Travel Insurance for Japan

From the bright lights of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto, Japan is a dream holiday. You can enjoy amazing street food or relax under the beautiful cherry blossom trees. It’s a place where old traditions and modern city life come together effortlessly. And with the right cover in place, you can enjoy it all without a second thought. That is why having travel insurance for Japan is so important, so you can enjoy your trip worry-free. If plans change or you need a bit of support along the way, your insurance helps cover the costs, letting you enjoy your trip completely worry-free.

Holiday Extras travel insurance for Japan can help cover emergency medical care, trip cancellations and lost or stolen items. With bronze, silver and gold options, you can choose the cover that fits your trip and travel with confidence - subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of your policy.

Why choose Holiday Extras for Japan travel insurance?

Planning a trip to Japan means exploring busy cities and quiet temples, but why choose Holiday Extras to protect your adventure? While Japan is famous for being safe, if you need medical care while you’re away, costs can add up - but we’ll help take care of it. Choosing our policies means you get reliable cover for unexpected medical costs, plus protection against everyday hiccups like missed flights, delays, or lost luggage. If your plans change or you need emergency help, we’re here to keep things simple, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Holiday Extras travel insurance for Japan can cover things like lost luggage, illness and flight delays. It can also support you if your plans change or something unexpected happens, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Make sure you read your policy documents carefully for full details of what is and isn’t covered, and remember to declare any pre-existing medical conditions.

Do UK travellers need a visa to visit Japan?

UK travellers do not need a visa to visit Japan for short stays. You can usually stay for up to 90 days for tourism, business or visiting family. The visa is only valid if the purpose involves things like, sightseeing, visiting relatives or friends, unpaid lectures, meetings and conferences or short business trips. You will need a valid UK passport, and you may be asked to show a return ticket or proof of onward travel. When you arrive in Japan, your passport will be stamped with a temporary visitor permit. Make sure your passport is valid for the length of your stay, and that you follow the entry rules during your visit. Japan entry requirements can change, so it is important to check the latest travel advice before your trip. It is also a good idea to plan ahead for things like healthcare, delays or lost luggage, so your trip runs as smoothly as possible. You can read more here: UK Gov Japan page.

Is Japan safe for tourists?

Yes, Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. Crime rates are low, and cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are incredibly welcoming and easy to navigate. While Japan does experience natural events like typhoons and earthquakes, they are absolute world experts at safely managing them with brilliant, high-tech warning systems. Because Japan is so incredibly well-prepared, Holiday Extras policies don't include cover for major catastrophes or natural disasters. Instead, our award-winning insurance focuses purely on the real, everyday curveballs that can actually catch you out! We provide fantastic, comprehensive cover for the things that really matter, like unexpected medical bills, delayed long-haul flights, and lost luggage. With Holiday Extras in your pocket, you can stop worrying about the 'what ifs' and focus on the magic of your trip.

Does travel insurance for Japan cover medical conditions?

Travel insurance for Japan can cover emergency medical conditions, but it is important to declare them when you buy your policy. This includes conditions related to your heart, lungs or abdomen, as well as any other health issues. You’ll also need to let us know about any symptoms, check ups or doctor appointments in the last two years. If you do not share this information, your cover may not be valid if you need medical care while in Japan.

Declaring your medical history with Holiday Extras is simple. You only need to answer a few questions about your health during the booking process. If you are unsure or need help, you can also speak to one of our agents over the phone. Healthcare in Japan is very good, but it can be expensive without the right cover. Holiday Extras helps protect you if things don’t go to plan. You can declare your medical conditions and, if accepted, travel with confidence knowing you’ll have protection in place should something unexpected happen, subject to policy terms and conditions.

Does travel insurance for Japan include activities?

From temple visits to exploring buzzing city streets, Japan is full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you visit temples or take city tours, make sure your travel insurance for Japan covers your plans. Many popular activities are included as standard, while more adventurous options may need extra cover.

Water Sports

Japan’s coastlines offer incredible adventures, from relaxed boat trips to snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. Many relaxed activities are included as standard. For higher-risk options like sea kayaking, you will need an Extended Risk add-on. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking your policy documents before you head out.

Extended Risk add-on

If your plans include higher risk activities, you may need to add extra cover. With Holiday Extras travel insurance for Japan, you can easily choose the right protection before your trip.

Use our handy activity checker to see whether your chosen activity or sport is covered as standard, or if you’ll need to add extra cover.

Top tips for travelling to Japan

Japan is a fantastic destination with so much to see and do, but unexpected issues can still happen. With the right cover in place, you can explore Japan knowing the important things are taken care of. Holiday Extras travel insurance helps keep everything running smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

It’s worth checking Japan’s customs rules before you pack, as everyday UK medicines like Vicks inhalers, Sudafed, and codeine are actually illegal to bring in. If your medication is permitted, always pack it in your hand luggage inside its original packaging, and keep a physical copy of your prescription with you.

Tipping in Japan isn't expected and can actually be seen as confusing or rude! Fantastic service is simply part of the culture and is already included in the price. However, you'll still need Japanese Yen. While big city shops accept cards, smaller towns and street food stalls still rely heavily on physical cash.

Japan has a strong culture of respect and good manners. Simple things like staying quiet on public transport, removing your shoes indoors, and queuing properly are expected. It is also considered impolite to eat while walking! While Japan is incredibly safe, tourists are legally required to carry their physical passport with them at all times.

Japan uses type A and B plugs, so you may need a travel adaptor. You can also rent a pocket WiFi device or get a local SIM to stay connected during your trip.

Tokyo travel guide: