Kanazawa, Japan



Health Care in Kanazawa

By Betsy Burlingame

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Learn about the health system in Kanazawa: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Kanazawa.

Kanazawa has a well-developed healthcare system that offers both public and private healthcare options. The city is known for its high-quality medical facilities and services, making it a popular destination for both locals and foreigners seeking medical care.

Japan's Healthcare System

Japan's healthcare system is a mix of public and private options. The public healthcare system, known as the National health insurance (NHI), is available to all residents, including foreigners. Many people recommend using public hospitals in Kanazawa for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are known for their high-quality care and advanced medical technology. Public hospitals in Kanazawa are typically large, well-equipped, and staffed by highly trained medical professionals. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Japan, provided they are enrolled in the NHI. While some expats may choose to use private hospitals, many still opt for public hospitals due to their reputation for quality care. Private hospitals in Kanazawa are also known for their high-quality services and advanced medical technology, making them a popular choice for those seeking specialized care or more personalized attention.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Kanazawa

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Kanazawa include:

  • Kanazawa University Hospital (public) - located in Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa
  • Kanazawa Medical Center (public) - located in Horikawa-machi, Kanazawa
  • SAWA Hospital (private) - located in Tomizu, Kanazawa, specializes in orthopedics and rehabilitation
  • Kanazawa Red Cross Hospital (private) - located in Otomaru, Kanazawa

In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, expats in Kanazawa may also choose to travel to nearby cities such as Toyama or Nagoya, which are approximately 1.5 to 3 hours away by car, respectively.

Emergency Services in Kanazawa

Ambulance services are available in Kanazawa, and can be called by dialing 119. While response times may vary depending on the location and time of day, ambulances generally arrive quickly to provide emergency medical assistance.

Health Insurance Companies in Kanazawa

Popular private health insurers in Kanazawa include T&D Life Group, Dai-ichi Life Insurance, and Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans to suit different needs and budgets. Expats and digital nomads living in Kanazawa may choose to use these local insurance providers, or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater specifically to their needs.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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