Japanese Healthcare System: How It Works for Foreigners

Japan has excellent healthcare — but understanding the system is essential for residents. Here's what you need to know.

Healthcare Overview

Insurance Options

National Health Insurance (NHI)

For residents not covered by employer insurance.

Employee Health Insurance (Shakai Hoken)

For full-time employees.

Private Insurance

Supplemental coverage for extras.

What's Covered

Covered (70% by insurance)

• ✅ Doctor visits
• ✅ Hospital stays
• ✅ Surgery
• ✅ Prescription medication
• ✅ Emergency care
• ✅ Cancer treatment
• ✅ Mental health (limited)

Not Fully Covered

• ⚠️ Dental (50–70% coverage)
• ⚠️ Vision (glasses, contacts)
• ⚠️ Cosmetic procedures
• ⚠️ Some alternative medicine

Not Covered

• ❌ Health checkups (optional, ¥20,000–30,000)
• ❌ Vaccinations (some covered, some not)
• ❌ fertility treatments
• ❌ Experimental treatments

Finding a Doctor

English-Speaking Doctors

Hospital Types

Costs (With Insurance)

Emergency Care

Tips

1. Enroll in NHI immediately — don't wait
2. Carry your insurance card — always
3. Bring cash — many clinics don't accept cards
4. Learn medical Japanese — or bring a Japanese-speaking friend
5. Get a health checkup — annually recommended
6. Keep records — of all medical visits and prescriptions
7. Dental care — less expensive than Western countries
8. Mental health — limited English services, but growing