Japan Travel Health

Travel Health

Japan is one of the most crime-free destinations in the world. In general petty crime is almost non-existent and people will often go out of their way to ensure you are well looked after - even personal belongings accidentally left in trains or taxis, on park benches, or in restaurants are generally turned in to the local police station and eventually make their way back to the rightful owner.

However it is important to use common sense when carrying large amounts of money or storing documents just as you would at home. Keeping copies of important documents and storing them separately is recommended.

In general medical facilities are of a high standard in Japan with English speaking doctors found in most large cities. Medical costs can be very high though and usually you will need to either pay in full prior to treatment or provide proof that you can do so. A list of medical institutions can be found at the Japanese Embassy and at http://jid.jin.or.jp/?mode=category&path=13/03/ .

In case of emergency the following numbers will be useful:

110 Police

119 Ambulance, Fire brigade

171 Earthquake assistance

Measles has been prevalent in Japan in the last few years so if you are in a high risk category – i.e. very old or very young – the Department of Health and Ageing recommends that you be immunised before visiting. Japanese encephalitis, a mosquito borne disease, is found throughout Japan and Southeast Asia but a vaccine is available in Australia. Consult your doctor prior to travelling.

Take care when travelling with medications as they may be illegal in Japan even if they are readily available in your home country. Cold and flu medications containing pseudoephedrine are not permitted and you could be detained if you try to import them. If you are travelling with prescribed drugs ensure you carry your prescription with you and declare them at customs. You can obtain further information about banned substances and health warnings from your nearest Japanese Embassy or your home country foreign affairs department.

We strongly advise that all Australian travellers check the latest travel advice on the Australian Government Smart Traveller site.