Japan (JP)
Japan is one of the world's most captivating destinations for expats — a country where ancient temple culture and ultra-modern technology coexist seamlessly.
Capital: Tokyo
Region: Asia
Language: Japanese
Currency: JPY (¥)
Cost of living: Expensive (index 72)
Emergency: 110 (police) / 119 (fire and ambulance)
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Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before you need them.
General Emergency
119
Police
110
Fire Brigade
119
Ambulance
119
Poison Control
Japan Poison Information Centre: 072-727-2499 (Osaka, 24/7) or 029-852-9999 (Tsukuba, 9am–9pm)
Mental Health
Inochi no Denwa (いのちの電話): 0120-783-556 (free, 24/7 in Japanese). TELL Lifeline (English): 03-5774-0992 (daily 9am–11pm)
Domestic Violence
DV Consultation Plus (配偶者暴力相談支援センター): #8008 (free, 24/7)
Child Protection
Child Guidance Centre: 189 (free, 24/7)
Road Assistance
JAF (Japan Automobile Federation): 0570-00-8139. Membership ¥2,000/year. English service available.
Kyuukyuu Anshin Center (救急安心センター)
#7119
Medical consultation hotline — call to determine whether you need to go to A&E or wait for your regular clinic. Available in major prefectures.
24/7 in Tokyo, Osaka, and most major prefectures. Hours vary by region.
How to call emergency services in Japan
For 110/119: works from any mobile phone, even without a SIM. State your location first (address or nearest landmark), then describe the emergency. Many operators speak basic English; ask for "Eigo de hanasemasu ka?" (Can you speak English?). Some areas have English-speaking operators.