japan & asia - which insurance company?

[dan someone]

hi
can anyone help me out with some advice on the insurance front? I'm going to japan on the working holiday visa scheme, and am reckoning on doing some travelling around asia etc at some point in the year - probably the end. I naturally want to arrange some travel (health/theft) insurance for this bit of travelling, and was wondering if this would also be sufficient for my time in japan? If so, can anyone recommend a decent compnay to arrange this with?

Alternatively, am I infact obliged to go with the National Health insurance in japan, or indeed, forbidden from it? Its conceivable that i might enter full time work and change my visa while in japan, if that would affect the insurance situation. I've seen teh global healtcare site, but am unsure if this would be right for my needs. I really hope someone can give me some advice on this cos i dont know where to start! Cheers

[jean-genie]

You seem to be coming from the UK. Boots and Trailfinders have comprehensive, reasonably priced packages and good customer service. Much simpler to arrange if you are still at home and much cheaper than what's on offer in Japan. All of the budget travel places offer their own insurance packages these days. Compare the coverage. If you are not taking part in so-called "high-risk" sports they are a good deal.