Stem Cell Therapy in Japan: Cost, Laws & Treatment Options (2025)

Japan is a major player in regenerative medicine, with Stem Cell Therapy at the forefront. From arthritis to neurological conditions, treatments are based on advanced research. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Stem Cell Therapy in Japan, including its legality, costs, and key cities offering these treatments.

Are Stem Cells Legal in Japan?

Yes, Stem Cell Therapy is legal in Japan, with regulations under the Act on the Safety of Regenerative Medicine (ASRM). Japan has one of the most structured frameworks for regenerative medicine, which is a good thing of course!

How Japan Regulates Stem Cell Therapy

Japan has a three-tiered regulatory system under the Act on the Safety of Regenerative Medicine (ASRM) and Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act (PMDA), categorizing treatments based on their risk level and level of manipulation. For simplicity, we’ll cover the first 2:

• Category 1 (Highest Risk):
  Banned for Commercial Use – Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are strictly banned for clinical treatments at private clinics.
• Category 2 (Moderate Risk):
  Allowed for Treatment: Expanded/cultured autologous stem cells (stem cells from you that have been multiplied in a lab) are allowed for treatment at private clinics with government approval
  Not Offered by Clinics: Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) are not available for patient treatments at private clinics. Due to stricter approval requirements, UC-MSCs are currently only used in clinical trials or research settings. Here is the MHLW Guidelines on Clinical Research Using Human Stem Cells- source

Stem Cell options in Japan

• Approved Treatments: Many clinics use autologous stem cells (from your own body) for conditions like arthritis, chronic pain, and neurological issues.
• Cultured Cells: Japan allows treatments with lab-grown cells, which means higher cell counts and potentially more effective therapies.
• Prohibited Practices: Therapies using embryonic stem cells or unproven experimental treatments are restricted unless they’re part of approved clinical trials.
• Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) from Umbilical Cord Tissue: Not provided by clinics for treatments.
• Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) & IPSC cells are NOT allowed for treatment
• Ethical Considerations: Clinics must follow ethical practices, including informed consent and clear documentation.

With its clear guidelines and focus on innovation, Japan’s become a leader in regenerative medicine, it’s a great option!.

To read more about the Stem Cell Therapy treatment process as a whole, check out our article on What is Stem Cell Therapy.

Is Japan a good option for Stem Cell Treatment?

Yes! Japan is quickly becoming a global leader in Stem Cell Therapy, thanks to a combination of innovation, patient focus, and advanced research:

• Leading the Way in Research: Japan is home to Shinya Yamanaka, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist who pioneered iPSC research. His work continues to shape treatments worldwide.
• Access to Advanced Treatments: The country’s unique regulatory system (ASRM) allows patients to try new therapies before full clinical trials are complete—something not many countries offer.
• Access to Advanced Treatments: The country’s unique regulatory system (ASRM) allows patients to try new therapies before full clinical trials are complete—something not many countries offer.
• Cutting-Edge Clinics: Many clinics in Japan use cultured stem cells and advanced techniques to provide patients with high-quality care.
• Focus on Patient Care: Japan’s culture of precision and well-being ensures treatments are delivered with careful attention to detail, putting patients first
  
  Whilst Japan is an amazing desintation for Stem Cell Therapy – if you did want to read more about what treatments are like in other countries, check out our article on the Best Countries for Stem Cell Therapy!
  

Do I Need a Visa for Stem Cell Treatment in Japan?

If you’re traveling to Japan for stem cell therapy, your visa requirements depend on your nationality and length of stay.

• USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore: You can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, which covers medical consultations and short-term treatments.
• For Stem Cell Therapy (Which Requires Two Visits): Since most treatments involve multiple trips, a multiple-entry Visa for Medical Stay is recommended so you don’t have to apply twice.
• How to Apply: You’ll need a medical treatment plan from your clinic in Japan, and a local medical institution or guarantor will assist with your application.

For the latest visa details, check with the Japanese embassy in your country or check out the medical visa page on the government website here.

Latest Advances in Stem Cell Treatments in Japan

Japan is leading the charge in stem cell innovation, making significant strides in both research and treatment:

• Advances in iPSC Research: With Nobel Prize-winning scientist Shinya Yamanaka at the helm, Japan has become a global leader in iPSC technology, exploring its potential for treating degenerative diseases and even organ repair.
• Strong Government Support: Backed by generous funding and international collaborations, Japan is pushing the boundaries of what stem cell therapy can achieve.
• Progress in Clinical Trials: Japan is actively testing therapies for conditions like Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, and heart failure. In fact, the recent approval of stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s has already led to treatments being offered at clinics like the Kudo Clinic in Tokyo. A big step forward for regenerative medicine.
• World’s First iPSC Spinal Cord Injury Trial: In 2021, doctors at Keio University Hospital in Tokyo became the first in the world to treat a spinal cord injury patient using lab-grown nerve cells made from iPSCs. These special cells were injected into the patient’s spine just a few weeks after the injury. It’s a huge moment for regenerative medicine and a sign that real recovery after paralysis might one day be possible. It’s covered in more detail here.

Top Cities for Stem Cell Therapy in Japan

Stem Cell Therapy in Tokyo

As the capital, Tokyo is home to some of Japan’s most advanced hospitals and private clinics specializing in regenerative medicine. Patients here have access to a broad range of treatments, including cutting-edge therapies for conditions like arthritis and neurological disorders. The city’s reputation for innovation makes it a popular choice for both locals and international visitors.

Stem Cell Therapy in Osaka

Osaka combines its reputation for innovation with a patient-focused approach to care. Clinics in this city often feature advanced technologies, like cultured stem cells, and emphasize personalized treatment plans. For those seeking expert care with a human touch, Osaka is an excellent option.

Stem Cell Therapy in Kyoto

Kyoto stands out as the birthplace of Shinya Yamanaka’s Nobel Prize-winning iPSC research. Beyond its rich history in science, Kyoto offers a selection of specialized clinics focused on applying this groundbreaking technology to real-world treatments. Patients visiting Kyoto can expect to benefit from the latest in stem cell innovation.

Are Stem Cells expensive in Japan?

Stem cell therapy in Japan is more expensive than in India or Thailand but is cheaper than in the US or Australia. But, regulations are a lot stricter than the cheaper countries & they offer way more treatment options than the US, Canada, Australia & the UK. Here’s an average cost breakdown:

• Orthopedic Treatments: ¥600,000–¥3,000,000 ($4,200–$21,000 USD)
• Neurological Conditions: ¥2,000,000–¥5,000,000 ($14,000–$35,000 USD)
• Anti-Aging Treatments: ¥500,000–¥1,500,000 ($3,500–$10,500 USD)

Want to compare prices across different countries? Read our full breakdown of average stem cell therapy costs worldwide

Stem Cell Treatments in Japan vs. Colombia & the US

If you want to compare stem cell treatments in Japan to other countries, we’ve put together an article looking at the Best Countries for Stem Cell Therapy to help you out!

Challenges around getting Stem Cell Treatment in Japan

While Japan has strict regulations, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks:

• Clinic Quality Variability: This one’s pretty generic to all regions, not all clinics offer the same standard of care, but this is where we come in to help you find the best ones!

• Multiple Visits Required:Many treatments require two or more visits for preparation and follow-up. This can be challenging if you live far away or in a completely different region, making travel and accommodation an additional hurdle.

Why Consider Japan for Stem Cell Therapy?

Japan is a top country for Stem Cell Therapy due to its advanced research, strict regulations, and high-quality medical care. As one of the world’s top regions for stem cell research, Japan allows cultured stem cell treatments, offering options that aren’t available in many other countries.

Whether you’re seeking treatment for arthritis, neurological disorders, or anti-aging, Japan’s a great option.

But remember choosing the right clinic is super important just like anywhere else.

If you’re ready to explore Stem Cell Therapy in Japan, reach out to us here!