Language is one of the biggest concerns for international patients in Japan. This guide explains the interpreter and language options available, and which hospitals offer strong multilingual support. Back to the Medical Travel to Japan directory.
Options for language support
Hospitals offer several layers of help: an international department with English- (and often Chinese-) speaking coordinators; on-site medical interpreters; remote/telephone interpretation covering many languages; and document translation for medical records. Independent medical coordinators can also accompany patients.
Hospitals with strong Chinese & English support
The NCGM Center Hospital provides on-site English and Chinese interpreters plus remote interpretation in 19 languages. Kameda Medical Center has English- and Chinese-speaking staff. Kyushu University Hospital’s IPAC has English and Chinese medical translators, and the Cancer Institute Hospital of JFCR and St. Luke’s International Hospital provide interpretation through their international services.
Tips
Request an interpreter in advance (availability and languages vary by day); bring your medical records already translated; confirm whether interpretation is free or chargeable; and keep a written list of your medications and history. Tsubaki Trading can provide language and coordination guidance to help you reach the right desk.