Health & Insurance in Japan
Japan's healthcare is excellent. Knowing the basics makes it stress-free.
Japan has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Hospitals are clean, doctors are well-trained, and most clinics in cities have staff who can communicate in basic English.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended — not because Japan's healthcare is bad, but because treatment costs without insurance can be significant, and medical evacuation is expensive anywhere.
Travel Insurance
Get it before you leave
Travel insurance covering medical expenses and evacuation is essential. Japan's healthcare is excellent but not free for visitors — a hospital visit without insurance can cost $100–500+ depending on treatment.
What to look for
Coverage for emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Also consider trip cancellation and lost luggage coverage. Credit card travel insurance often covers basic emergencies — check your policy.
Recommended providers
World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Allianz are commonly used by travelers. For Russian citizens, Ingosstrakh and ERV offer Japan coverage. Always read the policy conditions before purchasing.
Medical Care
Finding English-speaking doctors
Major cities have international clinics with English-speaking staff. Tokyo has multiple hospitals catering to foreigners (St. Luke's International, Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic). Outside major cities, language becomes more of a challenge — Google Translate or a translation app helps significantly.
What happens if you need emergency care
Call 119 for an ambulance (same as Japan's emergency number). Emergency rooms are available at major hospitals. You will be expected to pay at the time of treatment or provide insurance information — carry your policy number and insurer's phone number.
Prescriptions and medications
Some medications common elsewhere are controlled or prohibited in Japan. Pseudoephedrine (in many cold medicines) and codeine are restricted. Check the MHLW list before packing your medicine bag. Bring enough of any prescription medication for your entire stay.
Pharmacies & Self-Care
Pharmacies (Kusuri-ya / Drugstore)
Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, and Sundrug are common chains. They stock a wide range of over-the-counter medications, skincare, and health products. Staff are helpful but usually don't speak English — use the translation app or point to symptoms.
Common purchases
Kakonan (cold patches), Salonpas (muscle patches), and various stomach medicines are useful travel companions. Japanese cold medicine is effective. Antihistamines are available over the counter for hay fever — Japan's cedar pollen season (February–April) is intense.
Drinking water
Tap water in Japan is safe to drink everywhere. Bottled water is widely available from vending machines and convenience stores if preferred.
Important
This page provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Requirements and regulations change — verify current rules with official sources and your insurance provider before traveling.