病院 in 30 Seconds
- 病院 (Byōin) is the standard Japanese word for 'hospital,' referring to large medical facilities with 20 or more inpatient beds.
- It is commonly used with the particles 'ni' (to), 'de' (at), and the verbs 'iku' (go) and 'nyūin suru' (be hospitalized).
- Learners must be careful not to confuse it with 'biyōin' (beauty salon), which has a very similar pronunciation.
- In Japan, visiting a large hospital often requires a referral from a smaller clinic to avoid extra fees.
The Japanese word 病院 (びょういん - byōin) is the standard term for a 'hospital.' While it is often the first word learners use when they feel unwell, its usage in Japan is governed by specific medical regulations and cultural nuances that distinguish it from smaller medical facilities. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for navigating the Japanese healthcare system effectively.
- Legal Definition
- In accordance with the Japanese Medical Care Act, a byōin is defined as a medical institution that has the capacity to accommodate 20 or more inpatients. This sets it apart from a shinryōjo (clinic) or kurinikku (clinic), which typically handle outpatients or have fewer than 20 beds.
明日、大きな病院で検査を受けます。
(Ashita, ōkina byōin de kensa o ukemasu.)
I will undergo an examination at a large hospital tomorrow.
In daily conversation, Japanese people use 病院 as a general term for seeking medical help, even if they are technically going to a small local clinic. However, if someone says they are 'going to the hospital' for a minor cold, a listener might assume the condition is more serious than it actually is, because 病院 implies a larger, more comprehensive facility with specialized departments.
- Types of Hospitals
- There are various types of byōin in Japan, including daigaku-byōin (university hospitals), which focus on research and advanced treatment, and shiritsu-byōin (municipal/city hospitals), which serve the local community's broader needs.
父は先週から病院に入院しています。
(Chichi wa senshū kara byōin ni nyūin shite imasu.)
My father has been hospitalized since last week.
The kanji themselves tell a story: 病 (byō) means 'illness' or 'sickness,' and 院 (in) refers to an 'institution' or 'establishment.' Thus, a 病院 is literally an 'institution for illness.' This suffix -in is also found in other institutional words like daigakuin (graduate school) or iin (clinic/committee).
- Social Context
- When visiting someone in a byōin, a practice known as omimai, there are specific rules. For instance, potted plants are generally avoided because the roots symbolize 'taking root' in the hospital, implying a long stay. Cut flowers or small gifts are preferred.
この病院は小児科が有名です。
(Kono byōin wa shōnika ga yūmei desu.)
This hospital is famous for its pediatrics department.
Finally, the word is frequently used in administrative contexts. You will see it on signs, in insurance documents (kenkō hokenshō), and in emergency services discussions. In Japan, you don't 'go to the doctor' as an abstract concept as often as you 'go to the hospital' (byōin ni iku).
救急車が病院に到着しました。
(Kyūkyūsha ga byōin ni tōchaku shimashita.)
The ambulance arrived at the hospital.
Using 病院 correctly involves mastering the particles and verbs that typically accompany it. Because it is a physical location, it is most frequently paired with the particles に (ni), へ (e), and で (de). The verb you choose determines the nature of your interaction with the hospital.
- Movement to the Hospital
- When you are going to the hospital as a patient or visitor, use ni iku or e iku. Example: Byōin ni ikanakereba narimasen (I must go to the hospital).
気分が悪いので、病院へ行きます。
(Kibun ga warui node, byōin e ikimasu.)
I feel unwell, so I am going to the hospital.
To describe being hospitalized, Japanese uses the specific compound verb 入院する (nyūin suru). This literally means 'entering the institution.' Conversely, being discharged is 退院する (taiin suru). Note that nyūin already contains the in from byōin, but you still use the particle ni to indicate the destination.
- Action at the Hospital
- When an action happens inside the hospital, use the particle de. For example, Byōin de hataraku (to work at a hospital) or Byōin de kensa o ukeru (to undergo a check-up at the hospital).
彼女はあの病院で看護師として働いています。
(Kanojo wa ano byōin de kangoshi to shite hataraite imasu.)
She is working as a nurse at that hospital.
When discussing the search for a hospital, you might use 探す (sagasu). In an emergency, the phrase kyūkyū-byōin (emergency hospital) is vital. You might ask, Chikaku ni kyūkyū-byōin wa arimasu ka? (Is there an emergency hospital nearby?).
- Descriptive Usage
- To describe a hospital, you can use adjectives like atarashii (new), furui (old), ōkina (large), or yūmeina (famous). You connect these using the standard rules for i-adjectives and na-adjectives.
どの病院が一番いいですか？
(Dono byōin ga ichiban ii desu ka?)
Which hospital is the best?
In formal writing or medical reports, 病院 remains the standard term, but you may see it combined with other nouns to create compound terms like byōin-nai kansen (hospital-acquired infection) or byōin-keiei (hospital management). Mastering these combinations is essential for higher-level proficiency.
母を病院まで車で送りました。
(Haha o byōin made kuruma de okurimashita.)
I drove my mother to the hospital.
You will encounter the word 病院 (byōin) in a vast array of settings, from the mundane to the critical. In Japan, the healthcare system is highly accessible, and 'going to the hospital' is a common part of life, often mentioned in casual conversation, workplace settings, and media broadcasts.
- Daily Life and Neighborhoods
- Walking through any Japanese town, you will see blue or green signs pointing toward the local byōin. Neighbors might ask each other, 'Byōin wa mou ikimashita ka?' (Have you already been to the hospital?) when someone mentions a persistent cough.
駅の近くに新しい病院ができました。
(Eki no chikaku ni atarashii byōin ga dekimashita.)
A new hospital was built near the station.
In the workplace, 病院 is frequently cited as a reason for absence or tardiness. Employees might say, 'Byōin ni yotte kara shukkun shimasu' (I will come to work after stopping by the hospital). Because Japanese work culture values health management, saying you are going to the hospital is generally accepted as a valid excuse.
- News and Media
- News reports often mention byōin when reporting on accidents or health crises. You might hear, 'Fushōsha wa chikaku no byōin ni hansō saremashita' (The injured were transported to a nearby hospital). It is also a staple in TV dramas (medical dramas are very popular in Japan).
テレビで紹介された病院はどこですか？
(Terebi de shōkai sareta byōin wa doko desu ka?)
Where is the hospital that was introduced on TV?
In public transport, you might hear announcements regarding the nearest station for a major hospital. For example, 'Tsugi wa, ○○ Byōin-mae' (Next stop is in front of ○○ Hospital). This is a very common way for bus stops and train stations to be named in Japan.
- Family Discussions
- Within families, byōin is used when discussing elderly care or children's health. Phrases like 'Byōin no yoyaku' (hospital appointment) or 'Byōin no kensa kekka' (hospital test results) are common topics of daily life.
祖父の病院に付き添います。
(Sofu no byōin ni tsukisoimasu.)
I will accompany my grandfather to the hospital.
Finally, you will hear it in emergency situations. The word byōin is the first thing an operator might say when dispatching help, or what a bystander might yell when calling for help. It is a word that carries weight and urgency in these contexts.
この辺りに夜間対応の病院はありますか？
(Kono atari ni yakan taiō no byōin wa arimasu ka?)
Is there a hospital that handles nighttime emergencies around here?
While 病院 (byōin) seems straightforward, it is one of the most common pitfalls for Japanese language learners. The mistakes range from pronunciation slips that change the entire meaning to cultural misunderstandings about how the medical system operates.
- The 'Biyōin' Trap
- The most famous mistake is confusing byōin (hospital) with biyōin (beauty salon/hairdresser). Byōin has two syllables (byō-in), while biyōin has three (bi-yō-in). If you tell your boss you are going to the biyōin because you have a fever, they will be very confused!
❌ 美容院へ行って、薬をもらいました。
(Biyōin e itte, kusuri o moraimashita.)
I went to the beauty salon and got medicine. (Incorrect!)
Another mistake involves the choice of verbs. English speakers often say they 'see a doctor.' In Japanese, translating this literally as isha o miru means you are physically looking at a doctor. Instead, you should say byōin ni iku (go to the hospital) or isha ni mite morau (have a doctor look at you).
- Confusion with 'Clinic'
- Learners often use byōin for every medical visit. While not 'wrong' in a general sense, if you go to a large byōin for a simple cold without a referral, you may face a significant 'first-visit fee' (sentei ryōyōhi) of 5,000 yen or more. For small issues, use kurinikku.
❌ 病院を見ました。
(Byōin o mimashita.)
I saw the hospital. (Usually means you just looked at the building, not that you had a checkup.)
Particle errors are also common. Using byōin o iku is incorrect because iku requires a destination particle like ni or e. Similarly, saying byōin ni hataraku is slightly unnatural; de is the standard particle for the location of an action like working.
- Social Etiquette Mistakes
- When visiting a byōin, talking loudly on a cell phone is a major faux pas. Most Japanese hospitals have strict 'no phone' zones to protect medical equipment and patient peace. Learners often forget this cultural expectation.
✅ 病院で静かにしてください。
(Byōin de shizuka ni shite kudasai.)
Please be quiet in the hospital.
Finally, don't confuse 入院 (nyūin) with 入学 (nyūgaku). While both mean 'entering an institution,' nyūgaku is for schools. Telling someone you are 'entering school' when you are going to the hospital for surgery will lead to a very confusing conversation about your education!
❌ 彼は明日病院します。
(Kare wa ashita byōin shimasu.)
He will hospital tomorrow. (Incorrect! Use 'nyūin shimasu'.)
While 病院 (byōin) is the most common term, Japanese has several other words for medical facilities. Choosing the right one depends on the size of the facility, the severity of the illness, and the level of formality required.
- 病院 (Byōin) vs. クリニック (Kurinikku)
- As mentioned, byōin is for large institutions (20+ beds). Kurinikku (clinic) or iin (medical office) is for smaller, local practitioners. Most Japanese people go to a kurinikku for routine issues like the flu or allergies.
風邪をひいたので、近くのクリニックへ行きました。
(Kaze o hiita node, chikaku no kurinikku e ikimashita.)
I caught a cold, so I went to a nearby clinic.
Another term you might see is 診療所 (shinryōjo). This is the formal, legal term for a clinic. You will often see this on official signage and documents. In casual speech, however, kurinikku or byōin is much more common.
- Specialized Terms
- For specific types of care, you might use hokenjo (public health center) for vaccinations or health consultations, or seishin-byōin for a psychiatric hospital. Daigaku-byōin refers specifically to university-affiliated teaching hospitals.
精密検査のために大学病院を紹介されました。
(Seimitsu kensa no tame ni daigaku-byōin o shōkai saremashita.)
I was referred to a university hospital for a detailed examination.
In the context of emergency care, 救急外来 (kyūkyū gairai) refers to the ER or emergency outpatient department. While the whole building is a byōin, you specifically go to the kyūkyū gairai if you arrive by ambulance or have an urgent after-hours issue.
- Register and Nuance
- In very formal settings or when referring to the healthcare system as a whole, the term iryō kikan (medical institution) is used. This is a broad umbrella term that covers everything from the smallest dental office to the largest general hospital.
適切な医療機関を受診してください。
(Tekisetsuna iryō kikan o jujin shite kudasai.)
Please visit an appropriate medical institution.
Lastly, for dental care, Japanese people rarely use byōin. Instead, they say ha-ya-san (the dentist) or shika (dentistry/dental clinic). Using byōin for a toothache sounds a bit dramatic, as if you have a major jaw injury requiring surgery!
歯が痛いので、歯医者に行きます。
(Ha ga itai node, ha-ya-san ni ikimasu.)
My tooth hurts, so I'm going to the dentist.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
Before the Meiji era, modern 'hospitals' didn't exist in Japan as they do today. Traditional medicine (Kanpō) was practiced in smaller settings. The term 'Byōin' became standardized as Western medicine was adopted in the late 19th century.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing it as 'bi-yo-in' (three syllables) which means beauty salon.
- Shortening the long 'ō' to 'byoin'.
- Confusing the 'in' with 'en' (as in 'byōen', which is not a word).
- Adding an extra 'u' sound like 'byou-win'.
- Misplacing the pitch accent, making it sound like a different word.
Difficulty Rating
The kanji are common but require learning early on. The 'in' kanji appears in many words.
Writing '病' can be tricky for beginners due to the 'sickness' radical (yada-re).
High difficulty due to the confusion with 'biyōin'. Mastering the long vowel is key.
Difficult to distinguish from 'biyōin' in fast speech without context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Particle 'Ni' for Destination
病院に行きます。(Going to the hospital.)
Particle 'De' for Action Location
病院で働きます。(Working at the hospital.)
Compound Verbs with 'Suru'
入院する (To be hospitalized).
Adjective + Noun
大きな病院 (A big hospital).
Noun + No + Noun
病院の先生 (The hospital's doctor).
Examples by Level
病院はどこですか？
Where is the hospital?
Uses the basic 'A is B' question structure with the particle 'wa'.
明日、病院へ行きます。
I will go to the hospital tomorrow.
Uses the destination particle 'e' with the verb 'ikimasu'.
ここは大きな病院です。
This is a big hospital.
Uses the adjective 'ōkina' (big) before the noun.
病院に先生がいます。
There is a doctor in the hospital.
Uses 'ni' for location and 'imasu' for the existence of a person.
病院はあそこです。
The hospital is over there.
Uses the demonstrative 'asoko' (over there).
昨日、病院に行きました。
I went to the hospital yesterday.
Past tense of 'ikimasu' is 'ikimashita'.
病院で薬をもらいました。
I got medicine at the hospital.
Uses 'de' for the location of an action (getting medicine).
病院は静かです。
The hospital is quiet.
Uses the na-adjective 'shizuka' (quiet).
風邪をひいたので、病院に行きます。
I caught a cold, so I am going to the hospital.
Uses 'node' to indicate a reason.
母は今、病院に入院しています。
My mother is currently hospitalized.
Uses the compound verb 'nyūin shite imasu' (is hospitalized).
病院の近くに薬局があります。
There is a pharmacy near the hospital.
Uses 'no chikaku ni' (near...).
あの病院はとても有名です。
That hospital is very famous.
Uses the adverb 'totemo' (very) with the na-adjective 'yūmei'.
病院へ行く前に、電話をしてください。
Please call before going to the hospital.
Uses 'verb (dictionary form) + mae ni' (before doing...).
病院で一時間待ちました。
I waited for one hour at the hospital.
Uses a duration (ichijikan) without a particle.
来週、病院を退院します。
I will be discharged from the hospital next week.
Uses 'taiin shimasu' (to be discharged).
病院の先生はとても親切でした。
The hospital doctor was very kind.
Past tense of the na-adjective 'shinsetsu'.
病院の予約をキャンセルしなければなりません。
I have to cancel the hospital appointment.
Uses 'nakereba narimasen' (must do/have to).
この病院ではクレジットカードが使えますか？
Can I use a credit card at this hospital?
Uses the potential form 'tsukaemasu' (can use).
病院へ行くときは、保険証を忘れないでください。
When you go to the hospital, please don't forget your insurance card.
Uses 'toki' (when) and the negative request 'naide kudasai'.
病院の待ち時間が長すぎて、疲れました。
The hospital waiting time was too long, and I got tired.
Uses 'sugite' (too much) and the 'te-form' for cause.
どの病院に行けばいいか、教えていただけますか？
Could you tell me which hospital I should go to?
Uses the 'ba-form' with 'ii' (should I) and polite 'itadakemasu ka'.
彼は病院でリハビリを続けています。
He is continuing rehabilitation at the hospital.
Uses the continuous form 'tsuzukete imasu'.
病院の受付で名前を書いてください。
Please write your name at the hospital reception.
Uses 'uketsuke' (reception).
この病院は救急患者を24時間受け入れています。
This hospital accepts emergency patients 24 hours a day.
Uses 'ukeirete imasu' (is accepting).
紹介状がないと、大きな病院では追加料金がかかります。
Without a referral letter, large hospitals charge an extra fee.
Uses the conditional 'to' (if/when).
病院の経営状態が悪化しているというニュースを見ました。
I saw news that the hospital's management situation is worsening.
Uses 'to iu' (that says) to define the noun 'news'.
彼は病院の外科部長として尊敬されています。
He is respected as the head of the surgical department of the hospital.
Uses the passive form 'sonkei sarete imasu'.
病院内での携帯電話の使用は制限されています。
Mobile phone use inside the hospital is restricted.
Uses 'gentei sarete imasu' (is restricted).
この病院は最新の医療機器を導入しています。
This hospital has introduced the latest medical equipment.
Uses 'dōnyū shite imasu' (has introduced).
病院のお見舞いに行く際は、マナーに気をつけましょう。
When visiting someone in the hospital, let's be careful about etiquette.
Uses 'sai' (on the occasion of) which is more formal than 'toki'.
感染症の拡大を防ぐため、病院の面会が禁止されました。
To prevent the spread of infectious diseases, hospital visits were banned.
Uses 'tame' (in order to) and the passive 'kinshi saremashita'.
その病院は地域医療の中核としての役割を担っています。
That hospital plays a role as the core of regional medical care.
Uses 'to shite' (as) and 'yakuwari o ninatte imasu' (carries the role).
病院の再編計画をめぐって、住民との話し合いが行われた。
Discussions with residents were held regarding the hospital reorganization plan.
Uses 'o megutte' (concerning/surrounding).
高度な医療を提供する病院には、多額の助成金が投入される。
Large subsidies are invested into hospitals that provide advanced medical care.
Uses the passive 'tōnyū sareru' (be invested).
病院側の説明責任が問われる事態となった。
It became a situation where the hospital's accountability was called into question.
Uses 'setsumei sekinin' (accountability) and 'to wareru' (be questioned).
大学病院の研究チームが、新しい治療法の開発に成功した。
A research team at a university hospital succeeded in developing a new treatment.
Uses 'ni seikō shita' (succeeded in).
病院の機能分化を進めることが、医療費抑制の鍵となる。
Promoting the functional differentiation of hospitals is key to controlling medical costs.
Uses 'koto' to nominalize the phrase and 'kagi to naru' (become the key).
災害拠点病院としての備蓄体制を強化する必要がある。
It is necessary to strengthen the stockpiling system as a disaster base hospital.
Uses 'hitsuyō ga aru' (there is a necessity).
病院の倫理委員会が、その臨床試験の実施を承認した。
The hospital's ethics committee approved the implementation of the clinical trial.
Uses 'shōnin shita' (approved).
特定機能病院の認定を取り消されるという異例の事態だ。
It is an unusual situation where the accreditation as a special-function hospital is revoked.
Uses the passive 'torikesareru' (be revoked).
病院という空間が患者の心理に与える影響は看過できない。
The impact that the space of a hospital has on patient psychology cannot be overlooked.
Uses 'kanka dekinai' (cannot be overlooked/ignored).
明治期の病院設立は、日本の近代化を象徴する出来事であった。
The establishment of hospitals in the Meiji era was an event that symbolized Japan's modernization.
Historical context using 'shōchō suru' (symbolize).
病院経営の健全化と、質の高い医療の提供を両立させるのは至難の業だ。
Balancing the financial health of hospital management with the provision of high-quality medical care is a Herculean task.
Uses 'shinan no waza' (an extremely difficult feat).
パンデミックにより、病院のキャパシティが限界に達した。
Due to the pandemic, hospital capacity reached its limit.
Uses 'genkai ni tasshita' (reached the limit).
病院のホスピタリティの向上が、患者満足度に直結している。
The improvement of hospital hospitality is directly linked to patient satisfaction.
Uses 'chokketsu shite iru' (is directly linked).
医療資源の偏在を解消するため、公立病院の役割が再定義されている。
To resolve the uneven distribution of medical resources, the role of public hospitals is being redefined.
Uses 'saiteigi sarete iru' (is being redefined).
病院という組織における多職種連携の重要性は、論を俟たない。
The importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration in a hospital organization is indisputable.
Uses 'ron o matanai' (goes without saying/is indisputable).
病院建築におけるユニバーサルデザインの導入が加速している。
The introduction of universal design in hospital architecture is accelerating.
Uses 'kasoku shite iru' (is accelerating).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To go to the hospital to visit someone who is sick. This is a common social duty.
友達の病院へお見舞いに行きました。
— Visiting multiple hospitals/clinics in one day or in succession. Often used for 'doctor shopping'.
今日は病院のハシゴで疲れました。
— Literally a field hospital, but often used metaphorically for a chaotic or overwhelmed medical scene.
コロナ禍で病院は野戦病院のようだった。
— Hospital bills or medical expenses.
今月は病院代がかさんでしまった。
— Regularly attending or commuting to a hospital for ongoing treatment.
週に一度の病院通いが続いています。
— Hospital food, often known for being bland but healthy.
病院食は薄味だけど健康的だ。
— Psychiatric hospital.
彼は精神病院に入院しています。
— Veterinary hospital (animal hospital).
猫を動物病院へ連れて行きました。
— Hospital management or administration.
病院経営は非常に難しい課題だ。
— In front of the university hospital (often a bus stop name).
大学病院前でバスを降ります。
Often Confused With
Means beauty salon. The pronunciation is very similar but it has an extra syllable.
Means clinic/medical office. Used for smaller private practices.
Means graduate school. Shares the '院' (institution) kanji.
Idioms & Expressions
— To be sent to the hospital (usually implies being beaten up or injured in a fight).
喧嘩をして病院送りになった。
Informal/Slang— Literally 'The White Tower'. A famous metaphor for the rigid, hierarchical world of large university hospitals.
あの大学病院はまさに白い巨塔だ。
Literary/Metaphorical— The doctor's neglect of his own health. Similar to 'the shoemaker's children go barefoot'.
病院の先生が風邪をひくなんて、医者の不養生だね。
Proverbial— To be present at someone's deathbed in a hospital/home to perform the final rites.
病院で祖父の死に水を取った。
Formal/Traditional— A carp on a cutting board. Used when a patient is about to undergo surgery in a hospital and is helpless.
手術室に入ると、まな板の上の鯉のような気分だ。
Idiomatic— To throw in the spoon (give up). Used when a hospital/doctor says there is no more hope for a cure.
どの病院でも匙を投げられた。
Idiomatic— A quack doctor or an incompetent doctor at a hospital.
あの病院は藪医者が多いと評判だ。
Informal/Derogatory— Red Beard. Refers to a compassionate, skilled doctor (from a famous story).
彼は現代の赤ひげのような病院長だ。
Literary— Sickness starts from the mind. Often said to someone going to the hospital.
あまり心配しないで。病は気からと言うでしょう。
Proverbial— Three-hour wait for a three-minute exam. A common complaint about Japanese hospitals.
大きな病院は三時間待ちの三分診療だから困る。
ColloquialEasily Confused
Pronunciation and spelling (in Hiragana) are almost identical.
Byōin (びょういん) is 2 kanji, Biyōin (びよういん) is 3. Byōin is for health, Biyōin is for hair.
病院で薬をもらう。 (Get medicine at the hospital.) vs 美容院で髪を切る。 (Cut hair at the beauty salon.)
Both are places to see doctors.
Byōin must have 20+ beds. Clinics are for minor illnesses and outpatients.
大きな病院で手術する。 (Have surgery at a large hospital.)
Both relate to health.
Hokenjo is a public health center for administration, vaccines, and screenings, not for treating illness.
保健所でワクチンを打つ。 (Get a vaccine at the health center.)
Both are visited when sick.
Yakkyoku is where you buy medicine. Byōin is where you are diagnosed.
病院の後に薬局へ行く。 (Go to the pharmacy after the hospital.)
Related to the hospital.
Nyūin is the action of staying in the hospital, not the building itself.
病院に入院する。 (To stay in the hospital.)
Sentence Patterns
[Place] はどこですか？
病院はどこですか？
[Reason] ので、病院に行きます。
頭が痛いので、病院に行きます。
[Verb] ために病院へ行きます。
検査を受けるために病院へ行きます。
病院で [Noun] が行われています。
病院で健康診断が行われています。
病院の [Noun] をめぐって、議論がある。
病院の閉鎖をめぐって、議論がある。
病院に [Person] がいます。
病院に看護師さんがいます。
病院で [Noun] をもらいました。
病院で薬をもらいました。
病院の [Noun] は [Adjective] です。
病院の食事はおいしくないです。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Extremely high in daily life, news, and literature.
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Using 'Biyōin' (beauty salon) when you mean 'Byōin' (hospital).
→
Byōin (びょういん)
This is a classic 'long vowel' vs 'short vowel/y-combination' mistake. Practice the difference daily.
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Saying 'Byōin o iku'.
→
Byōin ni iku / Byōin e iku
The particle 'o' is for objects. Destinations need 'ni' or 'e'.
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Saying 'Isha o miru' to mean 'I will see a doctor'.
→
Byōin ni iku / Isha ni mite morau
'Isha o miru' means you are physically looking at a doctor, not having a consultation.
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Using 'Byōin' for the dentist.
→
Ha-ya-san / Shika
In Japan, dentistry is usually treated as a separate category from general hospital visits.
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Saying 'Byōin suru' to mean 'to be hospitalized'.
→
Nyūin suru (入院する)
You cannot turn the noun 'Byōin' into a verb. You must use the specific term 'Nyūin'.
Tips
Master the 'Byō'
The 'byō' sound is a single beat. Imagine the word 'pure' but with a 'B' and an 'O'. Practice saying it quickly so it doesn't sound like two separate syllables.
Gift Etiquette
If you visit someone (omimai), don't bring potted plants. They represent 'rooting' oneself in the hospital, which implies the person will stay sick for a long time. Cut flowers are okay.
Verb Choice
Don't say 'see a doctor' (isha o miru). Say 'go to the hospital' (byōin ni iku) or 'be seen by a doctor' (isha ni mite morau).
Radical Recognition
The radical 疒 (yada-re) in '病' always relates to illness. Once you learn this, you can easily spot other health-related words like 'pain' (痛) or 'fatigue' (疲).
Silence is Golden
Japanese hospitals are very quiet. Turn your phone to silent mode (manner mode) and avoid talking loudly. Phone calls are usually only allowed in designated 'phone booths'.
Bring Cash
While large hospitals accept credit cards, many smaller clinics still only take cash. Always carry 10,000 yen just in case when visiting a medical facility.
Clinic vs Hospital
Use 'Kurinikku' for the flu, and 'Byōin' for broken bones or surgery. This helps Japanese people understand the severity of your situation.
Context Clues
If you hear 'Byōin' on a bus, it's likely the name of the next stop. Many bus stops are named after the nearest major medical institution.
Know 119
The emergency number for an ambulance is 119, not 911. You will be asked if you need 'shōbō' (fire) or 'kyūkyū' (ambulance).
In-stitution
The 'in' in 'byōin' sounds like the English word 'in'. You go 'in' to the hospital. This helps you remember the second half of the word.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a **B**ig **YO**-yo inside an **IN**stitution. The yo-yo is 'sick' and needs help. Byō-in.
Visual Association
Visualize a large white building with a giant Kanji '病' (sick) on the front gate. Inside, people are resting in an 'institution' (院).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to say 'I am going to the hospital' and 'I am going to the beauty salon' five times each, focusing on the difference between 'Byōin' and 'Biyōin'.
Word Origin
The word is a Sino-Japanese compound (Kango). '病' (Byō) comes from Middle Chinese /bjɨɐŋ/ meaning illness. '院' (In) comes from Middle Chinese /ɦwen/ meaning a walled building or institution.
Original meaning: An institution for the sick.
Sino-Japanese (Kango)Cultural Context
When discussing hospitals, avoid being too blunt about 'death' (shi). Use euphemisms like 'fukō' (misfortune) if someone passes away in a hospital.
In English, we say 'going to the doctor.' In Japanese, people almost always say 'going to the hospital' (病院に行く), even for minor things.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Feeling sick at home
- 病院に行かなきゃ (I have to go to the hospital)
- 近くの病院はどこ？ (Where is a nearby hospital?)
- 病院、予約した？ (Did you book the hospital?)
- 病院代、いくら？ (How much is the hospital bill?)
At the workplace
- 病院に行くので遅れます (I'll be late because I'm going to the hospital)
- 病院の診断書が必要です (I need a medical certificate from the hospital)
- 午後から病院へ行きます (I'm going to the hospital from the afternoon)
- 病院でお見舞いがあります (I have a visit at the hospital)
Emergency situation
- 救急病院へ連れて行って！ (Take me to an emergency hospital!)
- 一番近い病院はどこですか？ (Where is the closest hospital?)
- 病院に電話してください！ (Please call the hospital!)
- 病院に運ばれました (He was carried to the hospital)
Visiting a friend
- 病院にお見舞いに行く (Go to the hospital to visit someone)
- どこの病院に入院してるの？ (Which hospital are you in?)
- 病院の場所を教えて (Tell me the location of the hospital)
- 病院の面会時間は？ (What are the hospital visiting hours?)
Discussing health
- あの病院はいいですよ (That hospital is good, you know)
- 病院で検査を受けました (I had a checkup at the hospital)
- 病院を変えたほうがいい (You should change hospitals)
- 病院の薬は効きますね (Hospital medicine is effective, isn't it?)
Conversation Starters
"最近、どこの病院に行っていますか？ (Which hospital have you been going to lately?)"
"この近くにいい病院を知っていますか？ (Do you know any good hospitals near here?)"
"病院の待ち時間、いつもどうしていますか？ (What do you usually do during the hospital wait time?)"
"昨日のニュースで見た病院の話、知ってる？ (Do you know about the hospital story I saw on the news yesterday?)"
"病院のお見舞いに何を持っていくのがいいと思う？ (What do you think is good to bring for a hospital visit?)"
Journal Prompts
今日、病院へ行きました。何が起きましたか？ (I went to the hospital today. What happened?)
日本の病院と自分の国の病院の違いについて書いてください。 (Write about the differences between Japanese hospitals and hospitals in your country.)
もし病院で働くととしたら、どの部署がいいですか？ (If you were to work in a hospital, which department would you prefer?)
病院での待ち時間を楽しく過ごす方法を考えてください。 (Think of ways to spend time enjoyably while waiting at the hospital.)
健康のために病院に行かなくて済むように何をしていますか？ (What are you doing to stay healthy so you don't have to go to the hospital?)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsByōin (びょういん) means hospital and has two main sounds: 'byō' and 'in'. Biyōin (びよういん) means beauty salon and has three: 'bi', 'yō', and 'in'. The 'yo' in byōin is small (ょ), while in biyōin it is large (よ). Confusing them can lead to funny situations, like telling someone you went to the hair salon to treat your broken arm.
Many large hospitals in Japan allow walk-ins in the morning, but the wait times can be very long (several hours). However, more and more hospitals are moving toward an appointment-only system or requiring a referral letter from a clinic. It is always best to check their website or call beforehand.
You must bring your health insurance card (hokenshō). If it's your first time at that specific hospital, you will also need to pay a first-time patient fee. If you have been there before, bring your patient registration card (shinsatsuken). If you are on other medications, bring your 'medicine notebook' (okusuri techō).
At large university hospitals or international clinics in major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, English-speaking staff are often available. However, at local community hospitals, the staff may only speak Japanese. There are medical interpretation services available via phone in some regions.
Visiting hours (menkai jikan) vary by hospital but are usually strictly enforced. Common hours are from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM. During the pandemic, many hospitals banned visitors entirely or restricted them to immediate family for short periods.
Japanese hospital food (byōinshoku) is famous for being very healthy and balanced, following strict nutritional guidelines. While some find it bland because it is low in salt, others appreciate the quality and the traditional Japanese style (Ichijū-sansai) often served.
In Japan, the government encourages people to visit local clinics first. If you go to a large general hospital without a referral letter (shōkaijō) from a clinic, you will be charged an extra 'Sentei Ryōyōhi' fee, which can range from 5,000 to 10,000 yen.
With Japanese National Health Insurance, you typically only pay 30% of the cost. Compared to the US, it is quite affordable. However, things like private rooms (shitsuryō-saigaku) are not covered by insurance and can be expensive.
There is no universal rule, but many medical signs in Japan use green or blue to represent health and calmness. A red cross is also used, though its use is technically restricted to the Red Cross organization.
You can call the emergency number 119 for an ambulance, or search for 'Kyūkyū Byōin' or 'Yakan Shinryō' (nighttime consultation) in your area. Many cities have a rotating system where specific hospitals stay open for emergencies on different nights.
Test Yourself 200 questions
Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I went to the hospital yesterday.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence in Japanese: 'Where is the big hospital?'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'My mother is in the hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I will go to the hospital because I have a headache.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'Please call the hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I want to work at a hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I have a hospital appointment tomorrow.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'Don't forget your insurance card when you go to the hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I was hospitalized for two weeks.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'The hospital is very crowded today.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I went to visit my friend in the hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'This hospital has the latest equipment.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I need a referral letter to go to that hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'Hospital management is facing difficulties.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'The hospital's accountability was questioned.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I will be discharged from the hospital next Monday.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'There is a pharmacy near the hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'The doctor at the hospital was very kind.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'I am looking for an emergency hospital.'
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Write a sentence in Japanese: 'Please be quiet in the hospital.'
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Say 'Hospital' in Japanese with the correct pitch accent.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say 'I am going to the hospital' in Japanese.
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Say 'Where is the hospital?' in Japanese.
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Say 'I have a fever, so I'm going to the hospital.'
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Say 'Is there a hospital nearby?'
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Say 'I was hospitalized last month.'
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Say 'I'm going to visit a friend in the hospital.'
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Say 'Can I pay by credit card at the hospital?'
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Say 'The hospital wait time is very long.'
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Say 'I will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow.'
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Say 'I work as a nurse at that hospital.'
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Say 'I have to go to the hospital to get a medical certificate.'
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Say 'There was an accident, and he was taken to the hospital.'
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Say 'I'm going to the beauty salon' and 'I'm going to the hospital' to practice the difference.
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Say 'The hospital food was better than I expected.'
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Say 'Please tell me the name of a good hospital.'
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Say 'I'm going to the hospital for a checkup.'
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Say 'The hospital was built fifty years ago.'
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Say 'I'm worried about the hospital costs.'
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Say 'Which department in the hospital should I go to?'
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Listen to the word: 'Byōin'. Does it mean 'Hospital' or 'Hair Salon'?
Listen to the sentence: 'Ashita byōin e ikimasu.' When is the person going?
Listen to the sentence: 'Haha wa nyūin shite imasu.' Is the mother at home or in the hospital?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin no uketsuke wa doko desu ka?' What is the person looking for?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin de kensa o ukemashita.' What did the person do at the hospital?
Listen to the sentence: 'Kyūkyū-byōin wa asoko desu.' Where is the emergency hospital?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin no yoyaku o torimashita.' Did the person make an appointment?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin no sensei wa shinsetsu desu.' How is the doctor?
Listen to the sentence: 'Taiin omedetō gozaimasu!' What happened?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin no hiyō o haraimashita.' What did the person pay?
Listen to the sentence: 'Innai wa kin-en desu.' Can you smoke in the hospital?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin no chikaku ni kōen ga arimasu.' What is near the hospital?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin-shoku wa healthy desu.' How is the hospital food described?
Listen to the sentence: 'Senshū, byōin ni ikimashita.' When did the person go?
Listen to the sentence: 'Byōin no mae de matte imasu.' Where is the person waiting?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
病院 (Byōin) is more than just a place for doctors; it is a legally defined institution in Japan for serious care. Use it for major issues, but look for a 'clinic' for minor ones. Example: 病院に行って、入院しました (I went to the hospital and was hospitalized).
- 病院 (Byōin) is the standard Japanese word for 'hospital,' referring to large medical facilities with 20 or more inpatient beds.
- It is commonly used with the particles 'ni' (to), 'de' (at), and the verbs 'iku' (go) and 'nyūin suru' (be hospitalized).
- Learners must be careful not to confuse it with 'biyōin' (beauty salon), which has a very similar pronunciation.
- In Japan, visiting a large hospital often requires a referral from a smaller clinic to avoid extra fees.
Master the 'Byō'
The 'byō' sound is a single beat. Imagine the word 'pure' but with a 'B' and an 'O'. Practice saying it quickly so it doesn't sound like two separate syllables.
Gift Etiquette
If you visit someone (omimai), don't bring potted plants. They represent 'rooting' oneself in the hospital, which implies the person will stay sick for a long time. Cut flowers are okay.
Verb Choice
Don't say 'see a doctor' (isha o miru). Say 'go to the hospital' (byōin ni iku) or 'be seen by a doctor' (isha ni mite morau).
Radical Recognition
The radical 疒 (yada-re) in '病' always relates to illness. Once you learn this, you can easily spot other health-related words like 'pain' (痛) or 'fatigue' (疲).
Example
総合病院です。
Related Content
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麻酔
A1A medical substance or technique used to prevent pain during surgery or procedures by inducing a loss of sensation. It can either make the whole body sleep or just numb a specific area.
抗体
A1An antibody is a protective protein produced by your immune system to fight off harmful substances like viruses or bacteria. It acts like a specialized soldier that remembers specific germs to prevent you from getting sick from the same thing twice.
献血
A1The act of voluntarily donating blood for medical use, such as transfusions or surgeries. It is a common social contribution in Japan often conducted at blood donation centers or mobile buses.
介護
A1Caregiving or long-term nursing care provided to the elderly or individuals with disabilities to assist with daily living. It focuses on physical and emotional support rather than strictly medical treatment.
検診
A1A medical examination or screening specifically aimed at detecting a particular disease or condition in an otherwise healthy person. It is commonly used for specialized checks like cancer screenings or dental check-ups to ensure early detection.
診療所
A1A medical clinic or outpatient facility that provides primary care and basic treatments. Unlike a large hospital, it is usually a smaller, local facility often specializing in specific fields like internal medicine or pediatrics.
病状
A1The condition or state of a patient's illness and how it progresses over time. It is used to describe whether a disease is worsening, improving, or remaining stable.
歯科
A1歯科 refers to dentistry, the branch of medicine dealing with the teeth, gums, and oral cavity. It is also commonly used to refer to a dental clinic or a dentist's office where such treatments are performed.
皮膚科
A1A medical department or clinic specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the skin, hair, and nails. It refers to both the field of dermatology and the physical office where a dermatologist works.
