Kobe

1. Types of Language Assistance Services in Kobe

A. Multilingual Information Centers

• Kobe International Community Center (KICC):
  • The KICC is a key resource for foreigners in Kobe. It provides multilingual support and information on living in Kobe, including housing, healthcare, education, and legal matters.
  • Languages Supported: English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese, and more (availability may vary by day).
  • Services Offered:
    • Free consultations on daily life issues.
    • Translation and interpretation assistance for official matters.
    • Distribution of multilingual guides and brochures.
  • Location: Kobe Commerce, Industry and Trade Center Building, 2nd Floor.
  • Website: KICC Official Website

B. Interpretation and Translation Services

• Hyogo International Association (HIA):
  • Offers interpretation and translation services for non-Japanese speakers, particularly for legal, medical, and educational purposes.
  • Languages Supported: English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Tagalog, and others.
  • Services Offered:
    • Volunteer interpreters for hospital visits, school meetings, and government office appointments.
    • Translation of essential documents (e.g., birth certificates, school records).
  • Cost: Some services are free, while others may require a small fee depending on the complexity and length of the document or session.

C. Medical Interpretation Services

• Kobe City Medical Interpreter Dispatch Service:
  • Provides interpreters for non-Japanese speakers during medical appointments.
  • Languages Supported: English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
  • How It Works:
    • Patients or medical institutions can request an interpreter in advance.
    • Interpreters are dispatched to hospitals or clinics to assist with communication.
  • Cost: Free for patients, but the medical institution may bear the cost.

D. Language Support for Education

• Kobe Board of Education Multilingual Support:
  • Offers interpretation and translation services for parents of school-aged children.
  • Services Offered:
    • Assistance with school enrollment procedures.
    • Interpretation during parent-teacher meetings.
    • Translation of school notices and documents.
  • Languages Supported: English, Chinese, Korean, and others.
  • Cost: Free.

E. Volunteer Language Support Groups

• Kobe Foreigners Friendship Center (KFC):
  • A volunteer-based organization that provides informal language support and cultural exchange opportunities.
  • Services Offered:
    • Language assistance for daily life situations (e.g., shopping, transportation).
    • Free or low-cost Japanese language classes.
    • Cultural orientation sessions.
  • Cost: Free or minimal fees for classes.

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2. Associated Costs

• Many language assistance services in Kobe are free, especially those provided by government or volunteer organizations.
• For professional translation or interpretation services (e.g., legal or business documents), fees may range from ¥2,000 to ¥10,000 per hour or per document, depending on the complexity.
• Medical interpretation services are typically free for patients, but it’s advisable to confirm with the medical institution beforehand.

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3. Procedures to Access Language Assistance Services

A. General Steps:

1. Identify Your Needs:
   • Determine whether you need assistance with daily life, medical appointments, legal matters, or education.
2. Contact the Relevant Organization:
   • Visit the KICC, HIA, or other service providers in person, or contact them via phone or email.
3. Make a Reservation (if required):
   • For interpretation services, it’s often necessary to book in advance, especially for medical or legal appointments.
4. Provide Necessary Information:
   • Be prepared to share details about the type of assistance you need, the language required, and the date/time of the appointment or event.

B. Key Contact Information:

• Kobe International Community Center (KICC):
  • Phone: +81-78-291-8441
  • Email: [email protected]
• Hyogo International Association (HIA):
  • Phone: +81-78-230-3260
  • Email: [email protected]
• Kobe City Medical Interpreter Dispatch Service:
  • Contact your medical institution to request this service.

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4. Cultural and Local Considerations

A. Politeness and Formality:

• Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and formality. When seeking assistance, use polite language and express gratitude for the help provided.

B. Advance Planning:

• Many services require advance reservations, especially for interpretation. Plan ahead to ensure availability.

C. Volunteer-Based Services:

• Volunteer interpreters and translators may not be professionally certified but are often highly skilled. Be patient and understanding, as they are offering their time to help.

D. Japanese Language Learning:

• While language assistance services are available, learning basic Japanese phrases can significantly enhance your experience in Kobe. Many organizations, such as the KFC, offer free or low-cost Japanese language classes.

E. Emergency Situations:

• In emergencies, you can call the Kobe City Fire Department Multilingual Emergency Line at 119 for ambulance or fire services. Interpretation is available in multiple languages.

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5. Additional Resources

• Kobe City Official Website:
  • Provides multilingual information on city services, disaster preparedness, and more.
  • Kobe City Website
• Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO):
  • Offers a 24-hour multilingual tourist hotline for assistance.
  • Phone: +81-50-3816-2787

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By utilizing these language assistance services, you can navigate life in Kobe with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re visiting temporarily or settling in as a resident, these resources are designed to support your integration into the local community.