Yes, tap water in Japan is generally safe to drink. It meets high standards and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its quality. In fact, it's often considered safer than bottled water, which may be filtered tap water from a different source.
Many locals and even tourists prefer to drink tap water in Japan, especially when dining at restaurants. It's usually readily available upon request and often considered a source of pride for many municipalities.
While most tap water in Japan is safe, there might be a slight chlorine smell in some areas, particularly in big cities like Tokyo. However, this is not a cause for concern and does not affect the water's safety.