Nihon University Itabashi Hospital

Nihon University Itabashi Hospital Visiting Guide: Tokyo, Japan – Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nihon University Itabashi Hospital, located in the heart of Tokyo’s Itabashi Ward, is a leading medical institution renowned for its commitment to advanced healthcare, education, and community service. Established in 1935 as an extension of the Nihon University School of Medicine (founded in 1925), the hospital has grown into a sophisticated facility that seamlessly blends cutting-edge patient care, pioneering research, and comprehensive medical education. As one of Tokyo’s foremost Specified Function Hospitals, it offers specialized care across 38 departments, including prominent cancer and emergency care centers. Its ongoing redevelopment ensures a modern, safe, and accessible environment for all visitors and patients.

Beyond its critical healthcare role, the hospital’s strategic location in Itabashi Ward places it amidst a vibrant urban landscape, rich with cultural, historical, and recreational sites. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions such as the Akatsuka Botanical Garden, Jorenji Temple’s Tokyo Daibutsu, the Itabashi Art Museum, bustling shopping streets, and seasonal festivals. The adjacent Nihon University Monument further enriches the experience, offering insight into the university’s history and architectural heritage.

This comprehensive guide equips patients, families, and travelers with essential information on visiting Nihon University Itabashi Hospital and exploring the surrounding neighborhood. You’ll find details on hospital hours, accessibility, visitor policies, transportation, and nearby attractions, ensuring an informed and rewarding visit. For the latest updates, always consult official resources (Nihon University Itabashi Hospital, Nihon University School of Medicine, Nihon University Monument, Flip Japan Guide).

Historical Overview and Significance
Founding and Early Development
Expansion and Modernization
Regional Role and Medical Specialization
Educational and Research Contributions
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours and Guidelines
Accessibility
Transportation and Access
Admissions and Appointments
Visitor Facilities
Community Engagement and Disaster Preparedness
International Collaboration and Recognition
Key Milestones and Achievements
Local Context and Nearby Attractions
Visiting the Nihon University Monument
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Practical Tips and Safety
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
Further Reading and Official Sources

Historical Overview and Significance

Founding and Early Development

Nihon University Itabashi Hospital’s origins are deeply tied to the Nihon University School of Medicine, established in 1925. The hospital itself opened in 1935, quickly becoming a cornerstone for both medical education and clinical care in northwestern Tokyo (Nihon University School of Medicine).

Expansion and Modernization

The hospital underwent a major expansion in 1970, with the construction of a new building that was then among the largest and most advanced in East Asia. This allowed for greater clinical capacity, research capability, and educational reach. Presently, the hospital is being redeveloped to further enhance safety, accessibility, and patient comfort, with operations continuing uninterrupted (Itabashi Hospital Director’s Message).

Regional Role and Medical Specialization

Recognized as a Specified Function Hospital, Nihon University Itabashi Hospital serves not only Itabashi Ward but also neighboring districts. It features 38 specialized departments, including advanced centers for cancer treatment, trauma, emergency, and pediatric care. The hospital is designated as a Disaster Base Hospital and Tokyo Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) facility, underscoring its critical role in regional healthcare delivery and emergency preparedness (Itabashi Hospital Director’s Message).

Educational and Research Contributions

As the principal teaching hospital for the Nihon University School of Medicine, Itabashi Hospital provides clinical training for students and residents, fostering the next generation of medical professionals. It is also a hub for innovative research, ensuring patients benefit from the latest medical advancements.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Guidelines

General Visiting Hours: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily (verify with specific wards for exceptions)
Registration: All visitors must check in at the reception desk upon arrival.
Health and Safety: Masks are mandatory throughout the hospital. Children under 12 may be restricted in certain wards.
COVID-19 Measures: Policies may change based on public health guidance; always confirm before visiting.

Accessibility

The hospital is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and barrier-free restrooms.
If you require assistance, contact the hospital in advance or speak to staff upon arrival.

Transportation and Access

By Train: Easily accessible from Itabashi Station (JR Saikyo Line), Shin-Itabashi Station (Toei Mita Line), and Oyama Station (Tobu Tojo Line).
By Bus: Multiple routes connect Itabashi with major Tokyo hubs, including Ikebukuro and Shinjuku (Flip Japan Guide).
Parking: Available but limited; public transport is recommended.

Admissions and Appointments

No tickets are required for entry; appointments for consultations and treatments should be scheduled in advance via the hospital website or by phone.

Visitor Facilities

On-site cafeteria, vending machines, and waiting areas with Wi-Fi are available for visitors’ comfort.

Community Engagement and Disaster Preparedness

The hospital is active in the local community, providing health education and outreach programs. As a Disaster Base Hospital and DMAT facility, it is prepared for large-scale emergencies, ensuring a swift and coordinated response (Itabashi Hospital Director’s Message).

International Collaboration and Recognition

Nihon University Itabashi Hospital maintains international partnerships with institutions in Thailand, Taiwan, Belgium, and more, advancing medical education and clinical standards globally (Thammasat University Visit).

Key Milestones and Achievements

1925: Nihon University School of Medicine founded
1935: Itabashi Hospital opens
1970: Major hospital expansion
2025: Centennial anniversary and ongoing comprehensive redevelopment

Local Context and Nearby Attractions

Dining and Shopping

Ōyama Happy Road Shopping Street: Lined with authentic eateries, bakeries, and local shops, perfect for a quick meal or souvenir (Flip Japan Guide).

Accommodation

Nearby budget-friendly hotels include FLEXSTAY INN Tokiwadai and Tokyo Guest House Itabashi-juku.

Parks and Gardens

Akatsuka Botanical Garden: Over 700 plant species, themed zones, and an aquarium.
Akatsuka Park: Family-friendly recreation and natural forests.
Shakujii River Green Road: Scenic walking path, especially beautiful in cherry blossom season.

Temples and Historical Sites

Jorenji Temple (Tokyo Daibutsu): Features one of Tokyo’s largest Buddha statues (Tokyo Tourists).
Shiroyama Kumano-jinja Shrine and Akatsuka Suwa Shrine: Historic sites hosting seasonal festivals.

Museums and Cultural Experiences

Itabashi Art Museum: Exhibits of both traditional and modern art.
Uemura Adventure Museum: Dedicated to explorer Naomi Uemura.
Dagashiya Game Museum: Nostalgic arcade games and classic Japanese snacks.

Wellness and Leisure

Maenohara Onsen Sayano Yudokoro: Traditional hot spring baths and relaxation facilities.

Nearby Districts

Ikebukuro: Major shopping and dining area, just a short train ride away.
Shinjuku and Shibuya: Easily accessible for entertainment and cultural exploration.

Visiting the Nihon University Monument

History and Cultural Significance

The Nihon University Monument commemorates the university’s legacy and achievements. Its architectural design fuses traditional Japanese elements with modern innovation, symbolizing the university’s enduring relevance (Nihon University Official Website).

Visiting Information

Location: Nihon University Itabashi Campus
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily; best visited in spring or autumn
Admission: Free; guided tours and special exhibitions may require advance reservation and a small fee

Access

Train: Toei Mita Line (Nishidai Station) or Tobu Tojo Line (Oyama Station), 10-minute walk
Bus: Multiple routes serve the area
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly

Photography and Events

Photography is permitted outdoors but may be restricted indoors or during classes. Special events and guided tours are occasionally available—check the university website for details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the hospital’s visiting hours?
A: Generally, 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Confirm specific ward times beforehand.

Q: How do I get to the hospital?
A: Accessible via JR Saikyo Line (Itabashi Station), Toei Mita Line (Shin-Itabashi Station), and Tobu Tojo Line (Oyama Station). Several buses also service the area.

Q: Is the hospital accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can tourists or educational groups tour the hospital?
A: Tours are limited; contact administration for arrangements.

Q: Are tickets needed for hospital visits or nearby attractions?
A: No tickets for hospital entry; some museums may have admission fees.

Practical Tips and Safety

Language: English assistance is available but limited; translation apps are helpful.
Payments: Cash is commonly used, though credit and IC cards are accepted at most larger venues.
Weather: Spring and autumn are most comfortable; plan attire accordingly.
Etiquette: Respect local customs—remove shoes in temples, maintain quiet in hospital and residential areas.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

Nihon University Itabashi Hospital is a beacon of medical excellence and community engagement in Tokyo. Its accessibility, advanced facilities, and proximity to cultural and recreational sites make it an ideal destination for patients, families, and visitors interested in Japan’s healthcare and cultural heritage. For the best experience, always confirm visiting hours and policies in advance and consider exploring the rich offerings of Itabashi Ward during your stay.

For the latest updates, appointments, and visitor information, refer to the official hospital website or use apps like Audiala for real-time navigation and insights (Nihon University Itabashi Hospital, Audiala App).

Reliable Sources and Further Reading

For more information and real-time updates, refer to the official hospital and university websites and consider using the Audiala app for seamless travel and local recommendations.