- Japan does not accept U.S. health insurance, so it’s wise to purchase travel medical insurance for your trip.
- Given Japan’s high rate of earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons, travel insurance is a good idea for all travelers.
- According to our research, our top picks for travel insurance for Japan come from Tin Leg, Generali, and IMG Global Travel Insurance. (skip ahead to view these plans).
- Comprehensive travel insurance policies typically cover medical care, medical evacuation, baggage and trip delays, interruptions and cancellations.
- The cost of travel insurance varies dramatically between travelers and insurance providers. The cheapest plans cost as little as $1 per day.
- To find the best travel insurance policy to suit your needs, we recommend using our online comparison tool.
When you buy something using links found on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. This content is reviewed & supervised by The Los Angeles Times.
On This Page
- Key takeaways
- Do I need travel insurance to visit Japan?
- Our top picks for the best travel insurance for Japan
- How much does travel insurance for Japan cost?
- Why you need travel insurance to visit Japan
- What does travel insurance for Japan cover?
- What isn’t covered by travel insurance for Japan?
- Tips for getting the best travel insurance for Japan
- Japan travel information & requirements
- Japan travel insurance FAQs
- Related topics
On This Page
- Key takeaways
- Do I need travel insurance to visit Japan?
- Our top picks for the best travel insurance for Japan
- How much does travel insurance for Japan cost?
- Why you need travel insurance to visit Japan
- What does travel insurance for Japan cover?
- What isn’t covered by travel insurance for Japan?
- Tips for getting the best travel insurance for Japan
- Japan travel information & requirements
- Japan travel insurance FAQs
- Related topics
Travel Insurance for a Japan Vacation: Tips & Safety Info
Imogen Sharma - Finance Contributor
+ 1 other
Reviewed By
Blake Esken - Los Angeles Times
Japan is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. While the country itself is generally safe — the Global Peace Index ranks it among the top 10 most peaceful countries in the world — every trip comes with some risk. Whether you’re visiting for a week or a month, travel insurance for Japan can help protect your physical and financial health.
Trips to Japan can be expensive; travel insurance helps you recoup costs in case of unexpected delays or cancellations. Most policies come with medical coverage, which is helpful if you’re injured while skiing in Hokkaido or hiking Mt. Fuji.
This guide is designed to provide the information you need to choose and purchase a travel insurance policy for Japan, including:
Our top picks for the best japan travel insurance
Our top picks for the best travel insurance for Japan
Best Rated Overall
Tin Leg
GET A QUOTE
via Squaremouth’s secure website
Preferred Plan
Gold
Covers COVID
YES
Medical & Evacuation Limits Per Person
$500,000
/
$500,000
Best Value with Robust Coverage
Generali Global Assistance
GET A QUOTE
via Squaremouth’s secure website
Preferred Plan
Preferred
Covers COVID
YES
Medical & Evacuation Limits Per Person
$150,000
/
$500,000
Best for Travel Delays
IMG
GET A QUOTE
via Squaremouth’s secure website
Preferred Plan
iTravelInsured Travel SE
Covers COVID
YES
Medical & Evacuation Limits Per Person
$250,000
/
$500,000
Do I need travel insurance to visit Japan?
Japan does not require you to have insurance during your visit, but it’s always a good idea to purchase a policy. While you probably won’t encounter any violent crime or political unrest, insurance can help protect you if something goes wrong before or during your trip.
Many travel insurance policies will help you recoup non-refundable costs if you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason—for example, if you come down with a bad illness or are called for jury duty. If you have a medical emergency in Japan, insurance can also help cover your hospital bills. It can even pay for medical transport back to the United States if needed.
Purchasing travel insurance can help you prepare for the risks that are inherent to any trip to Japan, such as those discussed below.
Our top picks for the best travel insurance for Japan
Advertiser Disclosure
Best Rated Overall
Full Policy Details
Tin Leg
GET A QUOTE
via Squaremouth’s secure website
Preferred Plan
Gold
Covers COVID
YES
Medical & Evacuation Limits Per Person
$500,000
/
$500,000
Why We Like It
PROS
- Excellent primary coverage for medical expenses
- High limit for emergency evacuation coverage
- Optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage available
- Comes with coverage for hurricanes and inclement weather
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions is available if purchased within 14 days of the trip deposit
CONS
- Baggage delay coverage requires a 24-hour waiting period
- Low coverage limits for baggage and personal effects
Best Value with Robust Coverage
Full Policy Details
Generali Global Assistance
GET A QUOTE
via Squaremouth’s secure website
Preferred Plan
Preferred
Covers COVID
YES
Medical & Evacuation Limits Per Person
$150,000
/
$500,000
Why We Like It
PROS
- High emergency medical and medical evacuation coverage
- Cancelation & interruption coverage
- Offers hurricane and weather coverage
- Extensive loss or delay coverage.
CONS
- No pre-existing condition coverage
Best for Travel Delays
Full Policy Details
IMG
GET A QUOTE
via Squaremouth’s secure website
Preferred Plan
iTravelInsured Travel SE
Covers COVID
YES
Medical & Evacuation Limits Per Person
$250,000
/
$500,000
Why We Like It
PROS
- Purchase your plan up until one day before you depart
- Generous limits for trip delays, emergency evacuation, and more
- Pre-existing condition waiver available if purchased within 20 days of initial trip deposit
- 24/7 emergency travel assistance included
- Coronavirus-related medical expenses covered
CONS
- Plan gets notably more expensive with age
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Advertiser Disclosure
How much does travel insurance for Japan cost?
According to official sales data from Squaremouth, travel insurance for Japan costs between $250 and $350.
Our official sales figures over the past year show that our customers paid an average of $205.72 for travel insurance to Japan.
For basic medical and medical evacuation coverage, travel insurance for a trip to Japan can cost as little as $1 per day. For more comprehensive coverage, we found more plans typically cost around $7 to $11 per day.
To give you an idea of the possible costs of insuring a trip to Japan, we’ve collected a variety of quotes.
The prices for the quotes are based on these details:
- Age: 35 years old
- Destination: Japan
- Trip Length: 7 days
- Trip cost: $2,000
This table shows our quotes for basic travel insurance. As you can see, the cheapest travel insurance costs less than $1 per day.
Example Where Plan Doesn’t Reimburse the Full Trip Cost
| Provider | Plan Name | Plan Cost | Cancellation / Interruption Limits | Medical / Medevac Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tin Leg | Standard | $5 | $0 / $0 | $30k / $200k |
| Trawick International | Safe Travels Explorer | $26 | $0 / $0 | $50k / $200k |
| Seven Corners | Trip Protection Basic | $25 | $0 / $1k | $100k / $250k |
| AXA Assistance USA | Silver | $42 | $0 / $500 | $25k / $100k |
We got more quotes from the same providers for policies that also include trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage. These quotes show that this type of protection costs around $7 to $11 per day.
Example Where Plan Does Reimburse the Full Trip Cost
| Provider | Plan Name | Plan Cost | Cancellation / Interruption Limits | Medical / Medevac Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tin Leg | Standard | $43 | $2k / $3k | $30k / $200k |
| Trawick International | Safe Travels Explorer | $61 | $2k / $2k | $50k / $200k |
| Seven Corners | Trip Protection Basic | $75 | $2k / $2k | $100k / $250k |
| AXA Assistance USA | Silver | $69 | $2k / $2k | $25k / $100k |
Costs for a Japan travel insurance plan can vary considerably from person to person. Generally, a comprehensive travel insurance policy to Japan will cost 5-10% of your total trip cost.
Some of the factors that affect your premium are:
- Age
- Cost of the trip
- Length of the trip
- Deductible
- Time elapsed between the initial trip deposit and the policy purchase
- Optional add-ons, such as Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage
Why you need travel insurance to visit Japan
Risk of earthquakes and natural disasters
Japan sits at the intersection of four different tectonic plates, which means that earthquakes are common. There are usually 1,500 every year, including four to seven major earthquakes.
Much of the tectonic activity in the region happens under the ocean, which means that Japan also experiences more tsunamis than any other country in the world. The Great East Japan earthquake of 2011 created a catastrophic tsunami with waves up to 132 feet tall.
Japan’s high rate of earthquakes and tsunamis alone is reason enough to buy a travel insurance policy. If your trip is disrupted or delayed or you’re injured in a natural disaster, your policy can provide emergency assistance, financial reimbursement and peace of mind.
Risk of extreme weather
Because of its location and topography, Japan is prone to a variety of extreme weather conditions that could affect your journey. Typhoons are common between May and October; they can bring high winds, landslides and destructive high tides. If you’re traveling to northern Japan in the winter, there’s a chance of severe snowstorms. The possibility is particularly high in Aomori City, Sapporo and Toyama — the top three snowiest major cities in the world. Extreme weather can inhibit your ability to move around Japan. Insurance can help you recover some of the lost costs from delays or rerouting.
Risks related to adventure sports
Are you planning to hike, ski or snowboard in Japan? You’re not alone; many people love to experience the country’s spectacular landscapes through adventure sports. If you break an arm on the ski lift or need to be airlifted off of a mountain after an injury, travel insurance can help protect you from high medical bills.
What does travel insurance for Japan cover?
Insurance coverage can vary by provider and plan. Before you buy a policy for a Japan trip, make sure you read the benefits carefully to understand what’s covered.
Some of the most common coverage types include the following.
Trip cancellation insurance
Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for non-refundable trip costs in case you need to cancel your trip. Keep in mind that the cancellation must be for a reason that’s covered under the policy. For many providers, this includes unexpected natural disasters or the sudden death of a family member. If you have travel insurance for Japan, you’ll likely be covered if a surprise earthquake hits your destination.
For insurance that covers any type of cancellation, you can purchase cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance. With this type of coverage (which is often sold as an add-on), you can cancel for any reason at all and the provider will reimburse you for around 50% to 70% of your total prepaid travel costs.
Trip delay insurance
Delays happen, especially when you’re making the long journey to Japan. Trip delay coverage can reimburse you for the costs you incur in these situations. If the airline cancels your flight, your policy can help pay for things such as a hotel room and a taxi.
Trip interruption insurance
Trip interruption coverage helps mitigate the financial losses if you need to come home early from your trip to Japan. Depending on the policy, you might be able to get reimbursed for the part of the trip you’re unable to complete. Need to buy a new flight home? Some policies will help you pay for it.
Keep in mind that trip insurance coverage only kicks in under certain circumstances. Usually, the cancellation must be for reasons out of your control, such as a health emergency that makes it impossible for you to continue with the trip.
Travel medical insurance
Medical coverage is one of the most important parts of a travel insurance policy. American health insurance doesn’t usually work outside the United States, and costs can add up quickly if you experience an illness or injury. Medical insurance reimburses you for out-of-pocket expenses; some providers can even bill the hospital directly.
When you have travel medical insurance, you can explore Japan with peace of mind. And if you slip on temple steps in Kyoto and need a doctor’s attention, you won’t need to bear the costs of the emergency room bills.
Medical evacuation insurance
Travel medical insurance covers the costs of medical transportation in an emergency. Depending on the extent of your injuries, this might involve flying you from a remote part of Japan to a better-equipped hospital in a large city. In some cases, it means transporting you home to receive continuing care in the United States. Many policies also pay for a friend or family member to fly to Japan and escort you home. If you pass away during your trip, some providers include coverage to repatriate your remains.
Medical transportation can be extremely expensive, so it’s important to look closely at the limits on your insurance policy. Make sure you have ample coverage, especially if you’re visiting Japan’s dense wilderness areas or exploring far-flung parts of the country.
Insurance for personal items
Your baggage is your lifeline while you’re visiting Japan; insurance for personal items can help you recoup costs if your luggage is lost, stolen or damaged. It’s particularly important if you’re bringing expensive items. Packing a high-end camera to capture the cherry blossoms? If it’s stolen, insurance can prevent a complete loss. Every policy has its own rules for covered possessions, so read the fine print carefully before you buy.
Rental car coverage
A rental car is a great way to get around Japan, and rental insurance is a good way to protect yourself in the case of a collision or other accidental damage. Many Japanese roads are famously narrow, so it’s nice to have ample coverage.
What isn’t covered by travel insurance for Japan?
As you’re comparing travel insurance plans for a trip to Japan, make sure you understand the things your policy does not cover. For example, travel medical coverage typically doesn’t apply to routine checkups.
Other common exclusions are:
- Participating in extreme sports or risky activities
- Pre-existing conditions
- Excessive alcohol or drug use
- Pregnancy (unless you’re experiencing a complication)
- Non-emergency dental care
- Trips that go against medical advice
Advertiser Disclosure
Tips for getting the best travel insurance for Japan
Use these tips to find the best possible coverage for your trip to Japan:
1
Buy early.
If you purchase a single-trip policy soon after you make the first deposit, you may be eligible for additional benefits. For example, some companies cover pre-existing medical conditions but only if you buy within 21 days of the deposit.
2
Consider your activities.
Compare your plans to each insurance plan’s inclusions and exclusions to ensure that you’re covered. If you want to do extreme sports, you may be limited to specific providers.
3
Check transportation rules.
Coverage often applies to common carriers such as major airlines and train companies. If you get injured while riding in a friend’s car, your policy may not cover the medical bills.
4
Use a comparison tool.
An online comparison tool allows you to view multiple coverage options at once, so you can easily compare policies to find the best deal.
Japan travel information & requirements
| Query | Details |
|---|---|
| Is a tourist visa required for U.S. visitors? | No |
| How long can you stay without a visa? | 90 days |
| Passport requirements | One blank page; your passport must be valid for your entire stay; you cannot travel on a passport previously declared lost or stolen |
| Is U.S. health insurance accepted? | No |
| Travel insurance requirements | None |
| Vaccine requirements | None, but it’s recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines |
| Covid test requirements | None |
| Travel advisory level | Level 1: Exercise normal precautions |
| Emergency services phone number |
119 (fire or ambulance) 110 (police) |
| Language | Japanese |
| Local currency | Japanese yen |
| Currency exchange rate | 1 US dollar = 147.12 Japanese yen |
Are there COVID-19 restrictions for U.S. tourists?
No — Japan ended its requirements for vaccination and negative COVID-19 tests in April 2023.
Do I need a visa or passport to travel to Japan?
If you’re an American traveling to Japan, you do not need a visa for tourism or business visits of 90 days or less. You will, however, need a valid passport. The passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Japan.
Is it safe to visit Japan?
Japan is widely regarded as a safe destination. The country has less crime than many other developed nations; for example, its homicide rate is considerably lower than the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Of course, you should still take normal precautions to prevent pickpocketing and petty theft.
Japan is a politically stable country, but it’s important to keep an eye on tensions between South Korea and North Korea. The Korean peninsula is close to Japan, so an escalating situation could impact your trip. This scenario is unlikely — but to stay up-to-date, consider registering with the U.S. Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). After you sign up, the U.S. Embassy will keep you abreast of any emergencies that arise.
Japan travel insurance FAQs
Will my U.S. health insurance work in Japan?
Most U.S. health insurance plans do not work in Japan.
Is health care free for tourists in Japan?
If you’re a tourist in Japan, health care is not free; you’ll need to pay with cash or by card. However, ambulance rides are free to everyone in Japan, even for foreign visitors.
Are there any travel restrictions to Japan?
As of January 2024, Japan does not have any restrictions for travelers.
Imogen Sharma is a freelance writer with an extensive portfolio, covering topics such as finance, business management, investing, and startups. Before becoming a full-time writer, Imogen managed high-volume fine dining restaurants in London with a knack for pricing and P&L management that contributed to sustained growth.
Imogen has contributed bylined and ghostwritten content for thought-leading publications in business, finance and technology. Topics covered include business loans, personal loans, startup funding and real estate investments.
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