You Need CPAP in Japan? No Problem – Here's How
As an expat in Japan, I've seen how sleep apnea treatment can feel daunting—until you know the ropes.
If you have been prescribed CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy before moving to Japan—or suspect you might need it—you may wonder how complicated the process is here.
The good news: Japan has a highly organized system for diagnosing and treating sleep apnea, and in many ways, it’s more affordable and more structured than in the U.S. or Europe.
This guide explains every step of the journey: from booking a sleep test to managing ongoing treatment.
This blog covers:
The step-by-step process
Costs and Coverage
U.S.-Japan Comparison & Story
FAQs
Wrap up
Before we dive in, here’s a quick snapshot of how Japan’s system stands out:
Quick Snapshot
1. The step-by-step process
Step 1: Booking a Sleep Doctor Appointment
Your first step is to book an appointment with a sleep specialist. In Japan, this doctor is often part of either respiratory medicine or Otolaryngology (ENT – Ear, Nose, and Throat). Not every hospital or clinic has a dedicated sleep center, so in some cases you’ll need a referral.
🔹Tip: English-speaking staff are uncommon, especially outside major cities. Bring a Japanese-speaking friend, family member, or use a reliable translation app.
🔹 Without insurance, expect full out-of-pocket costs (JPY10,000+ for consults alone)
Step 2: The Overnight Sleep Test (PSG)
The gold standard for diagnosing sleep apnea is the polysomnography (PSG) sleep study, usually performed in a hospital or specialized clinic.
What to expect:
You’ll check in for an overnight stay.
Nurses will attach sensors across your body to record brain waves, muscle activity, breathing patterns, oxygen saturation, heart rate, and snoring.
In the morning, you’re discharged as usual. Most hospitals allow you to take a shower before leaving. You’re free to continue with your day.
The procedure is almost identical to what you’d experience in the U.S.
🔹Tip: In the U.S., sleep center staff often ask patients to move their toes, knees, or arms to verify sensor placement. In Japan, however, once the nurses attach the sensors, they usually do not request these extra movements.
Prefer staying home? Home Testing Option
Some clinics also offer simplified home testing. This typically measures airflow and blood oxygen levels at home but may not capture as much detail as a hospital PSG.
It’s an option for people who cannot spend a night in the hospital due to work or family obligations, but a full PSG gives the most accurate results.
Step 3: Diagnosis and Prescription
Your doctor will review the test results and determine the severity of sleep apnea using the Apnea–Hypopnea Index (AHI).
If CPAP therapy is needed, the doctor will issue a written prescription (指示書 / shijisho) and send it directly to the CPAP supplier.
Note: Thresholds below may vary depending on your overall condition as well as the clinic or hospital. The following is for reference only:
AHI ≥ 15: CPAP therapy is typically prescribed.
AHI 5–15: An oral appliance (mouthpiece) may be recommended.
AHI < 5: Sleep apnea is usually ruled out.
When prescribing CPAP, the doctor also specifies the type of mask. If you’re unsure, suppliers often let you try both before deciding.
Nasal mask (most common in Japan).
Full-face mask (more common in the U.S.).
Step 4: Home Delivery and Setup
Unlike in many countries where you pick up the device at a store, in Japan a CPAP company representative comes to your home. They:
Set up the machine and demo: ~30-45 minutes, including a test run
Fit the mask.
Show you how to use and maintain the device.
The standard setup includes:
The main CPAP unit.
Mask (nasal or full-face).
Tubing and filters.
Memory card
This personalized approach ensures you’re comfortable and confident from day one.
Step 5: Ongoing Monthly Monitoring
Here is where Japan differs most from the U.S. system.
CPAP machines are provided on a rental basis through clinics and manufacturers.
You must visit your doctor once a month for follow-up.
At each visit, your sleep data is reviewed, covering:
Nights of use
Hours per night (target: at least 4 hours)
AHI (residual apneas)
Mask leak levels
🔹Even if you feel fine, monthly visits are mandatory. Skipping them may result in losing access to your device.
🔹 Tip: Choose a nearby clinic for painless 5-min visits.
Step 6: Annual Replacement Supplies
No extra fees—it's all covered. (Mask, tube, filter, memory card)
The CPAP unit itself is typically replaced every 5–7 years.
2.Costs and Coverage
Japan’s National Health Insurance and Employees’ Health Insurance both cover CPAP treatment.
Typical costs:
Initial consultation: About JPY 3,100 (varies by medical institution).
Simplified sleep test: JPY 3,000–3,600.
Full polysomnography (detailed overnight sleep test): JPY 10,000–30,000.
🔹Note: Costs differ by hospital or clinic. If additional tests are conducted at the same time—such as for blood pressure, diabetes, or arrhythmia—plus overnight hospital charges, the total may reach as high as JPY 50,000.
Monthly doctor visit + CPAP device rental: Around JPY 4,000–5,000 per month (with a standard 30% co-payment).
Annual supplies and device maintenance: Included in insurance coverage.
This makes CPAP therapy in Japan much more affordable than in many other countries, where patients may need to purchase devices outright or pay high supply costs.
🔹 What About a Second Machine?
Some patients want a second CPAP machine for:
Travel convenience.
A backup device.
A unit with Bluetooth for data tracking.
Insurance covers only one device. If you want an additional machine, your doctor must issue a new written prescription, and you will need to purchase it out of pocket.
🔹 Buying a Machine Without a Doctor’s Prescription
Some patients, frustrated with the ongoing rental fees and mandatory monthly clinic visits, choose to purchase a CPAP machine directly. However, there are important drawbacks:
High cost: Purchasing outright typically costs between JPY 150,000–400,000, and most units are imported from overseas.
No insurance coverage: Since this is considered a private purchase, Japanese health insurance does not apply. You must pay the full amount yourself.
Maintenance risks: Machines can break down, and if you own the unit, all repairs and maintenance are your responsibility.
Not recommended: For these reasons, outright purchase is generally not advised in Japan. The insurance-covered rental system offers more reliability and ongoing support.
3. U.S.-Japan Comparison & Story
U.S. vs. Japan: Key Differences
For expats, this means Japan offers peace of mind and affordability, though the monthly visits may feel burdensome if you live far from your doctor.
🔹 One Patient’s Story
An American friend of mine had been using a Philips CPAP in the U.S. and continued with it after moving to Japan without any issues. Later, when his blood pressure began to rise, his Japanese cardiologist recommended that he undergo a new sleep test.
He felt nervous about the overnight study because of the language barrier, but the nurses communicated with simple English and demonstrations, which worked well. The room itself was comfortable and well equipped, with a sofa, table, closet, and a bathroom with shower.
His main concern was whether he would be able to sleep long enough, since it was his first time staying in a Japanese hospital.
To his relief, the staff offered him a sleeping pill if needed. Around 1:00 a.m., when he found himself wide awake, he asked a nurse for one, and after taking it, he was able to rest until morning.
Following the test, he was prescribed a new CPAP in Japan. Today, he visits his local doctor once a month for quick check-ins, which usually take only a few minutes unless there’s something specific to discuss.
Their chats? Often detour to his doc's shiny new orange Jeep—proof even health visits can spark joy.
4. FAQs
Q1: Can I get CPAP without Japanese health insurance?
A1: Yes, but you’ll need to pay the full cost, which can be expensive. Having insurance makes CPAP therapy highly affordable.
Q2: Are Japanese CPAP machines compatible with overseas masks?
A2: Usually yes—most masks and tubing are standardized. Still, confirm compatibility with your supplier before purchase.
Q3: Can I bring my CPAP from overseas?
A3: Yes, but supplies/follow-ups need a local prescription. Check voltage (100V Japan vs. 110-120V U.S.).
Q4: How often do I need to see the doctor?
A4: Once per month, even if there are no issues. This regular visit is mandatory for continued use under insurance.
Q5: Can I use CPAP on airplanes?
A5: Yes. CPAP use is approved by the FAA and most international airlines. Airlines are accustomed to CPAP users, but always check in advance and request a seat with a power outlet if necessary. For details, see Japan Airlines’ guidelines.
Q6: How do I find an English-friendly sleep clinic?
A6: Start with your GP/ primary care doctor referral or search 'English sleep apnea Tokyo'—resources like TELL Japan can help.
5.Wrap up
Getting CPAP therapy in Japan may sound intimidating at first, but the process is smooth and predictable. The system is well established, insurance coverage keeps costs low, and the structured monthly monitoring ensures treatment stays effective.
Compared to the U.S., Japan’s system emphasizes medical supervision rather than patient self-management. For many, this means fewer worries—your therapy is supported and maintained long-term.
So, if you need CPAP in Japan, rest assured: it’s no problem!
Tried CPAP in Japan? Share your tips below in the comment—let's help fellow expats sleep easy! In Tokyo area, my recommendation is St. Luke’s International Hospital/PSG test.
References
The Japanese Respiratory Society
Related Posts:
Adjustment Disorder in Japan: How to Navigate Work, Stress, and Your Rights
Psychiatry in Japan vs. the U.S.: What Expats Should Know About Mental Health & Medical Leave
How to Get Medical Care in Japan as a Foreigner (Real Tips + Free Hospital List)
