Japan Travel Insurance

Japan is very unique in the way that modern day life and hundreds of years' worth of tradition and history are displayed side by side, giving Japan the edge as a destination for travellers with varied tastes and interests.

The diverse architecture and history of the country aren't the only reasons you should add Japan to your wander list. The sensational Buddhist temples are iconic in Japan and are undoubtedly one of the country's biggest draws, as well as the traditional tea ceremonies that you can still attend in tea houses throughout Japan.

For those that enjoy a challenge, why not participate in a sumo-wrestling match at the Kokugikan arena? Or enjoy a sample of Japanese delicacy, blowfish, or 'fugu'?

Why choose Alpha if you’re travelling to Japan?

We are travel insurance specialists, and genuinely believe that our policies can offer policies to suit your needs at a budget-friendly price. Furthermore, you don’t have to worry about sifting through hundreds of options – our policies all offer the same levels of cover, the only difference is the excess.

Below are just some of Alpha's benefits:

• 24/7 Emergency Medical Helpline
• Cover for 100's of sports and activities free of charge (with the option to extend and include many more);
• UK, Europe and Worldwide options available;
• Discounts for couples and families;
• 14 day cooling off period;
• Cover includes cancellation, emergency medical expenses, personal belongings, cash and travel documents and much more;
• Optional Gadget Extension.
• Access To Our Free Customer Area!

What to do in Japan

With so much to see and do in Japan, we have come up with a few ideas for you to add to your must-do list!

Evening Food and Drink Tour in Osaka

• This is one of the best ways to try as much of the local food and drink as possible, and all for £85 per adult.
• A fully inclusive tour of both Tenma and Kyobashi which are two of Osaka’s most well-known food and drink areas.
• You will get to see Ogimachi Park as part of this tour as well as fully immersing yourself into the Japanese nightlife.

Private Highlights of Kyoto Tour

• A great idea for anyone new to Japan – for £70 per adult you get to choose between the north or southbound route that covers different attractions, landmarks and culture.
• North takes you to the Golden Pavilion, Nishiki Food Market, and Arashiyama Park, whereas the South Route takes you to Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, and the Gion area.
• Lunch is not included, but you receive a one-day city bus pass as part of this which you can use after the tour has ended!

Mt. Fuji, Yamanakako Onsen Experience Day Trip

• Everyone travelling Japan should want to see Mt. Fuji, and this trip includes the UNESCO site as well as Lake Yamanakako and a cheeky trip to the outlet stores nearby too for £76 per adult.
• A typical Japanese lunch is provided as well as entrance fees and a professional guide. Although you will have to get your own towel at the hot spring!

Tip! According to Japanese custom, people with tattoos are not permitted to go into onsen.

• Enjoy the stunning views and ensure to take all the pictures! (your guide will help you get the best locations for this!)

*Prices and information correct as at August 2018

Advice for travelling to Japan

Entry Requirements

You are able to enter Japan as a British Citizen for up to 90 days without a visa, you may need to produce your return ticket for this. Your passport needs to be valid for the duration of your stay only.

Medical

Facilities in Japan are great but the cost of treatment is high, which is another reason why travel insurance is so important before travelling here.

It is recommended that you have a Tetanus vaccine before travelling.

Some will also need the following (your GP will confirm this)

• Hepatitis B
• Japanese Encephalitis (JE)
• Rabies (Bat Lyssavirus)
• Tick-Bourne Encephalitis (TBE)

As always, we recommend you see your GP 4-6 weeks prior to travelling and click here for more information.

Useful Info:

Currency	Japanese Ren- Click here for the current exchange rate. The country prefers cash and you may have problems using credit/debit issued outside of Japan.
Capital City	Tokyo
Population	Over 120,000,000
Emergency Info	Police: 110 Ambulance/Fire: 119
Tipping Protocol	It is not mandatory, and they may politely refuse them. If you really want to tip, ensure it is in a sealed, decorative envelope and when handing to recipient you bow slightly.
Drinking Age	20 years – although the government are looking into lowering this to 18 by 2022.
Weather	Earthquakes/Tsunamis are relatively regular as it is a major earthquake zone – keep an eye on any warnings here Tropical Cyclone season is between June-December – these are monitored here
Seasons	Spring – March until May Summer – June until August Autumn – September until November Winter – December until February
Languages spoken	Japanese
Phrases	Hello – Hola Hello – Kon'nichiwa Good Morning – Ohayōgozaimasu How are you? – Ogenkidesuka? How much please – Ikuradesu ka Good night – Oyasumi
Plug Type	100V
Driving side	Left Hand Side
Local Laws/Customs	Some swimming pools, hot springs, beaches and some gyms do not admit anyone with tattoos, whereas others will ask that they are covered. Ensure you are polite at all times.