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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Safety index

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: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: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: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.

Tap water:Very safe

Tap water in Japan is very safe to drink. It meets strict government standards and is treated with cutting-edge technology. Therefore, it is not only safe to drink the water directly from the tap, but it is also standard among locals and long-term residents.

Is Japan safe to travel?

4.9 /5

Based on 36 experiences

Joana

Joana

Portugal

Solo travel experience

I felt extremely safe throughout the trip, both in Tokyo and Kyoto, day and night. Be prepared to walk a lot (A LOT!) although the subway network in Tokyo was the best I’ve ever experienced in the world. All kinds of food (not only sushi!!) are excellent and not as expensive as one might think. If you don’t have a lot of time, plan and organize each day as much as you can. Especially Tokyo, being such a big city, if no planning is involved, you waste a lot of time and miss out on wonderful things.

Posted: April 8, 2024
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Solo travel experience

Traveling in Japan as a solo woman traveler was a breeze. I have travelled to a few countries for study/conferences and mostly alone, and Japan definitely tops the list in terms of overall great experience. It's so safe, anytime of the day and night and people are extremely helpful. Although, in bigger cities like Tokyo, some passersby might be quite busy to stop and help you out if you need any help. But almost everyone would stop and try their best to help you out

Posted: April 5, 2024Experienced: May, 2018
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Erin

Erin (21)

United States

Solo travel experience

Japan was an amazing country. I was there for 5 months studying abroad. I felt absolutely safe to walk around. I am kind of an introvert and the country suited my personality. The foods were amazing and affordable if you know where to look!

Posted: April 5, 2024Experienced: January, 2023
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Josi

Josi

Germany

Group travel experience

I was three weeks in Japan. Starting from Tokyo to Nagasaki. I had such a great time in Japan. I felt really safe there. Clean streets, nice people, the only thing I’m sad about i the non existence of vegetarian food.

Posted: April 1, 2024
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Ella

Ella

Japan

Solo travel experience

Japan is beautiful and super safe country. There are so many amazing things to do , one trip is never enough. From ancient temples to futuristic skyscrapers, tranquil tea ceremonies , relaxing hot springs and amazing food. Great service and everything on time.

Posted: March 20, 2024
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Alexa

Alexa

Netherlands

Solo travel experience

Japan is one of the best places to travel on your own. The country is very well organized and safe. Once you figure out the train system in one city, you can get around the entire country. The food is absolutely amazing and you can have super fancy or meals from 7/11 and it is all good. I’d highly recommend doing a food walking tour. It’s a great way to meet other travelers and try food you might not try yourself

Posted: February 26, 2024
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Group travel experience

Hi guys, I was in Japan with a couple of friends, which changed my life without a joke. The country is one of the safest countries in the world. I felt very comfortable. The people were very nice and very helpful. After two days we found out how everything works with the train and the rest of the public transport. Before we entered the country, we had already filled out several questionnaires for entry via the government website at home, which saved a lot of time at the airport because you get a QR code. We recommend buying the JR Pass with sim card. But read the page carefully! As you have to accept the pass in your home country and can only activate it when you get there. I hope this information has helped you a little. Have fun🌻🤍

Posted: February 22, 2024
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Chiara

Chiara

Belgium

Solo travel experience

Japan is super safe to travel as a solo women! I did a multiple days hiking trip in the middle of a taifoon and Japanese locals hosted me in their house when there was a red alert, they helped me a lot in a difficult situation. Despite language barriers it was always easy to somehow understand each others and get help

Posted: February 9, 2024
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Solo travel experience

Japan was amazing. Visited Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Osaka. I felt safe and comfortable traveling alone, everyone was nice and respectful. I wasn't sure what to expect, but Japan certainly impressed me.

Posted: February 7, 2024
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Denise

Denise (38)

United States

Solo travel experience

Japan was every bit as wonderful as I had hoped! It was my first time visiting, and I stayed for the entire month of May for the language immersion experience. I flew from Houston to Haneda on ANA. It was excellent. I did not stay in Tokyo, but took another flight on JAL to Osaka. I then took a train to Kinosaki Onsen and stayed in a ryokan while visiting all 7 onsen. After, I took another train from there, to Kyoto, then a taxi from Kyoto to Osaka, then a flight back to Tokyo when it was time to head back to the USA. APA Hotels are safe and plentiful in major cities, but SMALL. They worked well for me as a solo traveler.

Posted: January 28, 2024Experienced: May, 2023
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Is Japan safe for women?

Safety rating

4.4 /5

Based on 4 reviews the women safety index in Japan is 4.4/5. On average women living in Japan raises relatively low concerns about women's safety.

Crime rates rating

1 /5

Based on 4 reviews the crime rate index in Japan is 1/5. On average women living in Japan raises low concerns about crime and violence against women

Rating summary

Safety walking alone after dark:

4/5
Safe

Safety using public transport:

4.4/5
Safe

Worries of being sexually harassed:

1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being sexually assaulted or raped:

1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being physically attacked:

1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of home broken and things stolen:

1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being mugged or robbed:

1/5
Not at all worried

Worries of being kidnapped or murdered:

1/5
Not at all worried
Kumy

Kumy

Even though walking alone after 11pm, it's safe. Some drunk man might talk to you, but you can just ignore them. It's the safest country in the world, most of time you lost your wallet or phone, it's delivered to a police station.

Posted: April 1, 2024
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Tukta

Tukta

Japan is best known for its safety and easy access to public transport for travelers around the world. Walking alone after dark is safe in the big city, but in the countryside in general, people commute to schools or work by buses, cars or trains. Japan has the safest records of using public transports in the world; furthermore, the time schedules are very punctual including planes, trains (Shinkansen included), buses, boats, etc.

Posted: February 28, 2024
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Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, which in my opinion it really is. Everything is in order and there are also different compartments where only women are allowed. However, I have never taken advantage of this as it is really harmonious. Be it in the evening in the streets or on public transport

Posted: February 22, 2024
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Is Japan safe right now?

Before your visit to Japan, 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
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian government advises to take normal security precautions in Japan. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 19, 2024
🇦🇺

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 3, 2024

Is Japan worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 36 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.9/5

Safety

4.9/5

Food

4.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.1/5
M

M (36)

Philippines

Solo travel experience

Japan has it all. It is a shame I was not able to explore more, but I’ll surely be back as often as I can.The food was superb, I cannot get enough of Japanese food. I wish to try the Nakasendo trail one day and I hope you guys from Travel Ladies can join me. :)

Posted: November 27, 2023Experienced: April, 2017
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I had a JR ticket when I was in Japan and I had the freedom to explore the country. The transport system is very efficient. Google Maps works everywhere. I didn't have any problems with navigation. The Japanese are the nicest people and are always willing to help. Tokyo at night is incredible. I traveled alone and did not join any group tours during my stay in Japan.

Posted: June 22, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 5/5
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Safety in Japan