Is Kyrgyzstan a safe country? Good? A safety guide to know before you travel

Hello everyone, this is Sugiura, the editor-in-chief of Ashu Travel, a travel agency specializing in Central Asia.

Kyrgyzstan is a popular country for those who “want to go to an unusual place on an overseas trip” or “want to see a superb view of a hole in the ground. Many of you may have become concerned when you looked up “Kyrgyzstan” on the Internet and found “dangerous” or “unsafe” in the search words.

I myself was the same way at first. But now that I know the local situation, my image of Kyrgyzstan has completely changed.

In this issue, we will provide you with tips on how to enjoy a safe and secure trip to Kyrgyzstan, so please use it as a reference for your trip!

Security conditions tend to change from region to region. Since the situation may change in a short period of time, please check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the latest information before traveling to Japan.

Actual Security in Kyrgyzstan

First of all, we would like to tell you the reality of Kyrgyzstan’s security to ease your concerns about “Is Kyrgyzstan really safe? I will tell you the reality of the security situation in Kyrgyzstan to ease your concerns.

Is Kyrgyzstan dangerous? Is it safe?

In a word, security in Kyrgyzstan “depends on the place. The areas around the capital Bishkek and Lake Issyk Kul are popular tourist destinations and relatively safe. On the other hand, be careful near the borders of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, where military clashes can occur.

In other words, Kyrgyzstan is one of the safest foreign travel destinations, relatively speaking, as far as tourist destinations go. I have traveled to nearly 20 countries and personally think that it is safer than popular tourist destinations in Europe. In fact, there are many women like me who enjoy traveling alone. If you avoid dangerous areas and take normal precautions, you can travel with peace of mind.

What is the danger level on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website?

As of November 2024, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Chui Region, including Bishkek, and the surrounding Talas, Issyk Kul, and Naryn Regions are at Danger Level 1, which means “be very careful. Danger Level 1 is, roughly speaking, a “tourist with caution” level.

On the other hand, the southwestern states of Jalalabad, Osh, and Batken are considered Level 2 danger areas, and the border areas are Level 3, requiring special caution. Generally speaking, danger levels 2 and 3 should be avoided for tourism.

This is the current security situation, so please do not forget to check the latest information when you actually go on your trip!

Where are the “bad areas” in Kyrgyzstan? Spots to avoid.

To ensure a safe trip, we have picked out areas that require attention at this time.

Caution here! Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border

The border area between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan is especially important to avoid for sightseeing. There are occasional military conflicts, so it is best to stay away from this area. Let’s put safety first.

Also note the second city, Osh.

Osh is a culturally interesting place, but demonstrations and riots can occur. We recommend that you check the latest security situation and, if you go, with a reliable local guide.

Crimes that tourists should watch out for when traveling to Kyrgyzstan

What should be an enjoyable trip should not turn into trouble due to the slightest carelessness. In order to enjoy your trip with peace of mind, we will tell you about crimes to watch out for in Kyrgyzstan and troubles that tourists are likely to encounter.

When you find your wallet… Pickpockets in the bazaar

Bustling bazaars are the best part of sightseeing, but they are also the places where pickpockets are most likely to occur. In particular, the Osh Bazaar, the largest bazaar in Kyrgyzstan, is a frequent pickpocket zone. You may get hit when you are distracted by the delicious local fruits or cute goods.

Cab with a hefty bill! Beware of fare trouble!

When traveling in Kyrgyzstan, we often hear episodes of “I was charged an exorbitant fare in a cab! episodes. It seems that tourists who are unfamiliar with the cab situation, especially when traveling from the airport to the city center, are easy targets.

What, fake cops? Scam targeting tourists

Beware of “police-like” people who ask you to let them check your luggage at tourist spots or around terminals. They may ask you to show them your ID or cash, which may then be stolen. They are often not real police, so be cautious if you suspect they are suspicious!

Are Japanese welcome in Kyrgyzstan?

When we travel abroad, we are foreigners. We are concerned about how Japanese people will be treated in our travel destinations. Actually, Japanese are often welcomed in Kyrgyzstan.

Lots of pro-Japanese

Kyrgyzstan is a fairly pro-Japanese country. There are schools where you can learn Japanese language and culture. There is a high sensitivity to Japanese products and culture, and Japanese anime and manga are also popular.

Also, if you say, “Yaponiz (Japanese),” you may be greeted with a smile. Some people will excitedly mention the names of Japanese electronics manufacturers or anime titles that they know, which can make you happy while you are shopping or sightseeing.

I will elaborate on the reasons why there are so many pro-Japanese people in Japan another time.

Tips for enjoying interaction with the locals

In Kyrgyzstan, the national language is Kyrgyz and the official language is Russian, so learning simple greetings will make your trip easier. For example, just a few words such as “Hello” or “Thank you” will help you get closer to the local people.

Nevertheless, be on your guard!

Japanese people are often welcomed in Kyrgyzstan, but this does not mean that there will be zero trouble. If you are not careful, you can get caught in an incident, so please be aware that “this is not Japan” and “you are in a foreign country now.

7 measures to enjoy a safe and secure trip to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is a safe country to travel if you choose the right place, but it is different from Japan. Take measures to avoid trouble and make your trip comfortable.

Always check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for danger levels.

As with any overseas trip, check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ overseas safety website several times during your travel planning and just before your trip. Local conditions can change without your knowledge. Even if there are no problems while you are planning your trip, they may change just before you leave for your destination, so it is important to check the website frequently.

Cab transfers should use a cab dispatch app.

To avoid rip-off cabs, use a taxi dispatch app. You can see the fare in advance and check the driver’s rating for peace of mind. Apps such as “Yandex GO” are major in Central Asia.

If this is your first trip to Kyrgyzstan and you are not comfortable making your own arrangements, we recommend choosing a tour that includes airport pickup and drop-off.

Keep valuables close to your body and protect them absolutely.

To prevent pickpocketing and snatching while sightseeing, carry your passport, wallet, and phone close to your body. It is also recommended to use a pouch to hide valuables inside your clothes or an anti-pickpocket bag. Also, in crowded places such as bazaars, do not carry a backpack on your back, but carry it in front of you for security.

Safety with an ingenious way to hide touristiness.

In tourist areas, if people realize that you are a “tourist,” you are an easy target for pickpockets and scalpers, so try to be inconspicuous and avoid risk. When it comes to attire, avoid flashy accessories and clothing with large brand logos. Choose simple clothes similar to those of the locals.

Also, if you are outside spreading out a map or looking at your phone app for an extended period of time, it is easy to tell that you are a tourist. Decide roughly how to get there in advance, and try to keep it short when checking your phone app outside.

It is better to relax at a hotel than to go out at night.

Tourist areas such as Bishkek and the Issyk Kul Lake area are safe during the light hours, but at night there are fewer streetlights and fewer people on the streets, so the risk of petty crime is higher. Women should avoid walking alone at night and return to their hotels before dark. When going out at night, it is safer to have a trusted guide or several people with you.

Remember to be considerate of religion.

If you are traveling in Kyrgyzstan, it is safe to be a little aware of religious customs. Avoid unnecessary outings during the Muslim month of Ramadan, a time of heightened religious observance among the locals. Then, it is better to stay away from stores and restaurants that serve pork, as pork is forbidden in Islam.

Embassy contact information is essential, your ally in times of need.

Remember to take down the contact information for the Embassy of Japan in Kyrgyzstan in Bishkek in case of any problems. For example, if your passport is lost or stolen, you can consult with them immediately if you know the contact information. Trouble can occur when you least expect it, so it is a good idea to take note of the contact information in advance.

Embassy of Kyrgyzstan HP: https://www.kg.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_ja/index.html

Enjoy your trip to Kyrgyzstan knowing the security situation!

Security in Kyrgyzstan varies from place to place, but as far as tourist destinations are concerned, the country is a safe place to travel. In particular, the areas around the capital Bishkek and Lake Issyk-Kul are perfect for beginner tourists. Please consider safety measures carefully with reference to the contents of this issue and plan a trip that you can enjoy with peace of mind!

Ashu Travel’s recommended tours

If you want to enjoy your trip to Kyrgyzstan safely and securely, we recommend a tour that provides both transportation and accommodations. In the “Horseback Riding Tour to Lake Issyk Kul, the second largest lake in the world” by Ashu Travel, you will be picked up at the airport by a dedicated driver and supported by a Japanese-speaking guide, so even first-time travelers can enjoy their trip with peace of mind.

In addition, horseback riding on Lake Issyk Kul and in the valley is a special time to experience firsthand the magnificent nature unique to Kyrgyzstan. Staying in tents or in ash guesthouses, you can also enjoy the tranquility and cultural exchange that you cannot experience in the city.

初めてのキルギス旅行の不安を解消しながら、充実した旅を計画したい方にぴったりのツアーです！