Navigate Japanese pharmacies with confidence
Clear, pharmacist-reviewed information on over-the-counter and prescription medicines in Japan.
Latest Articles
How to See a Doctor in Japan: First-Visit Checklist, Reception Flow, and What Foreigners Need to Know
A pharmacist's guide for foreign residents and visitors to seeing a doctor in Japan β picking the right department, what to bring, the reception-to-checkout flow, finding English-speaking clinics, and what to do at night or on holidays.
Types of Pharmacies in Japan: Drugstores, Dispensing Pharmacies, and Where to Buy What
A pharmacist's guide to where foreigners can buy medicine in Japan β drugstores vs dispensing pharmacies, convenience stores, the difference between yakuzaishi and toroku-hanbaisha, and how to fill a prescription.
Stomach Medicine in Japan: OTC Guide for Upset Stomach, Diarrhea, and Heartburn
A pharmacist's guide to Japanese OTC stomach medicines (Gaster 10, Stoppa, Biofermin S, Seirogan, Ohta's Isan), organized by symptom for travelers and residents.
Hay Fever Medicine in Japan: Allegra, Claritin, and Alesion Guide
A pharmacist's guide to OTC hay fever medicines available in Japan (Allegra FX, Claritin EX, Alesion 20), including ingredients, drowsiness, and how to buy them.
Cold Medicine in Japan: What Foreigners Need to Know
Confused by Japanese cold medicine? Learn which OTC drugs work for your symptoms, how to read labels, and what to tell the pharmacist. Pharmacist-reviewed guide.
Today's OTC Spotlight: Loxonin S
A pharmacist's quick guide to Loxonin S β one of the most popular pain relievers in Japan β including how it works, who it's for, and precautions.