2025年9月10日 / Last updated : 2025年9月10日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Medical Tips

Traveling with Asthma in Japan: What You Need to Know

Asthma is a common condition, and many travelers live with it every day. If you have asthma, you probably already know how important it is to manage your symptoms and always keep your medicines close at hand. When traveling abroad, this becomes even more important. In Japan, asthma medicines are available, but the system may be different from what you are used to at home. Let’s take a closer look at what you should know before traveling to Japan with asthma. Types of Asthma Medicines There are generally two categories of asthma medicines: These can be inhalers or oral medicines, depending on what your doctor prescribed. Can You Use Over-the-Counter […]
2025年9月6日 / Last updated : 2025年11月27日 BLEZ ASAKUSA Information Around

Reliable Medical Care in Asakusa: BLEZ Pharmacy & Sumida Ryogoku Machinaka Clinic

At BLEZ Pharmacy in Asakusa, we not only provide medications and daily health support, but we can also connect you directly with our trusted partner clinic if you need medical care. If you ever drop by our pharmacy and realize you need a prescription, don’t worry—we regularly work with Dr. Ryutaro Gunji at the Sumida Ryogoku Machinaka Clinic, and he has always been kind and reliable in supporting our patients. Asakusa and Ryogoku are neighboring districts in Tokyo, rich in traditional culture and popular with foreign visitors and residents alike. You can enjoy landmarks like Sensoji Temple or the Sumo Stadium, and still have easy access to reliable medical care nearby. 🌟 About Sumida Ryogoku Machinaka Clinic The clinic provides comprehensive […]
2025年9月5日 / Last updated : 2025年9月5日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Medical Tips

UTI Treatment Made Easy for Foreigners in Japan

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are surprisingly common, and they can strike at the worst possible time—like during your trip abroad. For travelers in Japan, this can be especially stressful. Finding a restroom in crowded cities, dealing with frequent urination, or enduring pain while sightseeing can quickly ruin your travel experience. Ignoring the symptoms often makes them worse, so quick treatment is essential. In many countries, products like Azo are available over the counter at pharmacies to help manage UTI symptoms. But what about in Japan? Let’s take a closer look. UTI Medications in Japan: Limited OTC Options Unlike in the U.S. or Europe, Japan does not offer OTC medications equivalent […]
2025年8月16日 / Last updated : 2026年2月17日 BLEZ ASAKUSA Information Around

Trusted Medical Clinic in Asakusa – Imamura Clinic

Introduction If you are living in or visiting Asakusa and looking for reliable medical care, we have great news for you. Right next to Blez Pharmacy is Imamura Clinic, a trusted local medical facility that offers high-quality internal medicine services. What makes it even more reassuring is that consultations are available in English, making it easier for foreign residents and travelers to seek medical help without language barriers. Key Features of Imamura Clinic Meet Dr. Imamura – A Doctor You Can Trust Dr. Imamura is a highly accomplished physician with extensive experience both in Japan and internationally. His expertise covers internal medicine, allergy, and rheumatology, supported by a strong academic and clinical background. […]
2025年7月28日 / Last updated : 2025年7月28日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Medical Tips

Lost in Translation: What “Flu” Really Means in Japan

Have you ever gone to a pharmacy in Japan and said: “I want some cold and flu medicine.”…only to be told,“Flu medicine is prescription-only. You need to see a doctor.” You’re not alone. This is a common misunderstanding that many foreign visitors face in Japan. 🤔 What’s the Problem? In English, “flu” often just means a strong cold—something with fever, body aches, and chills.But in Japan, “flu” only refers to influenza, the viral infection that requires a test and a doctor’s diagnosis. So when you say “flu”, the pharmacist may think: As a result, they can’t give you what you need—even if you just want over-the-counter cold relief. 🗣️ What […]
2025年6月28日 / Last updated : 2025年6月28日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Struggling With Gout in Japan? Colchicine Access Made Easy

If you’ve experienced a sudden gout flare while traveling in Japan, you’re not alone. The intense pain, swelling, and discomfort can be overwhelming—and what’s worse, many tourists are surprised to learn that Colchicine, a common medication for treating acute gout attacks overseas, is not available without a prescription in Japan. This often leads to a frustrating experience: searching pharmacy after pharmacy, only to be told, “You need to go to a hospital.” But when you’re in severe pain and far from home, that’s easier said than done. Why Colchicine Isn’t Sold Over the Counter in Japan In some countries, Colchicine can be purchased directly from a pharmacy for managing acute […]
2025年6月19日 / Last updated : 2025年6月26日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Information Around

Authentic Japanese Culture: Gold Leaf Souvenirs and Experiences in Asakusa

When visiting Japan, many travelers are looking for something uniquely Japanese — things to see, eat, and experience that you can’t find anywhere else.In Asakusa, you might already be visiting famous spots like Sensoji Temple or Tokyo Skytree, wearing a kimono for photos, riding a rickshaw, or enjoying okonomiyaki and wagyu beef. But… are you doing the same things as everyone else? At BLEZ Pharmacy, we’d like to introduce you to a truly special and traditional Japanese experience—Kimpakuya Uhei, a gold leaf specialty store in Asakusa. What is Gold Leaf? A Delicate Japanese Craft Gold leaf may sound luxurious, but did you know that Japanese gold leaf is famous for […]
2025年6月3日 / Last updated : 2025年6月3日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Japan’s New OTC PPI: Pariet S vs. Nexium and Prilosec

If you suffer from acid reflux or frequent heartburn and are traveling in Japan, you might be wondering what treatment options are available over the counter. While Nexium (esomeprazole) and Prilosec (omeprazole) are well-known OTC proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) overseas, Japan has just introduced a new PPI medication to the market: Pariet S, containing rabeprazole. As of June 2, 2025, Pariet S became available as an OTC treatment—but it comes with a catch: you need to consult a pharmacist in person to purchase it. In this article, we’ll introduce Pariet S and explain how it compares to international PPI options. What Is Pariet S? Pariet S is Japan’s first over-the-counter […]
2025年5月26日 / Last updated : 2025年5月26日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

How to Treat Hemorrhoids in Japan: OTC Solutions for Travelers

Dealing with hemorrhoids during travel can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Whether you’re on a long flight, experiencing diet changes, or dealing with constipation from stress or unfamiliar food, hemorrhoid symptoms can strike at the worst times. If you’re used to products like Preparation H in the U.S., you might be wondering what options are available in Japan. One of the most popular and trusted hemorrhoid treatment brands in Japan is Boraginol (ボラギノール). In this article, we’ll compare Japanese and international options, focusing on easy-to-use forms like insertion-type ointments (suppositories) and fast-acting oral tablets. Topical Treatments: Boraginol vs. Preparation H For those dealing with external or internal hemorrhoids, Boraginol A Insertion […]
2025年5月17日 / Last updated : 2025年5月17日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Top Japanese Anti-Itch & Rash Creams: Better Than Benadryl?

Skin troubles can happen anytime—especially when you’re traveling. Whether you’re exploring Japan’s countryside in summer or navigating busy city streets in winter, your skin may react to new environments, food, insects, or climate. Itching, redness, eczema, or allergic rashes can appear suddenly, and they’re the last thing you want to deal with while on vacation. Luckily, Japan has a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) creams that are both effective and easy to find in pharmacies. However, if you’re used to products like Benadryl Cream or Cortizone 10 back home, it might be hard to recognize which Japanese brands offer similar relief. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the most […]