Travel tips
Japan is safe, but not without surprises — from high medical costs to natural disasters. This essential guide shows you how to choose the right travel insurance and travel with confidence.
December 31, 2024
10 mins read
Planning a trip to Japan? One essential step many travelers overlook is securing the right travel insurance. While Japan is known for its safety, cleanliness, and incredible hospitality, it's also a country with high medical costs, the occasional natural disaster, and unexpected disruptions that could impact your trip.
Short answer? Yes, you should get travel insurance for Japan — and here’s why.
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for visiting Japan in 2025, but it is strongly recommended.
The Japanese government does not require foreign tourists to have insurance upon entry. However, given Japan’s high medical costs and the potential for natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons, many travelers wisely choose to purchase a policy.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan required visitors to carry insurance covering virus-related medical expenses. Although this requirement has been lifted, it highlighted how quickly travel regulations can change — and why it’s wise to be prepared.
Travel insurance for Japan typically includes several key areas of protection that can save you thousands in the event of an emergency.
Emergency medical expenses are often the top concern — hospital visits in Japan can be costly, especially for uninsured foreigners. Many plans also cover trip cancellations or delays, ensuring you're not out of pocket if your flight is disrupted or a family emergency cuts your vacation short.
Lost or stolen belongings, from luggage to electronics, are another common inclusion. Given Japan’s geographical location, policies often extend to natural disasters like earthquakes or typhoons, which can impact transportation and accommodations.
Finally, 24/7 support services — sometimes with language assistance — are especially valuable when navigating Japan’s healthcare system.
Coverage Type | Sample Limit |
|---|---|
Medical Expenses | Up to $250,000 |
Trip Cancellation | Up to 100% of cost |
Lost Luggage | Up to $1,500 |
Emergency Evacuation | Up to $500,000 |
24/7 Travel Assistance | Included in most plans |
Most travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing medical conditions, risky activities, or preventable issues.
Here are common exclusions:
Pre-existing conditions (unless you purchase a waiver)
Adventure or extreme sports (skiing, scuba diving, etc., unless added as a rider)
Mental health or elective medical procedures
Injuries caused by drugs or alcohol
Travel to areas under official government advisories
Always read the fine print to avoid coverage surprises.
The best travel insurance for Japan in 2025 depends on your travel style and budget.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Provider | Medical Coverage | Trip Cancellation | Cost (1 Week) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SafetyWing | $250,000 | ✅ | $45 | Digital Nomads |
World Nomads | $100,000 | ✅ | $70 | Adventure Travelers |
Allianz | $50,000 | ✅ | $50 | First-Time Tourists |
All three providers offer solid coverage, and some include Japan-specific benefits such as multilingual support hotlines or partnerships with local clinics. For example, World Nomads is known for its adventure-friendly policies, while SafetyWing is a favorite among long-term travelers.
To choose the best travel insurance for Japan, consider your trip length, planned activities, age, and need for support.
Here’s a breakdown of what to evaluate:
Trip Length: Longer trips may require extended or renewable policies.
Activities: If you plan to ski in Hokkaido or hike Mt. Fuji, look for coverage that includes adventure sports.
Age and Health: Seniors or travelers with pre-existing conditions should prioritize plans with medical waivers.
Support Services: English-speaking hotlines, mobile apps, or concierge services can offer peace of mind in unfamiliar situations.
Choosing a plan tailored to your travel style ensures you’re covered when it matters most.
You can purchase travel insurance through a variety of channels — directly online from providers, through a travel agent, or even as a benefit from your credit card. However, not all credit card policies offer robust or sufficient coverage, especially for medical issues.
Once you’ve bought a plan, keep both digital and printed copies of your insurance certificate. Make sure to note down emergency contact numbers, your policy number, and any required documents for filing a claim.
If you need medical care while in Japan, visit a clinic or hospital that accommodates international travelers — especially in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Some facilities may require payment upfront, while others may offer direct billing if your insurer has local partnerships. Be sure to save all receipts, discharge papers, and official documentation to submit with your claim.
Japan has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide services in English — a huge relief for travelers needing medical attention while abroad. Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama have internationally-friendly hospitals with multilingual staff.
Below is a sample list of English-speaking hospitals across popular cities in Japan:
City | Hospital Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Tokyo | St. Luke’s International Hospital | Full-service hospital with international services |
Tokyo | Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic | Primary care, English-speaking staff |
Tokyo | The University of Tokyo Hospital | Large university hospital with global care unit |
Osaka | Osaka Red Cross Hospital | General and emergency care |
Osaka | Osaka International Cancer Institute | Specialized care, international support |
Kyoto | Kyoto University Hospital | Large hospital with some English-language services |
Yokohama | Yokohama City Minato Red Cross Hospital | Full-service hospital with foreigner assistance |
Fukuoka | Fukuoka Sanno Hospital | English-speaking staff, modern facilities |
Sapporo | Sapporo Medical University Hospital | Public hospital, international desk available |
It’s a good idea to check your insurance provider’s list of recommended or partnered hospitals in advance. Some insurers may even offer concierge services to help you find and book appointments with these facilities.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Japan?
No, but it is highly recommended due to high medical costs and the potential for unexpected disruptions.
Will Japanese hospitals accept my insurance?
Some hospitals do, but many require payment upfront. Afterward, you can file a claim for reimbursement unless your provider offers direct billing.
Can I buy insurance after arriving in Japan?
Yes, some providers allow this. However, it’s better to buy insurance before departure so you’re protected from the start — including for trip cancellations.
Ready to see Japan through the eyes of an expert? Book one of our Guided 1-Day Tours and enjoy a stress-free, immersive experience with a personal guide.
explore
Prefer exploring at your own pace? Download a Self-Guided Itinerary and follow our insider tips to the top spots in Japan.
explore
