Guidance

One-Pager - Japan: information for victims of rape and sexual assault

Updated 19 March 2026

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1. One Pager - Japan: Guidance for Victims of Rape and Sexual Assault

This one pager aims to provide a quick overview of the main points to consider if you have been a victim of rape and sexual assault in Japan. Please make sure you read the full length information pack we have published on our website, which can be found here.

1.1 Key Principles

It’s important to remember that sexual assault is never your fault. There is lots of support available and your safety is the priority. It’s up to you what steps you decide to take. The Embassy can help.  

1.2 Points of contact

  • Emergency numbers: Police – 110, Ambulance – 119 Contact
  • British Embassy Tokyo: +81(0)3 5211 1100 (24/7)
  • Call #8891 (free) for nearest Sexual Assault Relief/Referral Centre (SARC)
  • For child victims: CAC Kanagawa offers comprehensive support

1.3 Reporting to Police in Japan

If you would like to report your case to police in Japan, it’s recommended you do so as soon as possible to preserve evidence. Police prefer reports to the nearest station, but not mandatory. There is a hotline for victims: 8103 (Japanese phone required; female officer guaranteed weekdays)

  • Risks: strict drug laws, drink spiking and credit card fraud in nightlife areas. If you suspect you have a drug in your system, you could face arrest by the Japanese police.
  • Request a police consultation number (soudan bango); full report may be hard to obtain
  • Female officer or interpreter can be requested, but availability varies.

1.4 Medical Examination

Not all hospitals have rape kits and the cost is approximately £200 (may be reimbursed if case goes to court). This includes an injury check, STI/pregnancy testing, evidence collection. Emergency contraception and HIV PEP available (must be taken within 72 hours), however costs for medication and tests often not covered by insurance. It’s recommended that you keep receipts

1.5 Police Investigation – What to Expect

It’s important to understand the processes differ to those conducted by the UK Police.

  • You will have detailed interviews, possibly multiple times; may involve recreating incident with dolls. Police may keep items as evidence. You may be asked to revisit the crime scene
  • Arrest process: If police decide to make an arrest, the suspect is presented to prosecutor within 48 hours; and could be detained for up to 23 days
  • Legal and Court Process: Trials conducted in Japanese; and interpreters are needed. Victims may testify in person; video link possible in some cases. Civil trials require victim or lawyer presence at all sessions. Average duration: criminal trials 2–3 months; civil trials 6–12 months
  • Lawyers’ fees: JPY 5,000–10,000 per 30 min; some free consultations via Houterasu Victims not entitled to legal aid, but financial assistance may be available through Houterasu
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