoads are well maintained, and driving is on the left. Watch out for:
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to natural disasters in Japan. The Japan National Tourism Organisation operates a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Japan Visitor Hotline for emergency English-language assistance during natural disasters: +81(5)0 3816 2787.
\n\nJapanese summers are extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35 degrees in July and August. High humidity often makes it feel much hotter. As a result, heat stroke and heat-related illnesses pose a significant risk during the summer months.
\n\nThe Japanese Environmental Agency publishes a heat stroke index, that identifies areas have a heat stroke alert currently in effect. The website also provides information about heat stroke, its symptoms, and practical advice on how to prevent heat-related illnesses.
\n\nIn Japan the tropical cyclone (typhoon) season is between June and December, peaking between July and September. The highest risk is in southern parts of the country. Monitor any approaching storms using Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts. Follow the advice of the local authorities and emergency services, including any evacuation orders.
\n\nTropical cyclones in Japan often come with damaging high tides, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding. The dangers increase when an earthquake occurs shortly after a tropical cyclone has saturated an area.
\n\nSee weather safety tips from the Japan National Tourism Agency.
\n\nPeriods of heavy rainfall are common in Japan, particularly during the rainy season and typhoon season. Intense rain can lead to flooding, landslides, and significant disruption to transport and infrastructure. Conditions can worsen rapidly and with little warning, especially in low-lying, coastal, and mountainous areas.
\n\nThe Japan Meteorological Agency publishes weather warnings and emergency alerts that identify areas currently at risk from heavy rain, flooding, and landslides. The website also provides information on severe weather hazards, evacuation guidance, and practical advice on how to stay safe during periods of heavy rainfall.
\n\nJapan is in a major earthquake zone. The Japan Meteorological Agency provides a list of helpful apps and websites in the event of disaster . See further earthquake safety tips from the Japan National Tourism Agency.
\n\nMonitor earthquake information, including tsunami and aftershock warnings, from the Japan Meteorological Agency. See further news on earthquakes at NHK World.
\n\nTake note of instructions in hotel rooms and at train stations and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nThere are several active volcanoes in Japan. Monitor local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Check for volcano warnings from the Japanese Meteorological Agency. See volcano safety tips from the Japan National Tourism Agency.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"This section has safety advice for regions of Japan. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
\n\nYou should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
\n\nThere is a restricted area around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant where only authorised persons can enter. Areas where evacuation orders are ready to be lifted are still subject to some restrictions – for example, visitors are not allowed to stay overnight. Follow local guidance.
\n\nThe Japanese authorities carry out comprehensive checks to monitor radiation in the area around Fukushima Daiichi and to monitor possible contamination of water and food and produce. They impose strict controls where necessary.
\n\nAlthough the decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi site and full clean-up of the surrounding area will take many years, the risks are gradually declining.
\n\n","slug":"regional-risks","title":"Regional risks"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nDial 119 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Japan including:
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of Japan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nIt is illegal to carry some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines under Japan’s strictly enforced law on anti-stimulant drugs. This includes:
\n\nForeign nationals have been detained and deported for these offences. If you’re travelling with medication, check its status with the Japanese Embassy in the UK.
\n\nMedical facilities in Japan are of a high quality, but treatment is expensive. Expect to pay the whole cost of any treatment you receive.
\n\nMedical facilities may check your insurance, which could delay your treatment.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Japan where some staff will speak English.
\n\nThere is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Japan.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nAmbulance: 119
\n\nFire: 119
\n\nPolice: 110
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Japan on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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