Emergency Services in Japan

Important Information for Travellers

Emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time — and being prepared makes all the difference. Japan’s emergency services are among the most efficient and well-organised in the world, with excellent response times and clear systems in place for police, fire, and medical assistance.

General Emergency Advice

When travelling in Japan:

• Stay aware of your surroundings

• Always carry your passport with you — it is required for identification

• Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone

If you need help, speak slowly and clearly. Many people in Japan have some English ability, particularly in cities and tourist areas.

If communication is difficult, saying:

“Eigo dake” (English only)

may help staff connect you with English-language assistance, if available.
If needed, ask hotel staff or nearby bystanders for help — people are generally very willing to assist.

Emergency Numbers (24/7)

Police

Dial 110
Use for crimes in progress, immediate danger, or urgent police assistance.

Fire & Ambulance

Dial 119
Use for:

• Medical emergencies

• Serious injury or illness

• Fires

There is no charge for calling an ambulance in Japan.

Non-Emergency & Support Services

Travel Insurance Emergency Assistance (24/7)

Most travel insurance policies include a 24/7 emergency assistance number.

We strongly recommend:

• Saving this number before you depart

• Using it for both emergencies and non-urgent situations

Insurance assistance can:

• Help overcome language barriers

• Ensure correct procedures are followed

• Coordinate medical care and documentation

Non-Emergency Police (Japan)

Dial #9110
For non-urgent matters such as minor theft or advice.

Non-Emergency Police (English Support)

Dial 03-3503-8484
Available Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:15pm

Use for:

• Reporting theft

• Insurance documentation

• Non-urgent police advice

Non-Emergency Medical Advice

Dial #7118 (24/7)
Speak with nurses or doctors if you are unsure whether an ambulance is required due to sudden illness or injury.

Roadside Assistance (JAF)

Dial #8139 (24/7)
For car or motorbike breakdowns and roadside assistance.

JNTO Japan Visitor Hotline

Dial 050-3816-2787
Available 24/7

Use for:

• Emergency support (accidents, illness, disasters)

• Assistance during natural disasters

• General tourist support and guidance

Lost & Found

Japan has an excellent lost-property system.

Dial 0570-550-142
This connects you to Japan’s national Lost and Found network to assist with locating misplaced items.

Embassies & Consular Assistance

Contact your embassy in Japan for serious situations such as:

• Lost or stolen passports

• Arrest or legal trouble

• Serious illness or hospitalisation

• Being a victim of crime

• Natural disasters

• Financial emergencies

• Missing family members

Embassy Contact Numbers

• Australian Embassy: 03-5232-4111

• United States Embassy: 03-3224-5000

• British Embassy: 03-5211-1100

Earthquake Safety

Japan sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, so earthquakes are relatively common. Most are small and harmless, but larger events can occur.

Japan is extremely well prepared, with strict building standards and clear emergency procedures.

Safety Tips App (Highly Recommended)

Download Safety Tips by JNTO before you travel.

The app provides:

• Real-time earthquake alerts in English

• Typhoon and disaster notifications

• Clear instructions on what to do during emergencies

It is especially useful for travellers without a Japanese phone number.

What to Do During an Earthquake

If indoors:

• Drop to the ground

• Take cover under sturdy furniture

• Protect your head and neck

• Hold on until shaking stops

If outdoors:

• Move to an open area

• Stay away from buildings, trees, and power lines

• Protect your head from falling debris

If in a public place:

• Follow instructions from staff or emergency services

• Be prepared to evacuate if directed

If near the coast:

• After shaking stops, move to higher ground immediately

• Stay there until authorities confirm there is no tsunami risk

Emergency Supplies

Because earthquakes are part of everyday life in Japan:

• Hotels often provide flashlights

• Some rooms include small emergency or first-aid kits

Take a moment when you arrive to:

• Locate emergency equipment in your room

• Familiarise yourself with evacuation routes

While emergencies are rare, Japan is one of the safest and most prepared countries in the world.

A little preparation — saving numbers, downloading the right apps, and knowing where to get help — ensures you can travel confidently and calmly.