Is Japan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Japan is generally very safe for solo female travelers. The crime rate is relatively low and the locals are respectful and helpful. Safety measures are readily available in public transportation and accommodations. However, always remain vigilant especially in crowded areas. The culture respects personal space which further enhances your feeling of safety.

Safety rating

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How safe is Japan?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Very safe

Japan, as a whole, is considered to be extremely safe at night. It is not uncommon to see people, including women, walking alone late at night. Street crime rate is relatively low and most areas are well-lit and populated even in the evening hours. Public transport is reliable and operates late into the night. However, being vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good idea. Exercise the same caution as you would in any other urban areas worldwide.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Very safe

Public transportation in Japan is considered very safe. It is largely reliable, punctual, and security is well maintained. Nighttime services are also safe. Travelers need to respect etiquette and manners on public transportation, and while instances of harassment might occur, they are not common. Instances of theft or crime are very rare. Security cameras and staff are also present. The culture in Japan places a high emphasis on public safety and rule-following, making the public transportation system a safe option for travel.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Very low

Japan, overall, is known for its safety and hospitality. Reports of street harassment, especially for foreign women traveling alone, are relatively low. Japanese culture emphasizes respect for personal space and public decorum, and this often translates into a comfortable and non-threatening environment for solo travellers. Of course, like in any country, exceptions do occur. Nonetheless, Japan stands out as one of the international destinations where street harassment seldom becomes a pressing issue for solo female travelers.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Very low

Japan is renowned for its order and safety. Instances of minor crimes, such as theft or pickpocketing, are incredibly rare, especially in heavily populated areas and tourist hotspots. The local population is very respectful of personal property, and lost items are frequently returned. However, it's always important to stay aware and take general common-sense precautions. The main concern can be scams, where individuals may try to trick or overcharge tourists, especially in nightlife areas.

Is Japan worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 145 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.8/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3.4/5

Miyakojima, Solo travel

Miyako Island is well worth a visit for all female travellers who adore island getaways, particularly those travelling solo. The locals are wonderfully warm and welcoming, and safety concerns are entirely unfounded, I once walked back to my hotel alone from the beach after dark. Visitor numbers are low in mid-September, meaning the beaches are pleasantly uncrowded and well worth exploring; you might even find yourself with an entire stretch of sand all to yourself. My favourite spot is Sunayama Beach; when the waters are calm, it feels like paradise. If you prefer the countryside to the city, head to Irabu Island, which is less populated than Miyako Island. Should you fancy a private experience, securing an entire stretch of beach during the off-season is entirely feasible. For those seeking livelier spots, Miyako Island itself is well worth exploring, particularly for snorkelling at Yabiji. The local guides are wonderfully friendly, adding an extra touch to a perfect ocean adventure. The only drawback is that many restaurants require advance booking, though walk-ins are possible during the off-season. An exceptionally worthwhile destination that surpassed my expectations!

Posted: September 27, 2025
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Japan, Group travel

I felt pretty safe walking around in Tokyo. We stayed there for about 2 weeks. I knew someone local. Getting around was pretty simple, but one should have the Pasmo app or any related on. It makes it much easier to travel by metro. The food was good and I suggest also trying more local looking restaurants. Keep in mind that you might have to pay cash then. I was also a bit surprised of the English speaking level

Posted: September 9, 2025
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Sarah

Sarah

Australia

Japan, Group travel

Definitely felt safe in Japan! As my friends and I didn’t speak Japanese, we relied on google translate in smaller towns, otherwise, most people spoke at least a little English in the big cities like Tokyo.

Posted: August 24, 2025
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Tokyo, Solo travel

Tokio was very safe! Even late at night I never felt uncomfortable. The food was amazing, i loved it. The City is so incredible, i would love to go again some day. Transport was very easy, even thoug I thougt it would be hard.

Posted: August 21, 2025Experienced: April, 2025
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Tokyo, Couple travel

Felt safe, but I'm sure a big part of it is because I was with my partner. I hear bad stories about solo female travellers in Japan that make me shudder. Fortunately I've never experienced anything like it myself.

Posted: August 14, 2025
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Is Japan safe for women?

Safety index

4.8 /5

Based on 79 local experiences

Crime index

1.2 /5

Based on 79 local experiences

Miyu

Miyu

Japan

Recently, some urban areas have seen a deterioration in public safety due to immigrants and refugees, but fundamentally, the Japanese are gentle and shy around strangers, so they lack the courage to commit crimes. They are extremely conscious of others' opinions. In places where there are lots of people, you hardly need to worry about crime.

Posted: October 2, 2025
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Safety in Japan