City in Hokkaido, Japan
Healthcare in Sapporo: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Sapporo
High standard of care; English is limited outside the large hospitals. Uninsured visitors pay in full; ambulance 119.
Hospitals for foreigners in Sapporo
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hokkaido University Hospital | Large teaching hospital near Sapporo Station |
| Sapporo Medical University Hospital | Central teaching hospital |
| Teine Keijinkai Hospital | Private hospital; used by foreign residents |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ¥4,000–9,000 ($25–57) 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 Sapporo for foreigners?
Hokkaido University Hospital: Large teaching hospital near Sapporo Station
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Sapporo?
About ¥4,000–9,000 ($25–57) 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 Sapporo
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Japan
- Sapporo City Transportation Bureau
- New Chitose Airport
- Sapporo Snow Festival
- Welcome to Sapporo
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