Japan

Japanese and UK law are very different. In Japan, you can be arrested and detained without charge for up to 23 days, even for minor offences such as theft or trespassing.

You must always carry your passport or Japanese residence card with you. The police can arrest you if you cannot show proof of your visa or residence status.

In general, drinking alcohol in public places is not illegal. However, there are bans on drinking alcohol in specific areas on certain days, for example New Year’s Eve.

Smoking is illegal on the streets of Tokyo and some other cities. Smoke only in designated areas.

There is zero tolerance of drug crime and the penalties are severe. British nationals have been arrested and detained for receiving small quantities through the post or if they test positive when the police raid clubs or bars. British nationals convicted of drug trafficking have received sentences ranging from 6 to 17 years and fines of 3 to 4 million yen. Prisoners in Japan are assigned labour or factory work as part of their sentences.

Same-sex sexual activity is not illegal, but Japanese law does not protect against discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Same-sex marriages are not recognised, but some local authorities issue certificates of recognition that can be used for civil issues, such as hospital visitation rights.

Shinjuku Nichome in Tokyo and Doyamacho in Osaka are well-known LGBT+ areas.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

It is illegal to possess or use some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines under Japan’s strictly enforced law on anti-stimulant drugs. Ignorance of the law does not count as a defence. See Health.

Japanese family law is different from UK law. Parents may choose joint custody of a child after divorce, or they may choose for one parent to hold sole custody. Access to a child of the non-custodial parent can be difficult. Legal custody disputes can be lengthy and expensive, and rulings to return or secure access to a child may take time to be enforced.  See child abduction, custody and parental rights in Japan.

Most Japanese people are welcoming and friendly, but can be reserved. Loud, boisterous behaviour may receive negative attention. Showing affection in public is less common than in the UK. 

Tattoos have a historical association with organised crime in Japan. While acceptance is increasing, some public facilities do not admit people with tattoos – for example, public swimming pools, hot springs, beaches and some gyms. Other establishments request you cover tattoos while using the facilities.  

Japanese summers are extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35 degrees in July and August. High humidity often makes it feel much hotter. As a result, heat stroke and heat-related illnesses pose a significant risk during the summer months.

The Japanese Environmental Agency publishes a heat stroke index, that identifies areas have a heat stroke alert currently in effect. The website also provides information about heat stroke, its symptoms, and practical advice on how to prevent heat-related illnesses.

In Japan the tropical cyclone (typhoon) season is between June and December, peaking between July and September. The highest risk is in southern parts of the country. Monitor any approaching storms using Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts. Follow the advice of the local authorities and emergency services, including any evacuation orders.

Tropical cyclones in Japan often come with damaging high tides, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding. The dangers increase when an earthquake occurs shortly after a tropical cyclone has saturated an area.

See weather safety tips from the Japan National Tourism Agency.

Periods of heavy rainfall are common in Japan, particularly during the rainy season and typhoon season. Intense rain can lead to flooding, landslides, and significant disruption to transport and infrastructure. Conditions can worsen rapidly and with little warning, especially in low-lying, coastal, and mountainous areas.

The Japan Meteorological Agency publishes weather warnings and emergency alerts that identify areas currently at risk from heavy rain, flooding, and landslides. The website also provides information on severe weather hazards, evacuation guidance, and practical advice on how to stay safe during periods of heavy rainfall.

Japan is in a major earthquake zone. The Japan Meteorological Agency provides a list of helpful apps and websites in the event of disaster . See further earthquake safety tips from the Japan National Tourism Agency. 

Monitor earthquake information, including tsunami and aftershock warnings, from the Japan Meteorological Agency. See further news on earthquakes at NHK World. 

Take note of instructions in hotel rooms and at train stations and follow the advice of local authorities.

There are several active volcanoes in Japan. Monitor local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Check for volcano warnings from the Japanese Meteorological Agency. See volcano safety tips from the Japan National Tourism Agency.