Aichi Prefecture is Japan's industrial and cultural heartland, anchored by Nagoya — the country's fourth-largest city. Home to the Toyota Motor Corporation, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, a national-treasure castle, and a distinctly proud local food culture known as Nagoya Meshi, Aichi blends industrial might with ancient heritage across 5,173 square kilometres of the Chubu region.
Aichi is extremely safe for solo travellers, families, and female travellers. Petty theft does occur around busy transit hubs (Nagoya Station) but is uncommon by global standards. The greatest safety risk is summer heat: temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F) from July through August, and heat stroke is a genuine concern for visitors who underestimate the humidity.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe — Japan Overall Is Rated One Of The World's Safest Countries For Travellers. Nagoya Has Low Petty Crime And Negligible Violent Crime.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Hospitals
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- Nagoya University Hospital (1-1-20 Daiko-minami, Higashi Ward; +81 52-741-2111) and Nagoya City West Medical Center both have international patient services with English-speaking staff available.
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- Pharmacies
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- Matsumotokiyoshi, Welcia, and Kokumin drugstore chains operate throughout Nagoya. Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) stock basic medications including paracetamol, cold medicine, and antacids.
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- Travel Insurance
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- Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended. Japan has excellent healthcare but medical costs without insurance can be significant for foreigners.
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- Water
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- Tap water throughout Aichi is safe to drink and of high quality. Bottled water is cheap (¥100–150 / ~$0.67–1 per 500ml) at convenience stores.
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- Food Safety
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- Food safety standards in Japan are extremely high. Raw fish (sashimi), raw chicken (sold at izakayas), and raw egg are cultural norms but carry standard bacterial risks — visitors with compromised immune systems should exercise caution.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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