“What do I do if I get sick or injured in Japan?”

Don’t panic! Japan has excellent healthcare. Here’s what you need to know.

Minor Issues

“Where do I go for small problems?”

Pharmacy (Drugstore):

• For cold medicine, pain relievers, bandages
• Look for: Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sugi, Welcia
• Some staff speak English
• Show your symptoms or use Google Translate

Common medicines:

• EVE (ibuprofen) – Pain/fever
• Bufferin – Headache
• Pabron – Cold medicine

When to See a Doctor

“What if I need more than medicine?”

Clinics:

• Small doctors’ offices
• Good for minor illness
• Faster than hospitals
• May need translation help

Hospitals:

• For serious issues
• Emergency rooms available
• Longer waits
• Better English support usually

Finding English-Speaking Doctors

“How do I find help in English?”

Resources:

• AMDA Medical Information Center
• Your hotel front desk
• Japan Healthcare Info website
• Your country’s embassy

Major cities have international clinics designed for foreigners.

What to Bring

“What do I need?”

Take with you:

• Passport
• Travel insurance documents
• Credit card
• List of your medications
• Description of symptoms

What Japanese People Actually Do

Most locals:

• Go to clinics for minor issues
• Use drugstore medicines first
• Have national health insurance
• Trust the healthcare system

Extra Travel Tips

1. Get travel insurance – Very important before visiting

2. JNTO app – Has medical assistance information

3. Emergency number – Call 119 for ambulance

4. Pharmacies close late – Usually until 9-10 PM

5. Bring your prescriptions – With generic names, not brand names

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