Vaccinations in Japan: For Children & Adults [2026]

Japan has routine vaccinations run by municipalities (Category A is generally free) and voluntary vaccinations (out of pocket). Foreign children are covered (free) if registered. This guide covers both children and adults.

① Routine (A/B) vs. voluntary

• Category A: mainly children; to prevent spread of disease — generally free in your area
• Category B: mainly the elderly; partial co-payment (set by municipality)
• Voluntary: e.g. mumps — generally fully out of pocket (some municipal subsidies exist)

② Children's routine (Category A) shots

• Rotavirus, hepatitis B, pediatric pneumococcal, five-in-one (DPT-IPV-Hib, introduced April 2024), BCG, MR (measles-rubella), varicella, Japanese encephalitis, HPV, etc.
• The five-in-one combines the old four-in-one plus Hib into one shot — 4 doses total (the four-in-one + Hib combo is still available)

③ Foreign children are covered (vouchers, Boshi techo)

If registered, your child is covered like Japanese children, and the municipality sends vouchers and screening forms. Records are kept in the Maternal and Child Health Handbook (Boshi techo), which you bring to each shot. Daycare and schools also check vaccination status.

④ Shots received in your home country

For shots received abroad, bring your records (certificate, home-country handbook) and consult a clinic or your municipality; completed doses count and you only get the missing ones. Start at your local health center.

⑤ Adult Category B routine shots

• Seasonal influenza, elderly pneumococcal (at 65, etc.)
• COVID-19: a Category B routine shot for 65+ since autumn 2024 (once a year in autumn/winter)
• Shingles: a Category B routine shot since April 2025 (at 65, etc., with transitional measures)

FAQ

Can foreign children get vaccinated for free?If registered, your child is covered like Japanese children for Category A routine shots — generally free. The municipality sends vouchers and forms.

What about shots received in my home country?Bring your records and consult a clinic or your municipality; completed doses count and you only need the missing ones.

Is the HPV vaccine still free?The regular routine shot (girls in grades 6–10 equivalent) remains publicly funded. The catch-up program ended at the end of March 2026.

Where do I get vaccinated?Mainly at municipality-designated clinics; some are group sessions. Travel vaccines are at travel clinics, out of pocket.