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Japan Emergency: Your Bilingual Guide to Calling 119/110 & Winter Safety

The thought of an emergency in a foreign country can be daunting, especially in Japan where a language barrier might seem like an insurmountable obstacle. You’re not alone in feeling this way. Uncertainty about who to call, what to say, and how to get help, particularly when navigating winter conditions, is a common concern for international visitors.

This comprehensive guide removes that friction. We provide concrete steps for contacting Japan’s emergency services (119 for ambulance/fire, 110 for police), equip you with essential Japanese phrases, and offer practical advice for staying safe during Japan’s colder months. Our aim is to ensure you know precisely how to act, what to communicate, and where to find assistance, making your travel safer and more confident, even in unexpected situations. Knowing these steps is a critical part of your Japan winter travel safety plan.

Navigating Japan’s Emergency System: The Core Numbers

Understanding which number to dial is the first critical step in any emergency in Japan. Unlike some countries with a single emergency number, Japan uses two distinct lines, each dedicated to specific services. These calls are free from any phone type.

When to Call 119: Medical & Fire Emergencies

Dial 119 for an ambulance or fire services. This single number routes to both, and the operator will ask you to clarify your need. Stay calm and state your request clearly.

1. Dial 119.
2. Operator will answer: They will typically ask: 「火事ですか？救急車ですか？」 (Kaji desu ka? Kyūkyūsha desu ka?) – “Is it a fire? Or an ambulance?”
3. State your need:
   • For an ambulance: 「救急車をお願いします。」 (Kyūkyūsha o onegaishimasu.)
   • For a fire: 「火事です。消防車をお願いします。」 (Kaji desu. Shōbōsha o onegaishimasu.)
4. Request an interpreter: If you cannot communicate in Japanese, immediately state: 「英語を話せますか？」 (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) or 「日本語が分かりません。通訳をお願いします。」 (Nihongo ga wakarimasen. Tsūyaku o onegaishimasu.)

The operator will then connect you to a multi-language interpretation service. This process may take a minute or two, so remain on the line.

When to Call 110: Police, Traffic Accidents & Theft

Dial 110 for police assistance. This includes reporting crimes such as theft or assault, or for any traffic accidents. Do not use 110 for non-urgent inquiries like directions.

1. Dial 110.
2. Operator will answer: They will typically ask: 「事件ですか？事故ですか？」 (Jiken desu ka? Jiko desu ka?) – “Is it a crime? Or an accident?”
3. State your need:
   • For police: 「警察をお願いします。」 (Keisatsu o onegaishimasu.)
   • To report an accident: 「事故です。」 (Jiko desu.)
   • To report theft: 「盗難がありました。」 (Tōnan ga arimashita.)
4. Request an interpreter: Similar to 119, inform the operator immediately if you need English or another language: 「英語を話せますか？」 (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) or 「日本語が分かりません。通訳をお願いします。」 (Nihongo ga wakarimasen. Tsūyaku o onegaishimasu.)

Police emergency operators also have access to multi-language interpretation services. Wait patiently for the interpreter to join the call.

Overcoming the Language Barrier: Your Lifeline to Help

The primary pain point for many international visitors is the fear of not being understood. While many Japanese emergency operators may not be fluent in English, it is crucial to remember they are equipped to handle calls from non-Japanese speakers. Both 119 and 110 services offer multi-language interpretation.

Your immediate priority is to clearly state your language need. Once you say “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” (Do you speak English?) or “Nihongo ga wakarimasen” (I don’t understand Japanese), the operator will initiate the process of connecting a third-party interpreter. This service supports various languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean. There might be a short delay, but stay on the line. The interpreter is your bridge to conveying critical information effectively.

🎯 Local Pro-Tip: Before traveling, save the emergency numbers in your phone’s contacts under an easily recognizable name like “Japan Emergency Police” or “Japan Ambulance/Fire.” Also, screenshot or print the “Point & Speak” phrases provided below for quick access.

🇯🇵 Point & Speak: Key Japanese Phrases for Emergency Calls

These phrases are crucial for initiating your emergency call and clearly stating your needs. If you’re struggling to speak, simply showing this section to a nearby Japanese speaker might help them assist you or read the phrases to the operator.

What to Say: Essential Information for Emergency Calls

Once connected, whether directly or via an interpreter, conveying accurate information quickly is paramount. The operator needs three key pieces of information:

Your Location: Be Precise

This is the most critical detail. Emergency services cannot help if they cannot find you. Provide as much detail as possible:

• 📍 Exact Address: If you know it (e.g., hotel address, current residence).
• 🗺️ Nearest Landmark: A prominent building, train station, park, or famous shop.
• intersections. Street Names/Intersections: For outdoor emergencies. (e.g., 「〇〇通りと△△通りの交差点です。」 – Marumaru-dōri to Sanzan-dōri no kōsaten desu.)
• 🏢 Building Name & Floor Number: If inside a complex.
• 📱 GPS Coordinates: Use your smartphone’s GPS (e.g., Google Maps, Apple Maps) to pinpoint your current location if you are lost or unsure of the address.

Look for street signs or nearby shop names if you’re outdoors. Every detail helps.

Nature of the Emergency: Be Clear & Concise

Describe what happened simply and directly. Avoid extraneous details initially. Key terms:

• 🤕 Accident: 事故 (Jiko) – Use for traffic accidents, falls.
• 🩹 Injury: 怪我 (Kega) – If someone is hurt.
• 🤒 Sickness: 病気 (Byōki) – If someone is ill.
• 🔥 Fire: 火事 (Kaji) – For any fire.
• 💰 Theft: 盗難 (Tōnan) – If something has been stolen.

Follow up with brief specifics: “My head/leg/arm hurts.” (頭/足/腕が痛いです。Atama/Ashi/Ude ga itai desu.) or “I am feeling very cold.” (とても寒いです。Totemo samui desu.)

Your Contact Information

Provide your name and the phone number you are calling from. This allows emergency services to call you back if the connection is lost or if they need further clarification.

🎯 Local Pro-Tip: If you are traveling with a group, designate one person to make the call while others focus on providing clear location details or attending to the person in need. Keep your phone charged, especially when exploring.

Japan Winter Safety: Staying Safe in the Snow & Cold

Japan’s winters, especially in regions like Hokkaido, Tohoku, and mountainous areas, bring heavy snow and icy conditions. While picturesque, these conditions pose specific risks for visitors. Preparing for winter-related incidents is essential for your Japan safety.

Preventing Slips and Falls on Ice & Snow

Slips and falls are common winter injuries. Icy sidewalks and snowy pathways can be treacherous.

• 👟 Appropriate Footwear: Wear boots with deep treads and good grip. Avoid smooth-soled shoes. Consider traction aids like attachable ice grips if you plan extensive walking in snowy areas.
• 🚶‍♀️ Walk Carefully: Take smaller steps, shuffle your feet, and walk with a slight bend in your knees. Keep your hands out of your pockets to maintain balance.
• 🚧 Be Aware of Conditions: Look for road signs indicating slippery conditions (often a car skidding symbol). Assume any wet-looking surface in cold temperatures might be black ice.

If you fall and suspect an injury like a sprain or fracture, call 119 for an ambulance.

Avoiding Hypothermia and Frostbite

Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures without adequate protection can lead to serious conditions like hypothermia and frostbite. This is particularly relevant if engaging in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding.

• layers. Dress in Layers: Multiple thin layers trap warmth more effectively than one thick layer. Include a waterproof outer layer if snow or rain is expected.
• 🧤 Protect Extremities: Wear gloves, a hat, and warm socks. These areas lose heat rapidly.
• 💧 Stay Dry: Wet clothing loses its insulating properties quickly. Change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.
• 🌡️ Recognize Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and clumsiness are signs of hypothermia. Numbness, waxy skin, and discoloration are signs of frostbite. Seek warmth immediately and medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

If someone is experiencing severe cold symptoms, especially confusion or impaired consciousness, call 119 immediately. You can say: 「とても寒いです。（低体温症かもしれません）」 (Totemo samui desu. Teitaionshō kaもしれません) – “I am feeling very cold. (Might be hypothermia).” This directly helps with your hypothermia prevention Japan travel efforts.

Spotting AEDs: A Critical Resource

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can be life-saving in cardiac emergencies. Japan has a high density of publicly accessible AEDs.

• 💚 Visual Cue: Look for the green and white ‘AED’ sign, often with a heart symbol.
• 📍 Common Locations: Train stations, airports, major commercial facilities, public sports facilities, and even some convenience stores.

If someone collapses and is unresponsive, immediately call 119 and then locate the nearest AED. Early defibrillation significantly increases survival rates.

🚨 Emergency Contacts

Keep these numbers handy. They are your direct line to help.

💰 Price Breakdown: Costs of Emergency Services

Understanding the financial implications of an emergency is crucial for planning your travel insurance.

While the emergency call and ambulance ride are free, the subsequent medical care at a hospital is not. This highlights the importance of having comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential repatriation.

📋 Quick Reference Card: Emergency Checklist

Screenshot or print this section for easy access. It’s a concise reminder of what to do in an emergency in Japan.

Beyond the Call: Utilizing Koban for Assistance

Japan’s network of small police boxes, known as Koban (交番), is a unique and highly accessible aspect of its public safety infrastructure. These mini-stations are spread throughout urban and even many rural areas, often marked by a red-and-white sign and a small red lamp.

For non-life-threatening issues, directions, lost property reports, or minor incidents, a Koban can be your first point of contact. While staff may have limited English proficiency, they are generally helpful and can often direct you to resources or assist in contacting emergency services if needed. Visiting a Koban can be less intimidating than calling 110 for certain situations where direct communication is challenging.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During an Emergency

In a stressful situation, it’s easy to make errors that can delay assistance. Be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• ❌ Hanging Up: Do not hang up if there’s a delay or communication difficulty. The operator is likely connecting an interpreter.
• ❌ Panicking and Shouting: While natural, this hinders communication. Try to speak slowly and clearly.
• ❌ Not Knowing Your Location: This is the biggest time-waster. Always be aware of your surroundings or have a way to quickly find your location via GPS.
• ❌ Calling the Wrong Number: Dialing 110 for a medical emergency or 119 for theft will cause delays while you’re redirected.
• ❌ Ignoring Winter Warnings: Underestimating ice, snow, or cold temperatures can lead to preventable injuries or conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

While Japan is a safe country, being prepared for unexpected emergencies is a fundamental aspect of responsible travel. By understanding the emergency numbers, knowing key phrases, and preparing for specific seasonal risks like winter conditions, you remove significant friction from your journey. Remember, help is available, and operators are equipped to assist non-Japanese speakers.

Save these numbers and tips. Travel confidently, knowing you have the tools to navigate any unforeseen situation. Your Japan emergency preparedness will ensure a smoother, safer experience.

Further Resources:

• JNTO Guide for Emergency Calls in Japan
• Tokyo Fire Department: How to make an emergency call (English)
• Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department: English Information
• Safety tips for travelers in Japan (JNTO)

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information for emergency situations in Japan. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy as of the last verification date (January 2026), regulations and services may change. Always prioritize official instructions from emergency personnel. This content is not a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. In an actual emergency, follow the directions of local authorities.