Best Travel Insurance for Japan, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & More

If you love Japan, you’re not alone. In December 2022 alone, over 67,000 Singaporeans paid a visit to the Land of the Rising Sun – that’s enough to fill 150 Airbus 380s!

Japan offers many attractions that cater to diverse interests. Tokyo, the bustling capital, is a haven for tech enthusiasts and food lovers, boasting everything from towering skyscrapers and neon-lit streets to world-renowned sushi restaurants. On the other hand, Kyoto has serene temples, beautiful gardens, and traditional tea houses, which gives a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Nature lovers flock to Hokkaido for its stunning landscapes, hot springs, and ski resorts, while history buffs find endless fascination in Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and the ancient castles of Osaka and Nara.

No doubt there’s plenty to see, do and love about Japan, but making a trip there isn’t without hazards. For one, the country is prone to earthquakes and typhoons, which can cause flight disruptions and wreak havoc on your itinerary. And even if your luggage should go missing (rare, but it happens), who wants to waste precious holiday time fretting about having to spend extra on replacement clothing and personal items?

No one, of course. Which is why it’s a good idea to compare travel insurance plans and sign up for a robust one that fits your needs before you jet off overseas. That way, you are worry-free during your Japan trip because you’re financially prepared for emergencies.

And not to be a nag or anything but, COVID-19 still remains a menace, which means having travel insurance is the smarter play no matter which way you slice it. 

Therefore, if you’re planning to go on a trip to Japan and wondering which travel insurance to get, read our recommendations to find the best one for you.

Best Travel Insurance With COVID-19 Coverage in Singapore

AIG Travel Guard® Direct | MSIG TravelEasy | Tiq Travel Insurance | Starr TraveLead Travel Insurance | HLAS CovidSafe Travel Protect360 | FWD Travel Insurance - COVID-19 Rider | Singlife Travel Insurance | Allianz Travel Insurance | Sompo Travel (COVID-19) Insurance | Allied World Travel Protector | Starr TraveLead Travel Insurance

Table of contents:

• Why get travel insurance when travelling to Japan from Singapore
• Comparing Japan travel insurance plans
• The best travel insurance to Japan from Singapore
• Comparing Japan travel insurance coverage
• How much does Japan travel insurance cost?
• Does travel insurance cover car rental excess in Japan?
• Region specific travel insurance advice
• How to pick Japan trip insurance
• Safety tips for travelling to Japan
• Frequently asked questions for travelling to Japan

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Why get travel insurance when travelling to Japan from Singapore?

Travelling to Japan from Singapore is undoubtedly an exciting experience, offering a blend of rich cultural heritage, modern attractions, and scenic beauty. However, like any international travel, it comes with its risks. 

One significant concern is the frequent occurrence of natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and typhoons, which can lead to substantial disruptions and financial losses.

Aside from natural disasters, there is always the possibility of medical emergencies. In a foreign country, a trip to the hospital can result in unexpectedly high medical bills. The last thing you want is to be burdened with these costs while trying to recover from an illness or injury.

Additionally, common travel issues like delayed or lost baggage can add stress and inconvenience to your journey. Replacing lost items can be both costly and time-consuming, detracting from the enjoyment of your trip. Imagine arriving in Japan only to discover that your luggage is missing, and you have to spend your first days sorting out replacements for essential items.

Given these potential challenges, having comprehensive travel insurance is essential when visiting Japan or embarking on any international trip. A robust travel insurance that covers natural disasters, medical emergencies, lost baggage and more means you won't have to worry about the financial implications of unexpected problems. You can simply focus on exploring the wonders of Japan and enjoy your trip.

Comparing Japan travel insurance plans

When you’re buying travel insurance for your Japan trip, many factors should be considered. For example, if you’re planning to go on more adventurous trips, like skiing or snowboarding, then you should go for one with generous medical coverage and extreme sports coverage. If you’re planning a family trip, then it would be best to choose group travel insurance plans or family travel insurance plans. That’s why to help you with this decision, we’ve narrowed down our picks based on key categories that might help with your decision.

Travellers that want great value for their health insurance when they are overseas should consider MSIG TravelEasy Insurance Plans. These travel insurance plans offer generous coverage even at their standard tier, providing S$250,000 in overseas medical coverage. Additionally, it is also a travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage, which is reassuring if you’re concerned about contracting the virus while abroad.

MSIG TravelEasy’s travel insurance plans are also perfect for family travel insurance, whether you want to insure your children or if you’re planning to travel while pregnant. These plans ensure comprehensive coverage for all family members, making your trip worry-free.

For a more budget-friendly trip to Japan, Allianz Basic travel insurance provides a decent amount of overseas medical coverage at up to S$200,000 and up to S$1,500. However, this does not provide any travel delay coverage or travel accident coverage. As the name implies, it only provides your basic coverage for the trip, which is a good deal if you’re only in Japan for a week or two. 

If you’re going on a trip to Japan with elderly members of your family, insuring them with Tiq travel insurance plans that have pre-existing condition coverage would be useful. They have a decent amount of coverage for their overseas medical insurance and an excellent claims limit for any travel mishaps, like delays and cancellations.

For those who need travel insurance with sports activities coverage, MSIG TravelEasy Elite and Premier plans are great options. They cover adventurous activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and more.

Looking for the right travel insurance for your Japan trip? Get the best and cheapest deals for your travel insurance at SingSaver, where you can compare various plans to find the perfect fit for your needs.

The best travel insurance to Japan from Singapore

MSIG TravelEasy

Premiums for individual single-trip:

• Standard: S$46 for the first three days and S$7.50 for the daily rate
• Elite: S$66 for the first three days and S$10 for the daily rate
• Premier: S$96.50 for the first three days and S$12.50 for the daily rate 

Premiums for family single-trip:

• Standard: S$ 116 for the first three days and S$15 for the daily rate
• Elite: S$167 for the first three days and S$20.50 for the daily rate
• Premier: S$227 for the first three days and S$25.50 for the daily rate

MSIG TravelEasy offers a wide range of travel benefits and provides generous claims limits for almost every item.

• Total medical coverage: Solo travellers and families travelling to Japan can have a more worry-free vacation with MSIG TravelEasy’s amazing health benefits. Their medical coverage ranges from S$250,000 to S$1 million for individual cover, depending on your plan. And for those getting the family travel insurance plan, the total coverage can be up to S$2.6 million for you and your child during the trip.
• Hospitalisation coverage: Individual cover provides up to S$300 per day with a maximum of S$60,000 for overseas hospitalisation. For family insurance plans, coverage for your child's overseas hospitalisation can be up to S$150 per day with a maximum of S$15,000. Additionally, there is a hospitalisation daily benefit when you return to Singapore.
• Trip cancellation: You can receive up to S$15,000 for trip cancellation due to serious illness, injury, or natural disaster under individual cover. The family cover offers up to S$37,500 for the same circumstances.
• Loss/damage of baggage: For baggage delay, you will receive a lump sum payment of up to S$250 for every 6 hours of delay.
• COVID-19 coverage: If you contract COVID-19 during your trip, individual cover provides up to S$250,000 in overseas medical expenses and up to S$5,000 for travel cancellation. Family cover offers up to S$750,000 in medical expenses and up to S$12,500 for travel cancellation.

One downside to this plan is that it does not cover pre-existing conditions. However, with the extensive benefits and high claims limit it provides, even at its Basic tier, this travel insurance is still worth considering.

If you want to know about their travel insurance plans, check out our full MSIG travel insurance review. 

Allianz travel insurance

Premiums for individual single-trip:

• Basic: From S$17.50
• Silver: From S$ 21.00
• Platinum: From S$ 40.00

Premiums for family single-trip:

• Bronze: From S$37.50
• Silver: From S$47.50
• Platinum: From S$87.00

Allianz travel insurance provides you with budget-friendly premiums to give you an essential financial safety net during your Japan trip. These are some of the highlights of the Allianz travel insurance plans:

• Total medical coverage: Receive up to S$1 million in overseas medical coverage
• Hospitalisation coverage: Get up to S$2,000 in hospital cash
• Trip cancellation: For cancelled trips, you can get up to S$ 10,000 
• Loss/damage of baggage: Up to S$5,000 
• COVID-19 coverage: Their insurance plans provide the same level of coverage for COVID-19 claims as they do for claims arising from other covered reasons. This means you won’t be penalised with lower coverage in case the disease makes an unwelcome appearance on your trip to Japan.
• Other benefits: Rental car excess waiver, sporting equipment and equipment rental, and coverage for missed activities are bundled in at no extra charge. 

For more details on their insurance plans, check out our review on whether Allianz travel insurance is worth it.

Tiq Travel Insurance

Premiums for individual single-trip with no pre-existing condition cover: 

• Entry: S$25.80 (+S$13.80 for COVID-19 cover) 
• Savvy: S$40.20 (+S$21.60 for COVID-19 cover)
• Luxury: S$51.00 (+S$31.80 for COVID-19 cover)

Premiums for individual single-trip with pre-existing condition cover: 

• Entry: S$69 
• Savvy: S$93 
• Luxury: S$111.60 

Tiq travel insurance gives holidaymakers in Japan peace of mind with comprehensive coverage that includes: 

• Total medical coverage: For medical coverage, you can get up to S$1 million for overseas medical expenses, up to S$500,000 for personal accident, and up to S$1.8 million combined coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation. 
• Hospitalisation coverage: It also does well in hospitalisation benefits, providing up to S$20,000 in overseas hospital income (S$200 per 24 hours) and up to S$1,500 hospital allowance in Singapore (S$100 per 24 hours).
• Travel inconveniences: For travel inconveniences, this plan offers up to S$10,000 for trip cancellation (up to S$5,000 for COVID-19), up to S$5,000 for travel curtailment including hijack, and up to S$1,000 for travel postponement. 
• COVID-19 coverage: The COVID-19 coverage for their insurance plan is considered an add-on and requires an additional charge. If you avail of their COVID-19 add-on, you can get up to S$300,000 in overseas medical expenses and S$5,000 in travel cancellation. However, it’s also worth noting that COVID-19 coverage is not included in pre-ex plans, so you may want to clarify with the insurer your rights and benefits before signing up.

Check out our detailed Tiq travel insurance review to learn more about their coverages, pros, cons, and more.

Starr TraveLead travel insurance

Premiums for individual single-trip: 

• Bronze: S$40.80
• Silver: S$52.80
• Platinum: S$68.40

Another value-for-money travel plan to consider when travelling to Japan is Starr TraveLead travel Insurance, which features the following benefits: 

• Total medical coverage: This insurance offers up to S$1 million benefits for overseas medical expenses, unlimited cover for emergency evacuation and repatriation, and up to S$500,000 in personal accident coverage. If you need follow-up medical treatment in Singapore, it covers medical expenses reasonably incurred within 30 days of your return of up to S$50,000.
• Travel inconvenience: It is also excellent in terms of travel inconveniences, covering policyholders for up to S$15,000 for travel cancellation (but only S$500 for COVID-19), up to S$7,500 in luggage and personal belongings, and up to S$4,000 for loss of travel documents. 
• COVID-19 coverage: While COVID-19 benefits are included, they are disappointingly quite meagre, coming in at a maximum of S$65,000 for overseas medical expenses. However, the overseas hospital cash benefit helps to make up for this somewhat, with up to S$15,000 per trip (S$200 per day).
• Other benefits: There is also a rental vehicle excess of S$1,200 included, as well as up to S$15,000 coverage for home contents while you’re away from home. If you’re planning to do adventurous activities in Japan, their insurance provides add-on coverage for activities, such as scuba diving, snow sports, and cruise vacation.

Enjoy additional coverage by adding Trip or Baggage coverage for an absolute peace of mind. Increase COVID-19 medical expenses coverage and protection against trip cancellations due to COVID-19 when you select either the Silver or Platinum plans. T&Cs apply.

Comparing Japan travel insurance coverage

For an overview of our travel insurance recommendations for your Japan trip, we compare their key benefits and premiums for their individual cover single-trip plans:

How much does Japan travel insurance cost?

To understand the cost of travel insurance for a trip to Japan, it's essential to consider various factors that influence the price. 

• Coverage level: The extent of coverage you choose (basic, medium, or comprehensive) significantly impacts the cost. Comprehensive plans, offering extensive protection, will be more expensive.
• Trip duration: The length of your stay in Japan affects the premium. Longer trips incur higher costs due to the extended coverage period.
• Traveler's age: Insurance costs tend to be higher for older travellers, reflecting the increased risk of health issues.
• Additional benefits: Coverage for specific activities (e.g., diving, skiing) or conditions (e.g., pre-existing medical conditions) can raise the price.

The cost of travel insurance for Japan or any international trip can range significantly and different factors can influence where you choose to get your plan from.

Deciding between annual vs single-trip travel insurance when flying out of Singapore also plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost. For frequent travellers, opting for an annual travel insurance plan might be more cost-effective in the long run, despite its higher upfront cost compared to single-trip insurance. 

Does travel insurance cover car rental excess in Japan?

When planning a trip to Japan and considering renting a car, an important question arises: Does travel insurance cover car rental excess in Japan? 

Not all travel insurance policies include car rental excess cover as standard. It's essential to carefully review the policy details or contact the insurer to confirm if this coverage is included. Policies that do cover car rental excess typically have a limit on the amount covered. Ensure this limit is adequate compared to the potential excess charges by the rental company in Japan.

Understanding the overseas car insurance coverage specifics can save you from unexpected expenses in case of an accident. Here's what you need to know: 

• Car rental excess: This is the amount you're liable to pay in the event of an accident or damage to the rental vehicle. It can be a significant out-of-pocket expense without proper coverage.
• Travel insurance coverage: Some travel insurance policies include coverage for rental car excess, which means the insurance will cover the excess cost that the rental company charges you in case of an accident.
• Exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions that may apply to the car rental excess coverage. Common exclusions include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or damage to certain parts of the vehicle like tires and windscreen.

Region-specific travel insurance advice

Japan's diverse regions offer unique experiences, and travellers should consider specific insurance needs based on their destinations:

Tokyo and major cities

For those visiting Tokyo, Osaka, or other major cities in Japan, ensure your policy covers urban risks such as high medical costs and public transportation disruptions. Given the high population density, the risk of catching illnesses is higher, so travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is essential.

Kyoto and cultural sites

If you’re visiting tourist attractions in Kyoto, they will also have a high population density, which may make you more prone to catching illnesses. Therefore, you should have adequate medical coverage. 

Additionally, consider coverage for personal liability, as some historical and cultural sites may have strict rules and high penalties for accidental damage. 

Travel insurance with trip cancellation and other trip interruptions is also advisable, as events and festivals in these regions can lead to unexpected changes in your travel itinerary.

Hokkaido and northern regions

For those planning to visit Hokkaido or other northern regions during the winter for snowboarding and skiing, you should consider adventure sports travel insurance. These policies should cover medical emergencies related to these activities and potential trip cancellations due to severe weather conditions.

Okinawa and coastal areas

Those going to Okinawa and other coastal regions for water activities should prioritise coverage for water sports and marine activities, like scuba diving and snorkelling. Ensure your policy includes not only equipment and missed activities coverage but also comprehensive medical coverage for potential mishaps.

As these areas are also prone to severe weather conditions, like typhoons, having travel insurance that covers natural disasters is essential.

Rural and remote areas

For those venturing into Japan's rural and remote areas, your travel insurance should include emergency medical evacuation and search and rescue coverage. These regions might have limited access to medical facilities, so having coverage for evacuation to the nearest hospital is crucial.

How to pick Japan trip insurance

Deciding where to get travel insurance for Japan involves navigating through a myriad of options, each with its own set of coverages, benefits, and costs. To simplify the process and ensure you pick a policy that best suits your needs, follow these structured steps: 

Step 1: Assess your travel needs

• Destination specifics: Consider Japan's unique aspects, such as natural disaster risks (earthquakes, typhoons) and urban safety concerns.
• Activities planned: Identify if your trip involves special activities like skiing, diving, or hiking, which may require additional coverage.

Step 2: Understand coverage essentials

• Medical coverage: Ensure the policy includes comprehensive medical insurance for illnesses and injuries, considering Japan's high healthcare costs.
• Trip cancellation and interruption: Look for policies that cover trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen events like natural disasters or personal emergencies.
• Lost or stolen belongings: Choose a policy that provides sufficient coverage for lost luggage or stolen personal items.

Step 3: Compare policies

Check customer feedback and reviews to gauge the insurer's reliability and claim settlement efficiency. Also, check travel insurance discounts that providers are currently offering to get alerted about limited-time offers and discounts.

 

Step 4: Check for exclusions

Verify if the policy covers pre-existing medical conditions or if you need to purchase additional coverage. Ensure that your planned activities are not excluded from the policy, especially if engaging in adventure sports.

Step 5: Evaluate cost vs. coverage 

While cost is an important factor, prioritise the extent and adequacy of coverage to avoid being underinsured. Understand any deductibles that apply and ensure the coverage limits are adequate for your needs.

Step 6: Review policy details

Read the policy details of your travel insurance thoroughly to understand the coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions, and the claim process. Confirm the availability of 24/7 emergency assistance, which can be invaluable during unexpected situations in Japan.

Step 7: Purchase from reputable insurers

Choose an insurer known for its reliability, customer service, and financial stability to ensure peace of mind during your travels.

By following these steps and focusing on key aspects like coverage essentials, policy comparison, and insurer reputation, you can effectively navigate the options and select the best travel insurance for your Japan trip. Remember, the right travel insurance policy not only offers protection against unforeseen events but also ensures a more secure and enjoyable travel experience.

Safety tips for travelling to Japan

From Tokyo to Kyoto, there are several different cities and places to visit in Japan that cater to every traveller's taste. Whether you're drawn to the underwater world, the allure of mountain trails, or the vibrant city streets, here's how to ensure a safe and memorable experience while travelling in Japan:

Outdoor and recreational activities

• Diving safety: Japan offers fantastic diving spots where you can explore fascinating marine life. But before you go on an underwater adventure, make sure that you dive with a reputable company, check your equipment, and dive within your certification limits. Consider getting adventure travel insurance that covers diving on top of regular travel insurance.
• Hiking precautions: If you're venturing into Japan's beautiful mountains, inform someone about your plans, carry a map, stay on marked trails, and pack essentials like water, food, and a first-aid kit.
• Urban exploration: When exploring cities, be mindful of bicycle and pedestrian traffic rules. Keep your belongings secure to avoid pickpocketing in crowded places.

Preparing for natural disasters

When preparing for your trip to Japan, it's smart to stay ready for natural events, ensuring your travel is both enjoyable and safe, ensure you have prepared and looked into the following: 

• Travel insurance: Make sure you purchase travel insurance with natural disaster cover. This can help cover unexpected costs from delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies.
• Local emergency numbers: Have a list of local emergency numbers, including the nearest embassy or consulate, on hand.
• Emergency plans: Know the emergency evacuation plans of the places you are staying and visiting.

By staying informed, preparing for the unexpected, and understanding what to do in case of natural disasters, you can enjoy a safer trip to Japan. Always prioritise your safety and follow the guidance of local authorities during any emergency. 

Making it a practice to purchase your travel insurance after booking your flights can ensure this item on your travel to-do list is not overlooked.

Frequently asked questions for travelling to Japan

Do I need COVID-19 coverage if I travel to Japan?

While it is not mandatory, having travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage when travelling to Japan is highly recommended. Despite improvements in the global pandemic situation, the virus remains a significant health risk. COVID-19 coverage ensures you are financially protected in case you contract the virus while abroad. It typically covers medical expenses, quarantine costs, and travel disruptions such as trip cancellations or curtailments due to COVID-19. 

Japan has stringent health protocols, and unexpected quarantine or hospitalisation can lead to substantial out-of-pocket expenses. Moreover, the coverage can provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about potential health risks. 

How does the coverage differ between single-trip and multi-trip travel insurance for Japan?

The primary difference between single-trip and multi-trip travel insurance is their duration and frequency of coverage. Single-trip insurance covers one specific journey to Japan, providing protection from the start to the end of that particular trip. This type of insurance is ideal for travellers who do not travel frequently and want comprehensive coverage for a single vacation or business trip. It typically includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel-related risks.

On the other hand, multi-trip travel insurance covers multiple trips within a specified period, usually a year. This option is more cost-effective for frequent travellers, offering continuous coverage for each journey made within the policy term. Multi-trip insurance often includes the same benefits as single-trip insurance, such as medical coverage, trip interruption, and baggage protection, but it is designed to be more convenient and economical for those who travel regularly.

Can I cancel my travel insurance policy if I cancel my trip to Japan?

Yes, generally you can cancel your travel insurance policy if you cancel your trip to Japan, but the specifics depend on the terms and conditions of the insurance provider. It's crucial to read and understand the policy's cancellation terms before purchasing. Contacting the insurance provider directly to inquire about their specific cancellation and refund policies can also provide clarity and ensure you make an informed decision.

What documents do I need to provide when applying for travel insurance for Japan?

When applying for travel insurance for Japan, you will need to provide key documents, such as a valid passport and your detailed travel itinerary. Your travel itinerary includes your flight tickets and accommodation bookings so the insurer can verify the duration of your trip. 

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you may need to submit medical records or a doctor’s note to disclose these conditions accurately. This is especially important if you are purchasing a policy that includes coverage for pre-existing conditions.

Proof of residency or citizenship, such as a national ID card or residency permit, may also be required. If you are applying for a multi-trip policy, providing information about your travel frequency and destinations can be necessary.

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