Japan
Regional risks
This section has safety advice for regions of Japan. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
Fukushima
There are exclusion zones around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, which is designated a restricted area. These exclusion zones are kept under review and have reduced in size. 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.
The 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.
Although the decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi site and full clean-up of the surrounding area will take many years, the risks are gradually declining.
Noto
A series of earthquakes hit the Noto Peninsula on 1 January 2024, causing minor tsunami and fires in various parts of Ishikawa Prefecture. Infrastructure damage was extensive, and some transport links remain disrupted. Please exercise caution and follow local guidance if travelling to affected areas.