Island in Kagoshima, Japan
Healthcare in Yakushima: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Yakushima
Basic care is available locally. Serious cases are flown or ferried to Kagoshima; hikers should carry insurance that covers mountain rescue and evacuation.
Hospitals for foreigners in Yakushima
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Yakushima Tokushukai Hospital | Main island hospital with emergency care |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ¥3,000–7,000 ($19–44) 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 Yakushima for foreigners?
Yakushima Tokushukai Hospital: Main island hospital with emergency care
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Yakushima?
About ¥3,000–7,000 ($19–44) 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 Yakushima
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Japan
- Yakushima Tourism Association
- Yakushima Town
- Kagoshima Prefecture tourism (Travel Kagoshima)
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 Spotted something out of date?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.