United States
3 governments, 3 different opinions
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions in the United States. While generally safe, be aware of regional crime variations. Some urban areas have higher crime rates. Japan advises caution in areas with known gun violence.
United States (State Dept)
The US does not rate itself (only issues advisories for other countries)
United Kingdom (FCDO)
FCDO warns of gun violence and mass shooting incidents across the US. The UK advises travellers to be aware of the risk of domestic terrorism, extreme weather events (hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires), and the high cost of healthcare. Petty crime and car break-ins are common in major cities.
This is a unique comparison: the US cannot rate itself, so this assessment draws on Japan and the UK only. Japan rates the US as Level 1, but the UK takes a notably more cautious stance — specifically warning about gun violence, mass shootings, and the high cost of medical treatment. Ironically, the country that rates others most strictly is itself warned about by the UK. The regional variation in safety is extreme: some areas are among the safest in the world, while others have crime rates exceeding many Level 2 countries.
What Each Government Says
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
“Exercise normal precautions in the United States. While generally safe, be aware of regional crime variations. Some urban areas have higher crime rates. Japan advises caution in areas with known gun violence.”
United States (State Dept)
United Kingdom (FCDO)
See our advice before travelling
“FCDO warns of gun violence and mass shooting incidents across the US. The UK advises travellers to be aware of the risk of domestic terrorism, extreme weather events (hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires), and the high cost of healthcare. Petty crime and car break-ins are common in major cities.”Destination Customs
Prohibited / Restricted Imports
Meat products, fresh fruits, and vegetables — many items prohibited or require USDA/APHIS inspection. Especially strict for pork products from Japan.
Alcohol — 21 years or older only. Up to 1 liter duty-free. Exceeding limits incurs tax.
Tobacco — 200 cigarettes or 100 cigars duty-free for those 21+.
Cash exceeding $10,000 USD — must be declared to CBP (Customs and Border Protection).
Medications — bring prescriptions for controlled substances. Some medications legal in Japan may be restricted in the US.
Export Restrictions
Native American artifacts and cultural items — export may be restricted under NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act).
Certain technology and electronics — export controls may apply under EAR (Export Administration Regulations).
Endangered species products — strictly prohibited under the Endangered Species Act and CITES.
Customs rules can change. Always verify with the local customs authority or embassy before travelling. See Japan return customs guide
SAFE-SENTINEL Tips
💡 Based on all 3 sources:
- 1.Get comprehensive travel insurance — US healthcare is extremely expensive. An ER visit can cost $3,000-$10,000+ without insurance
- 2.Be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas at night. Gun violence is a real risk in certain neighborhoods
- 3.Do not leave valuables visible in parked cars — car break-ins are rampant in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles
- 4.Tipping is expected: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 per day for hotel housekeeping
- 5.Uber and Lyft are widely available and generally safer than walking in unfamiliar areas at night
- 6.Download weather alert apps — extreme weather (tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires) can develop quickly depending on the region and season
- 7.The US is vast — distances between cities are far greater than in Japan. Domestic flights or car rental are often necessary
Pre-Trip Checklist
Travel Insurance (card benefit)
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Emergency Contacts
Japanese Embassy
+1-202-238-6700Local Emergency
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Sources & Freshness
⚠️ This information may not reflect the latest situation. Always check official sources before travelling.