Japan is a pretty safe country compared to the western world. But Japan is often hit by natural disasters: earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and animal attacks. In this guide we'll see how you can prepare yourself for staying safe while adventuring in Japan.
General precautions
While everyday life is mostly safe, we recommend a few simple preparations to stay safe while travelling in Japan. When travelling in a van:
- Keep some water available at all times
- Keep some food supplies with you
- Keep some money in cash in case of emergency
- When sleeping somewhere new, be aware of the surroundings: the road, the closest shop, the elevation, etc.
Earthquakes and tsunamis
If you ever experience an earthquake for the first time, it can be surprising. Why is the lamp post moving? Why is my bed shaking? While they happen daily in Japan, 99.9% of the time you won't feel it and it will not change your plans.
We recommend downloading and setting up the NERV app on your phone. This app alerts you of any upcoming earthquakes or tsunamis and gives important details about their intensity and risk level.
Typhoons
The typhoon season in Japan runs from May through October, with most activity from July to September. Typhoons bring heavy rain and winds. When a typhoon is expected you should avoid sleeping in your car, especially near rivers or the coastline.
For typhoons too, we recommend downloading and setting up the NERV app on your phone. This app alerts you of any typhoons approaching and what to expect.
Wild animals
The year 2025 is becoming the deadliest year on record for human casualties in Japan, surpassing 235 injuries and 13 deaths. Driven by food shortages, rural depopulation, and climate factors, both Asiatic black bears and Hokkaido brown bears are encroaching into residential areas. The Tohoku region, particularly Akita and Iwate prefectures, has been hardest hit.
It's recommended while staying in remote areas to be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for wild encounters. For bears in particular you can also get bear spray repellent and a bear bell. While camping, avoid leaving food outside or in a too accessible place.
Notable other wild encounters are:
- Snakes
- Mukade and other insects
- Boars (while driving)
