Where to Get Your Flu Shot in Tokyo in 2023

With the welcome cooling of weather comes the yearly downside: Flu season. Some clinics have announced they will be assessing stock amounts of the flu vaccine and adjusting appointment slots accordingly. So here is what you should know about getting a flu vaccine in Japan.

The flu season (flu, short for influenza) circulates at different times worldwide; in Japan, influenza viruses peak from December through to March, according to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare.  

To preserve clinics' and hospitals' capacity so that medical resources remain stable, health experts are widely encouraging all individuals get a flu shot. Flu vaccination reduces the risk of infection, and even if infected, the symptoms are less severe for those who receive a vaccination. 

Note: Japanese health insurance does not cover yearly flu shots; however, the flu vaccine is commonly accessible at ¥4,500 for the first shot and ¥3,500 for the second shot. Prices may vary depending on the clinic, so inquire when booking your appointment.

Here, we have compiled a list of places with English-speaking medical staff where you can get the flu vaccine shot in Tokyo.

Tokyo Midtown Clinic

Tokyo Midtown Clinic, a 3-minute walk from Roppongi station, has English-speaking medical staff. While the clinic is taking reservations for this year's flu shot, they advise that those who wish to get vaccinated make an appointment as soon as possible, as demand has noticeably increased.

Address | Reception: 03-5413-0080

Access: Roppongi Station, Toei Subway Oedo line, Exit 8; Roppongi Station, Hibiya line, Exit 4

Clinic for Tamachi

Clinic for Tamachi, less than a minute walk from Tamachi Station on the Yamanote Line, specializes in internal medicine, diabetes, dermatology, as well as providing yearly flu shots. Telemedicine appointments are available for those times when you don't feel well enough to step outside. According to reviews on the popular Byouin Navi site, where users rate clinics and hospitals, Clinic for Tamachi is known for its accommodating, kind staff. Wait times are long if you walk-in, and reservations are preferred.

Address | Reception: 03-4579-8189

Access: Tamachi Station, Yamanote Line

Sendagaya International Clinic

The Sendagaya International Clinic offers full support in English and is directed by Dr. Tadashi Shinozuka, who founded the clinic on the premise of offering foreign patients trustworthy English medical treatment — after experiencing firsthand how stressful it can be for foreigners to receive medical care in a country not their own. The booking form for influenza vaccination is in English as well, so the process here will be streamlined for English speakers.  

Address | Reception: 03-3478-4747

Access: Sendagaya Station, JR Chuo-Sobu Line

Nishiazabu International Clinic

Nishiazabu International Clinic allows reservations to be made in English, and the staff has had medical experience abroad and can converse in English and Chinese. Appointments are preferred and can be made online on the same day as your desired visit. For vaccinations, however, they require you to book one week in advance. Other clinic specialties include COVID-19 PCR tests, pediatric examinations, house visits, genetic tests, and self-pay treatment options. 

Address | Reception: 03-6447-5966

Access: Hiroo Station, Hibiya Line, Exit 3 (Nishi Azabu Exit)

Kasumigaseki Clinic

Kasumigaseki Clinic provides English medical staff support, and its specialties include internal medicine, treating hypertension, diabetes, colds and enteritis, gastrointestinal symptoms, digestive disorders, and other lifestyle-related diseases and ailments. COVID-19 PCR tests are also available here. Reservations for flu shots are required. Please note that the booking form is in Japanese. 

Address | Reception: 03-3501-7797

Access: Toranomon Station, Ginza line, Exit 9; Kasumigaseki Station, Hibiya Line and Chiyoda Line, Exit C2

American Clinic Tokyo

American Clinic Tokyo offers bilingual medical assistance, as well as the flu shot. Walk-ins are not accepted, however, so you will want to book an appointment in advance by calling or emailing with your reason for visit and contact information. Depending on their schedule and how far in advance you book, they might be able to visit your company's premises to administer vaccinations to a group of people. (Inquire for details and restrictions.) 

Address | Reception: 03-6441-0969 

Access: Tamaike Sanno Station, Ginza line, Exit 12

Shinjuku Green Tower Internal Medicine Clinic

Shinjuku Green Tower Internal Medicine Clinic handles a wide range of treatment options, including flu vaccines for flu viruses. Health care providers who speak English are available, although the booking form is in Japanese. When booking your reservation, you can request English support, which will be made available during your appointment. A 5-minute walk from Nishi-Shinjuku, and a 15-minute walk from Shinjuku station, this clinic is open till 8 PM, making it ideal for those who want to book an after-work appointment. 

Address | Reception: 3-3343-0365

Access: Nishi-Shinjuku, Marunouchi Line, Exit C8; Shinjuku Station, Yamanote Line, Exit 4; Tochomae Station, Toei Oedo Line Exit A5

Frequently asked questions

Where can I get a flu shot in Tokyo?

There are a number of English-friendly hospitals and clinics where you can get a flu shot in Tokyo. For example, Tokyo Midtown Clinic, Clinic for Tamachi, Sendagaya International Clinic, Nishiazabu International Clinic, Kasumigaseki Clinic, American Clinic Tokyo, and Shinjuku Green Tower Internal Medicine Clinic all provide the flu vaccine.

How much is a flu vaccine in Tokyo?

On average, the flu vaccine is priced at ¥4,500 for the first shot and ¥3,500 for the second shot. Prices may vary depending on the clinic, so inquire when booking your appointment.

In closing

In general, the Ministry of Health, prioritizes the flu vaccination of those 65 years and older. This prioritization also includes those who are eligible for influenza vaccination due to a health condition, dysfunctions or immune system disorders.

So if you have health conditions that place you in this category, it's wise to get your flu shot as soon as possible.