Hiroshima

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Insurance

Sections

1. Types of Insurance in Hiroshima, Japan

In Japan, including Hiroshima, insurance is an essential part of life. The main types of insurance available are:

A. Health Insurance (Kenko Hoken)

  • Overview: Health insurance is mandatory in Japan. Residents must enroll in either the National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employeesโ€™ Health Insurance (EHI).
    • National Health Insurance (NHI): For self-employed individuals, students, part-time workers, and retirees.
    • Employeesโ€™ Health Insurance (EHI): For full-time employees working at companies.
  • Coverage: Covers 70% of medical costs (patients pay 30% out-of-pocket). It includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and some dental care.
  • Average Cost:
    • NHI premiums are based on income and household size, typically ranging from ยฅ10,000 to ยฅ50,000 per month.
    • EHI premiums are deducted from your salary and are also income-based (around 10% of your salary, shared between you and your employer).
  • Procedure:
    1. NHI: Register at your local ward office (Hiroshima City Hall or your local ward office) within 14 days of moving to Hiroshima.
    2. EHI: Your employer will handle the registration process.
  • Local Tip: Always carry your health insurance card (Hokensho) as youโ€™ll need it for medical services.

B. Car Insurance (Jidousha Hoken)

  • Overview: Car insurance is mandatory if you own a vehicle in Japan. There are two types:
    1. Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance (CALI): Required by law and covers injury or death caused to others in an accident.
    2. Voluntary Insurance: Provides additional coverage for property damage, personal injury, and other liabilities.
  • Average Cost:
    • CALI: Around ยฅ20,000โ€“ยฅ30,000 annually.
    • Voluntary Insurance: ยฅ50,000โ€“ยฅ100,000 annually, depending on coverage and driving history.
  • Procedure:
    1. Purchase CALI when registering your vehicle.
    2. For voluntary insurance, contact an insurance company or agent (e.g., Sompo Japan, Tokio Marine, or Mitsui Sumitomo).
  • Local Tip: Hiroshima has a well-developed public transportation system, so owning a car may not be necessary unless you live in rural areas or need it for work.

C. Home Insurance (Kasai Hoken)

  • Overview: Home insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended for homeowners and renters. It typically covers fire, natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, typhoons), and theft.
  • Average Cost:
    • Homeowners: ยฅ20,000โ€“ยฅ50,000 annually.
    • Renters: ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ20,000 annually.
  • Procedure:
    1. Contact an insurance company or agent.
    2. Provide details about your property (e.g., size, location, and type of building).
  • Local Tip: Hiroshima is prone to typhoons and heavy rains, so ensure your policy includes coverage for water damage and landslides.

D. Travel Insurance (Ryokou Hoken)

  • Overview: Travel insurance is optional but recommended for both domestic and international travel. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and accidents.
  • Average Cost:
    • Domestic travel: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,000 per day.
    • International travel: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 per trip, depending on destination and duration.
  • Procedure:
    1. Purchase online or through travel agencies (e.g., Japan Travel Insurance, Sompo Japan).
    2. Provide your travel itinerary and personal details.
  • Local Tip: If youโ€™re traveling within Japan, your health insurance may already cover medical emergencies, so you might only need minimal travel insurance.

E. Life Insurance (Seimei Hoken)

  • Overview: Life insurance is optional but common in Japan. It provides financial support to your family in case of death or severe disability.
  • Average Cost: Premiums vary widely based on age, health, and coverage, typically starting at ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ20,000 per month.
  • Procedure:
    1. Contact an insurance company or agent.
    2. Undergo a health check and provide personal details.
  • Local Tip: Many Japanese people view life insurance as a way to ensure family stability, so itโ€™s culturally significant.

2. How to Obtain Insurance in Hiroshima

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Research Providers: Major insurance companies in Japan include:
    • Sompo Japan
    • Tokio Marine & Nichido
    • Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance
    • Japan Post Insurance
    • AXA Direct
  2. Compare Plans: Use online comparison tools or visit local insurance offices in Hiroshima.
  3. Prepare Documents:
    • Residence card (Zairyu Card)
    • Passport
    • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or rental contract)
    • Income details (for health insurance or life insurance)
  4. Visit an Office or Apply Online: Many companies have English-speaking staff or online applications in English.
  5. Sign the Contract: Review the terms carefully before signing.

3. Local Aspects and Cultural Considerations

  • Language Barrier: While some insurance companies offer English support, most documentation and customer service are in Japanese. Consider hiring a translator or asking a Japanese-speaking friend for help.
  • Natural Disasters: Hiroshima is prone to typhoons, heavy rains, and occasional earthquakes. Ensure your home insurance includes coverage for these risks.
  • Community Support: Japanese culture emphasizes community and mutual aid. In case of emergencies, neighbors and local organizations often provide support, but having insurance ensures financial security.
  • Punctuality and Documentation: Japanese systems are highly organized, so ensure you submit all required documents on time and keep copies for your records.

4. Average Costs Summary

| Type of Insurance | Average Cost | |------------------------|------------------| | Health Insurance | ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ50,000/month | | Car Insurance | ยฅ70,000โ€“ยฅ130,000/year | | Home Insurance | ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ50,000/year | | Travel Insurance | ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ5,000/trip | | Life Insurance | ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ20,000/month |

5. Emergency Contacts in Hiroshima

  • Hiroshima City Hall: For health insurance registration and inquiries.
    • Phone: +81-82-504-2111
  • Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Hotline: For travel insurance and emergencies.
    • Phone: 050-3816-2787 (24/7, English available)
  • Police (for accidents): Dial 110
  • Fire/Ambulance (for medical emergencies): Dial 119

By understanding the types of insurance available and the procedures for obtaining them, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate life in Hiroshima with peace of mind. Let me know if you need further assistance!