Emergency Care in Japan

What you need to know about accessing emergency care in Japan, including procedures and important contacts.

Emergency! How to Get Medical Care as a Foreign Traveler in Japan

Experiencing a medical emergency while traveling is stressful anywhere, but especially in a foreign country. The good news is that Japan has an excellent healthcare system. The challenge for travelers is often communication and understanding the process.

The most critical thing to remember: Unlike residents, as a traveler, you will not be covered by Japan’s National Health Insurance. This means you will be responsible for 100% of the cost of your treatment. This is why comprehensive travel insurance is absolutely vital before you leave your home country.

Step 1: Assess the Situation & Call for Help

  • Life-Threatening Emergency (e.g., severe injury, unconsciousness, chest pain):
    • Call 119 immediately. This is the number for both ambulance and fire services.3
    • If you do not speak Japanese: Try to find a Japanese speaker nearby to help you. If that’s not possible, state “English please” or “I need an ambulance, emergency!” The operator may be able to connect you to an English speaker, but it’s not guaranteed.
    • Be ready to provide: Your location (as specific as possible, including landmarks), what happened, and the patient’s condition.4
  • Urgent but Not Life-Threatening (e.g., broken bone, high fever, severe stomach pain):
    • Option A: Go to an Emergency Room (ER): Most major hospitals have an ER (救急外来 – kyuukyuu gairai). You can go directly. Be prepared for potentially long wait times, as critical cases take priority.
    • Option B: Consult a Doctor: For less severe issues, you can try to find an “English-speaking clinic” during regular business hours. This will often be quicker and less overwhelming than a hospital ER for non-critical issues. (See Step 3 for resources).

Step 2: What to Expect When You Arrive

  • At the Scene (with 119): Paramedics will assess the situation and transport you to the nearest appropriate hospital. They are highly skilled but generally do not provide extensive medical treatment on the spot.
  • At the Hospital/Clinic:
    • Registration: You will need to fill out forms. If you don’t speak Japanese, carry a translation app or phrasebook.
    • Passport: Always have your passport (or a clear copy) with you for identification.
    • Payment: Be prepared to pay for treatment upfront and in full. Many hospitals accept credit cards, but smaller clinics might only take cash.
    • Communication: Many larger hospitals in tourist areas will have some English-speaking staff or access to translation services. Don’t be afraid to ask for a translator if needed.

Step 3: Finding English-Speaking Medical Facilities

If your situation isn’t a 119 emergency, finding a clinic where you can communicate can save a lot of stress.

  • AMDA International Medical Information Center: This is an invaluable resource. They provide phone consultation services in several languages and can help you find medical institutions with English-speaking staff.
    • Phone: 03-6233-9266 (Hours vary, check their website)
  • JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization): Their website often lists hospitals and clinics with foreign language support, categorized by region.7
  • Local Tourist Information Centers: Can often provide up-to-date lists of English-friendly doctors in their area.
  • Hotel Concierge: Your hotel staff can be an excellent first point of contact for recommendations and even help you make an appointment or call an ambulance.

Step 4: After the Emergency – Travel Insurance is Key!

  • Keep all receipts: For doctors’ visits, prescriptions, ambulance services, and any medical supplies. You will need these to file a claim with your travel insurance provider.
  • Contact your insurer: Inform your travel insurance company as soon as reasonably possible. They can guide you on next steps, offer guarantees of payment to hospitals (in some cases), or arrange medical evacuation if necessary.
  • Remember: No Japanese Insurance for Tourists. As a short-term visitor, you are not eligible for Japan’s National Health Insurance. This makes comprehensive travel insurance absolutely essential before you depart for Japan. It will cover your medical expenses and potentially medical evacuation if a serious emergency arises.

Remember:

  • Prevention is Best: Practice good hygiene, stay hydrated, and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Carry Your Medications: Bring sufficient amounts of any prescription medications you need, along with a doctor’s note (preferably translated) explaining your condition and dosage.

While unforeseen emergencies can happen, knowing these steps will help you navigate the Japanese medical system with more confidence and ensure you get the care you need.