Japan (Japan)

Is a independent political entity in the continent of Asia.

Its center lies at a latitude of 35.68536 and longitude of 139.75309.

Japan also goes by the names, An tSeapain, An tSeapáin, Aponia, Caponia, Chapon, Chapón, Djapan, Gappun, Giappone, Giappuni, Hapon, IJapani, Iapan, Iaponia, Jaapan, Jabaan, Jabbaan, Jahpan, Japan, Japana, Japani, Japanio, Japanska, Japanujo, Japao, Japo

The prodominant languages spoken are ja (Japanese) and its currency is the Yen (JPY), currently exchanging at 1 Japanese Yen = 0.00797 British Pound Sterling 1 Japanese Yen = 0.01262 US Dollar .

Japan currently has a population of 127288000 (estimate).

Regions within Japan

Largest Cities within Japan


Travel Advice Summary from British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO)

Country: Japan

Published: Fri, 18 May 2012 09:20:00 GMT

Travel Summary

  • Typhoon season runs from June to December. The Japan Meteorological Agency provides information and forecasts (in English) about approaching storms. See Natural Disasters – Typhoons.

  • The attempted satellite launch by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) (North Korea) on 13 April 2012 has increased tensions in the region, especially on the Korean peninsula. We assess that there is currently no immediate increased risk or danger to those living in or travelling to Japan as a result of the launch. However further provocations by DPRK or reactions by neighbouring countries cannot be ruled out and you should continue to monitor news reports and this travel advice closely.

  • We advise against all but essential travel to those areas in north-east Japan most affected by the 11 March 2011 earthquake and tsunami. This includes those coastal areas of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures which suffered extensive damage. These areas continue to experience disruptions to residential, business and transport infrastructure. There is also a continuing risk of aftershocks. If your travel is essential, you should consult local contacts before travelling.

  • We advise against all travel within a 20km radius of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, and the additional exclusion zones outside this 20km radius identified by the Japanese authorities as shown on this map. This advice is based on guidance from UK Government scientists. For areas outside those subject to restrictions, out to 60 km from the facility, we advise that you exercise a high degree of caution at all times by consulting relevant information on the local situation and by following the advice of the Japanese authorities.

  • The situation in Japan outside of these specific areas has largely returned to normal and most visits are trouble free. 184,045 British nationals visited Japan in 2010. See General – Consular Assistance Statistics.

  • There is a continuous risk of earthquakes and tsunamis throughout Japan. Latest warnings and advisories are published on the Japan Meteorological Agency website.

  • British nationals should observe the advice being given by the Japanese authorities on the nuclear situation. The 20km zone around the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant has been designated a restricted area. Anyone entering this area illegally is liable to a fine of up to 100,000 yen (approx £735) or detention. Outside the 20km zone, specific areas have been designated deliberate evacuation areas. These areas are shown on this map prepared by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, with the Planned Evacuation Zone marked in pink and the Emergency Evacuation Preparation Zone marked in yellow. On 30 September, the Japanese authorities lifted the evacuation orders in the Emergency Evacuation Preparation Zone. 

  • The Japanese authorities are carrying out comprehensive checks to monitor radiation in the environment surrounding Fukushima and to monitor possible contamination of water, food and produce. They are imposing strict controls where necessary.

  • Although the situation at Fukushima will remain of concern for some time, the risks are gradually declining as facilities to stabilise the reactors are established. The Japanese authorities continue to provide regular updates on developments at Fukushima.

  • For further information see our additional guidance.

  • The Japanese government will start a new residency system for foreign nationals on 9 July 2012.  Detailed information is available on the Japanese immigration website here and here.

     
  • You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General – Insurance.

  • There is a low threat from terrorism, but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

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