International Health Care in Tokyo (2025 Guide)

Key Takeaways

Tokyo's healthcare landscape in 2025 offers comprehensive medical services tailored to the international community. The city features dozens of certified international hospitals and clinics, with major facilities having established dedicated international departments staffed with interpreters and English-speaking medical professionals.

Key advantages include:

• Wide network of international hospitals and clinics certified for foreign patients
• English-speaking doctors and multilingual staff at major hospitals
• 24/7 emergency services with English support at international facilities
• All types of care available: emergency, general practice, dental, and mental health

Cost considerations:

• International and private clinics charge higher fees than local Japanese facilities
• Simple clinic visits: ¥5,000–¥15,000 without insurance
• Emergency room visits: ¥20,000–¥50,000 without insurance
• Japan's National Health Insurance (NHI) covers 70% of medical expenses for residents

Success factors:

• Understanding insurance options and enrollment requirements
• Knowing how to find English-speaking healthcare providers
• Carrying proper documentation and insurance cards
• Familiarizing yourself with emergency procedures (call 119 for ambulance)

Why International Health Care Matters in Tokyo

Tokyo's status as a global city creates significant demand for international healthcare services. The city hosts a large population of foreign residents (approximately 3.77 million nationwide) and welcomed about 36.9 million annual visitors, with Tokyo receiving a substantial portion of these international arrivals.

Language barriers present challenges:

• Most neighborhood clinics operate exclusively in Japanese
• Communication difficulties can lead to hesitation in seeking medical care
• Potential for misunderstandings during treatment without proper interpretation

Healthcare institutions have responded by:

• Hiring interpreters and bilingual medical staff
• Establishing dedicated international healthcare departments
• Training doctors with overseas experience and English fluency
• Creating systems to ensure smooth treatment for foreign patients

Financial considerations also drive the need for international healthcare services. While Japan offers universal health coverage for residents, short-term visitors often lack local insurance coverage. A 2024 survey revealed nearly 30% of foreign tourists had no travel insurance, creating financial strain when medical care became necessary.

International clinics address these challenges by:

• Helping patients navigate payment systems
• Coordinating with overseas insurance companies for direct billing
• Providing transparent pricing and detailed receipts for insurance claims
• Offering payment plans and financial counseling when needed

Types of International Health Services Available

General Hospitals with International Departments

Tokyo's major hospitals have developed comprehensive international patient services, typically featuring 500+ bed facilities with advanced medical capabilities and specialized support for non-Japanese speakers.

Key features include:

• English-speaking doctors and bilingual nursing staff
• On-site translation services for multiple languages
• International patient registration and billing assistance
• Coordination with embassies and overseas insurance providers
• Advanced medical treatments including specialized surgeries and cancer care

Notable examples:

• St. Luke's International Hospital: 539-bed facility in Tsukiji with century-long history of serving expatriates, offering cutting-edge treatments like proton beam therapy
• Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital: JMIP-certified facility in Minato ward with International Office providing interpreters in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Chinese
• University of Tokyo Hospital: Features International Medical Center established in 2012, offering multilingual support and coordination with overseas insurance

These hospitals excel in serious or specialized care requiring full-service facilities. They typically require referral letters for non-emergency visits but waive this requirement for foreign patients or emergencies. The international departments centralize services like document translation, insurance coordination, and multilingual support.

Specialized Clinics (Dental, Pediatrics, Dermatology, etc.)

Tokyo offers numerous specialty clinics targeting the international community, particularly in areas with high expat populations like Minato, Shibuya, and Shinjuku wards.

Available specialties include:

• Dental care: Multiple English-speaking dental offices in central areas like Hiroo and Ginza
• Pediatrics: Medical Clinic Hiroo features U.S. board-certified pediatrician treating patients from over 60 countries
• Women's health: Aiiku Clinic International Unit in Hiroo provides prenatal and maternity care with English support
• Dermatology: Tokyo Skin Clinic in Roppongi offers services in English, Dutch, French, and German
• Mental health: Specialized psychiatric clinics with English-speaking therapists and psychiatrists

Advantages of specialized clinics:

• Direct communication with doctors in English
• Western-style patient experience and bedside manner
• Detailed explanations of procedures and treatment options
• Understanding of international patient expectations
• Convenient appointment scheduling systems

Considerations:

• Higher costs compared to local Japanese clinics
• Many operate as private practices with premium pricing
• Some don't accept Japanese health insurance, requiring pay-and-claim arrangements
• Limited to outpatient services for routine and specialized care

Emergency & Urgent Care Centers

Emergency medical care in Tokyo is accessible to foreigners through the national emergency system. Calling 119 provides free ambulance service that will transport patients to the nearest appropriate emergency hospital.

Emergency system features:

• Legal requirement: Emergency care must be provided regardless of insurance status or language
• 24-hour availability: Major hospitals serve as designated emergency centers
• Translation support: Many facilities have telephone interpreter services available
• Advanced capabilities: Full trauma and critical care services at major medical centers

Recommended emergency hospitals:

• St. Luke's International Hospital (24-hour ER with international support)
• Japanese Red Cross Medical Center in Hiroo (experienced with expat emergencies)
• National Center for Global Health and Medicine in Shinjuku (government-run, JMIP-certified)

Recent developments:

• Private urgent care clinics modeled after Western systems have opened in central Tokyo
• Telemedicine services now offer video consultations with English-speaking physicians
• Enhanced telephone interpreter services available at major hospitals

Important considerations:

• Patients cannot choose which hospital the ambulance uses
• Language support may vary depending on staff availability
• Identification of foreigner-friendly emergency hospitals in advance is recommended
• Carrying insurance information and identification expedites treatment

Mental Health & Counseling Services

Mental health services for foreigners in Tokyo have expanded significantly, addressing cultural sensitivities and language barriers in this traditionally challenging area.

Available services:

• TELL (Tokyo English Lifeline): Nonprofit providing confidential counseling and crisis hotline services with multilingual therapists
• English-speaking psychiatric clinics: Facilities like Roppongi Mental Clinic and Tokyo Mental Health Clinic offer therapy and psychiatric services
• Private counseling practices: Tokyo Counseling Services and Meguro Counseling Center feature Western-trained therapists

Service characteristics:

• Medicalized approach: Psychiatrists typically focus on medication management
• Separate therapy services: Talk therapy usually provided by psychologists or counselors outside hospital systems
• Cost structure: Sessions typically cost ¥10,000+ and are often paid out-of-pocket
• Telehealth options: Online therapy with international providers increasingly available

Emergency mental health resources:

• Embassy assistance for connecting with English-speaking professionals
• Crisis intervention through TELL Lifeline
• Emergency psychiatric care through 119 ambulance system
• Hospital psychiatric units available for acute care needs

Major International Hospitals and Clinics in Tokyo

Sanno Hospital

Sanno Hospital in Akasaka represents one of Tokyo's most comprehensive medical facilities, offering a complete range of healthcare services from primary care to advanced surgical procedures. Located in the heart of Minato City, this hospital has built a strong reputation for high-quality patient care supported by advanced medical technology.

Medical capabilities:

• Complete spectrum of medical specialties including internal medicine and surgery
• Obstetrics, gynecology, and pediatrics departments
• Advanced surgical facilities and diagnostic equipment
• Experienced medical professionals with international training
• Personalized patient care approach

International services:

• English-speaking medical staff and support personnel
• Multilingual consultation capabilities
• International patient coordination services
• Modern medical facilities designed for patient comfort

Contact information:

• Address: 8-10-16 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• Phone: +81 3-3402-3151
• Website: https://www.sannoclc.or.jp/hospital/english/

American Clinic Tokyo

This outpatient-only medical clinic specializes in serving Tokyo's international community with primary care services delivered in a familiar Western medical environment. Located in the business district of Akasaka, American Clinic Tokyo focuses on preventive care and routine medical needs.

Service focus:

• Primary care services for international residents and visitors
• Patient-centered approach to healthcare delivery
• Outpatient-only services with emphasis on preventive medicine
• Routine health maintenance and acute care treatment
• Family medicine and general practice services

International approach:

• English-speaking staff throughout the facility
• Western-style medical practice and consultation approach
• Familiarity with international insurance systems
• Cultural sensitivity to expatriate healthcare needs

Contact information:

• Address: No. 1 Niikura Building 3F, 1 Chome−7−4 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo
• Phone: +81 3-4405-6210
• Website: https://www.americanclinictokyo.com/

Roppongi Hills Clinic

Located within the iconic Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, this comprehensive medical clinic offers premium healthcare services in one of Tokyo's most prestigious locations. The clinic combines modern medical facilities with convenient access for Tokyo's international business community.

Facility features:

• Comprehensive medical clinic within Roppongi Hills complex
• Modern facilities and advanced diagnostic equipment
• Wide range of medical services under one roof
• Premium location with excellent accessibility
• High-quality patient care standards

Medical services:

• General medicine and specialist consultations
• Advanced diagnostic and screening services
• Executive health programs for business professionals
• Routine health maintenance and acute care
• Coordination with other medical specialists

Contact information:

• Address: 6 Chome−10−1, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6F, Minato City, Tokyo
• Phone: +81 3-3796-0066
• Website: http://www.66clinic.com/en/

National Medical Clinic

National Medical Clinic in Minamiazabu provides comprehensive healthcare services with a focus on patient-centered care. The clinic combines experienced medical professionals with modern facilities to serve both Japanese and international patients.

Healthcare philosophy:

• Patient-centered approach to medical care
• Commitment to high-quality healthcare delivery
• Experienced medical professionals
• Modern medical facilities and equipment
• Comprehensive healthcare services

Service offerings:

• General medicine and routine healthcare
• Preventive care and health screenings
• Acute illness treatment and chronic disease management
• Coordination with specialists when needed
• Health education and wellness programs

Contact information:

• Address: Minamiazabu 5 Chome−16−11-202, Minato City, Tokyo
• Phone: +81 3-3473-2057
• Website: https://www.nmclinic.net/index1.html

Shinagawa East Medical Clinic

Shinagawa East Medical Clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services in the Shinagawa area, emphasizing patient-centered care and modern medical facilities. The clinic serves both local and international patients with a commitment to quality healthcare delivery.

Clinical approach:

• Patient-centered medical care philosophy
• Commitment to high-quality healthcare standards
• Modern medical facilities and diagnostic equipment
• Experienced medical professionals
• Comprehensive healthcare service offerings

Medical services:

• General medicine and family practice
• Routine health maintenance and preventive care
• Acute illness treatment and management
• Health screenings and diagnostic services
• Referral coordination with specialists

Contact information:

• Address: 2-15-2 Kounan, Minato City, Tokyo
• Phone: +81 3-5783-5522
• Website: https://e-clinic.gr.jp/

International Health Care Clinic

Located in Shinbashi, International Health Care Clinic specifically focuses on serving Tokyo's international community. The clinic combines multilingual staff with comprehensive medical services to address the unique needs of foreign residents and visitors.

International focus:

• Dedicated service to Tokyo's international community
• Multilingual staff and translation services
• Cultural sensitivity in healthcare delivery
• Understanding of international insurance systems
• Coordination with overseas medical providers

Medical capabilities:

• Comprehensive medical services for all ages
• Routine healthcare and preventive medicine
• Acute illness treatment and chronic disease management
• Health screenings and diagnostic services
• Emergency consultation and referral services

Contact information:

• Address: 2 Chome−10−5 Sueyoshi Bld. 3F, Minato City, Tokyo
• Phone: +81 3-3501-1330
• Website: https://www.ihc-clinic.jp/en/

Located in Roppongi's Tokyo Midtown complex, this state-of-the-art outpatient facility represents the pinnacle of international healthcare in Japan. Developed in partnership with Johns Hopkins Medicine, it became the first private clinic in Japan to earn JCI accreditation in 2015.

Distinctive features:

• Western-style "one-stop" medical service model
• Comprehensive health screening and preventive care programs
• Same-day minor surgeries and advanced diagnostic imaging
• Executive health services tailored to international business community
• Direct billing arrangements with many foreign insurance providers

Service offerings:

• Complete specialist departments under one roof
• Advanced health check-ups with immediate results
• Cutting-edge diagnostic equipment (MRI, CT, etc.)
• Multilingual staff with international training backgrounds
• Online appointment booking system in English

Considerations:

• Premium pricing structure (basic consultations ¥10,000+)
• Appointment required for most services
• Targeted toward executives and affluent expatriates
• Located in central business district for convenient access

St. Luke's International Hospital

As Japan's pioneering international medical institution, St. Luke's has served Tokyo's foreign community since 1902. This 539-bed teaching hospital in Tsukiji consistently ranks among Japan's top medical facilities.

Medical capabilities:

• Full range of medical specialties and subspecialties
• Advanced treatments including proton beam therapy for cancer
• Comprehensive emergency department with 24/7 services
• High-quality maternity ward popular with expat families
• Cutting-edge surgical and diagnostic capabilities

International services:

• Dedicated International Department for patient coordination
• English-speaking doctors and nurses in multiple departments
• Translation services for medical documents and communications
• Embassy and international organization partnerships
• Coordination with overseas insurance providers

Access considerations:

• Referral letters recommended to avoid additional consultation fees
• Busy schedule may require advance appointment booking
• Higher costs typical of premium Japanese hospitals
• International Patient office assists with registration and billing

The University of Tokyo Hospital (International Department)

This prestigious 1,200+ bed academic medical center established its International Medical Center in 2012 to serve foreign patients seeking world-class specialized care.

Academic excellence:

• Leading doctors who are researchers and international experts
• Cutting-edge medical research and treatment protocols
• Advanced specialized services including organ transplantation
• Access to latest medical technologies and experimental treatments
• International collaboration with medical institutions worldwide

International support systems:

• Multilingual coordinators and translators
• English translation of medical records and test results
• Insurance coordination and financial counseling
• Staff training in international patient needs
• Exchange programs bringing foreign medical professionals

Process considerations:

• Referral letters typically required for specialist appointments
• More formal and bureaucratic procedures than private hospitals
• International Medical Center should be contacted in advance
• Excellent for complex conditions requiring specialized expertise

Hiroo International Clinic

This private clinic in the embassy district of Hiroo specializes in primary care for Tokyo's international community, offering comprehensive family medicine services in English.

Service philosophy:

• Western-style consultation approach with unhurried appointments
• Comprehensive explanations of diagnoses and treatment plans
• Bilingual service with international and Japanese doctors
• Familiar clinic environment for expatriate families
• Preventive care and health maintenance focus

Practical advantages:

• Accepts Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI)
• Same-day and next-day appointment availability
• Convenient hours including Saturday mornings
• Located near Hiroo Station in central Tokyo
• Referral coordination to specialists and hospitals when needed

Typical services:

• General internal medicine and family practice
• Acute illness treatment (infections, minor injuries)
• Chronic disease management (hypertension, diabetes)
• Vaccinations and travel medicine consultations
• Health certificates and routine physical examinations

Tokyo Medical & Surgical Clinic

Established in 1951, TMSC represents Tokyo's oldest and most established foreign-oriented medical practice, serving generations of expatriate families in the Azabu district.

Historical significance:

• Over 70 years of serving Tokyo's international community
• Institutional knowledge of expatriate healthcare needs
• Trusted by embassies and international organizations
• Continuity of care across generations of expat families

Medical approach:

• European and U.S.-trained multilingual physicians
• Western medical philosophy emphasizing patient dialogue
• Comprehensive outpatient services including minor surgery
• House calls available for registered patients in certain situations
• After-hours phone consultation for urgent medical advice

Financial structure:

• Private-pay model without Japanese insurance acceptance
• Detailed itemized receipts for insurance reimbursement
• Direct billing arrangements with select international insurers
• Higher upfront costs (consultations ¥20,000+) but comprehensive service
• Flexibility to prescribe Western medications not typically available

Costs and Insurance Options

National Health Insurance (NHI) for Residents

Japan's universal healthcare system requires all residents staying longer than three months to have health insurance, providing 70% coverage for most medical services.

Enrollment process:

• Registration at ward office within 14 days of obtaining residence card
• Simple application with passport and residence card
• Immediate or mail delivery of insurance card
• Income-based premiums (low initial rates for newcomers)
• Alternative coverage through employer-sponsored Social Insurance

Coverage benefits:

• 70% cost coverage for doctor visits, hospitalizations, and prescriptions
• Monthly high-cost medical expense caps for major procedures
• Coverage includes ambulance services, dental care, and mental health
• Valid throughout Japan for domestic travel
• Prescription medications covered with minimal co-payments

Usage procedures:

• Present insurance card at reception for automatic discount
• Pay only 30% co-payment at point of service
• Many international clinics accept NHI
• Reimbursement possible for non-participating providers through receipt submission

Private Health Insurance for Expats and Visitors

Private insurance serves different needs depending on residency status and coverage requirements.

Tourist and short-term visitor options:

• Travel health insurance from home country recommended
• Coverage for emergency treatments and hospitalization
• Medical evacuation insurance for serious conditions
• "Cashless" service options for direct hospital billing
• Emergency contact numbers for insurance coordination

Expatriate insurance plans:

• Global health insurance (Bupa, Cigna, Aetna International)
• Coverage for international clinics and private hospital rooms
• Supplemental coverage for NHI co-payments
• Services not covered by Japanese insurance (extensive dental, private rooms)
• Direct billing arrangements with Tokyo international facilities

Supplemental Japanese insurance:

• Additional coverage for hospitalization costs
• Automatic coverage of NHI co-payments
• Lump-sum payments for major medical events
• Popular among long-term residents for extra financial security

Typical Medical Costs

Understanding medical pricing helps with budgeting and insurance planning.

Outpatient clinic visits:

• Without insurance: ¥5,000–¥15,000 for basic consultation
• With NHI: ¥1,500–¥4,500 (30% co-payment)
• International clinics typically charge higher fees
• Local Japanese clinics offer lower-cost options

Hospital consultations:

• Without insurance: ¥10,000–¥30,000 including tests
• First-time administrative fees: ¥5,000–¥8,000 (waived with referral)
• With insurance: 30% co-payment of total costs
• Specialist consultations with diagnostic tests commonly required

Emergency room visits:

• Without insurance: ¥20,000–¥50,000 depending on treatment complexity
• After-hours surcharges apply for evening and weekend visits
• With insurance: 30% co-payment
• No charge for ambulance transportation

Major medical procedures:

• Complex surgeries: ¥4–6 million total cost
• With insurance: Few hundred thousand yen out-of-pocket due to caps
• Simple surgeries (appendectomy): ¥700,000–¥1,000,000 total
• Private room upgrades not fully covered by insurance

Medication costs:

• Prescription drugs generally affordable with insurance
• Common antibiotics: ¥500 total cost, ¥150 with insurance
• Without insurance: Still reasonable compared to international prices
• Specialized or imported medications can be expensive

How to Access Care as a Foreigner

Finding Doctors and Making Appointments

Research resources:

• JNTO "Find a Medical Institution" online tool
• Tokyo "Himawari" medical information service (03-5285-8181)
• Hospital websites with English appointment booking
• Hotel concierge services for tourist assistance

Appointment procedures:

• Call clinics directly for same-day or advance booking
• Online appointment systems available at international facilities
• Visit in person if language barriers prevent phone booking
• Popular English-speaking doctors may require advance scheduling

Communication strategies:

• Speak slowly and clearly when calling
• Ask specifically for English-speaking staff or doctors
• Use Japanese-speaking friends or hotel staff for phone assistance
• Prepare written information about symptoms and medical history

Essential Documentation

Required documents:

• Passport or residence card for identification
• Health insurance card (if applicable)
• Travel insurance policy information
• Credit card or cash for payment

Helpful additional items:

• Written medication list with allergies noted
• Prior medical records relevant to current issue
• Vaccination records for travel medicine consultations
• Multilingual medical information sheet with personal details

Payment preparation:

• Cash preferred at smaller clinics
• Credit cards accepted at hospitals and international clinics
• Insurance verification may be required before treatment
• Itemized receipts essential for insurance claims

Emergency Procedures

Calling 119 for ambulance:

• Free ambulance service throughout Japan
• State "救急車 (kyūkyūsha)" for ambulance request
• English-speaking dispatchers available in Tokyo
• Bystander assistance available if communication difficult

Emergency hospital transport:

• Ambulance decides destination based on availability and condition
• Cannot choose specific hospital in true emergencies
• Major hospitals prepared for foreign patients
• Identification and insurance information expedite treatment

At the emergency room:

• Registration procedures completed after stabilization
• Translation services available at major hospitals
• Treatment prioritized over communication in critical situations
• Insurance notification required within 24 hours for some policies

Helpful Contact Information

Emergency numbers:

• 119: Ambulance and fire emergency
• 110: Police emergency
• #7119: Tokyo emergency medical consultation (Japanese)

Support services:

• Tokyo Himawari: 03-5285-8181 (daily 9:00–20:00)
• Japan Helpline: 0120-461-997 (24-hour English support)
• Embassy emergency lines for crisis intervention
• AMDA Medical Information Center for translation services

Tips for Foreign Residents and Visitors

Language and Communication

Technology assistance:

• Download medical translation apps (Google Translate, DeepL)
• Use AMDA Medical Information Center phone translation
• Prepare multilingual medical information sheets
• Learn basic medical phrases in Japanese

Key Japanese medical phrases:

• "熱があります" (I have a fever)
• "アレルギーがあります" (I have allergies)
• "薬を飲んでいます" (I take medication)
• "救急車を呼んでください" (Please call an ambulance)

Medication Management

Import regulations:

• Some common Western medications illegal in Japan
• Check Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare guidelines
• Obtain Yakkan Shoumei import certificate for controlled medications
• Bring sufficient supply with prescription documentation

Prescription considerations:

• Japanese doctors prefer smaller quantities (weekly prescriptions)
• Over-the-counter medications may be weaker than Western equivalents
• International clinics more likely to prescribe familiar Western medications
• Generic drug names helpful at Japanese pharmacies

Preparation and Planning

Location research:

• Identify nearest English-speaking healthcare facilities
• Know closest 24-hour emergency hospital
• Research pharmacy locations with English-speaking staff
• Save important medical facility contact information

Insurance optimization:

• Carry insurance cards and documentation always
• Understand coverage limitations and claim procedures
• Know direct billing arrangements with Tokyo facilities
• Keep emergency insurance contact numbers accessible

Community resources:

• Join expat healthcare forums and social media groups
• Attend embassy health seminars and information sessions
• Connect with TELL Lifeline for mental health resources
• Use ward office health consultation services

Self-Advocacy

Patient communication:

• Ask questions about diagnosis and treatment options
• Request English documentation for insurance purposes
• Seek second opinions when uncertain about care
• Use visual aids and gestures to supplement verbal communication

Documentation management:

• Obtain itemized receipts for all medical expenses
• Request English medical certificates when needed
• Keep copies of all medical records and test results
• Maintain vaccination and medication history records

Conclusion

Tokyo's international healthcare landscape in 2025 offers comprehensive, high-quality medical services designed to meet the needs of the growing foreign community. The city's investment in international patient services, from major hospital international departments to specialized expat clinics, ensures that language and cultural barriers need not prevent access to excellent medical care.

Success factors for accessing healthcare:

• Insurance coverage: Enroll in NHI for residents or maintain robust travel insurance for visitors
• Preparation: Research healthcare facilities and emergency procedures in advance
• Documentation: Carry proper identification and insurance information at all times
• Communication: Utilize translation services and learn basic medical vocabulary

Healthcare system strengths:

• World-class medical expertise and technology
• Growing network of international-friendly facilities
• Comprehensive emergency services with foreign patient support
• Increasing coordination between providers and overseas insurance companies

The key to successful healthcare navigation in Tokyo lies in proactive preparation and understanding available resources. Whether seeking routine medical care or facing an emergency situation, foreign residents and visitors can access appropriate treatment with confidence when properly informed about the system's structure and requirements.

Tokyo's commitment to international healthcare continues expanding, making the city an increasingly comfortable place for foreigners to live, work, and visit while maintaining their health and well-being. With proper planning and knowledge of available resources, the language and cultural differences that once seemed daunting become entirely manageable aspects of accessing quality medical care in Japan's capital city.