Japan
Travel Destination – Japan
From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the historic temples of Kyoto, or the snowy peaks of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, Japan offers travellers a mix of tradition, innovation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning to wander through bustling city districts, soak in an onsen, or explore quiet countryside villages, being aware of local health considerations and taking a few simple precautions will help you enjoy your trip to Japan safely and stress-free.
Health Risks
Pre-travel preparation
It’s a smart idea to consult a travel doctor before your trip to Japan. They can create a personalised health plan based on your itinerary - whether you’ll be exploring Tokyo and Osaka, visiting cultural landmarks in Kyoto or Nara, skiing in Hokkaido, or relaxing on the beaches of Okinawa. Your doctor will check if any recommended vaccinations apply to your itinerary, issue prescriptions for your routine medications if needed, and make sure you’re equipped with the right supplies to take with you. Aim to book your consultation six to eight weeks before departure so there’s enough time for any vaccines to be scheduled. Even if your trip is coming up soon, it’s still worth an appointment - some vaccines and preventive measures can be arranged on an accelerated timetable.
Insect avoidance
In Japan, mosquito- and tick-borne illnesses are important considerations for some travellers. Japanese encephalitis occurs mainly in rural and agricultural regions during the warmer months, and vaccination may be recommended for longer stays outside major cities. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), though rare, has also been reported in parts of northern Japan such as Hokkaido. While visitors to urban areas have a low risk, those planning outdoor activities like hiking or camping in forested or rural areas should take precautions. Protect yourself by staying in accommodation with air conditioning or fly screens, wearing long sleeves and trousers when outdoors, and using effective repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Our Travel Doctors
Our fully qualified doctors have an interest in travel medicine and immunisations. And they know travel. Their expert advice will be tailored for you, your travel companions and your trip.
Which shots do I need for Japan?
Japanese encephalitis
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Japanese encephalitis (JEV) is a mosquito-borne viral infection found mainly in rural and agricultural areas of Asia, including parts of Japan. The risk for most short-term visitors to major cities is very low, but vaccination is recommended for travellers who plan to live in affected areas, spend a month or more in rural regions, or who make frequent trips to countries where JEV occurs. It may also be considered for shorter-term travellers who will be hiking, camping, or staying without reliable air conditioning or screens. Discuss with your travel doctor if this may apply to you.
Hepatitis A
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Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver that spreads through contaminated food or water. Illness can range from mild symptoms to more severe disease, and while it’s relatively rare in Australia, cases are still reported in parts of Asia, including Japan. Travellers who haven’t completed a full two-dose course of the Hepatitis A vaccine are strongly advised to get vaccinated before departure. This is particularly important if you plan on eating street food, staying in rural areas, or joining a homestay where food preparation and hygiene standards may vary.
Hepatitis B
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Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and is transmitted through contact with blood or bodily fluids - for example, through unprotected sex or sharing items like razors. While many younger Australians are protected through routine childhood vaccination, not all adults are immune. For travel to Japan, hepatitis B vaccination is generally recommended for those staying long-term, making repeated visits, or who may be exposed through higher-risk activities. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, a travel doctor can help determine whether immunisation is recommended for your trip.
Tick-borne encephalitis
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Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, found in forested and rural areas of parts of northern Japan, including Hokkaido. The risk for most short-term visitors is very low, but vaccination may be considered for travellers who plan extended stays in these regions, or who will be hiking, camping, or working outdoors during tick season. For travellers sticking to urban areas, the vaccine is generally not necessary. Preventive measures like using insect repellent, wearing long clothing, and checking for ticks after outdoor activities remain important for everyone.
Routine vaccinations
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Travel is an ideal opportunity to make sure you’re fully up to date with routine vaccinations. While Australia has high immunisation coverage, outbreaks of diseases such as measles continue to occur around the world - including in popular destinations like Japan. Measles is highly contagious and can spread quickly in airports, on planes, and in crowded settings, making it especially important for travellers to check their protection. A pre-travel health consultation is the best way to review your vaccine status - including measles-mumps-rubella, tetanus, influenza, and COVID-19.
Japan
Other health risks in Japan
Deep vein thrombosis
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Prolonged travel by air, road, or rail can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form in the veins - most often in the legs. Long-haul flights to destinations such as Japan involve extended periods of sitting, which can slow blood flow and raise the risk of clotting. To lower your risk, aim to move around the cabin regularly, stretch your legs and ankles, and walk every couple of hours. Staying well-hydrated is also important. Travellers with additional risk factors, such as a history of DVT or certain medical conditions, may benefit from wearing below-knee compression stockings to improve circulation.
Safety on the roads and elsewhere
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Part of travelling is embracing new experiences and adventures - but it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to stay safe.
If you’re considering riding a motorbike overseas, make sure you have the appropriate skills, understand local road rules, and always wear a helmet.
If diving is on your itinerary, use reputable operators, follow safe diving practices, and remember to leave enough time between your last dive and flying.
In Japan’s ski resorts, ensure you have suitable gear, check local conditions, and stay within marked areas.
Whatever activities you choose, it’s always wise to take out travel insurance that covers medical care and emergency evacuation.