Quick Answer
For non-emergencies, visit a local clinic (クリニック) — no appointment needed at most. Bring your health insurance card, some cash (¥5,000-¥10,000), and your Residence Card. First visits involve paperwork (問診票), then consultation, and payment at the front desk. Most clinic visits cost ¥1,000-¥3,000 out of pocket.
Where to Go: Clinic vs Hospital
What symptoms do you have?
Mild/Common ↓
Clinic (クリニック)
Cold, fever, stomach ache, skin issues, minor injury
Cold, fever, stomach ache, skin issues, minor injury
Needs specialist ↓
Hospital (病院)
Get a referral letter from a clinic first to avoid the ¥5,000-¥7,000 surcharge
Get a referral letter from a clinic first to avoid the ¥5,000-¥7,000 surcharge
Emergency ↓
Call 119
Ambulance is free in Japan. Available 24/7
Ambulance is free in Japan. Available 24/7
What to Bring
✓Health Insurance Card (保険証) — essential for 70% coverage
✓Cash — ¥5,000-¥10,000 (many clinics do not accept cards)
✓Residence Card — for identity verification at first visit
✓My Number Card — increasingly used as insurance card substitute
✓Medication notebook (お薬手帳) — if you take regular medication
The Visit Process: Step by Step
1
Reception (受付): Submit insurance card, fill out questionnaire form (問診票)
2
Wait: Sit in the waiting area until your name/number is called
3
Consultation: Doctor examines you (typically 5-15 minutes)
4
Tests (if needed): Blood work, X-ray, etc. — done in-house at most clinics
5
Payment: Pay at the front desk. Receive a prescription (処方箋) if needed
6
Pharmacy: Take the prescription to a nearby pharmacy (調剤薬局)
⚠️ Disclaimer
This is general guidance. In a medical emergency, call 119 immediately. Clinic hours and procedures vary. For non-Japanese speakers, consider using the medical interpretation resources listed in our English-speaking doctors guide.
Last updated: April 2026.
