City, Japan
Healthcare in Nara: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Nara
Good Japanese care, but English is limited; Osaka has more international clinics. Uninsured visitors pay in full; ambulance 119.
Hospitals for foreigners in Nara
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Nara Medical University Hospital | Kashihara; main university hospital for the region |
| Nara City Hospital | Central Nara; general and emergency care |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ¥3,500–9,000 ($22–57) 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 Nara for foreigners?
Nara Medical University Hospital: Kashihara; main university hospital for the region
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Nara?
About ¥3,500–9,000 ($22–57) 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 Nara
Going to Nara solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Japan
- Kintetsu Railway
- Nara Park (Nara Prefecture)
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 Spotted something out of date?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.