What does it cost? Insurance, the 30% rule, and paying as a visitor
Cost is the #1 reason people delay care. Here's the basic picture.
If you have Japanese insurance (residents)
With public insurance (国保 or 社保), you pay 30%; insurance covers 70%. A clinic visit often ends up around ¥1,000–¥3,000. Bring your My Number Card (now used as your health insurance card) every time — or your insurance card / eligibility certificate (資格確認書) if it isn't linked yet.
If you don't (tourists / not yet enrolled)
You pay 100% upfront. A first clinic visit is often ¥3,000–¥6,000 before tests; medicine is extra. Hospitals and CT/MRI cost much more. At large or university hospitals, self-pay (uninsured) rates are often set 2–3× the insured rate, so an uninsured visit there can be around 300% of the standard cost. Travel insurance is strongly recommended — keep every itemized receipt to claim it back.
Good to know
- A safety net called 高額療養費 caps monthly costs for the insured if bills get very high.
- New for 2026: Japan is tightening rules on unpaid medical bills — leaving the country owing even ~¥10,000 can affect re-entry. Pay and keep receipts.
Want a rough idea of what your visit might cost? Ask on LINE.
Not sure where to go for your symptom and area? A doctor will help you find the right place — message us on LINE.
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Discussion
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