Traveling to Japan can be an exciting adventure, but it’s crucial to know how to respond in case of an emergency. Here are some tips on understanding and using emergency contacts in Japan, ensuring you have a safe and prepared visit.
1. Emergency Numbers
Japan’s 110: Emergency Police Hotline : In Japan, 110 is the emergency number to contact the police. It’s used to report crimes, accidents, or emergencies requiring immediate law enforcement assistance. Calls are free and can be made from any phone, including mobiles and payphones. For non-Japanese speakers, some regions offer interpretation services. Using 110 responsibly ensures prompt help and safety in critical situations.
Japan’s 119: Emergency Fire and Ambulance Hotline: In Japan, 119 is the emergency number for fire and medical emergencies. Dial 119 to report fires or request an ambulance. Calls are free from any phone, and some areas offer interpretation services for non-Japanese speakers. Providing clear details about the location and situation ensures quick assistance. Remember to use 119 only for genuine emergencies.
These calls can be made from any phone without charge.
Japan’s 118: Maritime Emergency Hotline: In Japan, 118 is the emergency number for maritime incidents. Use it to report accidents, emergencies, or suspicious activities at sea. Operated by the Japan Coast Guard, 118 is available 24/7 and free to call. It’s a crucial service for ensuring safety in Japan’s waters.
2. Language Assistance
- Language Barrier: When you call
119, operators generally speak only Japanese. However, efforts have been made in recent years to accommodate non-Japanese speakers, especially in areas with a high number of tourists. - Helpful Phrases: Learn a few phrases in Japanese to communicate your emergency, such as “Kaji desu” (There is a fire), “Kyūkyūsha o yonde kudasai” (Please call an ambulance), or “Keisatsu o yonde kudasai” (Please call the police).
3. Location Information
- Be Aware of Your Address: Always know your address in Japan or have it written down in Japanese. This can significantly speed up the response time in emergencies.
- Use Landmarks: If you’re unsure of the address, describing nearby landmarks can also be helpful.
4. Using Public Phones
In Japan, public phones are a reliable option during emergencies. Calls to emergency numbers like 110 (police), 119 (fire and ambulance), and 118 (maritime emergencies) are free of charge. Public phones are often found in train stations, convenience stores, and public areas. To use one, simply pick up the receiver and dial the emergency number. Green phones and some gray phones also allow free emergency calls even without coins or a phone card. Public phones are an essential resource when other communication options are unavailable.
5. Embassy Contact
In case of emergencies, such as lost passports, natural disasters, or legal issues, contacting your country’s embassy in Japan is essential. Embassies provide support like issuing emergency travel documents, offering legal advice, or coordinating with local authorities. Keep your embassy’s contact information handy and note their emergency hotline, which is often available 24/7. It’s also helpful to register with your embassy upon arrival in Japan for better assistance during crises.
6. Travel Insurance
- Health Emergencies: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. Japan has excellent but expensive healthcare. Having the right insurance can prevent substantial financial costs in emergencies.
While Japan is generally a safe country with low crime rates, knowing how to handle unexpected situations can make your trip much smoother and safer. Familiarizing yourself with these emergency procedures and contacts before your trip can help you navigate unforeseen problems more effectively.
