Do you need travel insurance for Japan?
It’s not a legal requirement to get travel insurance for Japan. That said, with it, you’ll rest easier knowing you’re covered should anything unexpected happen. This includes lost items, baggage, falling ill, or having a flight delayed or cancelled. All these things add up and can become very expensive. With travel insurance, all this and more is covered:
- Earthquakes and travel disruption. Japan is located in an active earthquake zone. While they are rare, if your travel plans are affected, travel insurance can help cover you. You can visit the Department of Foreign Affairs site for more information.
- Medication cover. There are some restrictions on prescription medication. So, if yours becomes confiscated or lost for whatever reason, we can help cover the replacement costs. Having a doctor’s note is highly advised in this situation. Be aware that you may not be able to get the same brand-name medication that is available in Ireland.
- Cover for lost and stolen items. Japan’s crime rate is relatively low. That said, there have been reports of drinks being spiked in certain districts in Tokyo. Particularly, Roppongi and Kabuki-cho. Be mindful of your surroundings and stick to reputable bars and clubs.
What does JustCover’s Japan trip insurance cover?
Travel insurance is a wise investment when you’re travelling almost 10,000 km to Japan. Knowing you’re covered for your health, belongings, delays and more gives you one less thing to worry about.
Travel insurance for Japan protects you from the moment you book. Make sure to read our Policy Wording for more details on what is and isn't included.
What's covered
Emergency medical expenses and repatriation costs – This includes the costs of tests, medications and procedures necessary to treat an illness or injury while abroad. You’ll also be covered for repatriation, making sure you return safely to Ireland.
Cancellation – Cover for flight and accommodation costs if an unexpected event means you have to cancel your trip before you go.
Curtailment – Cover if you need to return home early following an emergency.
Travel delays – If your flight is delayed, we’ll compensate you for the time.
Personal belongings – You’ll be covered if your baggage or its contents are lost or stolen.
Personal liability – Cover for your legal expenses and any liability due if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property while you’re away on holiday.
Legal protection cover – Provides cover for your legal expenses if you have to claim compensation or damages due to something that happened while you were away on holiday.
What's not covered
Claims below the value of the excess – This is dependent on your policy level.
Trips outside the region of cover – If you go somewhere not covered in your policy documents.
Known events or circumstances – Claims related to problems that you knew about before booking the trip or buying the travel insurance are not covered.
Medical conditions you don’t declare – You need to declare all of your pre-existing medical conditions.
Choosing not to travel – We know that sometimes plans change, but you’re only covered for cancellation where the reason falls within the policy terms and conditions.
Travelling against medical or government advice – We can’t cover you if you’ve been told not to go by a doctor or your medical team, or if you’re going away for treatment. We also can’t offer you a policy if the Department of Foreign Affairs has advised against all but essential travel to a destination.
Choose the right level of cover
We offer different levels of cover to make your Travel Insurance as cost-effective as possible.
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Find the best travel insurance for Japan
Annual multi-trip travel insurance
Perfect if you plan to visit Japan (or other destinations) more than once a year. You’ll be covered for multiple trips under one policy, saving time and money.
Single trip travel insurance
Ideal if you’re taking a once-off holiday to Japan. Covers you from the day you leave Ireland until you return.
Why choose JustCover for your Japan holiday insurance?
Heading for some sky-high delights in Tokyo? Or exploring the stunning temples of Kyoto? Whatever your plans, having the right cover goes a long way when you’re a long way from home.
- 98% of our customers rate us as ‘Excellent’ or ‘Great’.¹
- 100% of our customers would consider buying from JustCover again².
- Get up to unlimited cover for emergency medical expenses.
- As well as access to our 24/7 emergency medical helpline.
- Plus up to €10,000 cancellation cover³.
Specialist travel insurance for Japan
Seniors travel insurance
Provides medical cover for older holidaymakers. Includes emergency care and pre-existing health conditions.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Designed for holidaymakers with health conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, or asthma. This cover protects you if symptoms flare up.
Family travel insurance
Covers the whole family under one policy, including children. Ideal for family holidays to Japan’s theme parks, temples, or ski resorts.
Cruise travel insurance
Ideal if your trip includes a cruise around Japan or nearby regions. This specialist cover includes medical emergency flights home and onboard care not covered by standard policies.
Can you get travel insurance for skiing in Japan?
Yes, but you’ll need travel insurance with winter sports cover. Standard travel insurance won’t always cover accidents that happen on the slopes.
Japan has some of the world’s best ski resorts, including Niseko, Hakuba, and Furano, but medical treatment for ski injuries can be expensive. Adding ski cover to your policy can protect you against:
- Medical costs from ski or snowboard accidents
- Loss or damage to ski equipment or passes
- Piste closure or avalanche delays
- Emergency mountain rescue or an air ambulance home
Make sure you declare winter sports when buying your policy. You’ll usually need to stay within official ski areas and follow local safety rules to remain covered.
Cover for adventure activities in Japan
What you’re covered for depends on your policy and what activities you have planned.
Japan offers a wide range of exciting activities. From hiking Mount Fuji to white-water rafting in Gunma or scuba diving in Okinawa. Our standard travel insurance policies include basic cover for low-risk activities, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and trail walks.
However, riskier sports or adventure activities will require additional cover. The same goes for winter sports like skiing, or if you’re looking to hit the golf greens of Karuizawa and Okinawa.
If you’re planning on jumping into any of these activities, make sure you have the required cover. Always check your Policy Wording for more information.
How much does Japan travel insurance cost?
No travel insurance policy is the same, as no two holidaymakers are. So, the cost of your Japan travel insurance depends on a few things, namely:
- Your trip length. Longer holidays can raise the cost because there’s more time for things to go wrong. Whether that’s travel delays, illnesses, injuries or other unexpected mishaps. A weekend city break to Tokyo will cost less than two weeks in Kyoto.
- Your age. We have no upper-age limit at JustCover. However, travel to Japan for senior holidaymakers will likely cost more, as you’re more likely to make a claim.
- Pre-existing medical conditions. Declaring medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart problems may increase your premium, but it ensures you’re properly protected.
- Planned activities. Skiing, hiking or other adventure sports may require extra cover.
- Level of cover. We include 100 activities in our standard policies. But if you’re taking part in more extreme activities or winter sports, you’ll likely need additional cover.
Japan travel insurance for pre-existing medical conditions
Japan’s healthcare system is exceptional, but it’s not free for tourists. Even a short hospital visit can be expensive, and hospitals may require payment up front. With travel health insurance for Japan, you’re covered for over 1,300 medical conditions. And with no upper age limit, we’re proud to be able to cover senior holidaymakers.
Completing our medical form is the quickest and easiest way to get your quote. Be sure to answer as honestly and accurately as possible, as your policy may become void if you don’t.
Here are some of the common conditions we cover:
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Heart conditions
- Arthritis
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Asthma
- Disabilities
- COPD
Understanding healthcare in Japan
Public hospitals and clinics only accept Japanese health insurance. As an Irish tourist, you’ll need to pay the full cost unless you have travel insurance. Private hospitals, especially in cities like Tokyo or Osaka, can cost even more.
If you fall ill or have an accident in Japan, you should call our 24/7 helpline for advice and support. From here, we can guide you to nearby pharmacies and hospitals. Plus, with travel insurance, you’ll be covered for any costs relating to your medical condition.
However, it’s worth noting that some medications that are legal in Ireland are banned in Japan. Some that could land you in trouble include:
- Vicks inhalers
- Medicines for allergies and sinus problems
- Cold and flu medication containing pseudoephedrine
- Some over-the-counter painkillers containing codeine
Be sure to check the DFA to see which medications you can and can’t bring.
What to do in a medical emergency in Japan
If you have a medical emergency in Japan, stay calm and follow these simple steps:
- Call 119 for an ambulance (English operators are available in major cities).
- Contact our 24-hour emergency assistance line.
- Keep copies of receipts and medical documents for any treatment received.
- If you’re admitted to the hospital, notify us as soon as possible.
Do you need vaccinations for Japan?
No specific vaccines are required for entry to Japan, but health authorities recommend being up to date with routine vaccinations, such as:
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
- Hepatitis A (recommended for most holidaymakers)
- Japanese Encephalitis (recommended for rural stays or extended visits during summer months)
Always check with your GP at least 6-8 weeks before your trip to make sure you have the right protection.
A simple 3-step process to book your Japan travel insurance
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You will only need to tell us some information about yourself and your holiday plans
Select and tailor your cover
Now all you need to do is to choose the level of cover that best suits your needs
Buy your cover and relax
Purchase your cover and you’re ready to go – we’ll take care of the rest!
Expert travel insurance recommendations from our team
"Japan offers such a rich mix of tradition and innovation, and our goal is to make sure holidaymakers can enjoy every moment of it without worrying about the unexpected. Our Japan travel insurance is designed to support you when you need it most, wherever your trip takes you."
Peter Clark - JustCoverDirector
What our customers say
“I had a really good experience with JustCover. I did it online, and it was very straightforward and easy. All done at the one time, not having to get the medical screening done separately, this made it easier. Prices were good - cheaper than most for the same thing”
see full reviewJapan travel tips and recommendations
Japan is one of the most rewarding destinations for Irish holidaymakers, but it also has some unique customs to keep in mind before you go.
Healthcare tips
- Japan’s healthcare is excellent, but it can be very expensive for tourists without insurance. Always carry your insurance details and emergency contact card.
- Pharmacies are common, but many medications available in Ireland may be restricted or require a prescription in Japan. Check with your GP before travelling.
- Consider carrying a translated medical note if you take prescription medication regularly.
Safety and culture
- Japan is generally very safe, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world. That said, holidaymakers should still be aware of pickpockets in busy areas like Shibuya or train stations.
- Public behaviour is important. Be polite, quiet on transport, and remove shoes when entering homes or some restaurants.
- Cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas, so carry some yen as not all shops accept cards.
Transport
- The Japan Rail Pass is an excellent option for longer stays. It offers unlimited travel on Japan Rail (JR) trains, including many Shinkansen routes.
- Public transport is punctual and efficient, but avoid talking on phones while on trains.
- Taxis can be expensive. So if you’re on a budget, try using metro networks and local buses where possible.
Common travel risks in Japan
While Japan is safe and well-organised, every destination comes with risks. Here are some common ones, and how to stay prepared:
- Natural disasters. Japan experiences earthquakes, typhoons and occasional tsunamis. Keep an eye on the Japan Meteorological Agency’s alerts and follow local safety guidance.
- Heat and humidity. Summers can be very hot, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid long periods outdoors during midday.
- Language barriers. English isn’t widely spoken outside major cities. Download an offline translation app and carry your accommodation address written in Japanese.
- Medical emergencies. Healthcare is private and can require upfront payment. Travel insurance is essential to cover costs and language support.
- Culture differences. Japan has strict etiquette. Learn basic customs – bowing, queuing, and not tipping – to avoid causing offence by mistake.
Frequently asked questions about travel insurance for Japan
Is Japan safe for foreigners to visit?
Yes, Japan is generally safe for Irish tourists to visit. It has a security status of ‘normal precautions’, which is the lowest rating. While countries or territories with this rating have a security environment similar to Ireland's, local laws and customs may differ.
So, be sure to do your research before you visit. And, as with any major country, petty crime is more common in capitals and tourist attractions. So use your common sense and remain vigilant.
What type of travel insurance is best for Japan?
For most Irish holidaymakers, single-trip or annual multi-trip insurance works best. Japan is considered a worldwide (non-USA) destination, so your policy should reflect this. Make sure your plan includes medical cover, trip cancellation, and personal belongings protection. If you’re planning winter sports, adventure activities, or a cruise, make sure they are specifically included.
Will Japan travel insurance cover natural disasters like earthquakes?
Many policies include cover for natural disasters, such as earthquakes, typhoons or volcanic eruptions, though limits vary. Cover typically includes trip cancellation, curtailment, and emergency flights home if your travel plans are affected.
Always read the Policy Wording carefully to know what is and isn’t covered.
Does Japan travel insurance cover cruise holidays?
Yes, but you’ll need to select a policy that includes cruise cover. This gives you protection for missed port departures, cabin confinement due to illness, lost luggage, and onboard medical emergencies. Some holidaymakers visit Japan via Asia-Pacific cruises, so confirming that your itinerary is covered under a cruise extension is crucial before you depart.
Are there age limits for Japan travel insurance?
JustCover offers travel insurance for most age groups, including seniors over 65 and over 80s. However, premiums may increase with age, and some insurers may apply additional medical screening or coverage limits. Regardless of age, it’s essential to declare all pre-existing medical conditions before you go.
When is the best time to buy travel insurance for a trip to Japan?
You should buy travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. This way, you’re covered straight away for cancellation costs if something unexpected happens before you travel. It’s also the safest option if you’re booking flights or accommodation far in advance. Ideally, buy your policy on the same day you confirm your booking.
Is healthcare free in Japan for tourists?
No, healthcare in Japan is not free for tourists. Irish visitors are required to pay the full cost of treatment, even in emergencies. Costs for hospital stays, medication and procedures can be high and complex treatments can be even more. That’s why medical cover in your travel insurance is essential for any trip to Japan.
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2. Based on 128 responses, correct as of 27/08/2025.
3. Covers cancellation for certain reasons outside of your control and detailed in our Policy Wording. Amount of cover depends on the policy level you have purchased.