Hiroshima

๐Ÿข

Public Services Communication

Sections

1. Language Support for Non-Japanese Speakers

Hiroshima recognizes the importance of supporting non-Japanese speakers, given its international significance as a historical and cultural hub. The city provides various language assistance services to help foreigners access public services effectively.

Interpretation and Translation Services

  • Hiroshima City International Center (HCIC):

    • The HCIC offers interpretation and translation services for non-Japanese speakers. They provide assistance in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and others.
    • Services Offered:
      • Interpretation for municipal office visits.
      • Translation of official documents (e.g., certificates, forms).
      • Multilingual consultation services for daily life issues.
    • How to Access:
      • Visit the HCIC in person at the Hiroshima Crystal Plaza Building (Naka Ward).
      • Call their multilingual support line: +81-82-241-5010.
      • Email inquiries are also accepted (check their website for the latest contact details).
    • Cost:
      • Many services are free, but some document translation services may involve a small fee depending on the complexity and length of the document.

  • Hiroshima Multilingual Living Support:

    • This service provides free interpretation and consultation for foreigners dealing with public services, healthcare, education, and legal matters.
    • Languages: English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, and others (availability may vary by day).
    • Contact: +81-82-241-5010.

  • Phone Interpretation Services:

    • Some municipal offices and hospitals in Hiroshima use phone-based interpretation services to assist non-Japanese speakers. Ask the staff if this service is available when you visit.

Multilingual Websites and Apps

  • Hiroshima Cityโ€™s official website offers information in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean. Use the language toggle feature on their website.
  • The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provides a multilingual app and hotline for travelers, which can also be helpful for accessing public services.

2. Accessing Municipal Services

Hiroshimaโ€™s municipal services are organized by ward offices (ๅŒบๅฝนๆ‰€, kuyakusho) and other government facilities. These offices handle a variety of services, including resident registration, health insurance, taxes, and more.

Key Municipal Offices in Hiroshima

  • Hiroshima City Hall (ๅบƒๅณถๅธ‚ๅฝนๆ‰€, Hiroshima Shiyakusho):

    • Location: 1-6-34 Kokutaiji-machi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima.
    • Services: General inquiries, resident registration, tax payments, and more.
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).

  • Ward Offices (ๅŒบๅฝนๆ‰€, Kuyakusho):

    • Hiroshima is divided into eight wards, each with its own ward office. These offices provide localized services such as issuing residence certificates (ไฝๆฐ‘็ฅจ, jลซminhyล), registering for health insurance, and more.
    • Example: Naka Ward Office (ไธญๅŒบๅฝนๆ‰€, Naka Kuyakusho) serves the central area of Hiroshima, including the Peace Memorial Park.

Procedures for Visiting Government Offices

  1. Prepare Necessary Documents:

    • Bring your residence card (ๅœจ็•™ใ‚ซใƒผใƒ‰, zairyลซ kฤdo) if you are a resident.
    • Passport for visitors or temporary residents.
    • Any forms or notices you may have received.

  2. Language Assistance:

    • If you need interpretation, contact the Hiroshima City International Center in advance to arrange support.
    • Some offices have multilingual staff or printed guides in English and other languages.

  3. Take a Number:

    • Upon arrival, take a ticket from the number dispenser and wait for your turn. Most offices have electronic displays showing the current number being served.

  4. Explain Your Needs:

    • Use simple English or show translated phrases if necessary. Staff are generally patient and will try to assist you.

Costs:

  • Most municipal services are free or involve minimal fees. For example:
    • Issuing a residence certificate (ไฝๆฐ‘็ฅจ, jลซminhyล): Around ยฅ300 per copy.
    • National Health Insurance registration: Free, but monthly premiums apply based on income.

3. Contacting Government Offices

If you cannot visit in person, you can contact government offices via phone or email. However, note that English-speaking staff may not always be available.

Phone Communication:

  • Use the Hiroshima City International Centerโ€™s multilingual support line for assistance in making calls to government offices.
  • Alternatively, use a phone interpretation service like the one provided by the JNTO (available 24/7).

Email Communication:

  • Many municipal offices accept email inquiries. Write in simple English and include your full name, contact information, and a clear explanation of your question or request.

4. Local Considerations

  • Cultural Etiquette:

    • Be polite and patient when dealing with public officials. Bowing is a common gesture of respect.
    • Avoid raising your voice or showing frustration, as this may be considered rude.

  • Peak Times:

    • Municipal offices are busiest in the mornings and around lunchtime. Visiting mid-afternoon is often less crowded.

  • Public Holidays:

    • Government offices are closed on weekends and Japanese public holidays. Plan your visit accordingly.

  • Emergency Services:

    • For emergencies, dial 110 for police or 119 for fire and ambulance services. English-speaking operators are available.

5. Additional Resources

  • Hiroshima Peace Culture Foundation:

  • Hiroshima Prefecture International Affairs Division:

  • Tourist Information Centers:

    • Located at Hiroshima Station and other key locations, these centers provide multilingual support and can guide you to the appropriate public services.

By utilizing these resources and following the outlined procedures, you can effectively navigate public services communication in Hiroshima, even as a non-Japanese speaker. Let me know if you need further assistance!