Is Shibuya Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Shibuya is generally very safe for solo female travelers. It is one of the safest districts in one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are low and people are typically respectful and polite. Despite being a busy and bustling area, it has a structured system that's easy to navigate. The city pays high attention to public safety with well-lit streets and many establishments operating 24/7. Although always good to take basic precautions, units of the police force and surveillance cameras are well-distributed throughout the area.

Safety rating

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How safe is Shibuya?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Very safe

Shibuya is a bustling district full of life even at night. The streets are well lit, populous, and often patrolled by the local police. Japan's overall crime rate is low, making it generally safe walking alone, even after dark. It's still advisable though to stay in public areas, avoid dark alleys, and respect local customs for a trouble-free visit.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Very safe

Public transportation in Shibuya is generally regarded to be very safe. The crime rates are remarkably low, and respect for personal space is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Buses, trains, and subways are frequently used by locals and tourists alike due to their efficiency, cleanliness, and reliability. The population is well-educated about public etiquette, making commutes comfortable and secure. Most of the information signage is bilingual in Japanese and English, facilitating easy navigation even for foreign visitors. It is also common to see females traveling late at night unaccompanied, indicating a high level of safety. Don't hesitate to seek help from station staff or local police boxes called 'Koban', if necessary.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Very low

Shibuya, like most places in Japan, is generally safe. Street harassment is a rare occurrence. Most locals mind their own business and preserve a high level of courtesy. However, it's always advised to be cautious and take general safety precautions especially during late hours. Despite this, Shibuya remains a safe place for solo female travelers even at night.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Very low

Shibuya is generally regarded as a very safe area. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag snatching are quite uncommon. Japan has an incredibly low crime rate overall, and this is reflected in the safety of Shibuya. However, it's always important to take regular travel precautions, like not leaving your belongings unattended. Despite the rarity of petty crimes, you should always stay alert to ensure your personal safety.
Tap water:

Tap water:Very safe

Tap water in Shibuya is of very high quality and is completely safe for consumption. The government enforces strict water purification methods and it is filtered meticulously. It even surpasses some of the bottled water in taste tests. So, you can drink directly from the tap or use it to brush your teeth without any qualms.

Is Shibuya safe to travel?

Is Shibuya safe right now?

Before your visit to Shibuya, it's essential to check travel advisories for Japan, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States government advises exercising normal precautions in Japan. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 8, 2024
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Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian Government advises taking normal security precautions in Japan. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 6, 2024
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Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in Japan. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 29, 2024

Safety in Japan