Can I Drink Tap Water in Japan?
Safe
Quick Answer
Japan's tap water is safe to drink throughout the country. It meets world-class standards with comprehensive testing protocols and advanced treatment methods.
Japan has one of the safest tap water systems globally, with tap water being safe to drink directly from the faucet throughout the country. The Waterworks Law requires 51 different types of water safety inspections, and water utilities employ advanced treatment methods including filtration, ozonation, and chlorination.
Water Quality Details
Japan has one of the safest tap water systems globally, with tap water being safe to drink directly from the faucet throughout the country. The Waterworks Law requires 51 different types of water safety inspections, and water utilities employ advanced treatment methods including filtration, ozonation, and chlorination.
Water sourceMixed sources
TreatmentFiltration, Chlorination, Ozonation
HardnessModerate
Contaminant Data
Practical Tips
- Check local water quality reports before drinking tap water
- Bottled water is available as an alternative
Traveler Advice
Risk level: low
Diarrhea risk: low
Travelers to Japan can safely drink tap water from the tap throughout the country. There is no need to purchase bottled water unless preferred for taste. Tokyo's tap water undergoes more than 291 quality tests annually and is among the safest in the world.
Sources & References
official_report
travel_advisory
Data confidence: high
Last updated: 2026-02-22
Cities in Japan