Japan’s healthcare system is known for its efficiency and high quality of care, but navigating it can be challenging for expats and travelers unfamiliar with the language and system.
We wrote this guide hoping it could help alleviate some of the usual stress associated with traveling – or moving to – a foreign country by providing essential information about where to seek medical help, useful Japanese terms, and how healthcare differs for residents and visitors.
Whether you’re an expat living in Japan or a traveler just passing through, this guide will help you understand your options, learn some useful Japanese phrases, and ensure you’re prepared for any medical situation.
Where to Go for Medical Help in Japan
Not all medical facilities in Japan function the same way, so knowing where to go based on your condition can save you time and stress. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of medical facilities you’ll find:
1. Hospitals (病院, Byōin)
- Large medical institutions with multiple departments, including emergency care.
- Equipped to handle serious conditions and surgeries.
- Some major hospitals in big cities have English-speaking doctors or interpretation services, but smaller ones may not.
- Appointments are usually required, except in emergencies.
- Instead of saying they are going to the doctor, many Japanese people will say they go to the hospital (Byōin) but they are actually going to a clinic (Shinryōjo)!
2. Clinics (診療所, Shinryōjo)
- Smaller medical offices specializing in specific areas like internal medicine, dermatology, or pediatrics.
- Great for minor illnesses, check-ups, and ongoing treatments – if you’re feeling under the weather this is the place to go!
- Usually operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so appointments aren’t always necessary.
- This is where to go to get a Shōkaijō (紹介状) or letter of reference if you need to go to the hospital afterwards.
3. Emergency Rooms (救急外来, Kyūkyū Gairai)
- Located within hospitals for urgent and life-threatening medical situations.
- If you’re experiencing a severe emergency, dial 119 to call an ambulance.
- Be aware that emergency care can be expensive, especially if you don’t have insurance.
4. Pharmacies (薬局, Yakkyoku) and Drugstores (薬屋, Kusuriya)
- Pharmacies (Yakkyoku) fill prescriptions given by doctors.
- Drugstores (Kusuriya) sell over-the-counter medicine for minor issues like headaches, colds, and stomachaches.
- Pharmacists may not always speak English, so bringing a translation app or written note can be helpful.
5. Nighttime and Holiday Clinics (夜間・休日発熱センター, Yakan Kyūjitsu Hatsunetsu Sentā)
- Special clinics open late at night and on holidays for non-emergency medical needs.
- Ideal for treating sudden fevers or minor health issues when regular clinics are closed.
Healthcare for Expats vs. Travelers
How you access healthcare in Japan depends on whether you’re a resident or a visitor.
Expats and Long-Term Residents
If you’re staying in Japan for more than three months, you must enroll in the national health insurance system. This means you’ll be covered for most medical expenses and only need to pay a portion of the cost out of pocket.
- National Health Insurance (NHI, 国民健康保険, Kokumin Kenkō Hoken): If you’re self-employed, a student, or not working full-time, you’ll be enrolled in NHI.
- Employees’ Health Insurance (EHI, 会社健康保険, Kaisha Kenkō Hoken): If you work for a company, your employer will provide this insurance, which may offer additional benefits.
With insurance, you usually pay 30% of your medical costs, while the government covers the remaining 70%.
Travelers in Japan
If you’re visiting Japan as a tourist, you won’t be covered by the national insurance system. Instead, you’ll need to rely on your travel insurance.
- Why Travel Insurance Matters: Without it, you may face very high medical bills, as hospital visits can be expensive.
- Check Your Coverage: Make sure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, hospital stays, and any pre-existing conditions.
What to Do in a Medical Emergency
If you suddenly feel unwell or are in an emergency, here’s what to do:
- Call an Ambulance (救急車, Kyūkyūsha): Dial 119 for medical emergencies. While some operators speak English, it helps to have a translation app or basic phrases ready.
- Visit an International Clinic: In big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, there are international hospitals and clinics with English-speaking doctors.
- Use a Medical Interpretation Service: Services like the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provide emergency translation assistance.
- Show Your Insurance Card or Travel Insurance Details: This helps avoid delays in treatment and ensures you’re billed correctly.
Useful Japanese Phrases for Medical Situations
Communication can be tricky when you’re sick, so here are some handy phrases:
- “I need a doctor.” → 医者が必要です (Isha ga hitsuyō desu)
- “I don’t feel well.” → 具合が悪いです (Guai ga warui desu)
- “Where is the nearest hospital?” → 一番近い病院はどこですか？ (Ichiban chikai byōin wa doko desu ka?) “Do you speak English?” → 英語を話せますか？(Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)“I have an allergy to…” → アレルギーがあります。(Arerugī ga arimasu.)
Final Tips for a Stress-Free Medical Experience in Japan
- Keep Your Insurance Card With You: If you’re an expat, you’ll need to show it when visiting a hospital or clinic.
- Download a Translation App: Google Translate or specific medical translation apps can be a lifesaver.
- Prepare for Cash Payments: Some smaller clinics and pharmacies don’t accept credit cards.
- Know Your Medications: If you take prescription medicine, bring a list with the generic names in case you need a refill.
In Conclusion
Getting sick in a foreign country can be stressful, but knowing how Japan’s healthcare system works will make things much easier. Whether you’re living in Japan or just visiting, being prepared with the right information ensures you can get the care you need without unnecessary hassle. Stay safe and take care!