What this solves / who it's for

Japan has its own emergency numbers (110 police, 119 ambulance/fire) and unique infrastructure (koban police boxes in every neighborhood). Most travelers don't know to go to a koban for non-emergency help, or that ambulance service is free but you may pay at the hospital. This tool gives you the working Japanese phrase for each situation, plus a "what to actually do" step list with the koban-vs-station distinction and the "stay calm, show your passport" reality (Japanese police/medical expect passport for ID). Best for: anyone who wants a prepared plan before disaster strikes, anyone traveling with elderly relatives or kids, anyone who's nervous about Japan emergency protocols.

What's the emergency?

Emergency numbers

110 — Police

119 — Ambulance / Fire

118 — Coast Guard (sea emergency)

171 — Disaster voice message (post-earthquake)

All free from any phone, including international roaming. English support varies — urban areas have multilingual dispatchers, rural may not.

How to interpret the result

Each scenario has a Japanese phrase (Japanese characters), romaji pronunciation (read phonetically), and English meaning. The step list tells you what to do first, second, third. The "stay calm, show your passport" advice is consistent across scenarios — Japanese emergency services expect ID, and your passport is the most universally recognized. Koban (交番) police boxes are small neighborhood outposts — visit one for non-emergencies; call 110 for actual emergencies.

Pro tips & common pitfalls

• Save 110 and 119 as contacts. Most phones allow emergency shortcuts that work even when locked.
• Koban (交番) police boxes are on most major intersections — staff can help with directions, lost items, minor incidents.
• 119 ambulance is free; subsequent hospital treatment is paid (¥5,000–50,000+ depending on severity). Travel insurance helps.
• Major cities have English-speaking medical clinics — Tokyo: Sanno Hospital, Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic, Saint Luke's.
• For earthquakes: don't call 110/119 for information; tune to NHK radio or check the JMA alert app.
• Keep a paper note with your hotel name, address, and phone — useful if you can't communicate verbally.

Frequently asked questions

Is 110 and 119 free from international phones?

Yes — both are free from any phone, including those without a Japanese SIM. International roaming phones dial 110/119 directly; Wi-Fi-only phones need a SIM card or active data roaming.

Will 119 dispatch English speakers?

In Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Fukuoka — often yes, especially during business hours. In rural areas — often not. The dispatch service has multilingual capacity; the on-site first responders may not. The phrase "I speak English, please send English speaker" helps.

What if I lose my passport?

Visit a koban (police box) first to file a report. Then go to your embassy or consulate to get an emergency travel document. Major embassies in Tokyo handle most cases same-day. Bring copies of your passport (stored separately from the original).

What if I lose my wallet?

Visit the nearest koban with ID details. Cards: call your bank to cancel. Cash: unfortunately, lost cash is gone. Japan is generally safe and lost wallets are often turned in, but don't count on it.

What happens during an earthquake?

Drop, cover, hold on. Most injuries are from falling objects. After shaking stops: evacuate if you're near the coast (tsunami risk) or in an unstable building. Tune to NHK for information. Use 171 disaster voice message to leave status for family.

Known limitations

This tool is not medical, legal, or emergency advice. For life-threatening emergencies, call 110/119 immediately. English-speaking dispatch availability varies — major cities handle, rural areas may not. The phrases given are starting points; full communication may require translation apps or embassy help. Embassies are closed on weekends and Japanese holidays — plan accordingly. Travel insurance is essential for medical situations in Japan — costs can be significant.