Why go
Keep official emergency information available, carry essential medication, and know how to reach your accommodation without relying on one device. In hot or severe weather, shorten exposed walks; during disruptions, follow instructions from transport staff and public authorities. Use Safety and Health in Tokyo as the planning lens; details in Safety and Health in Tokyo connect each choice with concrete places and timing.
The full story
Safety & health Tokyo is probably one of the safest big cities you will ever visit, and Japan in general is one of the safest places to visit in the world. Most people, including single female travellers, would not encounter any problems walking along the streets alone at night. Street crime is extremely rare, even late at night, and continues to decrease. However, "little crime" does not mean "no crime", and common sense should still be applied as anywhere in the world. Often the biggest risk is travellers taking Japan's visibly apparent lack of crime too close to heart and doing things they would never do back home. The most common crime is sexual harassment on crowded trains, pressed up against each other, hands wander. This is more of a local problem as westerners are considered more aggressive and would stick up for themselves. The best way to deal with any wandering hands is to yell "Chikan!" which is the Japanese term for "pervert". Small police stations, or kōban , can be found every few blocks. If you get lost or need assistance, by all means go to them; it's their job to help you! They have great maps of the surrounding area, and are happy to give directions. They may, however, have difficulties with English, so some knowledge of the Japanese language helps.
Useful to know
- Confirm current details from the relevant official operator before relying on this safety and health in tokyo advice.