Japan

Japan's rail network is one of the best in the world, and the shinkansen (bullet train) makes long-distance travel fast, frequent, and famously punctual -- a Japan Rail Pass can offer real savings.

Within cities, subway networks are extensive, and IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) work seamlessly across most transit nationwide.

A rental car makes more sense for rural areas like Hokkaidō, where trains run less frequently -- Japan drives on the left.

Japan is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world to visit -- violent crime is extremely rare, and lost items (including wallets) are frequently turned in rather than kept. The practical considerations for visitors are mostly about natural hazards and cultural navigation rather than crime.

• Earthquakes are a genuine, frequent reality -- Japan sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences thousands of tremors a year, most too minor to notice. Buildings are engineered to extremely high seismic standards, and hotels post evacuation instructions; familiarize yourself with them on arrival rather than in the moment.
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• Typhoons affect much of the country, particularly the south and Pacific coast, from roughly June through October -- check forecasts before travel during this window, since train and flight disruptions are common during a direct hit.
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• Tsunamis are a real risk in coastal areas following significant earthquakes -- follow posted evacuation routes and official alerts immediately if a warning is issued, without waiting to confirm the size of the wave yourself.
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• Mountain and volcano safety: Japan has active volcanoes (including Mount Fuji itself and several in Kyushu), and hiking in remote or high-altitude areas carries real weather and altitude risk -- check current conditions and closures before any serious hike or climb.
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• Emergency numbers: 110 for police, 119 for fire or ambulance, both free from any phone.