- The best travel insurance plans for Japan
- Is it currently safe to travel to Japan?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Japan?
- Why take out travel insurance for Japan?
- What should travel insurance for Japan cover?
- The Cost of Travel Insurance for Japan
- How to Pay Less for Travel Insurance to Japan?
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Japan?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Japan: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Japan covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Canadians but is highly recommended to cover potential high costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare in Japan is excellent but expensive; a hospital stay can cost over CAD $500 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Japan typically costs between CAD $30 and CAD $70.
5. Good to know: Many Japanese hospitals require upfront payment for medical services, even in an emergency.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Japan.
The best travel insurance plans for Japan
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.5M CA$ | Recommended for Japan for high protection levels. - substantial medical reimbursement - repatriation covered - broad guarantees, suitable for costly urban care |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.5M CA$ | Reliable coverage for Japan with 24/7 support. - high limit - rapid medical assistance - cancellation cover, clear terms |
| Tourist Card | 0.7M CA$ | Designed for tourists needing solid protection in Japan. - generous coverage - emergency and hospital care - suitable for urban and rural stays |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.0M CA$ | Balanced insurance for most trips to Japan. - repatriation included - inpatient and outpatient costs - works for travelers of all ages |
| Globe Partner | 0.4M CA$ | Adapted for extended or educational stays in Japan. - essential cover - civil liability - medical evacuation provided |
| Globe Traveller | 0.7M CA$ | Good for budget-conscious travelers to Japan. - core medical guarantees - fast claims - limited but well-defined ceiling |
- substantial medical reimbursement
- repatriation covered
- broad guarantees, suitable for costly urban care
- high limit
- rapid medical assistance
- cancellation cover, clear terms
- generous coverage
- emergency and hospital care
- suitable for urban and rural stays
- repatriation included
- inpatient and outpatient costs
- works for travelers of all ages
- essential cover
- civil liability
- medical evacuation provided
- core medical guarantees
- fast claims
- limited but well-defined ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Japan?
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada advises travellers to take normal security precautions in Japan according to the latest official advice from Global Affairs Canada.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime is rare, but incidents such as drink spiking and overcharging have been reported in entertainment areas including Kabukicho and Roppongi in Tokyo. Always carry your passport and avoid risk-prone nightlife zones at night.
- Health risks: while no specific vaccines are required for entry from Canada, Japan faces frequent earthquakes, typhoons from June to October, and seasonal outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue in southern regions. Note that medical care is high quality but can be expensive for foreigners and often requires advance payment.
- Legal constraints: all visitors are fingerprinted and photographed upon entry, and you must carry your physical Canadian passport at all times. Hotels are legally obliged to photocopy your passport and may also request detailed personal information.
- Cultural and consumer practices: tax-free shopping rules and processes are subject to change, and failure to comply with local regulations on returns or customs could result in denied refunds. Always keep receipts and check the latest entry and customs requirements for visitors.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Japan.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Japan?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian citizens travelling to Japan.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended because healthcare in Japan can be expensive, and payment is often required in advance. The Canadian public health system does not cover medical expenses abroad, including hospital stays or emergency evacuations in Japan.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Japan. This is mainly due to the strong healthcare system and high level of safety, but the cost of care remains high for foreigners.
Why take out travel insurance for Japan?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Japan.
In Japan, foreigners are frequently required to pay the full cost of medical care up front. At private hospitals such as St. Luke’s International Hospital in Tokyo or International Catholic Hospital in Osaka, outpatient consultations, hospitalisations, and specialized treatments can be costly, especially for non-residents without Japanese national health insurance.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Japan.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at St. Luke’s International Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | ¥350,000 (approx. CAD 2,950) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | ¥200,000 (approx. CAD 1,690) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | ¥6,000,000 (approx. CAD 50,500) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | ¥800,000 (approx. CAD 6,750) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Japan cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency treatment, hospital stays, tests, and consultations in case of illness or accident. For Japan, a minimum reimbursement limit of CAD 200,000 is advisable due to high private healthcare costs. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for medical transportation to the nearest suitable hospital or repatriation to Canada if needed. The recommended limit is at least CAD 250,000 because of expensive air ambulance and long distances. |
| 🏨 Hospitalization | Includes room, board, and intensive care at private hospitals in Japan. Opt for at least CAD 150,000 to cover major surgery and specialist treatments. |
| 💊 Medication | Reimburses prescription drugs for covered medical events. A limit of CAD 2,000 or more is recommended for common acute medication during your stay. |
| 🛄 Baggage insurance | Protects against theft, damage, or loss of personal belongings including luggage and electronics. Look for limits of CAD 3,000–5,000 for baggage and valuables replacement. |
| ✈️ Trip interruption/cancellation | Offers reimbursement for prepaid travel costs if you need to cancel or shorten your stay due to emergencies. Seek coverage of at least CAD 5,000 per person for peace of mind. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Covers injury or property damage accidentally caused to others. A recommended minimum limit is CAD 1,000,000 due to strict liability laws. |
| ☔ Accident insurance | Provides a lump sum in case of accidental death or disability. Look for policies offering at least CAD 50,000–100,000 as a minimum. |
For Japan, a minimum reimbursement limit of CAD 200,000 is advisable due to high private healthcare costs.
The recommended limit is at least CAD 250,000 because of expensive air ambulance and long distances.
Opt for at least CAD 150,000 to cover major surgery and specialist treatments.
A limit of CAD 2,000 or more is recommended for common acute medication during your stay.
Look for limits of CAD 3,000–5,000 for baggage and valuables replacement.
Seek coverage of at least CAD 5,000 per person for peace of mind.
A recommended minimum limit is CAD 1,000,000 due to strict liability laws.
Look for policies offering at least CAD 50,000–100,000 as a minimum.
Coverage from local providers or bank cards often has low limits and many exclusions, which may leave you exposed in serious situations. It is safer to select a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The Cost of Travel Insurance for Japan
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 39 CAD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 65 CAD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 88 CAD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 185 CAD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
When buying travel insurance for Japan, the price is influenced by several key factors. These include your age, the duration of your stay, the level of coverage you select, and any add-ons like trip cancellation. Considering these elements is crucial for finding a policy that fits your needs and budget, ensuring you're well-protected without overpaying.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Travel Insurance to Japan?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Japan while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 📅 Trip duration | Insurance premiums are higher for longer trips. Japan’s healthcare is costly, so coverage should match your real itinerary. | Buy only for actual travel dates, not extra days. Adjust immediately if your stay changes. |
| 🧑 Traveller's age | Insurers often raise prices with age. Being over 60 usually means higher premiums for comprehensive coverage in Japan. | Compare providers; Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🧳 Level of coverage | High medical limits are important given Japan’s private healthcare rates, but too many extras will increase cost. | Opt for strong medical coverage (at least 250,000 CAD) and only select essential add-ons. |
| 🏥 Deductible choice | A higher deductible reduces premiums, but you must be able to afford the upfront cost if you need care in Japan. | Choose a higher deductible only if you can cover initial medical costs out of pocket. |
| 👨👩👧 Travelers covered | Multi-person policies may offer discounts. Japan is a popular family destination, so group coverage may be an option. | Consider group/family policies. This can reduce the per-person price for the same coverage. |
| 🎒 Activity inclusion | Adventure or sports coverage can push up costs. Many policies cover basic leisure, but extras for winter sports in Japan add up. | Select special activity cover only if you plan high-risk sports or excursions. |
| 🔄 Policy flexibility | Some plans let you adjust or cancel with minimal fees. Japan is travel stable, so flexibility can provide both savings and ease. | Check for free adjustment or cancellation before you buy in case your trip changes. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Japan?
It is completely legitimate to ask whether your existing coverage—such as your provincial health insurance, private health insurance, or even your credit card—can protect you for a trip to Japan. Unfortunately, this coverage is usually limited or insufficient, especially for major medical expenses, hospitalization, or repatriation abroad.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Japan? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Health card, RAMQ, MSP, OHIP) | Never | No overseas coverage except minimal consular support. No direct payment for hospital or doctor services in Japan. | Travel insurance covers up to 250,000 CAD+ for medical care, repatriation, and hospital costs in Japan. |
| Private health insurance (work plans, Manulife, Sun Life) | Limited coverage | May pay for some hospital bills, with limits from 10,000 to 25,000 CAD. No emergency evacuation or repatriation. | Travel insurance covers 250,000 CAD+ with 24/7 medical assistance, direct billing, and return if needed. |
| Classic credit card (TD Classic Visa, RBC Classic, BMO MasterCard) | Limited coverage | Trip accident, possibly medical with low ceilings (5,000 to 15,000 CAD). No baggage or trip cancellation. | Travel insurance covers 250,000 CAD+ with baggage, trip cancellation, and emergency aftercare included. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, Amex Gold, Mastercard World Elite) | Limited coverage | Medical fees up to 100,000–150,000 CAD, some coverage for delay or lost baggage, short trip durations only. | Travel insurance offers 250,000–10M CAD in medical care, longer stays, and true support on the ground. |
Example
Skiing in Niseko, Maya shattered her ankle, requiring surgery and a hospital stay costing CA$30,000. Her premium RBC Avion card's insurance and provincial health plan covered very little. Without specific travel insurance, she had to pay the full amount upfront before the hospital would discharge her, a major financial shock.
Expert advice
Credit cards and provincial health plans often exclude key coverage like trip interruption for a family emergency. Always read your policy's fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, purchasing dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip is the safest and most reassuring option.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days in Japan. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay, and officials may request proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds at the border. Biometrics, such as fingerprinting and a photo, are also required on arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Japan?
To purchase travel insurance for Japan, start by comparing offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, review the coverage and exclusions that specifically apply to travel in Japan, including medical and natural disaster risks. Then, complete your purchase securely online. Finally, you will receive your insurance certificate by email for your trip.
Do Canadian travelers have access to healthcare in Japan?
Canadian travelers can access Japan’s excellent healthcare system, but they usually need to pay costs upfront. Medical fees in Japan are comparable to those in Canada and can be significant, particularly for hospital stays or emergencies. Ensure you have sufficient travel insurance coverage to avoid large out-of-pocket expenses if medical care is needed.
Are there special risks or requirements to consider for Japan?
While the risk of disease in Japan is low, the country is prone to earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis. Canadians should monitor local alerts and be aware that some rural areas may have limited English-speaking medical staff. No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines should be up-to-date before your trip.
Will travel insurance cover natural disasters and evacuation in Japan?
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies for Japan include coverage for medical evacuation and treatment in the case of natural disasters, such as earthquakes or typhoons. Before buying, check that your policy covers evacuation, interruption, and repatriation, as these services can cost several thousand Canadian dollars if needed.
Can I use my travel insurance for adventure activities in Japan?
Some travel insurance policies exclude certain adventure or winter sports commonly enjoyed in Japan, such as skiing, snowboarding, or hiking in mountainous regions. Always review your policy’s sports and activities exclusions. If you plan on undertaking these activities, consider purchasing optional coverage for them.
Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days in Japan. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay, and officials may request proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds at the border. Biometrics, such as fingerprinting and a photo, are also required on arrival.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Japan?
To purchase travel insurance for Japan, start by comparing offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, review the coverage and exclusions that specifically apply to travel in Japan, including medical and natural disaster risks. Then, complete your purchase securely online. Finally, you will receive your insurance certificate by email for your trip.
Do Canadian travelers have access to healthcare in Japan?
Canadian travelers can access Japan’s excellent healthcare system, but they usually need to pay costs upfront. Medical fees in Japan are comparable to those in Canada and can be significant, particularly for hospital stays or emergencies. Ensure you have sufficient travel insurance coverage to avoid large out-of-pocket expenses if medical care is needed.
Are there special risks or requirements to consider for Japan?
While the risk of disease in Japan is low, the country is prone to earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis. Canadians should monitor local alerts and be aware that some rural areas may have limited English-speaking medical staff. No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines should be up-to-date before your trip.
Will travel insurance cover natural disasters and evacuation in Japan?
Most comprehensive travel insurance policies for Japan include coverage for medical evacuation and treatment in the case of natural disasters, such as earthquakes or typhoons. Before buying, check that your policy covers evacuation, interruption, and repatriation, as these services can cost several thousand Canadian dollars if needed.
Can I use my travel insurance for adventure activities in Japan?
Some travel insurance policies exclude certain adventure or winter sports commonly enjoyed in Japan, such as skiing, snowboarding, or hiking in mountainous regions. Always review your policy’s sports and activities exclusions. If you plan on undertaking these activities, consider purchasing optional coverage for them.
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