Giving birth in Japan, delivery costs, and postnatal care.
Giving birth in Japan — when to go to hospital, what to bring, delivery options, length of stay, and what it costs. A guide for international families.
June 9, 2020 · Updated: May 17, 2026
DocumentsA baby arrives and four clocks start at once, and nobody hands you the list. The first month holds seven separate errands — most at city hall, one at immigration, one that may come to your house instead. Here they all are on one page, in the order that saves you a second trip.
August 8, 2026
After BirthJapan's 1-month checkup is two appointments in one — a full physical for your baby and a postpartum examination for you. Here is what happens, what to bring, and how the costs are covered.
June 19, 2026
HospitalJapan gives you a genuine choice of where to give birth — obstetric clinic, general hospital, or midwife-led birth center. Each has different strengths and limitations. Here's how to compare them and what to ask before you decide.
June 14, 2026
After BirthJapan has an official postpartum care program — overnight stays, day visits, and home visits by midwives — subsidized by your municipality. Most international families never hear about it. Here's what it is and how to access it.
June 12, 2026
HospitalA practical guide to 立ち会い出産 — who can attend the delivery room in Japan, what birth companions do during labor, how to prepare, and how to check your hospital's policy.
June 12, 2026
HospitalWhat to expect during labor in Japan — CTG monitoring, internal examinations, IV drip, oxytocin, episiotomy, vacuum and forceps delivery explained, with incidence data from official government sources.
June 11, 2026
HospitalBirth methods in Japan explained — vaginal birth, epidural pain relief, cesarean section, freestyle birth, sophrologie, and water birth. What each involves and how to choose.
June 11, 2026
HospitalEverything you need to pack for giving birth in Japan — the 3-bag system, Japan-specific items like postpartum underwear and donut cushion, documents checklist, and what not to bring.
June 9, 2026
DocumentsHow to submit Japan's birth registration form (Shusseitodoke) at your city or ward office — what to bring, how to fill it out, and what to do after.
May 17, 2026
BenefitsJapan pays ¥500,000 per birth to cover delivery costs — available to all residents. How the direct payment system works and how to claim it.
June 9, 2020 · Updated: June 8, 2026
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