Get the Best Travel Insurance for Japan (who I use)
I spend around half the year in Japan. I used to live here as an English teacher, but these days, I do extended stays in Tokyo. And I love it here — amazing food, amazing people and an unmatched amazing vibe.
It’s my second home.
So to make sure you have the best trip, it’s smart to plan ahead for things like your budget, having proof of onward travel and choosing the best travel insurance for Japan.
I always use SafetyWing — they’re affordable, comprehensive and super convenient (they work like a subscription, so you can easily start and pause your plans whenever you want).
Whether you’re a digital nomad like me or just visiting for a shorter trip, this is my guide on getting coverage in Japan.
Now let’s do this freaking thing!
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Do You Need Travel Insurance for Japan?
According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, it’s “strongly encouraged” to get travel insurance when visiting Japan.
Based on this wording (and my past trips without having it), travel insurance isn’t technically required. And I’ve never been asked to show proof of having it (except when I was traveling during Covid days).
But grabbing some basic travel insurance is definitely worth it and recommended.
Travel insurance is not expensive, it’s super easy to sign up for and it fully protects you in case of an emergency.
“Japan is super safe and has great infrastructure. But remember the country also experiences natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis.”
And keep in mind that Japan has super hot summers, which could cause heat exhaustion or dehydration (which is why I recommend spring or fall as the best times to visit Japan).
Travel insurance protects you while overseas. Because sometimes, things happen. Life happens!
From lost luggage to spraining an ankle while hiking up Mt. Takao, travel insurance is a simple and cheap way to protect yourself and your stuff.
Even if it’s not technically required, it’s definitely worth throwing into your budget.
BTW, Japan recently rolled out a 24-hour health service for foreigners, called HOTEL de DOCTOR 24 (terrible name, I know). But it’s a way to get quick online healthcare consultation if you get sick while in Japan.
Explore more:
➤ How to Plan A Trip to Japan
➤ The Ultimate Japan Train Guide
➤ What to Pack for Your Japan Trip
The Best Travel Insurance for Japan (why I use SafetyWing)
I use SafetyWing as my go-to travel insurance when visiting Japan (not just in Japan though, I use them for everywhere I go).
Here’s why:
They’re affordable
They’re super flexible
A quick claims process
They have a solid reputation
A super simple online sign up process
Great coverage for emergencies like evacuations from natural disasters
SafetyWing works like a subscription style model, so you can easily start and pause your coverage at any time (even if you’re already traveling overseas).
The starting cost is just $56.28/month for the Nomad Insurance plan.
Explore more:
➤ The Best Day Trip From Tokyo
➤ How Much Yen to Bring to Japan
➤ The Best Japanese Souvenirs to Buy
SafetyWing Coverage Features
Nomad Insurance Essential:
Coverage in 180+ countries
Covers emergency sickness, injury and hospital stays
Emergency evacuation
Lost luggage
Motor accidents
Leisure sports and activities
Travel delay coverage (for meals and accommodations)
Repatriation of remains
Emergency transportation for natural disasters or political unrest
Sign up for coverage while already traveling abroad
Nomad Insurance Complete:
Everything in Essential plus:
Coverage in 175+ countries
Choose any doctor
Doctor and specialist visits
Wellness therapies
Mental health care
Physical therapy
Maternity care
Checkups and vaccines
Burglary
Cancelled or inaccessible accommodations
Premium add-ons (like dental)
Explore more:
➤ SafetyWing vs. World Nomads
Choosing the Right Travel Insurance for Japan
Choosing the right travel insurance ultimately depends on your needs and the type of traveling you’ll be doing. So here are some quick tips to choose the right option!
Get Extra Coverage for Adventure Sports
If you plan on doing more adventure travel and actives (snowboarding, etc.), then you’ll likely need to get some extra coverage beyond a basic travel insurance plan (with SafetyWing).
SafetyWing’s basic nomad insurance policy (the Essential plan) only covers injuries from leisure activities, not adventure sports. BUT, they do have an adventure sports add-on for an additional charge.
So be sure to read the fine print on whatever insurance plan you choose to be sure you’re covered fully.
Understand Your Policy Coverage
Most of the negative reviews I’ve read online (for SafetyWing and other insurance providers) come from not fully understanding what was covered in a policy.
So again, be sure to review what’s actually covered so you’re not left with any surprises.
Most simple travel insurance only covers emergencies and travel-related mishaps. If you want broader coverage (for things like doctor/specialist visits or even maternity care and wellness therapies), you’ll need something more.
SafetyWing offer a more comprehensive policy — perfect for long-term travelers, expats and digital nomads — Nomad Insurance Complete.
Explore more:
➤ Best Long-Term Travel Insurance Options
Later ✌️
SafetyWing is my favorite travel insurance option (for Japan and beyond).
They’re affordable, super convenient and come with a great reputation.
But it’s also important to consider your situation, goals and travel plans. Some policies may be better suited, depending on what you’ll be doing and what you need.
Either way, travel insurance is a smart way to protect yourself, your stuff and your trip while exploring Japan. It doesn’t break your budget and it’s super easy to sign up for.
So with that, safe travels and enjoy your trip!
Want More? Nice. Here’s More.
