Getting injured or developing sudden pain during a trip can make it difficult to know where to seek medical care, especially when you are unfamiliar with Japan’s healthcare system.
If you have a sprain, back pain, joint pain, a minor injury, or another musculoskeletal problem, you may be wondering whether to visit a clinic or hospital and which medical specialty to look for.
This guide explains where to start, what type of clinic to look for, and what to check before seeking medical care in Japan.
What type of clinic should I visit?
For injuries and problems involving bones, joints, muscles, or tendons, an orthopedic clinic (Seikei Geka / 整形外科) is often the appropriate place to start.
Orthopedic clinics in Japan commonly see patients with problems such as sprains, back or neck pain, joint pain, sports injuries, and suspected fractures.
Depending on the injury, the clinic may perform an examination and arrange imaging such as an X-ray if needed. More serious injuries may require treatment at a hospital.
Orthopedics is different from “Seikotsuin”
When searching for care in Japan, you may also see facilities called seikotsuin (整骨院) or seitai (整体).
These are different from an orthopedic medical clinic. If you have a new injury, significant pain, or think you may need a medical diagnosis, medication, or imaging, look for Seikei Geka (整形外科).
Clinic or hospital?
For most non-emergency injuries and musculoskeletal pain, an orthopedic clinic (Seikei Geka / 整形外科) is usually a practical place to start.
If you need more specialized examination, surgery, or hospital-based treatment, the clinic can refer you to an appropriate hospital.
For serious injuries that require immediate medical attention, seek emergency care rather than waiting for a regular orthopedic appointment.
**Large hospitals and university hospitals in Japan may require a referral letter for non-emergency outpatient care. Even when patients without a referral are accepted, additional fees or other restrictions may apply. For this reason, a local orthopedic clinic is often a practical first step for non-emergency injuries and pain.