What vaccines do I need for Japan?

Recommended by the CDC: Japanese Encephalitis (recommended for travelers spending a month or more in rural areas, or shorter stays with significant outdoor or rural exposure during May through October), Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Influenza.

Is tap water safe to drink in Japan?

Tap water is generally safe in Japan, though bottled water is advisable in rural areas.

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East Asia

Japan Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

Japan is a low-risk destination with excellent medical infrastructure and high standards of food safety and sanitation. The primary infectious disease concern for travelers is Japanese encephalitis, which is endemic in rural agricultural areas during the summer transmission season from May through October. Travelers on short trips limited to urban areas like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto face very low risk.

Food Safety: Low Risk Tap Water: Safe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Japan

CDC Recommended

Japanese Encephalitis (recommended for travelers spending a month or more in rural areas, or shorter stays with significant outdoor or rural exposure during May through October)
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Influenza

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Japan

Malaria Risk

No malaria risk in Japan.

Food and Water Safety

Low Risk Tap water: safe

Japan has among the highest food safety standards in the world. Raw fish and seafood are generally safe when consumed at licensed establishments. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country.

Key Health Tips for Japan

Discuss Japanese encephalitis vaccination with your doctor if your trip includes rural areas, farmland stays, or outdoor activities during May through October.
Japanese encephalitis vaccine requires two doses at least 28 days apart; plan well in advance.
Japan experiences hot and humid summers; heat exhaustion and heat stroke are real risks for travelers not acclimatized to the conditions.
Carry travel insurance with medical evacuation; private hospitals in Japan typically require upfront payment from foreign nationals.

Disease Risks in Japan

Hepatitis A

Official Resources

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