🚑 How to Access Emergency Services in Japan When You Don’t Speak Japanese

Moving into a countryside akiya comes with new adventures—but it also raises an important question: What happens if there’s an emergency, and I don’t speak Japanese?

Whether it’s a fire, sudden illness, or accident, knowing how to access emergency services in Japan is crucial—especially in rural areas where fewer people speak English.

Here’s a practical guide to getting help fast, even with limited Japanese skills.

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☎️ Step 1: Know the Emergency Numbers

Japan has two main emergency hotlines:

• 119 → Fire & Ambulance
• 110 → Police

Both are toll-free and available nationwide.

When you call, you’ll usually be connected to a Japanese-speaking dispatcher. Some cities offer English support, but in rural areas, you may need to communicate in simple Japanese—or ask someone nearby to help.

🗣️ Step 2: Learn Simple Emergency Phrases

Even if you don’t speak much Japanese, memorizing a few key phrases can make a big difference.

In Japanese:

• 火事です (Kaji desu) → There’s a fire
• 救急車をお願いします (Kyūkyūsha o onegaishimasu) → Please send an ambulance
• 人が倒れました (Hito ga taoremashita) → Someone has collapsed
• 怪我をしました (Kega o shimashita) → I am injured

Your Address is Vital:

• Always keep your full Japanese address written down near the phone.
• Example: 三重県松阪市〇〇町1-2-3 (Mie-ken, Matsusaka-shi, ○○-chō, 1-2-3)

If you can’t say much else, just give:
「住所は〇〇です」 (Jūsho wa ___ desu) → “My address is ___.”

📱 Step 3: Use Smartphone Apps

Several apps can help bridge the language gap:

• Yomiwa / Google Translate (Camera Mode): Instantly read emergency instructions.
• VoiceTra: A free Japanese government app for real-time voice translation.
• COCOA Disaster Alerts (防災アプリ): Local governments often provide disaster/emergency apps with multilingual support.

🏥 Step 4: Know Where the Nearest Hospital or Clinic Is

In the countryside, hospitals may be 30–60 minutes away. Before you need them:

• Ask your neighbors or agent for the closest 救急病院 (kyūkyū byōin / emergency hospital).
• Register your details with a local clinic so they know you in advance.
• Keep maps and directions handy.

👥 Step 5: Lean on Your Neighbors

In small villages, neighbors often act as the first responders. If there’s an emergency:

• Knock on the closest door.
• Say “助けてください” (Tasukete kudasai) → “Please help me.”
• Most residents will immediately help call services and guide responders to your house.

🌐 Step 6: Emergency Numbers With English Support

In larger prefectures, some regions provide multilingual interpretation hotlines:

• Tokyo Fire Department: English available at 119
• Japan Helpline (24/7 English support): 0570-000-911
• AMDA International Medical Information Center (Tokyo/Osaka): +81-3-6233-9266

Even if you live rural, these numbers can guide you through next steps.

🧭 Final Thoughts

Living in rural Japan doesn’t mean being cut off from emergency help—you just need to prepare ahead of time.

✅ Memorize emergency numbers
✅ Learn a few basic Japanese phrases
✅ Keep your address handy
✅ Know your nearest hospital
✅ Rely on neighbors if needed

With these steps, you can feel secure knowing you’ll get help quickly—even if your Japanese is limited.

🏡 Need Help Preparing for Countryside Life?

At Old Houses Japan, we don’t just connect you with homes—we make sure you’re ready for the realities of rural living. From emergency planning to community integration, we’ve got your back.