Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Types of Pharmacies in Hiroshima

In Japan, including Hiroshima, pharmacies are categorized into two main types:

a. Dispensing Pharmacies (調剤薬局, Chōzai Yakkyoku):

These pharmacies fill prescriptions issued by doctors. They are often located near hospitals or clinics.
They primarily focus on prescription medications and may not carry a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) products.

b. Retail/Drugstores (ドラッグストア, Doraggu Sutoa):

These are more like general drugstores and sell over-the-counter medications, health supplements, cosmetics, toiletries, and household items.
Examples of popular drugstore chains in Hiroshima include Matsumoto Kiyoshi (マツモトキヨシ), Sugi Pharmacy (スギ薬局), and Welcia (ウエルシア).
Some drugstores also have a dispensing pharmacy section, but not all.

2. How Pharmacies Work in Hiroshima

Prescription Medications:

If you visit a doctor in Hiroshima, they will issue a prescription (処方箋, Shohōsen) for any required medication.
Take the prescription to a dispensing pharmacy (look for the sign 調剤薬局).
The pharmacist will fill your prescription, explain how to take the medication, and provide instructions in Japanese (and sometimes English, depending on the pharmacy).

Over-the-Counter Medications:

For minor ailments like colds, headaches, or allergies, you can purchase OTC medications at drugstores without a prescription.
Pharmacists or staff can assist you in choosing the right product, but they may not always speak English fluently.

3. What You Need to Bring

For Prescription Medications:

Prescription (処方箋): This is mandatory for prescription drugs.
Health Insurance Card (健康保険証, Kenkō Hokenshō): If you are enrolled in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) or have private insurance, bring your card to reduce costs.
ID (Optional): While not always required, it’s a good idea to carry some form of identification, especially if you’re a visitor.

For OTC Medications:

No prescription or ID is needed. However, if you have specific health conditions or allergies, it’s helpful to write them down in Japanese or show them to the pharmacist.

4. Common Costs for Medications

Prescription Medications:
- Costs vary depending on the medication and whether you have insurance.
- With NHI, you typically pay 30% of the total cost. For example, a prescription that costs ¥3,000 would only cost you ¥900.
- Without insurance, you’ll pay the full price, which can be expensive for certain medications.
Over-the-Counter Medications:
- Prices for OTC drugs are generally affordable. For example:
  - Cold medicine: ¥500–¥1,500
  - Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen): ¥500–¥1,000
  - Allergy medicine: ¥1,000–¥2,000

5. Pharmacy Business Hours

Dispensing Pharmacies:
- Typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
- Some may have shorter hours on Saturdays and are usually closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Drugstores:
- Many drugstores have longer hours, often from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM or later.
- Some larger chains, like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, may have branches that are open 24/7.

Emergency Pharmacies:

In case of emergencies, some hospitals in Hiroshima have 24-hour pharmacies attached to them. You can also check with your hotel or local tourist information centers for guidance.

6. Language Barriers

Many pharmacists in Hiroshima may not speak fluent English, but they are accustomed to helping foreign customers.
To overcome language barriers:
- Use translation apps like Google Translate or Pocketalk.
- Write down your symptoms or medication needs in Japanese beforehand.
- Look for pharmacies with signs indicating English-speaking staff (though these are less common).

7. How to Find Pharmacies in Hiroshima

Near Major Landmarks:

Hiroshima Station (広島駅):
- There are several drugstores and dispensing pharmacies around Hiroshima Station, including Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Sugi Pharmacy.
Hondori Shopping Street (本通り商店街):
- This bustling shopping area has multiple drugstores, including Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Cosme Kitchen.
Peace Memorial Park (平和記念公園):
- While there are fewer pharmacies directly near the park, you can find drugstores within a 10–15 minute walk in the Hondori area.

Using Online Tools:

Use Google Maps or the app “Japan Official Travel App” to search for nearby pharmacies. Search for terms like:
- “Pharmacy” or “Drugstore” in English
- “薬局” (Yakkyoku) for pharmacies
- “ドラッグストア” (Doraggu Sutoa) for drugstores

8. Cultural Considerations and Helpful Tips

Politeness: Pharmacists in Japan are highly professional and polite. Bowing and saying “Arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you) is appreciated.
Medication Packaging: Medications are often individually wrapped, and instructions are provided in Japanese. If you’re unsure, ask the pharmacist to explain or use a translation app.
Generic Medications: If cost is a concern, ask for generic versions of medications (ジェネリック, Genericu). These are usually cheaper but equally effective.
Medication Disposal: If you have leftover medication, do not throw it in the trash. Return it to the pharmacy for proper disposal.
Bringing Medication from Home: If you’re bringing medication into Japan, ensure it complies with Japanese regulations. Some medications (e.g., stimulants) are prohibited, even with a prescription.

9. Emergency Numbers and Resources

Tourist Information Centers: Staff can help you locate nearby pharmacies and provide directions.
Hiroshima Medical Center: For emergencies, the Hiroshima University Hospital (広島大学病院) has a 24-hour pharmacy.
Japan Helpline: Call 0570-000-911 for assistance in English.

By following this guide, you should have no trouble navigating the pharmacy system in Hiroshima. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, the city’s pharmacies are well-equipped to meet your needs.