Navigating Japan's healthcare system as a foreign resident in Tokyo can feel complex, but here's the key takeaway: enroll in public health insurance immediately to access affordable, high-quality care.
- Universal Coverage: Japan’s healthcare system covers all residents, including foreign nationals staying over three months. You’ll need to enroll in either Employee Health Insurance or National Health Insurance (NHI).
- Costs: With insurance, you pay only 30% of medical costs. A typical clinic visit costs ¥5,000–¥10,000, while hospital visits range from ¥10,000–¥15,000.
- How to Register: Visit your local ward office within 14 days of moving to Tokyo. Bring your residence card, passport, and My Number card. Coverage starts retroactively from your eligibility date.
- English-Speaking Providers: Use tools like Myjin or the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s Himawari website to find English-speaking doctors.
- Emergencies: Dial 119 for ambulances or 110 for police. Interpretation services are available for non-Japanese speakers.
How Much I PAY at a Japanese Hospital on Japan's Healthcare System
How to Register for National Health Insurance in Tokyo
If you're a foreign resident in Tokyo planning to stay for more than three months and don't already have public health insurance, you’re required to register for National Health Insurance (NHI). Knowing the steps, requirements, and costs can make the process much smoother.
Steps to Enroll in National Health Insurance
To get started, head to your local ward office (区役所, kuyakusho). This is where you'll need to register your residence and apply for NHI. When you go, make sure to bring the following:
- Your passport
- Residence card with your current address
- My Number card
- Visa documentation (if applicable)
- A hanko (personal seal), if required by your ward office
According to Toshima City's guidelines, you must complete your registration within 14 days of establishing residency. Keep in mind that your insurance coverage begins retroactively from the date you became eligible, even if you register later.
Ward offices are generally open Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 17:00, and you don’t need an appointment. If you’re registering for multiple family members, the head of the household is responsible for submitting the application. Once your application is processed, your insurance card will be mailed to you, along with details about premium payments.
Costs, Coverage, and Payment Methods
Under NHI, 70% of your medical expenses are covered, leaving you to pay the remaining 30% out of pocket. This includes coverage for hospital stays, outpatient care, mental health services, prescription drugs, home healthcare, and most dental procedures. However, some treatments, like dental crowns and certain vaccinations (e.g., flu shots), are not covered.
Your monthly premium depends on your income, age, and the municipality you live in. Reduced rates are available for lower-income residents. Bills are typically sent monthly and can be paid at convenience stores or through online banking. Double-check that your registered address is correct to avoid missing important correspondence.
With insurance, medical costs become much more manageable. For example, a typical clinic visit might cost between ¥5,000 and ¥10,000, while hospital visits could range from ¥10,000 to ¥15,000. Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare regulates medical fees nationwide, ensuring consistency.
What to Expect During Enrollment
After submitting your documents and paying your premium, you’ll complete the enrollment process with a short orientation at the ward office. The staff are experienced in assisting foreign residents and will guide you through the process. While the forms are in Japanese, they’ll help verify your documents, confirm your address, and explain when your coverage begins.
Your insurance card will be mailed to you shortly after enrollment. If you lose it, contact the NHI Section and bring your residence card and My Number card to request a replacement.
During the orientation, staff will also provide details about your premium payment schedule and amounts. If you’re registering family members, ensure you have all necessary documents for each person. They may also advise you on any additional steps related to your visa status or family registration.
Finding English-Speaking Medical Services in Tokyo
Once you've enrolled in Japan's National Health Insurance, the next step is finding a healthcare provider that suits your needs. For English-speaking residents in Tokyo, this can be a bit of a challenge, but luckily there are resources to make the process easier.
Using Myjin's Directory for Healthcare Services
One reliable option is Myjin, a directory tailored specifically for foreign residents in Tokyo. It provides a curated list of English-speaking healthcare providers across various specialties, complete with verified contact information, official websites, and location details.
The directory includes essential medical categories like general practitioners, gynecologists, dermatologists, and dentists, all of whom have confirmed English language support. Each listing also details appointment procedures, types of insurance accepted, and the specific services offered. With every provider vetted for their ability to assist foreign patients, you can feel reassured that communication won’t be an issue.
Myjin focuses exclusively on Tokyo-based providers who understand the unique challenges that foreign residents may face when navigating Japan’s healthcare system. For further options, there are additional official and community resources to explore.
Other Ways to Find English-Speaking Doctors
If Myjin doesn’t meet all your needs, there are several other resources to consider. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s Himawari website offers a search tool for hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff. Additionally, embassies and consulates often maintain lists of English-speaking doctors and clinics that expatriates have successfully used.
Platforms like Japan Healthcare Info (JHI) provide online directories of English-friendly medical services. You can also turn to expat communities or even hotel concierges for personal recommendations.
Another helpful resource is the AMDA International Medical Information Center, which provides multilingual support and guidance for navigating healthcare services in Japan.
How to Handle Language Barriers
Even with an English-speaking healthcare provider, language barriers can sometimes arise. Fortunately, there are tools and services designed to help bridge these gaps during medical consultations.
One such tool is the Multilingual Medical Questionnaire (MMQ), which helps you prepare detailed information about your symptoms and medical history in advance. Available in 18 languages and categorized by medical department, it’s a practical way to ensure clear communication.
"The MMQ is intended to aid communication with the doctor and hospital when discussing symptoms and medical issues."
- International Community Hearty Konandai
Another option is the Dr. Passport app, which stores your medical history and offers key medical phrases in 12 languages, making consultations smoother.
For real-time language support, the Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Information Center and AMDA provide telephone translation and assistance with medical forms in multiple languages.
Before heading to any medical facility, it’s wise to call ahead to confirm whether appointments are required and to verify the availability of English-speaking staff. This extra step can save you time and ensure a smoother experience.
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Getting Medical Care: Clinics, Hospitals, and Emergencies
Once you've sorted out your insurance and chosen a provider, the next step is understanding how to navigate medical facilities. Knowing the procedures can save you time and stress when you need care.
Visiting Clinics and Hospitals
Clinics in Japan are smaller and often focus on specific types of care, making them ideal for non-urgent issues. On the other hand, hospitals are larger facilities equipped to handle emergencies and offer a wide range of specialties. Your choice between the two depends on the severity of your condition and the type of care you need.
When you visit a medical facility for the first time, there’s a standard check-in process. At hospitals, you’ll usually start at the front desk and then move to the health insurance registration area to fill out forms with your personal details. Make sure to bring your health insurance card and confirm that the facility accepts it during check-in.
Costs can vary significantly between clinics and hospitals. With insurance, a visit to a clinic typically costs ¥5,000–¥10,000, while hospital visits range from ¥10,000–¥15,000. Without insurance, those costs can skyrocket to ¥20,000–¥50,000. After your consultation, you’ll pay at the designated payment counter.
Many residents in Japan opt for private health insurance to cover the 30% of medical costs not included in the national insurance plans. If you’re a foreign resident, this additional coverage might be worth considering, especially for costly treatments.
Understanding the Referral System
Japan’s healthcare system allows patients considerable freedom in choosing their providers, from small clinics to major hospitals. However, large hospitals often require a referral letter. If you visit without one, you may face an additional fee of ¥2,000–¥5,000.
"Patients are essentially free to receive care from the facility of their choosing...According to guidelines, a referral letter is required to be seen at a large hospital; however, as is often the case, patients pay a fee of a few thousand yen to be able to be seen without a referral."
– Japan Health Policy NOW
Despite the referral system, many patients still choose to bypass it. For instance, a study at Niigata University Hospital found that 61.2% of 1,323 patients under 15 years old were admitted directly without a referral between April 2004 and March 2005.
Before heading to a clinic, it’s a good idea to check if you need an appointment. While most clinics accept walk-ins, some specialists, such as ob-gyns and dentists, often require appointments. Always carry your Japanese Health Insurance Card and some cash for payment.
Emergency Medical Services
In emergencies, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Quick and clear action is essential, especially for foreign residents unfamiliar with local systems.
For ambulance or fire emergencies, dial 119, and for police assistance, call 110. The Tokyo Fire Department offers English-speaking operators, and interpretation services are available in English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish. When calling, state that you need an ambulance (kyuu-kyuu desu) and provide your location, symptoms, and name.
| Emergency Type | Number to Dial |
|---|---|
| Ambulance/Fire | 119 |
| Police | 110 |
Ambulance transport is free, but you’ll be responsible for any medical costs once you arrive at the hospital. If you’re unsure whether your condition requires an ambulance, you can call #7119 to consult the Emergency Telephone Consultation Center. However, this service is currently only available in Japanese.
For crimes or accidents, be ready to share details about what happened, the time and location, your current situation, and your contact information. English-speaking staff are available at the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.
If possible, having a Japanese-speaking friend or colleague assist during emergency calls can help ensure smooth communication. That said, don’t let language barriers stop you from seeking help in critical situations - your safety comes first.
Key Resources and Tips for Foreign Residents
Getting through Tokyo's healthcare system can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools and preparation, you can make it much easier. Knowing where to find help and how to prepare can save you time, money, and stress when medical care is needed.
Useful Websites and Directories
Finding English-speaking healthcare providers in Tokyo is simpler with the help of specialized platforms.
Myjin is a go-to directory for foreign residents in Japan. It lists a variety of foreigner-friendly healthcare services across Tokyo, including general clinics, gynecologists, dentists, and dermatologists. Each listing includes verified contact information, official websites, and details about English language support. All services are pre-screened to ensure they can assist non-Japanese speakers.
On 27 March 2025, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government introduced the Tokyo Medical Information Site for Foreign Tourists and Residents. This multilingual online portal helps users find hospitals and clinics across Tokyo that cater to non-Japanese speakers.
"The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has launched a new online portal, the Tokyo Medical Information Site for Foreign Tourists and Residents, to help non-Japanese speakers navigate the city's healthcare system more easily." – Tokyo Metropolitan Government
These platforms often allow you to filter by location, specialty, and language support. Before visiting, confirm that the provider offers multilingual assistance. Beyond locating providers, understanding how to handle medical bills and preparing for appointments are equally important.
Understanding Medical Bills and Measurements
Managing medical expenses and records is just as crucial as finding the right doctor. Healthcare providers in Japan typically issue two types of documents: receipts and detailed statements. Receipts summarize your expenses and are useful for tax purposes, while detailed statements provide a full breakdown of your care and costs. Many providers now offer online access to these records.
Under the National Health Insurance system, you usually pay 30% of your medical bills, with fees standardized by a government committee. However, many hospitals prefer cash payments, so it’s wise to carry enough yen with you.
Medical records in Japan use the metric system: weight is recorded in kilograms, height in centimeters, and temperature in Celsius (normal range: 36.1°C–37.2°C).
Unpaid medical bills can lead to serious consequences. A 2024 survey revealed that 0.8% of foreign visitors left bills unpaid, accumulating a total of about ¥61.35 million in uncollected fees. Always carry your insurance card to avoid paying the full amount upfront and limit your expense to the co-payment.
Preparing for Appointments and Emergencies
Once you’ve found the right provider and understand your billing, being prepared for your appointment is key. Bring a concise summary of your medical history and current prescriptions in both English and Japanese to ensure clear communication. This is especially important because prescriptions from the U.S. aren’t valid in Japan. If you rely on regular medication, bring enough to last until you can consult a local doctor.
Language barriers are a common challenge when accessing healthcare in Japan. A simple medical phrasebook with common Japanese terms can be a lifesaver. For instance, when visiting a clinic for the first time, you can say "Hajimete desu" (初めてです), which means "This is my first time here". If you need language assistance, let the staff know immediately.
For emergencies, save the phrase "救急車を呼んでください。(Please call an ambulance.)" on your phone so you can show it to someone nearby if needed. Additional travel health insurance can also provide coverage beyond what National Health Insurance offers. Finally, familiarize yourself with local healthcare facilities that are experienced in assisting non-Japanese speakers so you’re prepared in case of an emergency.
Key Points for Foreign Residents
Navigating Tokyo’s healthcare system can feel overwhelming, but keeping a few essentials in mind will make the process much smoother.
First, ensure you enroll in health insurance as soon as you arrive. If you’re employed, your company will typically take care of this for you. If not, head to your local city hall to apply for National Health Insurance. Always carry your health insurance card - it’ll significantly cut down your out-of-pocket costs.
Finding English-speaking healthcare providers is easier with tools like Myjin's directory, which lists vetted professionals. Another helpful resource is the Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Medical Information Center, which offers a multilingual hotline (03-5285-8181) available daily from 9:00 to 20:00.
In emergencies, dial 119 for immediate assistance. To make communication easier, save the phrase "救急車を呼んでください。" (Please call an ambulance.) on your phone. You can also access translation support at 03-5285-8185 - available on weekdays from 17:00 to 20:00 and on weekends and holidays from 9:00 to 20:00.
When preparing for medical appointments, confirm all details beforehand. Bring a concise summary of your medical history in both English and Japanese. Learning some basic medical terms can also go a long way in ensuring smooth communication.
Considering Japan’s ranking of 78th out of 112 countries in the 2021 Education First English Proficiency Index, it’s wise to plan and use available resources to bridge any language gaps. By staying informed and proactive, you can confidently access Tokyo’s healthcare services with less stress.
FAQs
What is the difference between Employee Health Insurance and National Health Insurance in Japan, and how do I choose the right one?
In Japan, there are two primary health insurance systems: Employee Health Insurance (EHI) and National Health Insurance (NHI). These systems differ in terms of who qualifies, how much they cost, and how they are funded.
EHI is offered through employers, with the company covering half of the insurance premiums. This system covers 70% of medical expenses for both employees and their dependents. Meanwhile, NHI is designed for residents who aren’t eligible for EHI, such as freelancers, students, or retirees. Premiums for NHI are calculated based on a combination of income and assets.
Determining which system applies to you depends on your employment situation. If you’re employed by a Japanese company that provides EHI, you’ll typically be enrolled automatically. However, if you’re self-employed or work for an employer that doesn’t offer EHI, you’ll need to sign up for NHI at your local city or ward office. It’s important to note that joining one of these systems is mandatory for all residents in Japan.
How can I communicate effectively with doctors in Tokyo if I don't speak Japanese?
If Japanese isn't your strong suit, there are plenty of ways to communicate effectively with healthcare providers in Tokyo. Many hospitals and clinics have staff who speak English, making it easier for international patients to access medical care. A helpful starting point is the Tokyo Metropolitan Medical Institution Information service (Himawari), which can guide you to facilities that cater to non-Japanese speakers.
To prepare for your visit, consider using multilingual medical questionnaires to clearly outline your symptoms and medical history. While translation apps can assist with basic communication during consultations, having a Japanese-speaking friend or colleague by your side can make the process smoother. Additionally, your embassy or consulate might offer a list of English-speaking doctors to help you find the right care.
Taking these steps ahead of time can make navigating Tokyo's healthcare system far less daunting and ensure you get the medical attention you need.
What should I do if I lose my National Health Insurance card in Tokyo?
If you've misplaced your National Health Insurance (NHI) card in Tokyo, here's what you need to do to get a replacement:
- Head to the NHI section of your local ward office to report the loss and request a new card.
- Make sure to bring your Residence Card along with another form of valid identification.
- Be prepared to pay a reissue fee, which is usually about ¥1,000.
Although it's not required, you might also want to inform the nearest police station about the loss for extra peace of mind. Once you've completed the application process, your new card will be issued quickly, so you can continue accessing healthcare services without any interruptions.
