Japan
No mandatory vaccines, but Japanese Encephalitis is recommended for rural itineraries and long stays.
Commonly recommended vaccines
These are general recommendations. Your pharmacist will advise based on your specific itinerary and medical history.
For full guidance including malaria risk areas and health alerts, visit TravelHealthPro.
Health risks in Japan
Japan has no mandatory vaccination requirements for UK visitors, and for most travellers heading to Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, the main priority is simply ensuring your routine UK vaccines are up to date. But your itinerary matters. If you're venturing into rural Japan, hiking, or travelling between June and October, Japanese Encephalitis becomes a real consideration — it's a mosquito-borne viral infection, the vaccine requires two doses, and it isn't available on the NHS. The good news: our travel clinic in Gillingham, Medway can provide the full Japanese Encephalitis course alongside any other vaccines you need. Book at least six weeks before departure to allow enough lead time.
- Japanese Encephalitis is transmitted by mosquitoes in rural areas near rice fields, marshes, and pig farms — risk is highest between June and October
- Dengue fever is present in Japan, spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes; insect repellent and protective clothing are recommended
- Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in forested areas, particularly Hokkaido; ticks should be avoided during outdoor activities
- Many common UK medicines — including Vicks inhalers, cold remedies containing pseudoephedrine, and codeine-containing painkillers — are strictly illegal in Japan; check with the Japanese Embassy before travel
- Altitude sickness is a risk for those climbing Mount Fuji or other high-altitude areas; gradual acclimatisation is essential
Our pharmacists at Medway Pharmacy, 465 Canterbury Street, Gillingham, Kent ME7 5LJ provide personalised travel health advice for Japan and all destinations. We serve Gillingham, Chatham, Rochester, Strood, Rainham, and the wider Kent area. Open 7 days a week, 7:30am–10pm — same-day appointments available, no GP referral needed.
Frequently asked questions about travel to Japan
Do I need any vaccinations to travel to Japan?
No vaccinations are legally required to enter Japan. For most travellers, the priority is ensuring routine UK vaccines are up to date — MMR, tetanus, diphtheria, and polio. Additional vaccines, particularly Japanese Encephalitis, depend on your specific itinerary and activities.
Do I need the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine for Japan?
It depends on your trip. Short stays in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto city centres carry a low risk. The vaccine is recommended if you are spending a month or more in Japan, travelling to rural or agricultural areas, hiking or camping, or travelling between June and October. The vaccine course requires two doses — ideally spaced 28 days apart — so planning ahead is essential. A consultation at Medway Travel Clinic will help you decide based on your itinerary.
Is there malaria in Japan?
No — Japan has no malaria transmission and no antimalarial medication is recommended.
Is yellow fever required for Japan?
No. There is no yellow fever risk in Japan and no vaccine certificate is required to enter the country.
Are there medicines that are illegal to take into Japan?
Yes — Japan enforces strict drug laws that catch many UK travellers off guard. Common UK medicines including Vicks inhalers, cold and flu remedies containing pseudoephedrine, and some codeine-based painkillers are illegal. Check with the Japanese Embassy before travelling if you take any regular medication. Our travel consultation includes a medication review.
How far in advance should I book Japan travel vaccinations in Medway?
At least 6–8 weeks before travel — particularly if you need the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine, which requires two doses given at least 7 days apart (ideally 28 days apart). Even if you're travelling sooner, contact Medway Travel Clinic in Gillingham to check availability. Same-week appointments may be possible and most vaccines can still be administered close to departure.
Ready to get protected?
Book a travel health appointment at Medway Pharmacy. Same-day slots available, open until 10pm.
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