Japan Safe and Responsible Travel

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The Intrepid Foundation provides travellers with an opportunity to give something back to the many wonderful communities we travel to. By donating to The Intrepid Foundation you can make a difference in local communities - in health care, education, human rights, child welfare and the protection of wildlife and the environment.


Responsible Travel Tips

Ask permission before taking photos of people
 
'Women only' carriages were introduced to trains in Tokyo and Osaka in 2001
 

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for Japan


  1. Always dispose of litter thoughtfully, including cigarette butts.
  2. Please ask and receive permission before taking photos of people, including children.
  3. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.
  4. Try to use public transport wherever possible.
  5. Refrain from touching or interfering with ancient monuments, relics or historic sites.
  6. Learn some Japanese greetings and don't be afraid to use them - it will help break the ice.
  7. Shop for locally made products. Supporting local artisans helps keep traditional crafts alive.
  8. Be respectful and modest when visiting temples and monasteries.
  9. It's customary to remove your shoes before entering homes or ryokans.
  10. Elderly people are very much respected in Japan, and it's customary to allow them to go first when entering buildings or public transport.

Health and Safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?
Go to: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
From New Zealand?
Go to: http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
From Canada?
Go to: http://www.voyage.gc.ca/
From the US?
Go to: http://travel.state.gov/
From the UK?
Go to: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/
The World Health Organisation
also provides useful health information:
Go to: http://www.who.int/en/