No need to worry about language barriers in emergencies—Japan introduces “Medical Institution Usage Guide”

▲The Chinese version of the “Medical Institution Usage Guide.” (Image / Screenshot from Japan Tourism Agency)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

When traveling abroad, it’s not uncommon to encounter various unexpected situations, and “seeking medical care” is one of them. In response to the growing number of travelers visiting Japan, the Japan Tourism Agency has launched the “Medical Institution Usage Guide” this year. In addition to offering versions in five languages, it also includes a symptom chart with both Chinese and Japanese text. Travelers who don’t speak Japanese can simply point to the images on the chart to indicate the severity and location of their discomfort.

▲The English version of the “Medical Institution Usage Guide.” (Image / Screenshot from Japan Tourism Agency)

The “Medical Institution Usage Guide” is available in five language versions: Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, English, Korean, and Thai. It lists approximately 320 medical institutions across Japan that offer round-the-clock emergency services, provide treatment using basic English (or have Japanese-English interpreters available during consultation), and cover multiple specialties such as emergency, internal medicine, surgery, and pediatrics. The guide helps travelers choose a suitable clinic based on transportation and their individual circumstances. However, the list is currently only available in English.

▲Chinese-Japanese symptom comparison chart—just point with your hand, super thoughtful design!(Image / Screenshot from Japan Tourism Agency)

Don’t worry if there’s a language barrier—the usage guide also includes a Chinese-Japanese symptom comparison chart along with visual indicators for the severity of discomfort. Patients can point to the corresponding symptoms and levels of severity during their consultation, enabling doctors to quickly understand the situation and assist with treatment.

Official website of the English version of the “Medical Institution Usage Guide”:http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/arrange/essential/emergency/mi_guide.html

Chinese version of the “Medical Institution Usage Guide”:http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/arrange/essential/emergency/pdf/guide_chi01.pdf