No one wants to get sick on vacation, but it can and does happen. And when it happens in a country where you don't speak the language, even something as simple as finding a doctor can become a stressful experience.
Fortunately, a new clinic in Kyoto is hoping to make that situation a little easier for international visitors. Japan International Clinic KYOTO opened on November 1 in the Shijo-Kawaramachi area, offering medical services in 44 languages, including English.
The clinic can assist with a range of common health concerns, from colds and fevers to skin complaints, minor injuries, and children's health issues. Doctors and nurses can communicate directly in English, while translation technology is used to support visitors speaking other languages.
Another useful feature is the flexibility of its services. Patients can visit the clinic in person, arrange a house call at nearby accommodation, or access online consultations from anywhere in Japan. The online service accepts enquiries between 6am and midnight, while the Kyoto clinic operates daily from 9am to 7pm.
The clinic also accepts overseas travel insurance and can provide the necessary documentation in English for insurance claims. Its multilingual support team can assist with enquiries and arrangements before and after consultations.
Located on the fourth floor of the Uitto Ikesen Building at Shijo-Kawaramachi, the clinic is particularly conveniently situated for visitors exploring central Kyoto.
It won't make an unexpected illness any more enjoyable, but knowing where to find medical help can certainly make a difficult holiday situation a little less daunting.
