City, Japan
Healthcare in Kyoto: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Kyoto
Good care, but English is limited outside the large hospitals. Uninsured visitors pay in full; ambulance 119.
Hospitals for foreigners in Kyoto
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Kyoto University Hospital | Large teaching hospital; English information desk |
| Japan Baptist Hospital | Private hospital popular with expats |
| Kyoto Prefectural University Hospital | Central university hospital near Kawaramachi |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ¥4,000–10,000 ($25–63) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Japan: Excellent hospitals and clinics, but visitors without Japanese insurance pay full price and may be asked for deposits. English-speaking doctors are easiest to find in Tokyo and Osaka.
- Pharmacies: Drugstores everywhere, but many medicines need a pharmacist on duty; bring prescriptions and check import rules for medicines.
- Health spending: US$3,638 per person a year (2023); 2.6 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 110 · Ambulance 119 · Fire 119 · Tourist police 050-3816-2787.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Japan, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Kyoto for foreigners?
Kyoto University Hospital: Large teaching hospital; English information desk
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Kyoto?
About ¥4,000–10,000 ($25–63) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Japan?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Japan expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Kyoto
Going to Kyoto solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Kyoto meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Japan
- Kyoto City Official Travel Guide
- Kyoto City Transportation Bureau
- Kansai Airport
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.