# Canada Updates Japan Travel Advisory: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know
**Planning a spring trip to Tokyo, Kyoto, or the Japanese Alps?** The Government of Canada refreshed its travel advisory for Japan on April 1, 2026, and while the news is mostly positive, there are important safety updates every Ottawa traveller should review before departure.
Japan remains at **Level 1 — Take Normal Security Precautions**, the lowest risk category Canada assigns. This means you can travel with confidence, but staying informed about specific regional concerns will help you enjoy a safer, healthier journey.
## What Changed in the Latest Update
The April 2026 update was editorial in nature, refining existing guidance rather than introducing new restrictions. Japan continues to be one of the safest destinations for Canadians, though authorities have highlighted several evolving situations worth your attention.
## Key Safety Concerns for Visitors
**Bear Activity in Northern Regions**: If your itinerary includes Hokkaido, Akita, or Niigata prefectures, exercise extra caution. Bears have been spotted in unexpected places—including resort areas and popular hiking trails—with some encounters resulting in injuries. Travel in groups on trails, stay alert, and follow local wildlife warnings.
**Fukushima Restricted Zones**: The area surrounding the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear facility remains off-limits due to radiation exposure risk. Restricted zones are clearly marked, but if you’re exploring rural areas in Fukushima Prefecture, respect all signage and local authority instructions.
**Korean Peninsula Tensions**: While Japan itself remains stable, the security situation on the nearby Korean Peninsula can shift rapidly, particularly around North Korean missile tests. Monitor news outlets and follow Cabinet Secretariat civil protection guidance if tensions escalate during your visit.
**Low But Rising Crime**: Japan’s crime rate against foreigners remains minimal compared to most destinations, but pickpocketing and bag snatching incidents are increasing in tourist-heavy districts. Guard your belongings in crowded train stations and popular attractions.
## Prepare Your Health Before You Depart
Even low-risk destinations require proper health preparation. Ottawa travellers should schedule a pre-travel health consultation 6-8 weeks before departure. Depending on your itinerary and activities, recommended vaccines for Japan may include routine immunizations (measles, COVID-19), Japanese encephalitis (for rural or extended stays), and hepatitis A.
A travel health specialist can also advise on managing jet lag, motion sickness for Japan’s extensive train travel, and assembling a medical kit suitable for your specific needs—especially important if you’re hiking in bear country or visiting remote areas.
Don’t let preventable health issues derail your adventure. Professional travel health advice ensures you’re protected against both common travel illnesses and destination-specific risks.
Travelling to Japan? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.