Hospitals Closed? A New Year's Survival Guide for Sudden Fever & Illness in Japan

Visiting Japan during the New Year holidays is a magical experience, with snowy landscapes and traditional celebrations. But what happens if you suddenly fall ill during this dream trip? You might find yourself thinking, "I have a sudden fever, but the nearby clinic is closed..." or "I don't speak Japanese, how do I find a doctor?"

For international tourists, falling sick during the New Year holidays—when most medical institutions in Japan are closed—can be a source of major anxiety. But don't worry. This guide provides concrete self-care steps and introduces a reliable online medical service for when you need professional help.

First Steps: Self-Care at Your Hotel

If you wake up with a sudden headache, sore throat, or fever, don't panic. Before searching for a hospital, try these self-care measures at your accommodation. For mild to moderate symptoms, these first-aid steps can greatly aid recovery.

1. Use Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines

Japanese drugstores stock high-quality OTC medicines that can be lifesavers for fever, headaches, coughs, and stomach issues.

• Pain & Fever: Look for painkillers containing "Ibuprofen" or "Acetaminophen".
• Cold Symptoms: "Comprehensive Cold Medicines" (Sogo-Kanbo-Yaku) cover multiple symptoms like runny nose, cough, and fever.
• Stomach Issues: If you have vomiting or diarrhea, look for anti-diarrheal medicine or intestinal regulators.

Tip: Product labels are often in Japanese, so show a translation of your symptoms (e.g., "Headache", "Fever") to the pharmacist for help.

2. Use COVID-19/Flu Antigen Test Kits

If you have respiratory symptoms, you might worry if it's just a cold, the flu, or COVID-19. Antigen test kits are widely available at drugstores. They give results in 10-15 minutes, offering peace of mind for you and your travel companions.

3. Hydrate, Humidify, and Rest

• Hydrate: Drink small amounts of water, tea, or sports drinks (like Pocari Sweat) frequently to prevent dehydration.
• Humidify: Japan's winter air is dry. Use a hotel humidifier, hang wet towels in your room, or keep the bathroom door open after running a hot bath to add moisture.
• Eat Digestible Food: Even if you have no appetite, try easy-to-digest foods like rice porridge, soup, or jelly.
• Rest: Cancel your plans and stay in bed. Forcing yourself to go out will only make symptoms worse.

When to Seek Professional Medical Help

While self-care works for mild symptoms, seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Persistent high fever (over 37.5°C) that won't go down.
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Sudden or worsening chest pain.
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea preventing fluid intake (risk of dehydration).
• Confusion or unresponsiveness.

Emergency: For life-threatening situations, call 119 immediately for an ambulance. Be ready to state your location clearly.

The Bad News: Most Clinics Close for New Year's.

While Japan has excellent healthcare, most clinics close from roughly December 29th to January 3rd. Finding an open clinic or an English-speaking doctor during this time is extremely difficult outside of major international hospitals. This causes immense stress when you need a diagnosis, a prescription, or a medical certificate for insurance.

The Solution: HOTEL de DOCTOR 24

When you need a doctor but everything is closed, HOTEL de DOCTOR 24 is your lifeline. This online medical service is designed specifically for tourists in this exact situation.

Why It's Your Best Option for the Holidays

• Open 24/7/365: Unlike local clinics, they are open throughout the New Year holidays, day and night.
• No Language Barrier: Professional medical interpreters assist you, ensuring you can communicate accurate details.
• Maximum Convenience: Don't go out into the cold to search for a hospital. See a doctor from the safety and comfort of your hotel room.

How It Works (3 Easy Steps)

1. Book Online: Select a time on the web form. Appointments can be available in as little as 30 minutes.
2. Online Consultation: Connect via smartphone or PC. The doctor will assess your condition and provide a diagnosis.
3. Get Medication: If medication is prescribed, the service will guide you to a pharmacy that is open, even during the holidays. Digital medical certificates can also be issued for insurance claims.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Trip with Peace of Mind

Getting sick is stressful, but knowing the basics—rest, hydration, and OTC meds—helps. And if you need professional care during the holidays, remember that reliable support is available. HOTEL de DOCTOR 24 ensures you can get smooth, English-friendly medical care anytime, so you can get back to enjoying Japan.

Stay healthy and safe!

References & Official Guides

• Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Guide: View PDF
• Ambulance Guide for Foreigners: View PDF
• Tokyo Medical Information "Himawari": Visit Site
• JNTO Guide for Feeling Ill: Visit Site