Emergency Contraception in Japan: How to Find Current Access Information

The short answer

Contact a pharmacist or medical institution promptly for professional assessment and current access arrangements. Use MHLW's official pharmacy list, then telephone the pharmacy to confirm stock and the appropriate pharmacist's availability. This page does not assess whether a medicine is suitable or provide dosing instructions.

The pharmacy route changed in 2026

MHLW states that sales of emergency contraception as a pharmacist-guided medicine began on 2 February 2026. Its current list of pharmacies and stores able to sell it was updated on 1 October 2026 when checked on 24 October 2026. Use the latest version linked on that page; entries can be added or removed.

The pharmacy product is NorLevo (ノルレボ). Its maker, Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare, publishes the purchase conditions: Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare: NorLevo release

• It is sold only at pharmacies and drugstores that meet MHLW's requirements, after a check by a pharmacist who has completed emergency-contraception training.
• It can be sold only to the person who will take it.
• There is no age limit, and no partner or parental consent is needed.
• It must be taken in front of the pharmacist. It cannot be taken home.
• The suggested retail price is ¥7,480 including tax (¥6,800 before tax). Pharmacies may set their own price.
• The pharmacist may decline the sale when too much time has passed. Ask the pharmacist about timing.

This is not a statement that every pharmacy stocks it or that an ordinary shop assistant can provide it. MHLW specifically recommends calling ahead about stock and the availability of a pharmacist able to handle the sale. Ask that professional to explain the process and any requirements relevant to you.

Make a clear first call

You can ask: “Do you have a pharmacist available to discuss emergency contraception today? I need help in English. What should I bring, and where should I go?” The Japanese term is 緊急避妊薬 (kinkyū hinin-yaku).

Confirm the actual service time, location, language arrangements and full payment amount. Ask whether there is a private consultation space and whether interpretation is accepted. Do not assume a pharmacy's general opening hours are the hours this service is available.

If that pharmacy cannot assist, ask for the appropriate next professional contact. Avoid spending time traveling between unconfirmed locations or relying on an old social-media list. A pharmacist or clinician must address timing, suitability and follow-up questions directly.

Medical consultation is another route

MHLW's emergency-contraception access guidance also describes in-person medical consultation and links to pharmacies that dispense following an online consultation. These lists serve different routes. Check which arrangement applies before booking, and confirm how medicine would be obtained without delay.

For an in-person appointment, the official JNTO medical search can help locate contact details and language information. It cannot confirm stock, clinical suitability or an immediate appointment. If you are experiencing an immediate medical emergency or serious injury, call 119 and seek emergency care first.

Continue planning

See women's health in Japan, find an [obstetrics and gynecology clinic](/en/clinics?spec=OB%2FGYN#results) or one [open on weekends or in the evening](/en/clinics?open=weekend#results), and arrange a remote medical interpreter.

Official sources checked on 17 October 2026; manufacturer purchase conditions checked 24 October 2026. Review the live pharmacy list when using this page. No product, dose or suitability recommendation is made.

Information provided for planning purposes only. No diagnosis, treatment recommendations, or direct booking services.