Visiting a doctor in a foreign country can feel overwhelming. Different systems, unfamiliar procedures, and the worry of a language barrier — it’s enough to make anyone hesitate. At SAKURA International Clinic Asakusa, we’ve designed every step of the visit to be simple, transparent, and fully supported in English.
Here’s exactly what to expect from the moment you contact us to the moment you leave.
Step 1: Book Your Appointment via WhatsApp
The easiest way to reach us is through WhatsApp. Simply send us a message describing your symptoms in a few sentences. You don’t need perfect medical terminology — just tell us what’s going on.
Examples of what to write:
- “I have a fever since yesterday and a sore throat.”
- “I’ve had stomach pain and diarrhea for two days.”
- “I twisted my ankle while sightseeing and it’s very swollen.”
- “I need a prescription refill for my blood pressure medication.”
Our staff will respond promptly and suggest a suitable appointment time. We’re open every day from 9:00 to 17:00, including weekends and holidays — 365 days a year.
Step 2: Prepare What to Bring
Before heading to the clinic, make sure you have the following items. Having these ready will make your visit faster and smoother.
Essential Items
- Passport — Required for identification. This is your primary ID in Japan as a foreign visitor.
- Credit card — We accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) for payment.
Helpful to Have (If Available)
- Travel insurance certificate — If you have travel insurance, bring your policy document or insurance card. We’ll provide the documentation you need for reimbursement claims.
- List of current medications — If you take any regular medications, write down the names and dosages. A photo of the pill bottle or packaging works too.
- Notes about your symptoms — Writing down your symptoms in English before the visit can be very helpful, especially if you’re feeling unwell and might forget details. Include when symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and any relevant medical history.
Step 3: Getting to the Clinic
SAKURA International Clinic Asakusa is located just 1 minute on foot from Asakusa Station. Multiple train lines serve this station:
- Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (Orange line)
- Toei Asakusa Line (Rose/Pink line)
- Tsukuba Express (TX)
Take Exit 1 from Asakusa Station. The clinic is on the 7th floor of the building — take the elevator up. If you get lost, send us a message on WhatsApp and we’ll guide you.
Step 4: Check-In at Reception
When you arrive at the 7th floor, our reception staff will greet you in English. Here’s what happens:
- Present your passport and insurance certificate (if you have one). We’ll make copies for our records.
- Fill out a medical questionnaire. This is an English-language form covering your basic information, current symptoms, medical history, allergies, and medications. It usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Wait to be called. Wait times vary depending on the day, but we do our best to keep them short. If you booked an appointment via WhatsApp, your wait will typically be minimal.
Step 5: Your Consultation
The consultation is conducted entirely in English. A typical visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition. Here’s what to expect:
- Medical interview (問診). The doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and your medical background. Feel free to refer to your notes.
- Physical examination. Depending on your symptoms, the doctor may check your throat, lungs, abdomen, skin, or other relevant areas.
- Tests (if needed). We can perform basic blood tests, urine tests, rapid flu/COVID tests, and other point-of-care diagnostics right in the clinic.
- Diagnosis and explanation. The doctor will explain what’s going on, what the treatment plan is, and answer all your questions. Everything is communicated clearly in English — no guesswork.
Step 6: Prescription & Payment
After your consultation, here’s how we wrap things up:
Prescription
If medication is needed, the doctor will write a prescription. In Japan, prescriptions are typically filled at a nearby pharmacy (薬局), not at the clinic itself. We’ll show you exactly where the closest pharmacy is — it’s usually just a short walk away. The pharmacist will provide your medication and explain how to take it.
Payment
Our consultation fee is ¥55,000 all-inclusive. This covers the doctor’s examination, basic in-clinic tests, and all documentation. We accept credit cards for payment.
Documentation You’ll Receive
- English medical certificate / diagnosis report — A written record of your visit, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Itemized receipt — For your records and insurance reimbursement claims.
These documents are essential if you plan to file a claim with your travel insurance provider after returning home.
Step 7: Before You Leave
Before you head out, our staff will make sure you have everything you need:
- Follow-up instructions. If your condition requires a follow-up visit, we’ll explain when and how to come back.
- Insurance claim documents. We’ll confirm you have all the paperwork your insurance company will need — medical certificate, receipts, and any additional forms.
- Pharmacy directions. If you have a prescription, we’ll point you to the nearest pharmacy and make sure you know what to expect there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit without an appointment?
Yes, walk-ins are welcome. However, we strongly recommend booking via WhatsApp to minimize your wait time. Patients with appointments are prioritized, so walk-in visitors may experience longer waits during busy periods.
How long does the entire visit take?
Plan for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour from check-in to checkout. The consultation itself is 30–45 minutes, plus time for reception and payment. If you need to visit the pharmacy afterward, add another 15–20 minutes.
Can I get medication at the clinic?
In Japan, prescription medications are dispensed at pharmacies, not at clinics. The doctor will write your prescription, and you’ll pick up the medication at a nearby pharmacy. We’ll tell you exactly where to go. Over-the-counter remedies may be available at the clinic for minor issues.
SAKURA International Clinic Asakusa
- 1-minute walk from Asakusa Station
- Open daily 9:00–17:00 (365 days a year)
- Languages: English / Chinese / Korean / Japanese
- Consultation: ¥55,000 all-inclusive