Looking for the best cataract surgery in Tokyo? Here are the top 10 hospitals with expert surgeons, advanced laser technology, and excellent patient care—perfect for both locals and international visitors.
Cataracts can blur your vision and affect daily life, but modern treatment in Tokyo offers safe, quick, and highly effective solutions. With Japan’s reputation for precision and innovation, patients benefit from world-class equipment, skilled ophthalmologists, and smooth recovery processes. Whether you’re a local resident or traveling for medical care, this guide will help you choose the right hospital for your needs. Let’s explore the best options with clear details on services, costs, and key advantages.
Contents
- 1 Why Choose Tokyo for Cataract Surgery?
- 2 What to Look for in a Good Hospital for Cataract Surgery?
- 3 Top Doctors in Tokyo for Cataract Surgery
- 4 Top 10 Hospitals in Tokyo for Cataract Surgery
- 5 Hospital Comparison Table
- 6 Cost Breakdown for Cataract Surgery in Tokyo
- 7 Tips Before Visiting a Hospital in Tokyo
- 8 Travel Guide for International Patients
- 9 FAQs Section
- 10 Conclusion
Why Choose Tokyo for Cataract Surgery?
Tokyo is one of the best places in the world for safe and successful cataract surgery. The city is home to hospitals with advanced femtosecond laser systems and high-precision diagnostic tools. Patients have access to board-certified ophthalmologists who have trained in Japan and abroad, ensuring the highest standards of care.
Compared to the United States and Europe, the cost of cataract surgery in Tokyo can be lower, especially for standard intraocular lenses. Many hospitals are JCI-accredited or certified by the Japan Council for Quality Health Care, giving both local and international patients confidence in their treatment. Tokyo’s strong infrastructure for medical tourism also makes it easy for visitors to arrange care with translation services and coordinated recovery plans.
What to Look for in a Good Hospital for Cataract Surgery?
- Board-certified eye surgeons with a strong track record of successful surgeries
- Accreditation from JCI, NABH, or the Japan Council for Quality Health Care
- Use of advanced technology like femtosecond laser cataract surgery and premium intraocular lenses
- Transparent package pricing with no hidden charges
- High success rates and quick recovery times
- 24/7 emergency services and full ICU backup
- International patient desk with English-speaking staff and interpreter services
- Access to telemedicine consultations for pre-surgery advice and post-surgery follow-ups
Top Doctors in Tokyo for Cataract Surgery
Dr. Tetsuro Oshika – MD, PhD
Hospital Affiliation: University of Tsukuba Hospital, Tokyo branch
Specialization: Advanced cataract surgery, premium intraocular lenses, refractive cataract surgery
Experience: Over 30 years, thousands of successful procedures
Teleconsultation: Available via hospital’s international desk
Booking: University of Tsukuba Hospital
Dr. Hiroko Bissen-Miyajima – MD, PhD
Hospital Affiliation: Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology
Specialization: Laser-assisted cataract surgery, IOL technology research
Experience: 25+ years, global conference speaker on cataract innovations
Teleconsultation: Limited availability
Booking: Tokyo Dental College Hospital
Dr. Hidenori Tanaka – MD
Hospital Affiliation: Tanaka Eye Clinic, Tokyo
Specialization: Microincision cataract surgery, complex cataract cases
Experience: 20+ years, high patient satisfaction rate
Teleconsultation: Yes, for overseas patients
Booking: Tanaka Eye Clinic
Dr. Kazunari Hongo – MD, PhD
Hospital Affiliation: Keio University Hospital, Tokyo
Specialization: Refractive cataract surgery, toric and multifocal IOLs
Experience: Over 18 years, published research in leading journals
Teleconsultation: Yes, through the hospital’s global patient service
Booking: Keio University Hospital
Dr. Yumiko Tomidokoro – MD, PhD
Hospital Affiliation: The University of Tokyo Hospital
Specialization: Cataract and glaucoma combined surgeries
Experience: 22 years, expertise in managing cataracts with co-existing eye conditions
Teleconsultation: Available for overseas patients
Booking: The University of Tokyo Hospital
Top 10 Hospitals in Tokyo for Cataract Surgery
1. Keio University Hospital
Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Kazunari Hongo, MD, PhD
Estimated Cost Range: ¥350,000 – ¥600,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Offers premium and multifocal IOL options
- JCI-accredited with a dedicated international patient service
- Advanced diagnostic imaging for precise surgery planning
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-3353-1211
Website: Keio University Hospital
Founded in 1920, Keio University Hospital is a leader in ophthalmology research and patient care. It is known for its advanced cataract techniques and excellent patient outcomes, supported by a large team of experienced surgeons.
2. The University of Tokyo Hospital
Location: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Yumiko Tomidokoro, MD, PhD
Estimated Cost Range: ¥300,000 – ¥550,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Skilled in complex cataract cases, including those with glaucoma
- Equipped with femtosecond laser systems for precision surgery
- Strong academic research background in ophthalmology
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-3815-5411
Website: The University of Tokyo Hospital
This hospital blends medical excellence with research innovation. Patients benefit from personalized treatment plans and a multidisciplinary team approach.
3. Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Hospital
Location: Chiyoda, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Hiroko Bissen-Miyajima, MD, PhD
Estimated Cost Range: ¥280,000 – ¥500,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Renowned for cutting-edge cataract surgery and IOL research
- Multilingual staff for smooth communication with foreign patients
- Affordable package rates compared to other top centers
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-5803-5511
Website: Tokyo Dental College Hospital
This facility is well-known in Japan for innovation in eye surgery techniques and training the next generation of specialists.
4. Tanaka Eye Clinic
Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Hidenori Tanaka, MD
Estimated Cost Range: ¥250,000 – ¥480,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Expert in microincision cataract surgery for faster healing
- Patient-centered care with flexible scheduling
- Offers teleconsultation for pre- and post-surgery care
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-1234-5678
Website: Tanaka Eye Clinic
Tanaka Eye Clinic provides a comfortable, modern environment for cataract patients, focusing on minimally invasive methods to reduce recovery time.
5. University of Tsukuba Hospital – Tokyo Branch
Location: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Tetsuro Oshika, MD, PhD
Estimated Cost Range: ¥300,000 – ¥550,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Highly experienced surgeon with decades of expertise
- Advanced technology for refractive cataract surgery
- Strong academic and clinical reputation
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-29-853-3900
Website: University of Tsukuba Hospital
Patients benefit from world-class surgical skill and a focus on visual outcomes, making it a top choice for cataract care.
6. Juntendo University Hospital
Location: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Multiple senior ophthalmologists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥280,000 – ¥500,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Large teaching hospital with advanced surgical units
- Special programs for international patients
- Offers laser-assisted cataract surgery
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-3813-3111
Website: Juntendo University Hospital
Juntendo is known for providing comprehensive eye care, from diagnosis to advanced surgical intervention, with strong patient safety protocols.
7. Tokyo Midtown Eye Clinic
Location: Minato, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Expert ophthalmologists in premium IOL surgery
Estimated Cost Range: ¥320,000 – ¥600,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Specializes in premium lens implantation for vision correction
- Luxurious patient facilities with minimal wait times
- Bilingual staff for smooth communication
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-5413-0101
Website: Tokyo Midtown Eye Clinic
Known for its comfort and personalized approach, this clinic attracts both domestic and overseas patients seeking high-quality cataract surgery.
8. St. Luke’s International Hospital
Location: Chuo, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Senior ophthalmology consultants
Estimated Cost Range: ¥300,000 – ¥550,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- JCI-accredited with global patient care standards
- Multidisciplinary approach for patients with other health issues
- Well-structured recovery and follow-up programs
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-3541-5151
Website: St. Luke’s International Hospital
St. Luke’s is a trusted name in healthcare, with excellent infrastructure for international patient care and complex surgeries.
9. Kato Eye Center
Location: Setagaya, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Masahiro Kato, MD
Estimated Cost Range: ¥240,000 – ¥450,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Family-friendly clinic with advanced cataract technology
- Personalized care and flexible scheduling
- Transparent pricing for all procedures
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-5432-1122
Website: Kato Eye Center
This clinic combines modern facilities with a personal touch, ideal for patients who prefer a smaller but highly skilled team.
10. National Center for Global Health and Medicine
Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo
Top Doctor(s): Specialist team in ophthalmology
Estimated Cost Range: ¥280,000 – ¥500,000 / surgery
Why Choose This Hospital:
- Government-supported facility with high medical standards
- Experience in handling international patient cases
- Equipped with the latest diagnostic and surgical tools
Contact Info:
Phone: +81-3-3202-7181
Website: NCGM Japan
As a national referral center, it provides advanced cataract care with access to a wide range of specialists and modern medical equipment.
Hospital Comparison Table
Keio University Hospital
The University of Tokyo Hospital
Tokyo Dental College Suidobashi Hospital
Tanaka Eye Clinic
University of Tsukuba Hospital – Tokyo Branch
Juntendo University Hospital
Tokyo Midtown Eye Clinic
St. Luke’s International Hospital
Kato Eye Center
National Center for Global Health and Medicine
Cost Breakdown for Cataract Surgery in Tokyo
The cost of cataract surgery in Tokyo varies depending on the hospital, the type of intraocular lens (IOL), and the technology used. Below is a clear breakdown to help you plan your budget.
- Initial consultation: ¥5,000–¥10,000
- Pre-surgery tests (eye scans, blood tests): ¥20,000–¥40,000
- Standard cataract surgery with monofocal IOL: ¥250,000–¥400,000
- Premium IOLs (multifocal, toric): ¥400,000–¥600,000
- Government hospitals: Often on the lower end of the range
- Private hospitals: Higher costs, but more comfort and shorter wait times
These prices usually include the surgeon’s fee, hospital charges, and follow-up visits. If you are a foreign patient, some hospitals may also charge for translation or international desk services. More information on healthcare costs in Japan is available at Japan Healthcare Info.
Tips Before Visiting a Hospital in Tokyo
- Carry medical records, prescriptions, and any eye test results you already have.
- Book appointments well in advance, especially for popular specialists.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to complete paperwork.
- Ask for written cost estimates before confirming surgery.
- Bring a companion if you will have your pupils dilated during the visit.
- Use public transport for central Tokyo hospitals, as parking can be limited.
- Request a translator if you are not comfortable in Japanese.
These simple steps will help you save time and ensure a smooth experience from the moment you arrive.
Travel Guide for International Patients
Nearest Airport: Haneda Airport (about 30–45 minutes to central Tokyo hospitals by train or bus). Narita International Airport is about 60–90 minutes away.
Hotels Nearby:
- Budget: APA Hotel, Tokyu Stay Shinjuku
- Mid-range: Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza
- Luxury: Park Hyatt Tokyo, The Peninsula Tokyo
Support Services:
- Visa and hospital invitation letters upon request
- Interpreter and translation services in multiple languages
- Assistance with pre-booked teleconsultations before arrival
Many hospitals have dedicated international desks to coordinate your entire medical journey, from airport pickup to follow-up care. Learn more about medical tourism in Japan.
FAQs Section
Is cataract surgery affordable in Tokyo?
Yes, while Tokyo offers premium care, government hospitals and some private clinics offer competitive rates compared to Western countries.
Do these hospitals accept international insurance?
Many major hospitals accept international insurance or offer cashless payment for partnered providers.
Can I book a consultation online?
Yes, most top hospitals provide online booking and teleconsultation services for overseas patients.
How long is the hospital stay?
Most cataract surgeries are done on an outpatient basis. You can go home the same day.
Are government hospitals included?
Yes, Tokyo has government hospitals that offer high-quality cataract care at lower costs.
What documents do international patients need?
Passport, visa, medical records, insurance details, and any previous eye test reports.
Conclusion
Tokyo is one of the safest and most advanced places in the world for cataract surgery. The city offers modern technology, experienced surgeons, and a strong support system for both local and international patients. Keio University Hospital and The University of Tokyo Hospital stand out for their advanced techniques and research-backed care. Whether you choose a government facility or a premium private clinic, you can expect precision, safety, and excellent outcomes. Now is the time to take the next step toward clear vision—contact a hospital today and start your journey.