Japan Risk Assessment Country Guide
Home to the world’s tenth-largest population, with over 126 million people, Japan has become among the most technologically advanced countries in the world. The period of overall real economic growth from the 1960s to the 1980s has been called the Japanese post-war economic miracle, with growth averaging as much as 7.5% in the 1960s and 1970s. Growth slowed markedly in the 1990s, but Japan remains a major economic power as the world’s third-largest economy by nominal GDP. In 2011, Japan suffered a catastrophic earthquake and ensuing tsunami that claimed thousands of lives and severely hobbled its energy infrastructure.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises against all travel to the exclusion zones around the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear facility identified by Japanese authorities.
- Health
- Safety & Security
- Terrorism
On September 11, 2015, the CDC issued a Watch – Level 1 for Japan for the increased reported cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). As of late August, more than 264,500 cases of HFMD have been reported. The disease is contagious and caused by different viruses; symptoms include fever, painful blister-like sores in the mouth, and a rash that may appear as blisters. Travelers are encouraged to practice cautionary hygiene and cleanliness.
Be sure to contact your General Practitioner about 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Japan has excellent medical facilities, but cost of treatment can be high. Because travelers and expats are expected to pay all medical treatment costs, be sure you have sufficient International Health Insurance Coverage before arriving.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your time in Japan, dial 119 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Clements Worldwide offers Expatriate Health Insurance for expats and international organizations. This policy guarantees medical coverage, with up to USD 5 million in health care benefits. With flexible payment options and choice of deductible, coverage will help manage the costs of living in Japan.
Call us today at +1.202.872.0060 or 800.872.0067 or email request@clements.com to discuss your organization’s travel needs tailored to considerations involved while operating in Japan.
Source: UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office and Clements Worldwide
Crime levels are low. Generally it is safe to walk at night and to travel on public transport, although it is always important to maintain the same level of vigilance as you would at home and take sensible precautions.The Roppongi entertainment district of Tokyo is considered a higher risk area for crime.
On August 31, 2016, a shooting killed one person and seriously injured one other in Wakayama in western Japan.
On July 26, 2015, 26-year-old Satoshi Uematsu broke into a care center for people with mental disabilities and stabbed 44 people. Japanese police apprehended the assailant.
On July 16, 2015, a vote in Japan’s lower parliament allowing Japan’s military to participate in foreign conflicts for the first time since World War II. As a result of the vote, some of the largest protests since 2011 have erupted throughout the country.
Road travel is generally safe in Japan. Roads are well maintained, and there are severe penalties for drinking and driving. Drivers should note that driving is on the left side and follow mostly the same rules as in the UK. Drivers should also be careful for pedestrians crossing roads at green lights, cyclists traveling on the wrong side of the road, and taxi drivers stopping suddenly.
All drivers in Japan are required to have an International Driving Permit (IDP), a current license and insurance. An IDP is only valid for use in Japan for one year regardless of its date of expiration. Be sure to carry your driver’s license with you at all times as penalties for driving without proper documentation is severe. Foreigners planning to stay in Japan longer than a year are encouraged to procure a Japanese driver’s license.
Clements offers International Car Insurance, which includes Physical Damage, Third Party Liability, and Excess Liability coverage. With flexible deductible options and fast claims processing, your policy will provide coverage for your vehicle fleet whether it’s on the road, parked or transported abroad.
Call us today at +1.202.872.0060 or 800.872.0067 or email request@clements.com to discuss your organization’s travel needs tailored to considerations involved while operating in Japan.
Source: UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office and Clements Worldwide
There is a low risk of terrorism in Japan. While attacks are unlikely, expats should still be vigilant while living in the country. To provide financial security in the event of a terrorist attack, Clements can create a customized War and Terrorism Insurance policy for your needs. These extensions offer the right coverage against the risks of civil unrest, war, riots, looting, and acts of terrorism.
Call us today at +1.202.872.0060 or 800.872.0067 or email request@clements.com to discuss your organization’s travel needs tailored to considerations involved while operating in Japan.
Source: UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office and Clements Worldwide