Is Kyoto safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Japan

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Japan at Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions, and this is a country-level advisory rather than a Kyoto-specific rating.
• The UK FCDO notes that Japan has no recent history of terrorism but says attacks cannot be entirely ruled out, and it advises staying aware of surroundings at all times.
• UK guidance flags Tokyo's entertainment districts, including Kabukicho, Roppongi, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro, as higher-risk areas for crime, drink spiking, and credit card fraud, though this is specific to Tokyo rather than Kyoto.
• The same guidance notes that rape and sexual assault are rare in Japan but can happen, and that female passengers on commuter trains have experienced groping or upskirting, with advice to shout and alert train or station staff if this occurs.
• Travelers in Japan are advised to always carry their passport or residence card, since police can arrest people who cannot show proof of visa or residence status, and detention without charge can last up to 23 days.
• General precautions apply anywhere: keep belongings in sight, use a hotel safe for valuables, and be cautious with drinks and unfamiliar street touts in nightlife areas.