I remember vividly my first time in Japan. The quiet and highly punctual trains, people queuing in organized lines, and how everything just felt clean. I immediately felt a strong sense of peace and safety.
So why is Japan so safe? And what’s driving this state of affairs?
There are a few standout reasons. For one, Japanese culture is built around security, risk avoidance and a mutual respect for each other. But there’s more to this story. So this is my full guide on what to know about Japan’s safety.
But before we get into all that, let’s start this post off with some stats.
Japan Safety By the Numbers
- Theft is the most common crime in Japan
- American travelers ranked Japan 9th overall for safety
- Japan ranks 10th in the world for safety, according to the Global Residence Index
- The US State Department ranks Japan at level 1, which is the safest status available
- Japan’s rate of homicide, theft and assaults are considerably lower compared to other countries, such as the US
- Japan ranks 17th for being one of the most peaceful countries in the world
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So, Why Is Japan So Safe? 6 Reasons Why
1. Japanese Culture, Social Harmony & Omotenashi
Japan is known for its peacefulness. As a collectivist society, social harmony, trust and a non-confrontational culture are core values.
This supports a higher level of safety, as people tend to prioritize and look out for “the group” before themselves.
There’s a reason you often see people leaving their laptops and personal belongings at a cafe table while they run off to use the restroom or order food. People respect each other and their stuff in Japan.
Similarly, there’s also the social pressure to not be a nuisance.
Social stigmas against being loud, rude or breaking simple simple laws like jaywalking make Japan even safer.
Plus, Japanese tend to be cautious, opting for safe paths forward over riskier situations. This can be problematic in an innovative business scenario, but for safety, it’s another point on the scoreboard.
And as one final thing, omotenashi is worth mentioning. This is essentially the culture of hospitality.
When you visit Japan – even in the midst of overtourism – you’ll feel incredibly welcomed and safe.
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2. Japan Has Strict Gun Control Laws
While Australia has pretty strict gun laws, Japan’s are even stricter.
The only people who have guns in Japan are essentially law enforcement or farmers and hunters living in the countryside. Even then, they’re not automatic weapons.
This dramatically increases public safety and reduces gun-related crimes and incidents to essentially zero (but if you’re looking for an exact number, Statista reported just 9 incidents in Japan for 2023).
While you may hear about occasional tragedies or attacks (involving a knife, for example), Japan is not known for mass violent crimes, making it feel extremely safe.
The biggest concern for most people is related to natural disasters, like earthquakes or tsunamis. But even then, Japan is built to withstand most of these scenarios.
So with that, let’s keep moving.
3. There’s Great Safety Infrastructure
Japan gets a lot of weather and natural disasters, like earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons. But they’ve adapted amazingly with innovative architecture, resilient infrastructure, comprehensive alert technology and clear public education.
But even with all this comprehensive emergency protocol, it’s still a little strange feeling the buildings sway during a small quake. Especially when it barely phases any of the locals – yep, just another typical day in Japan!
But don’t let this scare you. Most of the earthquakes are quite small and buildings are required to be able to withstand them.
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4. There Are Many Koban (Police Boxes)
When strolling around the city, you’ll notice many small buildings with police officers around them or inside. These are police boxes, called koban, and there are around 6,300 of them in Japan.
With safety and security always nearby, this not only detracts criminal behavior, but provides a strong sense of safety.
So the next time you’re in Japan, take note of all the koban you see!
5. Responsible Urban Design
Japan definitely has a recognizable aesthetic.
Neon lights of crowded signs stacked on top of each other. Juxtapositions of old and new architecture, living side-by-side. Narrow streets and towering buildings – yes, plenty of greenspace.
Japan’s urban design in places like Tokyo supports even more safety in the country. Here are a few examples showing why:
- There are many well-lit areas
- CCTVs all found throughout the city
- ATMs tend to be in high foot-traffic areas
- There are strict building regulations for safety
- Metal poles at many crosswalks force bikers to stop at intersections
6. Japan Implements ‘Character Education’ From An Early Age
In the Japanese education system, character education is a key part of many curriculums. The focus here is on instilling young children with desirable character traits, including:
- Courage
- Independence
- Discipline
- Responsibility
- Cooperation
- Socializing
When meeting friends in Japan, I definitely get a sense of this value system.
And when traits like courage and cooperation are front and center, maintaining a culture of safety becomes that much easier.
Staying Safe In Japan: 5 Tips
Grab Some Travel Insurance
Travel insurance protects you, your stuff and your trip. It’s a smart move and also pretty affordable.
You can check out plans from popular companies like SafetyWing or World Nomads.
Also, it’s worth looking into your travel credit card benefits. Sometimes, you get additional perks there.
Budgeting for travel insurance will ensure you stay extra safe in Japan and will be covered in case of any personal emergencies, natural disasters and more.
Tip: If you get sick in Japan and need to speak with a doctor quickly, there’s a new service called HOTEL de DOCTOR 24. While the name is terrible, it is a convenient way to get medicine or a quick consult.
Follow the Rules & Local Laws
The best way to stay safe (and respectful) in Japan is to just pay attention to the signs, rules and laws.
This comes down to common sense and basically going with the flow. For example, avoid things like jaywalking or running to catch the train. Stay loose and enjoy your time in Japan.
Bending the rules can lead to problems – especially in a culture that values them so highly.
Know What To Do In Case Of An Earthquake
Japan gets around 1,500 earthquakes per year. While most of these are small and sometimes barely felt, knowing what to do in case of a big one is super important for safety.
So here’s what to do in case of an earthquake in Japan:
- Download the Safety tips app
- Stay inside if you’re already indoors
- Open the door of your hotel or rental room
- Follow what others are doing in public places
- Stay clear of buildings, trees or wires overhead
- Find higher ground immediately if you’re in a coastal area
- Drop, cover and hold – drop down low, cover your head and hold on to something
Be Careful On Train Platforms
While newer stations have gates to prevent people from falling onto the tracks, many platforms still do not have anything.
So always stay behind the yellow lines and be extra careful if you’ve had a few drinks or it’s particularly crowded.
Many trains (especially the rapid express lines) do not stop when passing through.
Use Common Sense
A lot of travel safety – in Japan and beyond – comes down to using some basic common sense.
So always listen to your gut, be cautious of dodgy areas or people and if you can, avoid walking alone down dark paths at night (even if it is Japan).
But rest assured, if you’re visiting Japan, safety is one thing you can enjoy with confidence. So stay vigilant, but have fun and enjoy your trip!
