How do I call emergency services in Japan and what numbers to use
In Japan, emergency services are accessed by dialing specific numbers depending on the situation: 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies. These numbers can be dialed from any phone, including mobiles and public phones, at no cost. They are available 24/7 and staffed by trained operators who can assist callers promptly and accurately.
Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Police | 110 | For crimes, traffic accidents, or any law enforcement assistance |
| Fire Department / Ambulance | 119 | For fires, medical emergencies, or rescue operations |
| Non-urgent Medical Advice | #7119 | For situations where it’s unclear if an ambulance is needed |
| Coast Guard | 118 | For maritime emergencies |
| Disaster Safety Confirmation | 171 | For checking on family during disasters via recorded messages |
How to Call
When calling 119, remain calm and clearly state whether it is a fire (“Kaji desu”) or a medical emergency (“Kyūkyū desu”). Provide your full address, including building name and room number, as dispatchers may not be able to locate you otherwise. Precise location details are essential because emergency responders rely on the address to find the incident quickly—this can include nearby landmarks if the address is complicated.
Even if you don’t speak Japanese, operators can connect you with interpreters for English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and several other languages—simply stay on the line. This multilingual support ensures critical information is communicated correctly, which can be lifesaving. The interpreter service works by bridging the language gap in real time, which is particularly important for self-directed learners and polyglots who might find themselves in urgent situations while using Japanese.
For mobile calls, do not turn off your phone after dialing, as emergency services may call back to confirm details or provide additional instructions. This callback feature helps clarify misunderstandings or changes in the situation. If using a public phone, no coins or card are required—just lift the receiver and dial the number, or press the red emergency button if available. Public phones in Japan are widely maintained and available in many public areas, including train stations and on streets.
Special Considerations
Some office IP phone systems may block emergency numbers. In these environments, it is advisable to use a mobile phone or ask colleagues for assistance because emergency calls via blocked systems may not connect. This is important to test beforehand if you work or stay in facilities with such phone setups. Additionally, Japan has a network of koban (police boxes) located throughout cities where you can seek help in person. Koban officers are trained to assist foreigners and can provide directions, help contact emergency services, or offer first aid assistance.
If you are unsure whether an ambulance is necessary, dial #7119 to reach a medical consultation center. This service, often called the “medical consultation switchboard,” is staffed by medical professionals who assess the urgency and advise accordingly. This reduces unnecessary ambulance dispatches, which helps keep emergency services available for critical cases. The system is designed to handle calls in Japanese, but simple explanations and key phrases are often sufficient.
Language Tips for Emergencies
Using clear, simple Japanese phrases can save valuable time in emergency calls. Practicing key emergency vocabulary through conversation exercises can prepare non-native speakers for real situations. Examples of useful phrases include:
- “Tasukete kudasai” (Help, please)
- “Byōin e onegaishimasu” (Please send me to the hospital)
- “Kore wa kaze/kyūkyū desu” (This is a fire/an emergency)
- “Kyuukyuusha o onegaishimasu” (Please send an ambulance)
Speaking slowly and staying calm improves the clarity of your message. If uncertain about pronunciation, focusing on getting key words understood—particularly your location and type of emergency—is the priority.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
- Dialing 911: Unlike some Western countries, 911 does not connect to emergency services in Japan. Calling 911 on Japanese phones will either result in no connection or a wrong operator. Instead, remember to use 110 or 119.
- Using emergency numbers for non-urgent situations: Emergency services in Japan are strict about using the lines properly. Misusing 110 or 119 for minor issues can delay help for those in real danger and may lead to penalties.
- Turning off the phone after dialing: Turning off or ending the call too quickly can prevent follow-up from emergency operators who may need further details.
- Not giving a full address: Many callers mistakenly give vague locations, causing delays. Always have your exact location ready, including building and room numbers, or nearby landmarks if necessary.
Emergency Numbers in Context Compared to Other Countries
Japan’s emergency number system distinguishes between police (110) and fire/medical (119), unlike many countries that use a single number for all emergencies (e.g., 911 in the USA or 112 in the European Union). This separation can streamline dispatch but requires callers to know which number to use. The inclusion of services like #7119 for non-urgent medical advice is particularly innovative, reducing ambulance congestion—a problem common worldwide.
The Disaster Safety Confirmation number 171 is unique in that during large-scale disasters, families can record and check messages to confirm each other’s safety without overloading phone networks. This system proved valuable during the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, demonstrating Japan’s comprehensive approach to emergency communication.
FAQ
Q: Can I call emergency services in Japan in English?
Yes. While operators primarily speak Japanese, they can connect you to interpreters for English and several other languages once you stay on the line.
Q: Are emergency numbers free in Japan?
All emergency calls to 110, 119, and other official numbers are free from any device, including public phones.
Q: What should I do if I can’t speak Japanese well during an emergency call?
Try to stay calm and clearly say your location and the nature of the emergency in simple terms. Operators will connect you to interpreters if needed. Using simple phrases learned in conversation practice can also help.
Q: What if I am in a maritime emergency?
Dial 118 for the Japan Coast Guard, which handles emergencies on water, including boats in distress or maritime accidents.
Q: How do I check on family after a disaster?
Use the 171 Disaster Safety Confirmation line, where you can leave or listen to recorded messages to verify family members’ safety.
Effective preparation, including practicing key phrases and understanding the specific numbers to dial, can significantly improve outcomes in emergency situations while visiting or living in Japan.