Tokyo is generally a very safe city to visit, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on community and respect for others.
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Tokyo before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Tokyo is considered one of the safest major cities in the world, with a strong emphasis on community and respect for others. The city has a low crime rate, and visitors can feel comfortable walking around at night, even in areas that are not heavily tourist-oriented. However, as with any major city, there are some areas that are considered safer than others, and visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. The city is also prone to natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons, and visitors should be aware of the emergency procedures in place.
The Japanese government takes the safety of its citizens and visitors very seriously, and there are many measures in place to prevent and respond to crime. The city is heavily policed, and there are many security cameras and emergency phones throughout the city. Additionally, the city has a well-developed emergency response system, with trained emergency responders and a network of hospitals and medical facilities. Despite these measures, visitors should still take common-sense precautions to protect themselves, such as being aware of their surroundings and keeping a close eye on their belongings.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shibuya | Very Safe | Popular tourist area, heavily policed |
| Shinjuku | Very Safe | Major business and entertainment district, safe at night |
| Asakusa | Very Safe | Historic district, popular with tourists, safe at night |
| Roppongi | Safe | Upscale neighborhood, some crime at night, but still safe |
| Ikebukuro | Safe | Busy commercial district, some crime at night, but still safe |
| Shinagawa | Very Safe | Upscale neighborhood, safe at night, some crime during the day |
| Kabukicho | Moderate | Red-light district, some crime at night, use caution |
| Sanya | Moderate | Budget accommodation area, some crime at night, use caution |
Common Risks & Scams
- Pickpocketing and petty theft are common in crowded areas, such as train stations and tourist destinations.
- Scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced drinks and food, are common in some areas, such as Shinjuku's Kabukicho district.
- Train groping, or chikan, is a problem in crowded trains, especially during rush hour.
- Natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons, can occur, and visitors should be aware of the emergency procedures in place.
- Omiya scams, where a person is approached and asked to buy expensive items, are common in some areas.
- Drink spiking is a risk in some bars and clubs, especially in areas popular with tourists.
- ATM scams, where a person's card is skimmed or their PIN is stolen, are a risk, especially in areas with high foot traffic.
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Tokyo, but visitors should be up to date on all routine vaccinations.
- Water Safety: Tap water is safe to drink in Tokyo, but bottled water is widely available.
- Medical Facilities: The quality of medical facilities in Tokyo is high, and many hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff. However, visitors may need to show proof of insurance or pay upfront for treatment.
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are widely available in Tokyo, and many are open late or 24 hours.
Practical Safety Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep a close eye on your belongings.
- Use a money belt or a secure bag to protect your valuables.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and use credit or debit cards instead.
- Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in isolated areas.
- Keep your hotel room door locked, and use the hotel safe to store your valuables.
- Be prepared for natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons, and know the emergency procedures in place.
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as "konnichiwa" (hello) and "arigatou" (thank you), to help you navigate the city.
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Tokyo is generally a very safe city for solo and women travelers, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on community and respect for others.
- However, visitors should still take normal precautions to protect themselves, such as being aware of their surroundings and keeping a close eye on their belongings.
- Women travelers should be aware of the risk of train groping, or chikan, and take precautions to avoid it, such as sitting in designated women-only cars or traveling with a companion.
- Solo travelers should be cautious when using bars and clubs, and avoid leaving their drinks unattended or accepting drinks from strangers.