Japan : Safety by City
Japan - safety as a countryOsaka is a designated city in the Kansai region of Honshu in Japan. It is the capital city of Osaka Prefecture and the largest component of the Keihanshin Metropolitan Area, the second-largest metropolitan area in Japan, and the 10th largest urban area in the world with more than 19 million inhabitants. Osaka was traditionally considered Japan’s economic hub.
Warnings & Dangers in Osaka
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Osaka is a very safe city; the main problems are related to petty crime and theft. Normal caution will be enough to avoid most serious crimes.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW
Public transport in the city is well developed and safe. It can be used at any time of the day or night. Taxis are safe and reliable, use only licensed taxi services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpockets do happen, although not as often as in other cities. Just be careful on public transport and in crowded places. Anti-theft backpack solves all problems with pickpockers.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : HIGH
Osaka is at risk of earthquakes, floods, and tsunamis. The region is at a high risk of these activities. Study the weather conditions before your trip here.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Osaka. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Osaka. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : LOW
Scams don't usually happen in Osaka. However, there may be cases when foreigners in a bar are poured with opiate for robbery from time to time. Watch your surroundings, and you will be safe.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Osaka. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Osaka for Tourists?
Osaka is a very safe city to travel to.
The crime rate is low here.
Petty theft and fraud are possible.
Otherwise, this city is very safe at any time of the day or night.
Osaka has the lowest crime rate of any Japanese city virtually.
Certain areas, notably Shinsekai and Tobita, can be less safe at night.
The Airin / Kamagasaki area – Japan’s largest slum, home to many unemployed and homeless people – south of Shin-Imamiya is best avoided.
Especially at night.
There is a myth about the local mafia, one if you are not connected with drug trafficking, you are unlikely to meet with gangsters.
Remember that drugs are illegal here.
Pickpocketing is possible on public transport and in crowded areas.
Just keep track of your belongings and bags.
Also, beware of drunk people at bars.
Sometimes they can be intrusive or try to put something in your drink for the sake of robbery.
Many residents use bicycles as the city is mostly flat and easy to navigate.
Driving on sidewalks is allowed, and some sidewalks even have bike paths.
If nothing is indicated, try to keep to the left where possible (but often, you just need to find a better path through the pedestrians).
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Osaka?
Visitors to Japan must obtain a visa from one of the Japanese diplomatic missions unless they come from visa-exempt countries. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Osaka?
The yen is the official currency of Japan. It is the third most traded currency in the foreign exchange market after the United States dollar and the Euro. The Japanese yen is subdivided into 100 sen or 1000 rin (both sen and rin are not in circulation).
How's the Weather like in Osaka?
In Osaka, the summers are short, hot, oppressive, and mostly cloudy; the winters are frigid and mostly clear, and it is wet year-round. The best times to visit Osaka are the fall (October/November) and spring (March/April/May). Summer (June/July/August) in Osaka is hot and humid.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Osaka?
Osaka International Airport, often referred to as Itami Airport, is the primary regional airport for the Kansai region of Japan, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe’s major cities. It is classified as a first-class airport. Despite its “international” designation, the airport caters exclusively to domestic flights.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Osaka?
Osaka is a large port city and commercial center on the Japanese island of Honshu. It’s known for its modern architecture, nightlife, and hearty street food. The 16th-century shogunate Osaka Castle, which has undergone several restorations, is its main historical landmark. It’s surrounded by a moat and park with plum, peach, and cherry-blossom trees. Sumiyoshi-Taisha is among Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines.
Is the Water in Osaka Safe to Drink?
Osaka’s tap water is among the highest quality in Japan.
Is Uber Safe in Osaka?
There is an Uber taxi in Osaka. You can call a taxi from the app on your phone. The cost of the trip will depend on the distance and time of day.
