Health & safety: Japan
Tap water
Safe
Food safety
Safe
Can you drink the tap water in Japan?
Tap water excellent quality. Vending machines + free water at restaurants ubiquitous.
Food safety in Japan
World-leading food safety. Raw fish (sushi/sashimi) safer than most countries' cooked food. Risk: fugu (pufferfish) ONLY at licensed restaurants.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
None required for entry.
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Routine current
- Japanese Encephalitis if visiting rural areas in summer
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Mt Fuji (3,776m) climbing Jul-Aug. Hot springs at higher elevations.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Japanese Encephalitis risk in rural rice paddies Jul-Sep. Low for urban travelers.
Heat risk
Tokyo + Osaka Jul-Aug 35-40°C with brutal humidity. Hydrate.
Emergency medical infrastructure
Excellent but expensive. English-speaking hospitals limited outside Tokyo. Insurance essential.