Japan is rich with culture and at the top of many travellers’ bucket list. Whether it’s the culture, the landscape, the food or even the tech that’s drawing you to Japan, you’re sure to have an amazing time. You might spend the day strolling through popular shopping districts like Harajuku and in the evening stay at a traditional Japanese style inn called a ryokan. All the while, Travel Guard travel insurance plans are there for you on your adventure.

We recommend that you visit the Japan travel advice page on the Government of Canada website prior to booking your trip. This site provides you with travel information about Japan and its entry and exit requirements. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your travel investment. Additionally, your provincial health care plan may not include coverage when travelling internationally, so having a travel insurance plan with medical coverage (in addition to other helpful coverages) is beneficial.

There are several travel insurance plan options that are a great fit for travel to Japan. Our All Inclusive Package offers a variety of coverages to protect your travel investment such as trip cancellation and trip interruption cover. Additionally, it includes emergency medical insurance, baggage insurance and 24/7 emergency travel assistance. Remember to review the policy wording for a full list of the terms and conditions of coverage including the covered risks and benefits of the All Inclusive Packages. Most of our insurance plan options are available online; however, additional options may be available through our World Service Centre by calling (866) 648-8422 or by contacting one of our industry partners.

Typically, travel insurance costs between 5-7% of the total price of your trip, however; several factors that come into play when it comes to pricing your plan, such as the plan you select and the number of travellers in your party. For more details on pricing, check out our article on how much travel insurance costs. 

Japan is generally rated as one of the safest countries in the world. Crime against foreigners is typically low, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching do occur. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas and nightlife districts. Scams are also a concern, and travellers should be cautious when interacting with strangers and if using credit cards.

If you have never travelled in Japan, it’s a good idea to plan your transportation in advance. Public transportation in Japan is reliable and relatively safe. However, women who are travelling solo may face harassment on crowded train cars. Also, travellers are required to carry their passport at all times, so be sure to keep it in a secure location and keep a photocopy in your hotel safe and with a trusted contact at home.

Japan is also prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons. It is important to keep track of local developments and follow all instructions issued by local authorities. You can also sign up for alerts from the Japan Meteorological Agency for updates on natural disasters.  

Visit the Government of Canada website for up-to-date information on travel advisory levels and safety information for travellers to Japan. 

All Canadian travellers should enroll in the Registration of Canadians Abroad program, a free service offered to Canadian citizens travelling and living abroad. Enrolling in this program allows you to receive important information from the Government of Canada and helps them contact you in an emergency.

The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen. It is typically best practice to exchange currency before your trip at a bank or credit union for the best rates. However, if needed you’ll easily find ATMs throughout Japan you can use to get Japanese Yen. Cash is typically the most popular method of payment and at smaller businesses may be the only option.

The most widely used language in Japan is Japanese, which has many different dialects. The Tokyo dialect tends to be considered the standard dialect. A vast majority of the population only speaks Japanese, so don’t count on running into English speakers. Learn key phrases before your travels and download a translation app that can work without Wi-Fi so that you’re prepared.

As long as your stay is 90 days or less, Canadian travellers heading to Japan do not require a tourist visa. However, you will need a passport valid for the duration of your stay. If you’re travelling on business or as a student, the respective visa is required for entry.

The Canadian Embassy in Japan is in Tokyo. Visit the Government of Canada website for up-to-date phone number and address.

Japan is made up of many islands, which means there is a range of climates across the country. The southern areas of Japan like Okinawa and Amami have subtropical climates with hot and humid summers. The northernmost main island of Japan, Hokkaido, experiences cold winters with heavy snow, especially on the side that borders the Sea of Japan.

Spring and fall tend to be the most popular times to visit Japan. Fewer crowds and comfortable weather create an ideal time for outdoor sightseeing. However, if you’re an avid skier (or looking to try it out) you may want to visit between January and February. It’s not as commonly known but Japan has some of the best skiing in the world – for both experts and beginners.

If you need to call somewhere in Japan before your trip from Canada, you will need to dial 011 + 81 - Japan’s international dial code - followed by the area code and phone number you are calling. If you need to call home to Canada during your trip, you will need to dial 010 (Japan’s exit code), then 1 (the country code for Canada) and then the area code and local phone number you are calling. For example, to contact our emergency medical assistance team you would dial 010 + 1 + 416-646-3723. When placing international calls, be sure to check with your phone company to avoid unexpected fees and charges and remember connecting to a landline is often less costly than a cell phone.

Visitors travelling to Japan will find outlet plugs resemble ones in North America. Japan’s plugs use 100v whereas Canada uses 110v. For this reason, it can be safer to bring a voltage adapter with you.

Canadians can travel with their children to Japan so long as each child has a valid Canadian passport. Canadian children travelling internationally may also need:

• A letter of consent confirming the child has permission to travel outside Canada. This may be applicable if the child is travelling alone or with one parent or guardian.

• A birth certificate.

For more information about travelling with your children, visit the Government of Canada website or contact the Japan Embassy. 

Japan is an excellent destination for senior tourists. The country offers a great mix of urban and rural landscapes with bustling and relaxed atmospheres. There truly is something for everyone.