Japan
Health
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have聽appropriate travel insurance聽for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Dial 119 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you鈥檙e referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the
See including:
- dengue
- biting insects and ticks
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Japan. Read more about聽.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
搁别补诲听.
It is illegal to carry some common prescription and over-the-counter medicines under Japan鈥檚 strictly enforced law on anti-stimulant drugs. This includes:
- Vicks inhalers
- medicines for allergies and sinus problems
- cold and flu medication containing pseudoephedrine
- some over-the-counter painkillers containing codeine
Foreign nationals have been detained and deported for these offences. If you鈥檙e travelling with medication, check its status with the聽.
Healthcare in Japan
Medical facilities in Japan are of a high quality, but treatment is expensive. Expect to pay the whole cost of any treatment you receive.
Medical facilities may check your insurance, which could delay your treatment.
FCDO聽has a聽list of medical providers in Japan where some staff will speak English.
There is also聽guidance on healthcare if you鈥檙e living in Japan.