Japan
- Last updated:
- ET
- Still valid:
- ET
- Latest updates:
- An editorial change was made.
Advisories
Advisories
JAPAN - Exercise normal security precautions
There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Japan. Exercise normal security precautions.
Regional Advisory for the Fukushima nuclear power plant and its surroundings
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada advises against all travel to the districts and towns that have been designated as exclusion zones (see map) by the Japanese authorities. Zones marked in green on the map—where evacuation orders are ready to be lifted (Area 1)—are still subject to restrictions, including a ban on overnight visits.
Security
Security
The decision to travel is your responsibility. You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. The Government of Canada will assist you in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at your personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability is high.
March 2011 earthquake
On March 11, 2011, a strong earthquake measuring 9.0 on the Richter scale occurred in the North Pacific Ocean, generating a powerful tsunami that struck the Pacific coast of Japan. The situation has returned to normal in most parts of the country; however, reconstruction efforts are ongoing in those areas of Iwate, Miyagi, Fukushima and Ibaraki prefectures most affected by the earthquake and tsunami, and some transportation routes may not be operational, especially along the Pacific coast. Before you travel to these areas, ensure that you have secured accommodation and transportation, and follow the advice of local authorities.
Crime
Crime against foreigners is low. Petty crime occurs on occasion. Crime may be more frequent in large cities, particularly in entertainment districts (see below). Inappropriate touching often occurs in busy subway and commuter trains during morning and evening commuting hours.
Exercise caution in all entertainment and nightlife districts throughout Japan and especially in Tokyo’s Roppongi, Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ikebukuro areas. Foreigners are increasingly targeted in incidents of drink spiking, which can be combined with credit card fraud and physical or sexual assault. Never leave your drink unattended and pay attention when drinks are prepared and served. If possible, avoid carrying credit cards when frequenting nightclubs in any entertainment district. Foreigners have reported being overcharged at bars and clubs.
Transportation
Traffic drives on the left. Travel by motor vehicle is challenging: roads are narrow, signs are in Japanese and city traffic is congested. Do not turn on a red light unless it is specifically authorized. Roads in mountainous areas are often closed during winter.
Have your destination written in Japanese if you travel by taxi as drivers may not understand English.
Air travel
The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.
Emergency services
Dial 110 to reach police and 119 for firefighters and ambulance.
Tourists and foreign residents may obtain assistance (in English) via telephone hotlines. The Tokyo English Lifeline provides counselling and referrals (tel. 03-5774-0992). Additional referrals may be obtained from the Embassy of Canada to Japan in Tokyo.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry requirements. The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the Japanese authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of Japan or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.
Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.
Passport
Canadians must present a passport to visit Japan, which must be valid for the expected duration of their stay in that country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Check the passport validity requirements of the countries you will transit through on your way to Japan, as well as the countries you will visit beyond Japan. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from that country. Canadians travelling onward from Japan to other Asian destinations have been denied boarding due to insufficient validity on their passports.
Visas
Entry permits for tourists are for a maximum stay of 90 days. Overstaying an entry permit or any other type of Japanese visa is a criminal offence. If you overstay your visa, you will be subject to deportation and may be barred from re-entry to Japan.
Business travellers require a business visa if they are to receive compensation in addition to their regular salary for work carried out while in Japan. For further information, contact the Embassy of Japan in Ottawa or the Japanese consulate nearest you before departure.
If you are considering employment in Japan, you must obtain a work visa from the Japanese government. On occasion, Canadians recruited to work in Japan have not been fully informed of the conditions of employment and have unintentionally violated Japanese immigration law. A number of Canadians have sought employment or have been recruited for employment as bar hostesses; a visa will not be issued for this purpose.
An offer of employment that does not meet Japanese immigration requirements cannot be legitimately made or accepted. Working without an appropriate visa is illegal; if caught, offenders may be subject to imprisonment, a fine and/or deportation. If you are considering employment offers in Japan, contact the Embassy of Japan in Ottawa or the Japanese consulate nearest you before your departure from Canada.
Tourist visa: Not required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required
Important requirements
To visit Japan, you must have an onward or return ticket, confirmed accommodation arrangements and proof of sufficient funds for your stay in the country.
Immigration procedures
Japanese officials will photograph and fingerprint all visitors upon arrival. Some exceptions may apply, including for children under the age of 16, individuals with special permanent residency and diplomats on assignment to Japan (and holding a Japanese diplomatic visa). For more information, consult the Immigration Bureau of Japan.
Residency management
In July 2012, a new residency management system came into effect for foreign residents of Japan. Changes include: the Resident Card replaces the Alien Registration Card; foreign residents who leave and re-enter Japan within one year no longer need to obtain a re-entry permit; and changes regarding the maximum period of stay were implemented. Consult the Immigration Bureau of Japan for more information.
Children and travel
Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.
Yellow fever
See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.
Health
Health
- Measles: Global Update - July 16, 2015 09:48 EDT
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health provider about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites (e.g., spending a large amount of time outdoors) while travelling in regions with risk of Japanese encephalitis.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease and is common in most parts of the world. Be sure your measles vaccination is up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Tick-borne encephalitis
Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system. It is spread to humans by the bite of an infected tick. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to ticks (e.g., those participating in outdoor activities in wooded areas) while travelling in regions with risk of tick-borne encephalitis.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
| * It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements. | |
| Risk |
|
|---|---|
| Country Entry Requirement* |
|
| Recommendation |
|
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in East Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in East Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among pediatric travellers, travellers going to rural areas, visiting friends and relatives or travelling for a long period of time. Travellers at high risk visiting regions with typhoid risk, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care provider about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Eastern Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, Lyme disease, malaria, and tick-borne encephalitis.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in some areas in Eastern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects infants and children. Travellers are at increased risk if visiting or living in overcrowded conditions. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against this disease.
Medical services and facilities
Excellent medical care is available. Medical services are usually much more expensive than in Canada, and many hospitals and doctors are private. Foreign patients are often required to pay in advance or produce documentation that the bill will be paid prior to discharge. Some medical facilities will accept medical insurance issued by credit card companies. The normal procedure involves immediate cash payment and subsequent reimbursement from the insurance agent in Canada. Canadians working in Japan who are not covered for medical and health services by their Japanese employer should carry full medical coverage for their stay.
Medical referrals can be obtained by calling Himawari, a free medical information service provided by the Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Information Centre, at 03-5285-8181 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. (daily). The Embassy of Canada to Japan in Tokyo or the nearest Canadian consulate can also provide a list of medical clinics and doctors.
For information about prescription medication, consult the Laws & Culture tab.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws & culture
Laws & culture
You are subject to local laws. Consult our Arrest and detention page and our Overview of the criminal law system in Japan for more information.
Laws
Foreign visitors are required to carry their passport or residency (zairyu) card at all times.
Japanese regulations require that visiting foreign nationals provide detailed information when checking in at hotels, inns or other lodging facilities. The purpose of registration is to assist authorities to prevent infectious diseases and terrorism. The required information includes your name, address, occupation, nationality and passport number. Foreigners must also allow their passports to be photocopied.
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. In most drug cases, suspects are denied oral or written communication with anyone other than their lawyer or a Canadian consular representative. Those arrested, even for a minor offence, may be held in detention for weeks or months during the investigation and legal proceedings.
You must possess an International Driving Permit and obtain Japanese insurance to drive in Japan.
There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. Penalties are strict. Local laws extend to both the driver and the passengers (for allowing someone to drive while under the influence of alcohol); both are subject to prosecution.
Carrying a knife with a blade longer than 5.5 cm is prohibited.
Conditions in detention houses and prisons are difficult. The rules are rigid and an infraction can result in solitary confinement and loss of privileges. Once sentenced, prisoners are usually required to perform manual labour for the duration of their incarceration.
You can bring a one-month supply of prescription medication or a two-month supply of non-prescription medication into Japan providing the medication does not contain narcotics (including codeine). The importation of certain over-the-counter and prescription medications used to relieve sinus and allergy symptoms is banned.
Prescribed medication must be accompanied by the doctor's prescription stating the patient’s full name, address, reason for use and dosage. The bearer of the medication may be requested to present a detailed listing of the contents of the medication. If you wish to bring in larger supplies of medication or bring in prescription medication that contains narcotics, you must apply in advance for import certification. Application should be made several months prior to arrival. Consult the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for more information.
Teaching English
Contracts to teach English (arranged by recruiters in Canada) should be carefully reviewed before you sign them. Ensure that all terms and conditions of employment are clearly stated in the contract and that you meet all requirements before accepting an offer. Some employers may not adhere to their contractual obligations. Consult our publication entitled Teaching English in Japan for more information.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Japan. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you a Japanese citizen. You should travel using your Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.
Visit Japan’s Ministry of Justice page for more information on dual citizenship in Japan.
Money
The currency is the yen (JPY). Traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at major banks and hotels. Credit cards are accepted in major cities. Automated banking machines (ABMs) are widely available, but many do not accept foreign debit cards. ABMs are not available 24 hours a day and may not be available on weekends or holidays. A four-digit personal identification number is required to use ABMs in Japan.
Natural disasters & climate
Natural disasters & climate
Typhoons usually occur between June and October. Southern areas, including Okinawa and surrounding islands, are more vulnerable. These storms can result in flooding and landslides, significant loss of life, extensive damage to infrastructure, and can hamper the provision of essential services. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts, avoid disaster areas and follow the advice of local authorities.
Snowstorms occur in western Honshu and Hokkaido from December to March.
Japan is located in an active seismic zone and is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions.
- Mount Sakurajima is currently at alert level 3 (do not approach the volcano).
- Mount Shindake, a volcano on Kuchinoerabu-jima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, erupted on May 29, 2015. The Japan Meteorological Agency has upgraded its warning level to 5 (evacuate).
- Mount Aso, located in the center of Kyushu island, erupted on September 14th, 2015. The level of alert for Mount Aso has been increased to alert level 3 (do not approach the volcano).
Exercise caution, follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders, and monitor local media reports.
The Japan Meteorological Agency provides information on volcanic warnings and weather conditions.
Assistance
Assistance
Tokyo - Embassy of Canada
Fukuoka - Consulate of Canada
Hiroshima - Consulate of Canada
Nagoya - Consulate of Canada
Osaka - Consulate of Canada
Sapporo - Consulate of Canada
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Tokyo and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.When calling from within Japan, the area code is preceded by a 0. There is no 0 when calling from outside Japan. An area code is not dialled if the call is being placed to a cellular phone.