【Japan Emergency Lifeline】Police, Fire & How to Get Help Fast (English OK!)

If you encounter an emergency in Japan, do you know what to do?

For foreigners who don’t speak Japanese, facing trouble in a foreign country can be very stressful.

This guide will explain who to contact and how to respond in an emergency.

Table of Contents

First, there are two crucial phone numbers to remember.

Call this number if you are the victim of a crime (theft, violence) or involved in a traffic accident.

Call this number in case of a fire, sudden illness, or serious injury.

State Your Language First: When the call connects, immediately say “English, please.” The operator may connect you to an interpreter.
Describe the Situation: Clearly state what happened (e.g., “Robbery,” “Fire,” “Someone is injured.”).
Provide Your Location: Give your address or a nearby landmark. Use your smartphone’s map to find your current location.

Your smartphone is your lifeline for maps and translation.

But what if there’s a power outage after an earthquake?

For true peace of mind, an emergency radio with a hand-crank charger is the ultimate travel safety tool.

It allows you to charge your phone, listen to disaster broadcasts, and use a built-in flashlight, all without relying on electricity.

Visit a Police Box (Koban): These are small police stations often located near train stations. Look for the “KOBAN” sign.
Ask People Around You: Use simple English phrases like “Help me!” or “Ambulance!” along with gestures.
Contact Your Embassy: If you lose your passport or face other serious problems, contact your country’s embassy.

If you do find yourself in trouble, the most important thing is to stay calm.

Most people in Japan are kind and will help you if you ask.

Being prepared is key to a safe trip.

If you’re concerned about disaster risks, read our balanced look at a recent prophecy.