Insurance is mandatory for anyone living in Japan for more than 3 months. You have to sign up with either the National Health Insurance or the Employees’ Health Insurance and Pension. Both insurances cover 70% of the medical costs.

• Insurance:
  • National Health Insurance (国民健康保険): For students/self-employed. ¥1,500–20,000/month depending on income.
  • Employees’ Health Insurance and Pension (社会保険): Through the employer. ~15% of income and split with the employer.
• Doctor visits: With insurance ~¥1,000–3,000.
• Medicine: Please check if your medicine is sold in Japan. Bring prescriptions if necessary.
• Language: In smaller towns, doctors rarely speak English. Bring symptoms written in Japanese if needed. Be aware that some clinics charge an English speaking fee.