Japan Health Matters

Health and wellbeing – tap water is safe to drink in Japan and the emphasis on Japanese cuisine on the importance of the freshness of food means that this is not generally of concern either and street food is also considered to be safe to eat.

There are no vaccinations necessary for entry into Japan. Please read the travel advice provided by your country to discuss any precautions recommended with your doctor. The sun can be strong in Japan, so we do recommend that you bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for your comfort and protection. We recommend that you bring with you insect repellent and a small personal first aid kit with adhesive bandages, blister treatments, antiseptic creams and basic over the counter painkillers. If you are taking any prescription medicines please bring a sufficient supply with you in a labeled bottle. Certain medications are restricted in Japan – particularly formulations that contain pseudoephedrine or narcotic medications. Please check with your nearest Japanese consulate or embassy if any of the medication or medical equipment you may plan to bring into the country (like a CPAP machine) requires a yakkan shoumei, a permit allowing its import into Japan. Because of the comparatively low altitude of our walks (generally below 2000m) altitude sickness is generally not an issue. Please be sure to read our guidance on the physical level of tours carefully to ensure you fully understand the level of activity and are confident in your ability to engage in that same level.

Water – Tap water is safe to drink in Japan, although bottled water is readily available. We recommend you bring a reusable water bottle to Japan to stay hydrated and prevent overuse of single use plastic bottles.