Addressing Healthcare Needs of International Visitors

In a proactive move to enhance the experience for its burgeoning tourist population, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has unveiled a extensive multilingual website dedicated to medical services. This initiative directly addresses concerns raised by visitors who have encountered difficulties accessing appropriate healthcare while in Japan.

record tourism Spurs Action

The launch comes in the wake of unprecedented tourism growth. In 2024, Japan welcomed over 36.8 million international tourists, a record-breaking figure according to the Japan National Tourism Institution. This surge underscores the need for accessible and readily available medical details for non-Japanese speakers.

The Japanese government has set aspiring targets for the future, aiming to attract 60 million visitors annually and generate approximately $93 billion in annual tourism expenditure by 2030. Ensuring the well-being of these visitors is paramount to achieving these goals.

Website Features and Accessibility

The newly launched website offers crucial information in English, Chinese, and Korean, catering to a critically important portion of the international tourist demographic. Key features include:

• Guidance on contacting emergency services, including how to call an ambulance.
• Explanations of Japanese medical institution procedures.
• A searchable directory of medical centers within Tokyo that provide services in languages other than Japanese.

Top Tourist Origins

South Korea led the influx of tourists to Japan last year, followed by China, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain. The website’s language options are strategically aligned with the needs of these key demographics.

Ensuring a Safe and Enjoyable Visit

By providing readily accessible medical information in multiple languages, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is taking a significant step towards ensuring that all visitors can enjoy a safe and worry-free experience in the city. This initiative is expected to not only improve tourist satisfaction but also contribute to Japan’s overall reputation as a welcoming and accommodating destination.