Medical Help in Japan

1. Emergency Help: What to Do First

Emergency Telephone Numbers

119 — Ambulance and Fire Services

110 — Police

Calls to these emergency numbers are free.

When calling 119, explain that you need an ambulance. Tell the operator your location, what happened, and the patient's condition as clearly as possible.

If you do not know your exact address, look for a nearby station name, hotel name, shop, or recognizable landmark. You can also ask someone nearby to help.

Do not delay calling because you are worried about your Japanese-language ability.

When Should You Call 119?

Call immediately for potentially life-threatening symptoms, including:

• Unconsciousness or difficulty waking someone
• Severe difficulty breathing
• Sudden, severe chest pain or pressure
• Possible stroke symptoms, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or difficulty speaking
• Severe bleeding that will not stop
• Serious injury or major trauma
• Severe allergic reactions involving breathing difficulties or throat swelling

If you are unsure whether a condition is life-threatening, seek urgent professional assistance.

Is an Ambulance Free in Japan?

Yes. Public ambulance transportation is generally free in Japan, including for foreign tourists.

You do not normally pay an ambulance transportation fee simply because you are visiting Japan.

However, ambulance transportation and hospital treatment are different. Medical examinations, procedures, medications, and hospitalization may result in charges.

Travelers without Japanese public health insurance may need to pay the full cost of treatment.

Do not avoid calling an ambulance during a serious emergency because you are worried about transportation fees.

2. Japanese Medical Phrases — Show These Cards

Show the Japanese text directly to someone helping you.

The Japanese text is presented in large, easy-to-read cards. Tap any card to highlight it.

3. Find a Hospital or Clinic

If your condition is not immediately life-threatening, a hospital or clinic may be appropriate.

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provides information to help international visitors find medical institutions that can accommodate foreign-language needs.

Find a Medical Institution

Use this resource to look for medical care based on your location, preferred language, and medical needs.

Before visiting, check:

• Opening hours and whether the facility is accepting patients
• Whether an appointment is required
• Availability of language assistance
• Accepted payment methods

A clinic may be suitable for minor illnesses. More serious conditions may require a hospital or emergency department.

Japan Visitor Hotline

The Japan Visitor Hotline, operated by JNTO, provides assistance to international visitors.

It is available 24 hours a day in English, Chinese, and Korean.

The service can help with travel-related emergencies and provide relevant information.

For a medical emergency, call 119 first. The hotline is not an ambulance dispatch service.

4. Medical Costs and Travel Insurance

Medical treatment in Japan is not necessarily free for international visitors.

If you are not covered by Japanese public health insurance, you may be responsible for the full cost of treatment.

Some hospitals may require advance payment or a deposit, depending on their policies and the treatment involved.

For non-emergency care, ask about estimated costs and payment methods before treatment whenever possible.

If You Have Travel Insurance

• Contact your insurance provider as soon as practical.
• Check whether your policy covers the treatment.
• Ask whether direct billing or cashless treatment is available.
• Keep medical records, receipts, and payment documents.

Never delay urgent medical care while checking your insurance coverage.

Remember: Public ambulance transportation is generally free, but medical treatment at the hospital is usually not.

5. Pharmacies and Over-the-Counter Medicine

For minor health problems, pharmacies and drugstores may offer suitable over-the-counter medicines.

However, not every store has a pharmacist available at all times. Some medicines may be sold only under certain conditions.

Tell the pharmacist or qualified staff member about your symptoms, allergies, medications you are taking, and relevant medical conditions.

Medicine names, active ingredients, and recommended dosages may differ from those in your home country.

Ask a qualified professional before taking unfamiliar medicine.

If symptoms are severe, persistent, or getting worse, seek medical attention rather than relying only on over-the-counter products.

6. Important Numbers and Official Resources