Paediatric care in Japan is good, but access outside weekday hours is limited, and a clinic being open does not guarantee a paediatrician is present. This matters whether you live here or are here for a few weeks.
#8000 first
#8000 connects you to paediatric nurses and doctors for advice at night and on holidays. It is the fastest way to work out whether your child needs to be seen now. Hours and language support vary by prefecture.
Check that a paediatrician is on
5,034 hospitals and clinics open on public holidays nationwide, and 6,744 on Sundays — but many run a single duty doctor whose specialty may not be paediatrics. Always ask on the phone before you set out.
For residents: medical subsidies for children
Most municipalities subsidise children's medical costs, often to zero out-of-pocket up to a certain age. The scheme and age limit differ by municipality. You will be issued a medical certificate (医療証) to present alongside the insurance card — bring both.
Go straight to 119 if
A seizure lasts more than five minutes, breathing is laboured, the child is unresponsive or unusually floppy, lips look blue, or there is a head injury followed by vomiting or confusion.
Find facilities near you
Browse by prefecture and filter for Sunday or public holiday opening.
Frequently asked questions
- Is paediatric care available in Japan outside weekday hours?
- Access is limited. 5,034 hospitals and clinics open on public holidays nationwide and 6,744 on Sundays, but many run a single duty doctor whose specialty may not be paediatrics. Always call and check.
- What should I do first when my child is ill at night in Japan?
- Call #8000, which connects you to paediatric nurses and doctors for advice at night and on holidays. It is the fastest way to work out whether your child needs to be seen now.
- Are children's medical costs subsidised in Japan?
- Most municipalities subsidise children's medical costs, often to zero out-of-pocket up to a certain age. The scheme and age limit differ by municipality, and residents are issued a medical certificate to present alongside the insurance card.
- When should I call 119 for a child?
- If a seizure lasts more than five minutes, breathing is laboured, the child is unresponsive or unusually floppy, lips look blue, or there is a head injury followed by vomiting or confusion.