General Information

• most clinics only take cash payments
• you can go to most specialized clinics directly without a referral unless stated otherwise (hospitals require a referral, you will get charged extra if you go without one)
• not all clinics have English accommodations
• convenient stores do NOT sell any medication but drug stores do
  • drug store chains: Matsumoto Kiyoshi (マツモトキヨシ）, Sun Drug (サンドラッグ), Tsuruha Drug (ツルハドラッグ), Sugi Yakkyoku (スギ薬局)

English Accommodations in Tokyo

• Although I am not sure if this is comprehensive below is a website that lists clinics with English accommodations in the Tokyo / Yokohama area https://www.realestate-tokyo.com/living-in-tokyo/doctors-hospitals/
• A list of medical terms in English and Japanese https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/files/000237045.pdf

Basic Over the Counter Drugs

Please do your own research when you actually get them to make sure they will treat your needs.

These are just some products I usually have with me at all times.

• pain relief (headaches, cramps) - https://www.ssp.co.jp/eve/en/ (English)
• relief for stomach pain from indigestion - https://hc.kowa.co.jp/cabagin/product/tablet/ (Japanese)

Caution: Plan B Contraceptives are NOT over the counter drugs in Japan

In Japan Plan B contraceptives are only available with a prescription from a licensed doctor that handles emergency contraception as a part of their regular practice. (Japanese source)

If you are in a situation where you need this medication, follow the next steps.

1. Check the list of clinics offering support in your local area. This is a government resource but unfortunately is not available in English. Click on the prefecture you are in to find the list. I would recommend trying to translate the documents as needed.

   https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/seisakunitsuite/bunya/0000186912_00002.html

2. Check if those clinics have English support OR find someone who can come with you to the appointment to translate

3. If possible, call to make an appointment. If you do not have access to a phone or if they do not take appointments, just go in person and ask if you can wait for an opening.