Japanese Red Cross Fukuoka Hospital
The Japanese Red Cross Fukuoka Hospital (福岡赤十字病院, Fukuoka Sekijūji Byōin) is in Ogusu, Minami Ward, Fukuoka City. Part of the Japanese Red Cross Society’s network, it serves the Kyushu region with specialized medical care and humanitarian services. Its principles include impartiality and voluntary service, and its work encompasses community health and disaster response (Japanese Red Cross Society, gofukuoka.jp).
The hospital’s specialties include:
- Nephrology and kidney transplantation Specialized renal care and authorized kidney transplants.
- Cardiovascular surgery Facilities for heart and vascular interventions.
- Rehabilitation and disability care Support for disabilities affecting multiple body systems.
- Mental health Outpatient psychiatric services.
It continues to adopt new technologies and collaborates with other Red Cross institutions to provide patient-centered care (Wikipedia).
The hospital is also an emergency and disaster-response hub for Kyushu, mobilizing in response to earthquakes, typhoons, and other crises. Its ICU, acute care facilities, and disaster-preparedness programs support regional resilience. It also carries out public health initiatives such as vaccination drives and blood donations, and provides community health education (Wikipedia).
History
The Japanese Red Cross Society was founded in 1877, and the hospital was established as part of its nationwide network. Located in a city with more than 2,000 years of international exchange and cultural development, the hospital has played a role in local healthcare, disaster response, and humanitarian relief (Japanese Red Cross Society, Wikipedia, gofukuoka.jp).
What to see
The hospital grounds include a monument and exhibits about the history of the Japanese Red Cross in Fukuoka. They document the institution’s humanitarian contributions, including its work during disasters and conflicts (Japanese Red Cross Society).
Practical visiting information
Hospital visits
- Visiting hours Generally 1:00 PM–8:00 PM daily. Hours may vary by ward or patient condition; confirm before visiting.
- Admission and tours The hospital is an active medical facility. Entry is limited to patients, staff, and authorized visitors. No public tours or ticketed access are available.
- Directions The hospital is accessible by the Fukuoka City Subway Nanakuma Line and local bus routes. It is a short taxi or bus ride from central Fukuoka.
- Accessibility and language Accessibility features are available for visitors with disabilities. Some multilingual support is offered, but the primary language is Japanese.
International patients
Non-Japanese speakers are encouraged to bring English medical records and emergency contact details. International credit cards are accepted, and travel health insurance is highly recommended (Live Japan).
Monument visits
- Hours Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed on weekends and holidays.
- Admission Free.
- Guided tours Available by appointment. English-language guides can be arranged in advance.
- Address 3-1-1, Ogusu, Minami-Ku, Fukuoka.
- Access Reachable by public transport; on-site parking is limited.
Tips
At the monument, photography is allowed in designated areas. Visitors are asked to behave quietly and respectfully. Most signage is in Japanese, so a guided tour or translation app may be helpful.
Nearby places
Fukuoka Castle Ruins
Fukuoka Castle, also known as Maizuru Castle, was built between 1601 and 1607 by Kuroda Nagamasa. Although most of the original structure was dismantled during the Meiji Restoration, stone walls and moats remain in Maizuru Park (Fukuoka City Tourism Official Website).
- Address Maizuru Park, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City.
- Nearest subway station Akasaka Station on the Kuko Line, approximately a 10-minute walk away.
- Buses Multiple routes serve the park area.
- Hours Daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM; hours may vary seasonally.
- Admission Free; guided tours may incur a fee.
- Facilities and access Wheelchair-accessible paths and restrooms are available, though some areas have uneven ground. Parking is limited, and public transport is recommended.
- Highlights Preserved stone walls, parkland, and panoramic viewpoints; the Fukuoka Castle Museum, with exhibits on samurai culture and archaeology; cherry blossoms in spring and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
- Tours and photography Tours in English and Japanese are offered, with advance booking recommended. Photography is allowed throughout the site.
Other nearby sites
- Hakata Old Town Traditional temples and local crafts.
- Kushida Shrine A central site for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
- Ohori Park and the Hakata Traditional Craft and Design Museum: Additional nearby places to visit.
FAQ
Hospital
What are the hospital’s visiting hours?
Generally 1:00 PM–8:00 PM, but check with the hospital for ward-specific times.
Are tourists allowed to tour the hospital?
No. It is an active medical facility and does not offer public tours.
Is support available for non-Japanese speakers?
Some multilingual assistance is available. Bringing English-language medical documents is recommended.
How do I get to the hospital?
It is accessible by subway and bus; taxis are also convenient from downtown Fukuoka.
Are admission tickets required?
No tickets are needed. Entry is restricted to patients and authorized visitors.
Fukuoka Castle Ruins
Is there an entrance fee?
No. Entry to the ruins and Maizuru Park is free.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours in English and Japanese are offered, and advance booking is recommended.
Is the site accessible?
Most paths are wheelchair-friendly, though some areas have uneven ground.
Can I take photos?
Yes. Photography is allowed throughout the site.
