Travel Insurance for Japan

Know more About Travel Insurance

Travelling to Japan is a dream for many. From its popularity both on traditional and online media to the unique lifestyle of the Japanese people, to the beautiful landscape and temples, Japan is a destination that blends ancient tradition with cutting-edge modernity. From efficient transport systems and advanced healthcare to strict laws and high living costs, travelling to Japan can be a remarkable experience when planned well. 

One essential part of that planning is choosing the right travel insurance for Japan, especially when you are travelling from India. A comprehensive Japan travel insurance policy ensures that medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and unexpected expenses do not disrupt your journey.

This guide explains everything you need to know about Japan travel insurance from India, including coverage, exclusions, costs, visa requirements, and why Niva Bupa is a preferred choice for Indian travellers.

Travel Insurance For Japan From India

Travel insurance for Japan from India is designed to protect Indian travellers against unforeseen events during their stay in Japan. While quite advanced, medical treatment in Japan is among the most expensive in Asia, and even a short hospital visit can cost several thousand yen. Japan trip insurance covers medical expenses, emergency hospitalisation, trip cancellations, loss of baggage, passport loss, and personal liability.

For Indian tourists, Japan travel insurance is not just about medical protection. It also provides financial protection against flight delays, missed connections, and emergencies arising from language barriers or unfamiliar systems.

Niva Bupa offers travel health insurance for Japan that is tailored for international travel, with clear coverage terms and worldwide assistance.

Why Do You Need  Japan Trip Insurance?

Japan is known for safety and efficiency, but unexpected situations can still occur. Japan trip insurance is essential for the following reasons:

• Medical expenses in Japan are incredibly high for foreigners without international travel insurance. A simple doctor consultation can be expensive, and hospitalisation can significantly impact your finances.

• Japan has strict laws and procedures. In case of legal liability or accidental damage, personal liability cover can be crucial.

• Natural events such as earthquakes and typhoons, though well-managed, can cause travel delays or trip interruptions.

• Loss of baggage, passport, or travel documents in a foreign country can be stressful and costly.

Having travel insurance for a Japan trip gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on enjoying your journey.

Explore the Key Benefits Offered By Travel Insurance for Japan Trip

Travel insurance for a Japan trip offers far more than basic medical coverage. One of the most essential benefits is comprehensive travel medical insurance Japan, which covers emergency hospitalisation, doctor consultations, diagnostic tests, and prescribed medicines. Since healthcare costs in Japan are among the highest in Asia, this coverage can prevent significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Another key benefit is emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, which becomes crucial if you need specialised treatment or must return to India due to a medical emergency. Japan travel insurance also covers trip cancellation and interruption, helping you recover non-refundable expenses if your travel plans change due to illness, emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances.

Additional benefits include coverage for baggage loss or delay, loss of passport, personal accident, and personal liability. Many policies also provide 24/7 global assistance services, which are especially helpful in Japan, where language barriers can make emergency situations stressful. Together, these benefits make Japan trip insurance an essential safeguard for Indian travellers.

Also Read - Japan Visa for Indians - Visa Types, Requirements, Fees, and How to Apply

What Is Covered Under The Japan Travel Insurance?

Niva Bupa’s online travel insurance Japan covers a wide range of medical and non-medical risks to ensure holistic protection.

Medical coverage includes hospitalisation expenses, emergency outpatient treatment, medical evacuation to the nearest suitable medical facility, emergency trip extension, personal accident cover, and repatriation of mortal remains.

Non-medical coverage includes reimbursement for delayed or lost checked baggage, expenses due to missed connecting flights, loss of a passport, emergency dental treatment, and costs arising from trip delay, cancellation, or interruption.

Here are some of the key coverages offered by Niva Bupa to secure travellers from both medical and non-medical risks:

Delay or loss of checked-in baggage: 

This coverage offers partial or complete reimbursement for significant delay or loss. 

Missed connecting flight:

This coverage reimburses you for the extra accommodation and travel costs to reach the next destination if you miss a pre-booked connecting flight due to the original flight running late. 

Loss of passport: 

This coverage reimburses you for the cost of applying for a new passport if the original is lost.

Dental treatment:

This coverage reimburses a pain-relieving dental treatment availed under anesthesia. 

Trip delay, cancellation, interruption: 

These three separate coverages offer reimbursement for part of the travel and accommodation costs if your travel is delayed, canceled, or interrupted due to certain conditions mentioned in the policy document. 

Medical emergency (hospitalisation): 

This coverage offers reimbursement for the cost of medical treatment.

Emergency outpatient treatment: 

This coverage reimburses any emergency treatment under OPD. 

Medical evacuation: 

This coverage reimburses the transfer cost from one hospital to another if the primary hospital does not offer appropriate care. 

Emergency trip extension: 

If the trip is extended due to certain exceptional circumstances, this coverage offers an extension of the policy up to 7 days. 

Personal accident: 

This coverage pays a portion up to the sum insured for accidental death or disability.

Repatriation of mortal remains: 

This coverage reimburses you for the cost of transporting the mortal remains of the traveler or the cost of cremation in the city/country of death. 

In addition, travellers can find further coverage by opting for student travel insurance, which offers several student-specific coverages, such as sponsor protection, study interruption, and comprehensive pre-existing disease coverage, or honeymoon travel insurance, as mentioned above.

Read More - Japanese Student Visa: Eligibility, Documents, and Application Process

What Is Not Covered Under The Travel Insurance Japan?

While Travel Insurance for Japan offers extensive protection, there are specific exclusions. Expenses related to war, rebellion, nuclear risks, and specific terrorist activities are not covered. At the same time, injuries or losses arising from unlawful acts, substance abuse, or self-inflicted harm are also excluded.

Cosmetic procedures, maternity expenses, non-prescription treatments, and medical tourism are not covered unless specifically mentioned in the policy. Adventure sports are excluded unless opted for as an add-on. Travelling against medical advice, or to destinations under travel restrictions for Indians, also falls outside coverage.

Thus, it is advisable to carefully review the policy wording to understand the exclusions before purchasing Japan Travel Insurance Online. Here is a summary of the exclusions listed by Niva Bupa for convenience:

• Treatment for any injury or illness resulting from nuclear or radiological emissions, war or rebellion, and specific acts of terrorism.

• Active participation in military exercises, war games, or engagement with the enemy.

• Any loss or injury due to committing or attempting to breach the law with criminal intent.

• Expenses for cosmetic or plastic surgery or any treatment to change appearance, including obesity or weight control programs. Unless in certain circumstances, as listed in the policy document.

• Maternity expenses.

• Non-prescription or unproven drugs or treatments.

• The provision of fitting hearing aids, spectacles, or contact lenses, including optometric therapy, any treatment, and associated expenses for alopecia, baldness, wigs, or toupees, and medical supplies, including elastic stockings, diabetic test strips, and similar products.

• If the insured person is travelling against the advice of a doctor, or is receiving, or is on a waiting list for, specified medical treatment.

• Death, injury, medical condition, or disability resulting from suicide or attempted suicide, self-inflicted wound or illness, consumption of alcohol or drugs, or depression.

• Countries with travel restrictions for Indians.

• Medical tourism.

• Damage from adventure sports is not covered unless it is part of the coverage.

• Expenses related to any admission specifically for diagnostics and evaluation purposes that are not related or incidental to the current diagnosis and treatment.

Who Should Buy Niva Bupa Travel Health Insurance For Japan?

Niva Bupa travel health insurance for Japan is suitable for:

• Tourists travelling to Japan for leisure or sightseeing

• Couple travellers visiting Japan for their Honeymoon

• Business travellers attending meetings or conferences

• Students on short-term courses or exchange programmes

• Senior citizens who require strong medical coverage abroad

• Families travelling together who want comprehensive protection

The policy offers flexibility, reliable assistance, and transparent coverage for Indian travellers.

What are the Travel Medical Insurance Japan requirements?

While travel insurance is not mandatory for entry into Japan, travel medical insurance Japan is strongly recommended and often expected by visa authorities and immigration officers. Your insurance should ideally include adequate medical coverage for hospitalisation, outpatient treatment, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.

For Indian travellers, it is advisable to choose a policy with a sufficiently high sum insured, considering the high cost of medical care in Japan. The policy should also clearly mention coverage validity for Japan and match your travel dates. Having a copy of your travel insurance for Japan trip from India, either digital or printed, is considered good travel practice and can help during medical emergencies or visa checks.

How To Buy the Best Travel Insurance for Japan Trip Online?

Buying insurance should be frictionless and straightforward, and with Niva Bupa, travel insurance can be purchased within minutes, with no pre-policy check-up, and the policy delivered to your Email ID instantly. Here are the steps you can follow to buy the right policy for your needs within minutes from Niva Bupa:

1. Enter your mobile number to start the process.

2. Add Trip Details: Select either ‘Single-Trip’ or ‘Student Travel Insurance’ and choose your destination(s), including Japan.

3. Select Travel Dates: Ensure accuracy, accounting for time zone differences for international travel.

4. Enter Traveller Ages: Enjoy a 10% discount when insuring two or more travellers.

5. Choose Coverage Amount: From $50K to $500K.

6. Select your policy type: Lite, Basic, Comprehensive, Honeymooners, or Sports and Adventures.

7. View Summary: Review plan details, sum insured, travel dates, trip duration, destination, and number of travellers.

8. Provide KYC Details: Review policy terms and give consent for Niva Bupa to download your KYC.

9. Add Personal & Medical Details for all travellers.

10. Make the Payment: Your policy copy will be emailed instantly.

Once the payment is complete, the Japan travel insurance policy will be emailed to you.

When Is the Best Time to Buy Online Travel Health Insurance for Japan from India?

The best time to buy online travel health insurance for Japan from India is immediately after confirming your travel plans, including flight tickets and accommodation. Purchasing early ensures that you are covered for pre-departure risks such as trip cancellation due to medical emergencies, visa rejection, or other unforeseen events.

Buying travel insurance closer to the departure date may limit certain benefits, especially cancellation coverage. Early purchase also gives you enough time to review policy terms, understand exclusions, and choose optional add-ons if required. Online platforms make it easy to buy, compare, and access policy documents instantly, which is ideal for international travel.

Factors Affecting the Premium Of Japan Travel Insurance

The premium depends on factors such as traveller age, trip duration, destination, sum insured, policy type, and any add-on cover selected. Students and families travelling together may benefit from discounted premiums. Here is a list of some of the key factors which influence travel insurance for Japan: 

• Traveller's age 

• Travel destination 

• Trip duration

• The comprehensiveness of the plan opted for 

• Type of travel, such as single trip, student, domestic, or international.

• Number of travellers

• The insurer offering the policy

By considering the above factors and distinguishing between necessary and good-to-have options, you can obtain more affordable Japan travel insurance coverage.

Japan is considered a high-cost medical destination, which can slightly increase premiums compared to some other Asian countries.

What You Need to Know About Filing a Claim for Travel Insurance in Japan?

Travellers who need to file a travel insurance claim can do so easily with Niva Bupa. There are several ways to request a claim settlement from Niva Bupa. Use the following methods for a quick, hassle-free claim process.

1. To file a Japan travel insurance claim, you first need to contact your insurer, Niva Bupa. 

2. You may also contact the global third-party administrator if you are travelling overseas.

3. You can raise a travel insurance claim online, by mail, or in person. You can do so both while overseas and when you return to India.

4. You must submit a duly filled claim form along with the required documents based on the type of claim, for example, loss of baggage, trip cancellation, medical emergency, or death.

Additionally, there are two types of claims in a medical emergency:

Cashless claim

Niva Bupa is partnered with Europ Assistance, a global third-party administrator, to provide cashless claims to hospitals and healthcare centres worldwide.

• The customer initiates the claim to Europ Assistance via a toll-free number or email. 

• TPA- Europ Assistance will contact the customer and provide the required details for Japan travel insurance.

• Europ Assistance will then initiate the GOP (Guarantee of payment) process with the hospital where the customer will receive treatment.

• Europ Assistance will request the documents from the hospital or the customer and, after assessing the claim, send them to Niva Bupa for approval/rejection/query/investigation.

• Our medical team will approve the claim by email.

• The GOP will be released to the hospital as per the amount claimed.

• The hospital will contact the Europ Assistance team if any additional amount is required.

• At discharge, documents will be sent to Europ Assistance for approval.

• After discharge, the hospital will send the documents to Europe Assistance for settlement with the hospital.

Reimbursement Claim 

Mandatory Documents Required for Reimbursement Claims

1. Claim form
2. KYC
3. Cancelled cheque of the proposer
4. Discharge summary 
5. Final bill along with break-up
6. Payment receipt
7. All investigation reports 

Japan Visa Details and Entry Information

Indian passport holders require a visa to travel to Japan. Tourist visas are usually issued for short-term stays and allow travellers to explore the country for leisure purposes. The visa application typically requires a completed application form, a valid passport, recent photographs, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of financial stability.

Although travel insurance is not listed as a mandatory document, having Japan travel insurance demonstrates responsible travel planning. Immigration officers may enquire about your medical arrangements during your stay, as Japan does not provide free healthcare to visitors.

The local currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen, where 1 Yen (Symbol: ¥) at current exchange rates is equal to ₹0.57 INR. 

Navigating the Japan Visa Application Process with Ease

The Japan visa application process can be managed smoothly with proper preparation. Applications are usually submitted through authorised visa application centres or approved travel agents. Ensuring that all documents are accurate, complete, and consistent is key to avoiding delays.

Indian travellers can avail a Japan visa for the visa fee of ₹450 for single or multiple entry visas and ₹50 for transit visas from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. Please note that an additional service fee might be applicable if going through a broker.

Booking flights and accommodation in advance, preparing a clear travel itinerary, and having travel insurance details ready can simplify the process. Although Japan trip insurance is not compulsory, including it in your application adds credibility and reflects responsible travel planning.

What are the Travel Documents Required While Travelling From India to Japan?

When travelling from India to Japan, you should carry the following documents:

• A valid passport with sufficient validity

• Japan visa

• Confirmed return or onward flight tickets

• Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings

• Proof of sufficient funds

• Copy of travel insurance for the Japan trip from India

• Passport-sized photographs

Keeping both digital and printed copies of these documents is recommended for convenience and safety.

What are some popular Japanese tourist places?

Japan offers a diverse mix of modern cities, historical towns, and natural landmarks that attract travellers from around the world.

• Tokyo

Japan’s capital is known for its futuristic skyline, shopping districts like Shibuya and Ginza, historic sites such as Asakusa, and pop culture hubs like Akihabara.

• Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for traditional temples, shrines, bamboo forests, geisha districts, and preserved Japanese architecture.

• Mount Fuji

An iconic symbol of Japan, Mount Fuji is a popular sightseeing and photography destination, especially from nearby Hakone.

• Osaka

Known for its food culture, nightlife, and attractions like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori.

• Hiroshima

Home to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, reflecting Japan’s history and message of peace.

• Nara

Famous for Nara Park, friendly deer, and ancient temples such as Todai-ji.

Best Time To Visit Japan

The best time to visit Japan largely depends on the experience you are seeking. Spring, from March to May, is popular for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather. Autumn, from September to November, offers comfortable temperatures and stunning fall foliage.

Summer can be humid and is ideal for festivals, while winter attracts travellers interested in snow, skiing, and winter landscapes. Planning your trip by season also helps estimate the cost of Japan travel, as off-season and peak seasons have different activities and things to do other than the differences in flight and accommodation costs.

Best Things To Do in Japan

Japan offers an extraordinary range of experiences that blend tradition, technology, nature, and culture. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore deeper, these are some of the best things to do in Japan.

1. Explore Modern City Life in Tokyo: Discover Tokyo, one of the world's most dynamic cities. Walk through Shibuya, explore high-end shopping in Ginza, and experience pop culture in Akihabara.

2. Experience Traditional Culture in Kyoto: Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan. Visit ancient temples, traditional wooden houses, and well-preserved districts such as Gion. Walking through thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most iconic experiences in the country.

3. Visit Mount Fuji and Nearby Scenic Areas: A trip to Japan feels incomplete without seeing Mount Fuji, the country’s most recognisable landmark. 

4. Enjoy Japanese Cuisine and Street Food: Japan is a paradise for food lovers, try sushi, ramen, tempura, and regional specialities across the country.

5. Relax in a Traditional Onsen: Experiencing an onsen, a natural hot spring bath found across Japan, particularly in mountainous and volcanic regions.

6. Witness Cherry Blossom Season: Cherry blossom viewing, known as hanami, is one of Japan’s most celebrated seasonal activities. Parks, riversides, and temple grounds become gathering spots during spring.

7. Visit Historical and Peace Memorial Sites: Travel to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which reflect Japan’s history and commitment to peace.

8. Explore Theme Parks and Entertainment Zones: Japan is home to world-class theme parks and entertainment areas.

9. Experience Bullet Train Travel: Riding the Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train, is an experience in itself.

10. Shop for Unique Japanese Products: Shopping in Japan ranges from luxury brands to quirky local items, including electronics, anime merchandise, traditional crafts, stationery, skincare products, and souvenirs. Many stores offer tax-free shopping for international travellers.

11. Explore Nature and Scenic Landscapes: Beyond cities, Japan offers stunning natural scenery. Visit national parks, coastal areas, countryside villages, and mountain regions.

12. Attend Festivals and Cultural Events: Seasonal festivals are held throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, costumes, and rituals.

Japan offers experiences for every type of traveller, from cultural exploration and food adventures to nature, technology, and relaxation. Planning activities across different regions ensures a well-rounded and memorable journey.

List of International Airports in Japan

Japan’s international airports connect the country with major global destinations. Key airports include:

• Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND): Major international and domestic airport serving Tokyo.

• Narita International Airport (NRT): Primary international gateway near Tokyo.

• Kansai International Airport (KIX): Main international airport for Osaka, Kyoto and surrounding areas.

• Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO): International airport serving the Nagoya area.

• New Chitose Airport (CTS): Major airport in Hokkaido with international flights.

• Fukuoka Airport (FUK): International airport serving the Kyushu region.

• Naha Airport (OKA): Main airport for Okinawa with international connections.

Other airports with some international connectivity include Hiroshima Airport and Kagoshima Airport.

List of Well-known Indian Restaurants in Japan

Japan has a growing number of Indian restaurants, especially in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. These restaurants offer a variety of North Indian and South Indian dishes, including vegetarian options. Popular areas with Indian dining options include city centres and tourist districts, making it easy to find familiar food during your trip.

• Downtown B's Indian Kitchen: Highly rated modern Indian restaurant in Roppongi known for its rich flavours and friendly service.

• Swagat: Popular local Indian eatery in Roppongi with classic curries and biryanis.

• Bombay Sizzlers: Well-liked Indian restaurant in Tokyo serving a range of traditional dishes.

• ANNAM Indian Restaurant Ginza Tokyo: Popular choice in Ginza with vegetarian, vegan, Jain and gluten-free options.

• Punjabi spice: Highly reviewed Indian cafe and bar in Osaka’s Chuo Ward.

• Third Eye Tanimachi 5‑Chome Branch: Well-rated Indian restaurant known for flavourful dishes.

• Shama Vegetarian Indian Restaurant: Highly rated vegetarian Indian restaurant.

• Arash’s Kitchen: Highly rated Indian/Asian restaurant in Kyoto. 

• Mughal Indian Restaurant Kyoto: Offerings include classic Indian curry and tandoori dishes. 

• Mabrur Halal Dining Kyoto: Halal-friendly Indian/Asian restaurant. 

• Kerala Restaurant (Kyoto): South Indian and Kerala-style specialities.

Local Law and Etiquette in Japan

Japan follows strict laws and social etiquette. Public behaviour is expected to be disciplined and respectful. Loud conversations, littering, and public disturbances are discouraged. Understanding and following these norms helps avoid legal trouble and ensures a respectful travel experience:

• Loud conversations, shouting, or playing music on phones in public places is discouraged.

• Talking on mobile phones inside trains and buses is generally avoided

• Eating or drinking while walking is frowned upon, except in designated areas

• Littering is socially unacceptable and may attract fines

• Public dustbins are limited, so people carry trash until disposal

• Smoking is allowed only in designated smoking zones

• Tipping is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels

• Queuing is strictly followed at stations, shops, and elevators and breaking the queue is considered rude

• Carrying identification is mandatory; the police may ask for a passport

• Drug laws are stringent, including for some medicines that are legal in India

• Jaywalking can result in fines in certain areas

• Photography may be restricted in temples, shrines, and private spaces

Money-saving tips in Japan

Japan can be an expensive destination, but smart planning helps manage costs. Using public transport passes can significantly reduce travel expenses. Convenience stores offer affordable, high-quality meals. Booking attractions in advance and travelling during off-peak seasons can also help save money.

Having Japan trip insurance further protects your budget by covering unexpected expenses related to medical emergencies or travel disruptions.

Japan Travel Essentials: What to Pack for Your Japan Trip?

Some essential items to pack for your Japan trip include:

• Passport, visa, and copies of travel documents

• Travel insurance documents

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Universal power adapter

• Basic medicines and prescriptions

• Cash and international cards

Carrying both physical and digital copies of documents is recommended.

What are Some Fascinating Facts About Japan Travel Insurance?

Japan blends ancient tradition with modern innovation. Interesting insights include:

• The country experiences four distinct seasons that significantly influence travel experiences.

• Cherry blossom viewing (hanami) is a cultural festival celebrated nationwide in spring.

• Japan is known for its extremely punctual public transport system.

• Many convenience stores offer high-quality, affordable meals and services for travellers.

• Japanese etiquette emphasises harmony, respect and community norms.

These facts capture the cultural depth and uniqueness of Japan as a destination. 

Safety & Useful Tips for Japan Visit 

Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world, but travellers should remain cautious with the following:

• Emergency numbers and contacts: Save local emergency numbers and embassy contacts before travel.

• Natural disaster preparedness: Earthquakes and typhoons can occur; know basic safety procedures.

• Follow local guidelines: Respect rules on public behaviour and transportation etiquette.

• Keep travel insurance details handy: This ensures quick access to medical help if needed.

• Secure valuables: Japan has low crime rates, but protecting belongings is always important.

Being prepared and respectful enhances safety and the overall travel experience.