Be Safe in Tokyo

Tokyo is considered the safest place in the world, but this is not to say it is free of crime and violence. You should still practice common sense regarding carrying cash, valuables and important travel documents.

Safety

Pick-pocketing is common in busy areas, especially during festivals. There is a koban (police box) conveniently located near each train station. This is the best place to seek directions if you are lost. You can also find lost property at these boxes.

Tokyo is safe for women, but there are cases of gropers wandering around on packed trains and at stations. Make sure you grab the offenders hand if you can and report him to the officers.

Health

The most common health concern in Tokyo is dehydration. The weather can get very hot in the summer for those who arent used to the heat. Carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go. Those who have sensitive stomachs should go easy on unfamiliar food such as sushi and sashimi. These raw dishes are hard to digest and can cause diarrhoea if the fish isnt fresh.

There are many general hospitals around Tokyo as well as clinics and pharmacies. If you need more information, call the medical information service at: +81 3 5285 8181, which can provide help in English, Chinese, Korean, Thai and Spanish. You can also contact the AMDA International Medical Information Centre at: +81 3 5285 8088.

Police: 110
Fire and ambulance services: 119

Travel insurance

As with everything else in Tokyo, medical and hospital services are very expensive. Hospitals and clinics often insist upon payment in full at the time of treatment, or concrete proof of ability to pay before treating you. Taking out travel insurance is a way of making sure that your costs will be covered in case of emergency.