Medical tourism

Not only in Japan but also in other developed countries are facing with aging society,
and extending healthy life expectancy and treating illness are major challenges for the future.

More and more foreigners visiting Japan,which is the first in the world to become super-aging for medical services.

Visiting a foreign country for the purpose of receiving advanced medical services not available in one’s own country is called “medical tourism” or “medical tourism”.

Japan has an image of being a country of longevity and providing advanced medical services,
hospitals and clinics are also attracting attention for their cleanliness,friendly staff,and kindness.

In addition,”medical tourism”and “medical tourism” are focused on the purpose of receiving advanced medical sevices,while in other cases,they sometimes may expect to save money,time.

In Japan,”medical tourism”was included in the new growth strategy announced by the Japanese government in 2010.
The medical visa ban was lifted in 2011,and the number of visas issued grew until before Corona.

The number of visitors is expected to increase further when including short-term visitors for medical purposes.

■Statistics on Medical Visa Issuance (*Refer to e-Stat,displayed in graph)

2022 622 cases (of which Chaina441 cases,Vietnam 119 cases,Russia 11 cases,Republic of Korea 13 cases)
2019 1635 cases (of which China 1201 cases,Vietnam 333 cases,Russia 25 cases)
2018 1650 cases (of which China 1390 cases,Vietnam 152 cases)
2017 1383 cases (of which China 1198 cases,Vietnam 61 cases,Russia 62 cases)
2016 1307 cases (of which China 1149 cases,Vietnam 31 cases,Russia 82 cases)
2015 946 cases (of which China 829 cases,Russia 69 cases)
2014 611 cases (of which China 507 cases,Russia 55 cases)
2013 299 cases (of which China 168 cases,Russia 70 cases)
2012 188 cases (of which China 109 cases,Russia 38 cases)
2011 70 cases (of which China 31 cases,Russia 23 cases)

Especially in China,where the number of cancer cases and deaths are increasing due to the aging population and environmental pollution,more and more people are interested in medical tourism. Because the can fly to Japan where PET screening for cancer prevention,
comprehensive medical examinations,and advanced cancer treatment facilities are available,in 2 hours.

In Japan,business establisments are required to conduct medical examinations by a doctor.
The purpose of early detection and treatment of diseases,as well as detailed and careful medical interviews and explanation of risks,are attracting attention.

Cancer is the leading cause of death even in aging Japan (*1),and the four main types of cancer treatment today are surgery,chemotherapy,radiation therapy,and immunotherapy.
Other new technologies and treatments are being developed.

Along with medical services,”health tourism”,which includes hot spring,
forest bathing,and sauna experiences for the purpose of health,
as well as incorporating local specialty foods and Chinese herbs,
is also attracting attention.

We believe that the need to receive friendly,reliable,safe,and advanced medical services at the same time as healthcare services through food and experiences that take advantage of Japan’s regional specialties will continue to grow in the future.
（*1 Reference:Ministry of Health,Labor and Welfare　https://www.mhlw.go.jp/toukei/saikin/hw/jinkou/suii09/deth8.html）