Getting help in Japan: when to call 110, 119 or the Japan Visitor Hotline

Even a well-planned trip can go wrong: a theft, a sudden health problem, a dispute. Knowing in advance who to call helps you react calmly. This summary draws on the emergency guide of the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO, read on 7 November 2026). It is general information, not medical or legal advice.

Two numbers to memorise

• 110 (police): traffic accidents and crimes such as robbery or assault.
• 119 (fire and ambulance): fires, and anyone seriously ill or injured.

If you do not speak Japanese and need an ambulance, JNTO suggests asking a nearby Japanese speaker to call and showing them the phrase "救急車を呼んでください" ("Please call an ambulance"). Save it on your phone before you travel.

What the Japan Visitor Hotline does

The number is 050-3816-2787, open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in English, Chinese and Korean. It can guide you in emergencies such as illness or disaster and give general tourist information. JNTO states that it does not provide three-way interpreting or book appointments. In practice: real emergencies go to 110 or 119; guidance and information go to the hotline.

If you feel unwell

The guide distinguishes by severity:

• Serious symptoms: call an ambulance. Emergency hospitals are open 24 hours, but you cannot choose which one you are taken to.
• Non-urgent visit: go to a clinic or general hospital during regular hours, or to after-hours reception where available.
• Minor problems: ask a pharmacist.
• Finding a facility: JNTO's medical institution search filters by area, language and department; contact the facility beforehand if you can.

Keep your travel-insurance number, policy number and the names of your usual medicines (in English) to hand.

Basics for avoiding trouble

• Keep a copy of your passport and your accommodation address written in Japanese, on paper and on your phone.
• At night, share your destination and return time with your companion and moderate alcohol.
• Do not accept invitations from strangers or unclear charges: walk away.
• If you experience unwanted contact or are filmed without permission, move somewhere safe and call 110.

As a couple, decide before going out who calls whom if one of you feels unwell.

Natural disasters

JNTO's safety page advises staying calm and protecting yourself when you receive an earthquake early warning, and evacuating to higher ground after strong or prolonged shaking because of tsunami risk. Follow local weather warnings too.

Sources (read 7 November 2026): JNTO emergency guide (https://www.jnto.go.jp/emergency/eng/mi_guide.html) and safety tips (https://www.jnto.go.jp/safety-tips/eng/index.html). Check contact details before you leave: they can change.