Safe
Japan
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Last reviewed:
Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Kyoto?
Yes, Kyoto tap water is safe to drink everywhere. The Kyoto City Waterworks Bureau supplies water from Lake Biwa and the Uji River, applying Japan’s strict water quality standards. The water is soft and has excellent taste.
Hardness
Soft (around 40–60 mg/L calcium carbonate
Country
Japan
Rating
Safe
Soft
Moderate
Hard
Very Hard
Water Source
Lake Biwa and Uji River, treated by Kyoto City Waterworks Bureau under Japan’s strict Water Supply Act standards
Contaminants & Concerns
Minimal—Japan enforces 51 water quality parameters that are stricter than WHO guidelines. Trace chlorine is maintained for safety but at very low levels
Tips
- •Drink tap water freely from any faucet in Kyoto—it is among the safest in the world
- •Refill your bottle at public drinking fountains found in parks, train stations, and temples
- •The soft water makes excellent tea and coffee, so take advantage when visiting traditional tea houses
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & References
The safety rating and guidance on this page draw on the following sources. See our full methodology.
- •WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality
- •CDC Travelers' Health destination pages
- •The municipal water utility's published quality data