Where Foreign Visitors Can Get Help — Safely and Clearly
Why This 101 Matters
Finding medicine in Japan can be confusing for foreign visitors.
- Labels are mostly in Japanese
- Symptoms may not translate directly
- Some medicines are stronger — or weaker — than expected
That’s why English-friendly pharmacies matter, even if you never end up using them.
Knowing where to go is already half the solution.
Pharmacies with English Support (Practical List)
💊 Ginza Pharmacy (Ginza)
Foreign-Language Prescription Pharmacy
- Languages: English (specialized support)
- Services: Prescription medications for foreign patients
- Open: 11:00–19:00 / Open daily
- Location: Ginza 8-chome (2F)
- Phone: +81-3-6278-8445
Why it matters
This is a rare pharmacy focused on foreign patients and clear communication.
Best option when prescriptions or detailed explanations are needed.
💊 BLEZ Pharmacy Asakusa (Asakusa)
Multilingual OTC Pharmacy
- Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, Thai
- Focus: Over-the-counter medicine, supplements, daily goods
- Symptoms covered: Diarrhea, fever, sore throat, runny nose, skin issues
- Hours: 9:00–14:00 / 15:00–18:00
- Phone: +81-3-6284-7160
Why it matters
Staff actively communicate before recommending medicine.
Excellent for travelers who want explanation, not just products.
💊 AIN Pharmacy Otemachi (Otemachi)
Corporate-Area Pharmacy with English Support
- Reported to have multiple English-speaking pharmacists
- Note: English availability should be confirmed by phone
- Access: 1 minute from Otemachi Station
- Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 9:00–19:00
- Sat: 9:00–15:00
- Closed Sun & public holidays
Why it matters
Located in a major business district, often used by international workers.
💊 Welcia Tokyo Square Garden (Kyobashi)
Major Drugstore Chain (Basic English)
- English: Limited / simple communication
- Products: OTC medicine, cosmetics, daily necessities
- Open daily (hours vary by day)
- Access: Direct from Kyobashi Station
Why it matters
Not specialized, but convenient and reliable for basic needs.
Important Tips When Using Pharmacies in Japan
⚠️ Know Before You Buy
- Cold medicine often contains multiple active ingredients
- Painkillers may be weaker than expected
- Some allergy medicines cause strong drowsiness
⚠️ Prescriptions Are Strict
- Prescription drugs from other countries may not be accepted
- Always bring your prescription or medical documents if possible
⚠️ Explain Symptoms, Not Medicine Names
- Brand names differ
- Describe symptoms instead of asking for specific drugs
⚠️ Ask Before Mixing Medicines
- Combining cold, pain, and stomach medicine can be risky
- When unsure, ask the pharmacist first
Tokyo Smart Take
In Tokyo, pharmacies are everywhere —
but communication is what makes the difference.
You may never need these places.
But if you do, knowing them in advance matters.
How to Use This 101
- Link from Area Guides
- Emergency reference for travelers
- Support page for long-stay visitors
- Companion to hospitals and clinics articles
This is not about shopping.
It’s about safety and clarity.
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