Tokyo is Japan's capital and one of the world's most dynamic megacities, where ancient temples and shrines coexist alongside gleaming skyscrapers and neon-lit streets. As the cultural, economic, and political heart of Japan, Tokyo offers an unmatched blend of tradition and state-of-the-art modernity across its diverse 23 special wards and surrounding cities.
Tokyo is one of the safest major cities in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare, streets are safe at all hours, and lost property is routinely handed in to police. The main concerns for travelers are natural disasters (earthquakes, typhoons), occasional petty theft in crowded areas, and specific neighborhood caution around hostess bars.
Current safety advisory
Very Low
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Tokyo is safe to walk alone at night in virtually all neighborhoods — crime rates are exceptionally low
Keep belongings secure in crowded areas like Shibuya Crossing and on busy trains during rush hour
Follow earthquake safety procedures posted in hotels: Drop, Cover, Hold On
Be aware of typhoon season (June-October) and follow NHK World emergency broadcasts
Carry cash at all times — many small shops, shrines, and eateries are cash-only
Kabukicho in Shinjuku (red-light district) is generally safe to walk through but hostess bar touts may be persistent — a firm 'kekko desu' (no thank you) suffices
Keep emergency contact numbers accessible: Police 110, Ambulance and Fire 119
Register with the relevant embassy on arrival for emergency notifications
Drink tap water freely — Tokyo's tap water is clean and safe throughout the city
Beware of overcharging at unlicensed bars, particularly in Roppongi — always check prices before ordering
The Japan Helpline (0120-461-997) provides 24/7 English emergency assistance
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Unlicensed bar overcharging
Overcharging at unlicensed bars is the most common tourist trap in Tokyo, particularly in Roppongi. Prices should always be confirmed before ordering, and drinks from strangers in clubs are best declined.
Persistent hostess bar touts
Kabukicho, Shinjuku's red-light district, is generally safe to walk through, but touts for hostess bars can be persistent. A firm 'kekko desu' (no thank you) is usually sufficient to end the approach.
Pickpocketing on crowded trains
Pickpocketing is uncommon but does occur on crowded trains and at busy tourist sites. Bags are best kept in front of the body when trains are packed.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Tap Water
- Safe to drink throughout Tokyo
- Food Safety
- Excellent food hygiene standards. Street food and restaurant food are both very safe.
- Medical Facilities
- World-class hospitals are available in Tokyo. St. Luke's International Hospital and Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic have English-speaking staff.
- Pharmacies
- Matsumoto Kiyoshi and other pharmacy chains are located throughout the city, with some English-speaking pharmacists in tourist areas.
- Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Japan has excellent healthcare, but medical costs can be high for foreign visitors without insurance.
- Covid Policies
- Current Japan entry requirements should be checked before travel.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 110
- Fire And Ambulance
- 119 (the operator can be told 'kaji' for fire or 'kyukyu' for ambulance to direct the call)
- Coast Guard
- 118
- Japan Helpline
- 0120-461-997 (24/7 English-language emergency assistance)
- Jnto Tourist Info
- 050-3816-2787
- Poison Control
- 03-3813-2111
- Embassy Registration
- Registering with the relevant embassy on arrival is recommended so emergency notifications can be received.