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 138 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.8/5

Safety

4.8/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3.4/5
Athena

Athena

United States

Takamatsu, Solo travel

I was in Takamatsu for 4 days which was more than enough to see the city and some nearby nature areas. I went to and recommend: - Takamatsu Castle Park - Ogijima (lsland) - Ritsurin Garden - Kotohiragu (shrine, hike up 800 stairs) - Sanuki Manno Park - Takaya Shrine (hike) - Chichibugahama Beach (great for sunset and there's an uncle who takes photos for you for free) I recommend Kotohiragu and Sanuki Manno Park the same day because it's just a short bus ride from near the bottom of the shrine to the bottom of the park. In the bus there's a phone number to call the park and have a car pick you up (for free) to bring you to the entrance of the park (pay for entrance fee). I didn't have a Japanese phone number but the bus driver kindlly told me about this and called for me! Otherwise I would've had to walk uphill for 30+ minutes just to get to the entrance. PSA for vegans: Few to no vegan options in the area. I went out for food twice and the rest was surviving off of grocery store food. Two bakeries in the main strip in Takamatsu had plain white baguettes and another bakery had big sliced bread that were all vegan (grocery store bread all has milk). Funnily enough Starbucks has several vegan desserts in Japan so I had some of those (although definitely more pricy so it's a treat)

Posted: July 9, 2025
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Okinawa Island, Family travel

I loved Okinawa as I lived there for three years and tracked around the island. The people are so nice and pleasant and the food and experiences are surprisingly cheap. I definitely would say a lot of military ruin some of the experiences but overall it’s a very safe and pleasant experience.

Posted: June 22, 2025
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Colleen

Colleen

United Kingdom

Osaka, Family travel

I travelled to Osaka in April 2024 with family. It was an amazing experience. The city felt very culturally rich. The foods were amazing. The local people were very friendly. The city was very clean. In total, I really love the city.

Posted: June 11, 2025
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Hain

Hain

South Korea

Tokyo, Solo travel

Tokyo was a very safe city. The street was very bright and there were many people on streets even in nights. And convenience store foods are really good. You must try those. I recommend egg sandwich and tuna triangle seaweed rice.

Posted: June 7, 2025
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Aude

Aude

France

Tokashiki, Solo travel

One of my favorite places in the world. People are so friendly and welcoming. The food there is 10/10. The crystal clear water with white sand beach and amazing weather. I loved this area so much because the people there really gave me a warm welcoming without even knowing me. Of course this island is 200% safe. As Japan is in general. I would highly recommend going around December, January, February or march as the weather is around 20 degrees and the island is EMPTY, its low season and the island is very small. So it feels like you have all the places for yourself.

Posted: June 6, 2025
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Tokyo, Family travel

Tokyo is a pretty safe city. Most employees in Tokyo can speak English especially in high end areas. In other areas, where communication can be confusing, staff may be rude from frustration. My favourite place I ate at was in Ginza- Kojiro the meal sets were amazing and affordable! Especially for such a high end street!

Posted: June 6, 2025Experienced: February, 2025
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Is Japan safe for women?

Safety index

4.8 /5

Based on 70 local experiences

Crime index

1.2 /5

Based on 70 local experiences

Jamie

Jamie

Okinawa

A lot of Okinawa is very very safe. American soldiers statistically tend to be the least safe part of staying here. Always be vigilant, but safety in Okinawa feels very respectful. One Okinawa was drunk flirting with me recently and his guy friends told him not to touch me when he started tapping my shoulder—I felt looked out for.

Posted: July 4, 2025
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Tokyo

A very safe country except for perverts who could potentially stare, secretly take photos/videos of you, or molest you — especially when you’re on public transport like a very crowded train. However, I think it’s less likely to happen to foreigners.

Posted: June 28, 2025
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Safety in Japan