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. 

Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for visiting Japan, but liability insurance is required by law for vehicle owners and travellers renting cars in Japan. While Travel Guard can offer a variety of coverages for your trip to Japan, you will need a separate plan to protect your vehicle should you choose to rent one.

The two kinds of health insurance in Japan are National Health Insurance and Employee Health Insurance, which are required for citizens and long-term visa holders in the country. Travellers going to Japan should consider purchasing travel insurance because these two programs do not provide coverage to Canadian residents visiting the country.

Japan is generally a low-risk travel destination. However, travellers should be aware of some specific concerns. Japan has a low crime rate, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas like train stations and tourist spots. Travellers should be vigilant at all times, keep belongings secure, avoid displaying valuables openly, travel in groups and avoid isolated areas – especially after dark.

Visitors may be overcharged for goods and services or targeted for credit card fraud. Scams are rare but do occasionally occur. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or offers that seem too good to be true. Use reputable tour companies and politely refuse offers of goods or services if approached.

Public transportation is efficient and important signage usually includes English translations; however, trains can be crowded during peak travel times. Travellers should take precautions against pickpockets, and women should be aware of the possibility of harassment on public transportation, particularly in crowded situations. In some cases, women-only cars or sections may be available.

Cultural sensitivity and etiquette are important in Japan. While tourists are not expected to understand every aspect of the cultural norms, understanding the basics and being polite and respectful in general is strongly advised.

Travellers should familiarize themselves with local laws before travelling to Japan to avoid legal issues. For example, carrying some form of identification is required at all times, and individuals can be arrested if they fail to provide their passport if requested. Some prescription and over-the-counter drugs are also illegal in the country, and travellers should ensure they are not travelling with banned medications, as the Japanese government does not allow exceptions. Tourists have also been unwittingly involved in the drug trade in Japan, and there are serious penalties for possessing illegal substances. Visitors should refuse any requests to transport luggage or packages on anyone else’s behalf.

Natural disasters are a significant concern in Japan. The country is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons. Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and know the evacuation routes in your area. In the event of a natural disaster or other emergency, follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local media for updates.

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has a wealth of information and resources for travellers on their website to assist with pre-trip planning and during active travel.

Avoid spending lengthy amounts of time in crowds and keep your distance from individuals showing signs of illness. Additionally, many diseases and illnesses are spread through bug and animal bites so do your best to limit your exposure to areas with excessive bugs and wildlife. Visit the Government of Canada website for more information on preventing illness while vacationing to Japan.

While there are no required vaccinations for entry to Japan from Canada, you’ll want to speak with a healthcare professional before you travel to get up to date on routine vaccinations and inquire about preventative vaccines you may want before your travels.

Quality healthcare is widely available throughout the country though having emergency medical insurance through a travel insurance plan may help with out-of-pocket costs you would be required to pay if receiving treatment.

A trip to the hospital in Japan can cost up to 50,000 Yen, or $449 CAD, per day.

No. Medical costs will need to be covered out-of-pocket or through a travel insurance plan with medical expense coverage.

No. You will need to have a prescription from a medical professional to receive antibiotics while on vacation in Japan.

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

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.

While the exchange rate may change on a daily basis, $1 CAD is equal to about $111 Yen.

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.

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.

When entering Japan, be sure to carry your prescription medication in the labeled bottles with your information on it. Additionally, be sure you double check the entry requirements for Canadian citizens to ensure your medication is not a prohibited substance.

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.

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.

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.

Travel to Japan can be safe for pregnant travellers as long as the trip is cleared by a medical professional, and you take precautions for common illnesses that may be at your destination. If you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, it is important to review the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to determine coverage specific to pregnancy or complications of pregnancy. Not everything will be covered.