Japan is one of the most popular destinations for Australians, from Tokyo and Kyoto to ski season in Niseko and Hakuba. For most travellers it is a low-risk destination for infectious diseases, but there is one health issue that catches many Australians out: Japan's strict rules on bringing medicines into the country.
Key points
- Most short-term travellers to Japan only need their routine vaccines, including measles, to be up to date.
- The CDC lists no malaria in Japan.
- Some medicines that are legal in Australia are banned or restricted in Japan. Narcotics such as codeine need a Narcotic Certificate.
- JE vaccine may be worth discussing for long stays in rural areas.
- Ski trips bring their own risks, so check your travel insurance covers snow sports.
Travelling soon? A TMA travel doctor can tailor your vaccines and advice to your itinerary.
Which vaccinations do I need?
The right vaccines depend on your itinerary, length of stay, activities, age and health. These are the vaccines most often discussed.
Routine vaccines, including measles
Check your routine vaccines are up to date before any overseas trip. The Australian Immunisation Handbook advises that Australians born in or after 1966 who have not had 2 doses of a measles-containing vaccine should generally have MMR before travel. See our measles and travel checklist.
Japanese encephalitis
JE occurs in parts of Asia. The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends JE vaccine for travellers spending a month or more in endemic areas, and considering it for shorter trips with rural or outdoor exposure. Most short city and ski trips will not need it, but ask your travel doctor about your itinerary.
Hepatitis A and B
Depending on your plans, your doctor may also discuss hepatitis vaccines, particularly for longer stays or work in Japan.
Is there malaria in Japan?
No. The CDC lists no areas of malaria in Japan, so malaria tablets are not needed for a trip to Japan alone.
Taking medicines to Japan
Smartraveller warns that some medications are banned in Japan, and that authorities could detain you if you are found with them. For narcotic medications, including codeine, morphine and oxycodone, you need to apply for a Narcotic Certificate before you travel, or the medication may be confiscated. You may also need a permit or certificate depending on the medication's classification, name and quantity.
- Check whether each of your medicines is legal in Japan before you go, using the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare guidance.
- Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor listing the medicine names, doses and that they are for personal use.
- Take enough legal medication for your whole trip.
Your travel doctor can help review your medicines and write the letter you need. Our older article on Japan and your medications has more background.
Ski trips and winter travel
Japan's ski season is a peak time for Australian travellers. Check that your travel insurance covers snow sports and medical evacuation, pack your regular medicines in your carry-on, and plan for jet lag on arrival.
When should I see a travel doctor?
Healthdirect recommends seeing your doctor or a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. Every TMA member clinic offers pre-travel consultations and is an approved Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any vaccinations for Japan?
Most short-term travellers only need routine vaccines, such as measles, to be up to date. Longer or rural stays may warrant others, such as JE. A travel doctor can advise.
Can I take codeine to Japan?
Smartraveller advises that narcotic medicines, including codeine, need a Narcotic Certificate. Without one, the medication may be confiscated.
Is there rabies in Japan?
Dog rabies has been eliminated in Japan, according to the UK travel health service TravelHealthPro. Still avoid handling wild animals.
Find a TMA travel doctor near you.
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Recommendations change, so speak with your doctor before you travel.