Travel Insurance For Japan – Compare, Buy & Travel Worry-Free
2 May. 2025
Travel Insurance For Japan – Compare, Buy & Travel Worry-Free
Are you planning a trip to Japan? Whether you’re visiting Tokyo’s bustling streets, Kyoto’s ancient temples, or Hokkaido’s snowy slopes, travel insurance for Japan is a must.
Travel insurance protects you from costly medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and unexpected events while traveling abroad.
At OnshoreKare, we help travelers easily compare travel insurance plans for Japan and choose the right protection for their needs.
Travel insurance for Japan ensures you’re covered against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other unexpected events that can jeopardize your travel plans.
Domestic health insurance in your home country may not cover you when traveling internationally, hence you need international travel insurance coverage.
Traveling To Japan: Japan Visa And Insurance Requirements
- Entry Without Visa: U.S. citizens may visit Japan for up to 90 days without a visa.
- Non-US Citizens may need a visa to visit Japan.
- Travel Insurance Recommendation: While not mandatory, purchasing travel insurance for safe and stress-free traveling to Japan is strongly recommended.
Why Travel Insurance For Japan Is Strongly Recommended
- High Medical Costs: Medical treatment in Japan is excellent, but expensive without coverage.
- Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis pose potential risks.
- Trip Cancellation Coverage: Reimburses non-refundable travel expenses if emergencies force you to cancel or delay.
- Adventure Activities: Skiing, hiking, and cultural tours can require special medical coverage.
- Baggage Loss or Delay: Cover the risk of baggage loss or delay and get compensated.
- Pre-existing Medical Conditions: If you need coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, then look for plans that provide coverage or at least cover the acute onset of pre-existing medical conditions.
Travel insurance offers medical and financial protection and peace of mind for all types of foreign visitors.
Travel Medical Insurance vs. Trip Insurance For Japan
Understanding your travel insurance plan options is crucial:
- Travel Medical Insurance: Works like health insurance to offer medical care and pay for medical bills on your trip abroad. Covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and urgent care during your stay. Also offers non-medical expenses cover like flight delays, lost luggage, etc.
Trip Insurance: Provides financial protection of trip cost for your upcoming trip from unexpected trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delays, emergency evacuation, and lost luggage. Also, offer medical coverage, and some trip insurance plans may also offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions if the plan is purchased within a stipulated time of paying your first trip deposit.
Travel Medical Insurance or Trip Insurance, which one should you buy?
Destination-Specific Risks In Japan
- Earthquakes: Common across the country; evacuation procedures are posted in hotels.
- Typhoons: Particularly between July and October.
- Adventure Activities: Winter sports injuries (Hokkaido skiing) and hiking accidents require high-risk activities coverage.
- Language Barriers: Access to English-speaking healthcare may be limited outside major cities.
Pro-Tip: Check the policy document specifically for coverage under Natural Disasters to ensure Earthquake-related emergency evacuation and/or per day reimbursement of costs are covered.
What Does Travel Insurance For Japan Cover?
| Coverage Feature | Travel Medical Plan | Trip Insurance Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Maximum Benefit | Primary Function | Secondary Function |
| Financial Protection of Trip Cost | Not Included | Primary Function |
| Medical Emergencies | Included | Included |
| Emergency Evacuation | Included | Included |
| Trip Cancellation | Maybe For Medical Reasons | Included |
| Trip Interruptions | Maybe Included | Included |
| Travel Delay | Included | Included |
| Lost/Stolen Baggage | Included | Included |
| Adventure Activities Coverage | Optional | Optional |
Pro-Tip: Always review the fine print in the travel insurance policy document to understand limits like maximum benefit amount and covered reasons.
How Much Does Japan Travel Insurance Cost?
Japan Travel Insurance Cost Factors and Add-On Coverages. It is important to note that non-refundable costs of your trip are a benefit available in Trip Insurance plans only:
| Aspect | Travel Medical Insurance | Trip Insurance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traveler’s Age | Included | Included | Older travelers pay higher premiums |
| Trip Duration | Included | Included | Longer trips cost more |
| Coverage Limits | Included | Included | Higher maximum limits = higher cost |
| Destination Risk | Included | Included | High-risk regions may increase premiums |
| Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage | Exclusive Plans Available at Higher Premiums | Available at Extra Cost | Adds to the base cost if selected |
| Adventure Sports Coverage | Available As Add-On at Extra Cost | Available at Extra Cost | Needed for high-risk activities |
| Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) | Not Included | Available at Extra Cost | Adds 40–50% to the premium |
| Total Trip Cost Consideration | Not Included | Included | Affects the trip insurance premium |
| Baggage Protection | Available at Extra Cost | Included | May require higher limits for extra cost |
| Emergency Evacuation Upgrade | Available at Extra Cost | Available at Extra Cost | Useful for remote travel areas |
Travel Insurance Add-On Coverages (Available At Extra Cost)
| Add-On Coverage | Applicable To | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) | Trip Insurance | Reimbursement even for non-covered cancellation reasons |
| Adventure or Hazardous Sports Coverage | Both (usually Medical) | Covers injuries during skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving, hiking, etc. |
| Rental Car Collision Damage Waiver | Trip Insurance | Covers rental car damages; may avoid paying out-of-pocket |
| Extended Emergency Medical Evacuation | Travel Medical Insurance | Higher evacuation benefit limits (useful for remote areas) |
| Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) | Both | An optional lump sum payout for serious accidents |
NOTE:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Included | Comes standard in the base policy |
| Not Included | Not part of the base policy |
| Optional | Available as an extra at checkout |
| Available at Extra Cost | Must be added by paying more |
| Varies | Depends on the plan or provider |
How To Choose The Right Travel Insurance Plan For Japan
- Travel Insurance Coverage for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: Essential for senior travelers or those with health histories.
- Adventure Sports Coverage: Important if skiing, snowboarding, or hiking.
- Medical Facilities and Hospital Access: Ensure PPO networks or cashless access at hospitals.
- Travel Assistance Services: Crucial for 24/7 multilingual help.
- Collision Damage Waiver: Useful if renting a car for road trips.
Buying Tips For Japan Travel Insurance
- Purchase travel insurance before departing for Japan to ensure travel coverage.
- Carry your valid passport and insurance ID card.
- Understand if you need to pay upfront at hospitals and claim later.
- Save all receipts related to medical expenses for reimbursement.
- Your policy may provide coverage for certain incidents only if prior approval from the insurance company is obtained before medical expenses are incurred. Ensure you take approval.
What To Do If You Have Medical Emergencies In Japan
- Seek Immediate Care Nearby: Visit the nearest hospital or clinic.
- Call Emergency Services: Dial 119 for ambulance assistance.
- Use Travel Assistance: Contact your insurer’s 24/7 helpline for hospital recommendations.
- Save All Documentation: Necessary for insurance claims and reimbursement.
Travel Tips And Safety Information For Your Trip To Japan
Currency And Payments
- Local currency: Japanese Yen (JPY).
- Credit cards are widely accepted in cities; carry cash for small purchases.
- ATMs for international cards are available at 7-Eleven and Lawson stores.
Cultural Insights
- Bowing is a common greeting.
- Tipping is not expected.
- Respect local customs in temples and shrines.
Healthcare Facilities And Health Tips
- Hospitals offer world-class care but may require payment upfront.
- Routine vaccinations recommended.
- Sun protection is vital during hot months.
Food And Water Safety
- Tap water is safe across Japan.
- Street food is generally safe; stick to popular vendors.
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 110.
- Ambulance/Fire: 119.
- Japan Visitor Hotline: +81-50-3816-2787.
Crime And Safety
- Japan is one of the safest countries in the world.
- Exercise normal caution in busy tourist areas to avoid petty theft.
Transportation Tips
- Bullet trains are fast, safe, and efficient.
- Taxis are safe; insist on the meter.
Road Safety
- Drive on the left side.
- An International Driving Permit is generally needed for car rentals.
- Be cautious driving in mountainous and wintery areas like Hokkaido.
Wildlife And Nature Risks
- Limited danger from wildlife; be mindful while hiking or swimming.
Natural Disasters
- Earthquake and typhoon safety instructions are posted in hotels.
- Follow evacuation notices promptly if necessary.
Official Travel Resources
Conclusion – Travel Insurance For Japan
Traveling to Japan is an unforgettable experience, but unexpected events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. You can use Google Translate from English to Japanese to communicate in places where you face language hurdles.
Securing the right travel insurance for Japan ensures that you are protected against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more.
At OnshoreKare, we make it simple for you to compare travel insurance plans, find the best insurance coverage for your needs, and purchase quickly and securely.
Protect your trip, your health, and your investment — and explore Japan with true peace of mind! Get a free travel insurance quote and make your trip to Japan safe, secure, and worry-free.
FAQs – Travel Insurance For Japan
Is travel insurance mandatory for Japan?
Travel insurance is not legally required for entry into Japan, but it is strongly recommended due to high medical costs and the risks of natural disasters.
How much does travel insurance for Japan cost?
Travel insurance for Japan starts at less than $1 per day per traveler but depends on several factors like trip length, coverage level, and traveler’s age.
Does travel insurance for Japan cover COVID-19?
Most modern travel insurance plans include medical coverage and trip cancellation benefits related to COVID-19, but always review policy details.
Which is the best travel insurance for Japan?
The best travel insurance for Japan depends on your needs — look for plans with strong medical coverage, trip cancellation protection, and support for pre-existing conditions if needed.
Can you buy travel insurance after booking your flight to Japan?
Yes, you can buy travel insurance after booking your flight, but it’s best to purchase travel insurance soon after your initial trip deposit to maximize available benefits like trip cancellation coverage.
What does travel insurance for Japan typically cover?
Coverage usually includes emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and travel delays.
What should you do if you get sick or injured in Japan?
Seek medical attention at the nearest hospital or clinic, contact your travel insurer’s emergency hotline, and keep all medical documentation for claims reimbursement.
