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

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies and stay with local women for free through hospitality exchange.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

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

4.7 /5

based on 99 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.8/5

Safety

4.8/5

Food

4.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.4/5

Japan, Solo travel

Felt very safe as a solo traveller even at night Decent vegetarian food options Cheap and good hostel stays Very easy to use and accessible public transport at most places Spent around 2000$ including flights, stay, travel, food, attractions, shopping etc for 8 days

Posted: November 10, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0
Mavis

Mavis

United States

Tokyo, Solo travel

1.Safety: I stayed in Tokyo metropolitan area for most of the time so I feel completely safe 2. Travel: I bought a Suica and saved it on my apple wallet for the subway which works fine, but dir a US resident, pls be aware that they only take Amex card, chase cards was not accepted, not sure why… as for the maps and stops, as a Chinese, I struggled reading the map in either Chinese/Japanese character or English bc I felt like either way only helped me a little lol. Maybe bc my short term memory is bad. 3. Food: I hate to go to those internet famous restaurants so I found a few local ones with good reviews. But I know they are not really local local bc I’m in Tokyo. But the idea is, don’t waste your time waiting in lines for those famous ones. 4. Interesting places: I went to a lot of shrines bc I want to collect the stamps, if you like to take pics, those are good places with less ppl. Overall, Tokyo is a great place to solo female to travel, but pls avoid Aug bc it’s waaayyyy to hot

Posted: October 25, 2024
favorite_border 2
mode_comment 0

Okayama, Solo travel

Okayama is a beautiful prefecture in Japan that has many hidden gems including a Katana making museum. It’s super easy to take a ferry from Himase to Shodoshima island. Okayama is famous for its fresh oysters and many more local cuisines. It’s a must visit for a traditional Japanese experience.

Posted: October 14, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Osaka, Solo travel

I felt pretty safe, even though I wouldn't recommend walking in the streets at night. There's a lot of people, so you never know who'll be there, right? But Osaka stole my heart. It was such a nice experience, I love this city.

Posted: October 12, 2024Experienced: August, 2024
favorite_border 1
mode_comment 0

Japan, Couple travel

Japan is a nice place to visit. We enjoy the city when we stay there. The food is delicious and the people are friendly. It’s safe to travel there. We stay there for one week. We went the the playground and the team lab.

Posted: September 6, 2024
favorite_border 2
mode_comment 0
Meghan

Meghan

United States

Osaka Prefecture, Solo travel

Osaka was really fun! Great city with great food! I was able to meet friends in the app called meet up and do sports. There is lots to do such as shopping, eating, universal studios. The people are also really nice. I felt very safe as a female.

Posted: September 1, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0
Jenny

Jenny

Taiwan

Tokyo, Solo travel

Tokyo is a place very safe, good food and all experience is very nice and elegant. The whole Japan is good. Very good for people to travel alone. It’s a little expensive, but you still can find nice and cheap food.

Posted: September 1, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Tokyo, Solo travel

Despite Japan being known as a safe country, I travelled alone at a very young age and I was not sure if it was still as safe as a woman. Because I missed the last train/bus to Tokyo, I slept at the airport for one night but it was very safe as others were sleeping there too. Although the chair felt a bit uncomfortable. To avoid that, I recommend figuring out how to get to the central city beforehand and exchange some money and figure out if you want to get a sim card. Make a list of these thinggs as soon as you land to avoid complications and smooth travel. Also check if your card works in the international ATMs or call your bank

Posted: August 28, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0
Ami

Ami

Japan

Nagano, Solo travel

I was really overwhelmed by Nagano. Naature is spiritual and ppl are really kind. maybe more kind than ppl in my town Hiroshima. Solo girl trip? absolutely safe. I recommend shinshu soba and apple juice🍎

Posted: August 26, 2024Experienced: August, 2024
favorite_border 1
mode_comment 0

Japan, Solo travel

Travelling in Japan is my first time to go abroad. I chose Japan because it is cheaper, closer to China and safe. Sure enough, my trip in Japan is very safe. Even if I have only one person, I am not afraid. Moreover, the consumption in Japan is relatively low and very cheap. I will travel to Japan again in the future.

Posted: August 24, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Is Japan safe for women?

Safety index

4.8 /5

Based on 31 local experiences

Crime index

1.2 /5

Based on 31 local experiences

Tokyo

As a local Japanese living in Japan more than 20yrs, I never felt Japan is unsafe. I sometimes run at night around 10-11pm after my work, but no one cares. However, only one place I can warn you, stay away Shinjuku station east exist late at night. It’s the “hit up” point for guys who wants to get a girl for one night. If you walk around there alone around that area, you might be annoyed by those guys

Posted: November 6, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0
Chrissy

Chrissy

Fukuoka

Fukuoka, Japan is a very safe city/prefecture. People are very kind and helpful and will go out of their way to help you. No one tries to take advantage of foreigners/travellers and even if there is a language barrier everyone always does their best to help. I’ve lost my phone and wallet numerous times and it was always turned in to the store or the police. Also, you don’t need to worry about pick pockets in Japan ☺️

Posted: November 3, 2024
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Meet locals in Japan

Chrissy

Chrissy

About Me

Hey! Im Chrissy, a Canadian who has been living in Japan since 2016. I’m a very friendly, positive and outgoing person who loves travelling and meeting new people! I’m planning on taking time off next year to travel and grow more as a person. I’m looking forward to meeting you!

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Chiz

Chiz

About Me

Hi, I love meeting people from all over the world I like cooking especially sweets and chatting

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Stay with locals in Japan

Chrissy

Chrissy

Fukuoka

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey! Im Chrissy, a Canadian who has been living in Japan since 2016. I’m a very friendly, positive and outgoing person who loves travelling and meeting new people! I’m planning on taking time off next year to travel and grow more as a person. I’m looking forward to meeting you!

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Shu

Shu

Tokyo

Can host for:

2 days

About me

I’m Shu. I love art and learn languages!

Speaking

mode_comment 0
grayce

grayce

Tokyo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

hello! im a master student in tokyo for two years. i’m looking to explore japan and other south east asian countries while i’m here :)

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Kanako

Kanako

Tokyo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

【about me 】 I like outdoor activities. Rock climbing, indoor bouldering, motorbike (Honda Rebel), diving, hiking, driving boats etc.. My friends describe me as very energetic and adventurous person as I already hiked Mt Fuji 3 times. I’m very familiar with local Japanese mountains, so hit me up if you want advices. 【Travel】 My travel style is buy experiences rather than buy the things. I like to travel like a local, so I always try to get connection with local ppl wherever I go so that I can find hidden jems.

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Ifa

Ifa

Kanazawa

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, I am Ifa, 29 y.o Indonesian currently living in Kanazawa city, Ishikawa, Japan. I love travelling and explore local culture and food. Love to make connection with fellow travellers!

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Tukta

Tukta

Japan

Can host for:

5 days

About me

Hi. My name is Amy Mizutani and I’m an English teacher. I live in a rustic house, off-the-beaten part, in Inabe city in Mie Prefecture, situated between Nagoya and Osaka. It is a quiet and beautiful place surrounded by nature where you can experience the day-to-day lifestyle of the locals and their community. You are welcome to stay at my place, explore the surroundings, and share your experiences with the locals. Please let me know if you are interested; you are more than welcome to stay at my place.

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Chris

Chris

Tokyo

Can host for:

2 days

About me

I’m an avid traveler but new to traveling solo.

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Shawnee

Shawnee

Japan

Can host for:

7 days

About me

Hi! Married mother of 4. We have pets and are an LGBTQ couple. But we are happy to providing a safe place for y'all to stay in Japan. 2 hours from Tokyo.

Speaking

mode_comment 0
Rie

Rie

Kumamoto Prefecture

Can host for:

1 day

About me

I accept many guests by couchsurfin, have preciousmemories. We live in countryside. It is located on the way from Kumamoto to Takachiho called Mamihara. This is our area https://g.co/kgs/ZjpFuk

Speaking

mode_comment 2
Anya

Anya

Osaka

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hello 👋🏻 I’m Anya. Currently live in Japan.🤍 Love traveling, hiking and meeting new ppl.

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Safety in Japan