Kobe

1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Kobe

Japan has a well-organized emergency response system. Here are the key numbers you need to know:

• Police (for crimes, accidents, or lost items): Dial 110

  • Available 24/7. English-speaking operators are available, but it’s helpful to know basic Japanese phrases.
  • When calling, clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency.

• Fire Department and Ambulance (for fires, medical emergencies, or rescue): Dial 119

  • This number connects you to both fire and ambulance services. Specify whether you need a fire truck or an ambulance.
  • English-speaking operators are available, but communication may be faster if you can provide basic Japanese phrases.

• Japan Helpline (non-emergency, multilingual support): Dial 0570-000-911

  • This is a 24-hour helpline for foreigners in Japan, offering assistance in English and other languages.

• Kobe City Emergency Multilingual Support Center: Dial 078-291-8441

  • This service provides multilingual support during emergencies, including natural disasters.

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2. Accessing Medical Help in Kobe

Kobe has excellent healthcare facilities, but understanding the process is crucial for quick access to medical help.

Steps to Access Medical Help:

1. Call 119 for an Ambulance (if urgent):

   • Ambulances are free of charge in Japan, but you will need to pay for the medical treatment you receive at the hospital.
   • Clearly describe the symptoms and provide your location. If you don’t speak Japanese, say “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” (Can you speak English?).

2. Visit a Hospital or Clinic (if non-urgent):

   • Kobe has several hospitals and clinics that cater to foreigners. Some of the major ones include:
     • Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital
       • Address: 2-1-1 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe
       • Phone: 078-302-4321
       • Offers English-speaking staff and high-quality care.
     • Kobe University Hospital
       • Address: 7-5-2 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe
       • Phone: 078-382-5111
       • Known for advanced medical care and multilingual support.
     • Kobe Kaisei Hospital
       • Address: 3-11-15 Shinohara-Kitamachi, Nada-ku, Kobe
       • Phone: 078-871-5201
       • Offers English-speaking services.

3. Pharmacies (for minor ailments):

   • Pharmacies (薬局, yakkyoku) are widely available in Kobe. Look for signs with a green cross or the word “薬” (kusuri).
   • Some pharmacies, like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, have English-speaking staff or translation apps.

Costs:

• Medical treatment in Japan can be expensive without insurance. If you are a resident, ensure you are enrolled in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI), which covers 70% of medical costs.
• For visitors, consider purchasing travel insurance before arriving in Japan to cover medical expenses.

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3. Reporting Incidents (Crimes, Lost Items, etc.)

Kobe is a very safe city, but if you encounter an issue, here’s what to do:

Steps to Report a Crime or Incident:

1. Call 110 for the Police:

   • Use this number for emergencies like theft, assault, or accidents.
   • If you lose something, you can also visit the nearest police station (koban).

2. Visit a Police Box (交番, koban):

   • Kobe has many koban located throughout the city. These small police stations are helpful for reporting minor incidents, asking for directions, or retrieving lost items.
   • Police officers are generally friendly and helpful, but English proficiency may vary.

3. Lost and Found:

   • If you lose something, report it to a koban or the Lost and Found Center at the nearest train station. Japan has an excellent system for returning lost items.

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4. Natural Disasters in Kobe

Kobe is located in a region prone to earthquakes and typhoons. The city has robust disaster preparedness systems in place.

Earthquakes:

• Kobe experienced the devastating Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995, and since then, the city has implemented advanced earthquake-resistant infrastructure.
• What to Do During an Earthquake:
  • Take cover under a sturdy table or desk.
  • Stay away from windows and heavy objects that could fall.
  • If you’re outside, move to an open area away from buildings and power lines.

Typhoons:

• Typhoon season in Japan runs from June to October.
• What to Do During a Typhoon:
  • Stay indoors and avoid traveling.
  • Monitor weather updates through apps like NHK World or Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA).

Emergency Shelters:

• Kobe has designated emergency shelters (避難所, hinanjo) in case of natural disasters. These are usually located in schools, community centers, or public buildings.
• To find the nearest shelter:
  • Check the Kobe City website or ask at your local ward office (kuyakusho).
  • Shelters provide basic necessities, but it’s a good idea to prepare an emergency kit with water, food, and essential items.

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5. Cultural Considerations Around Safety

Understanding cultural norms can help you navigate safety and emergencies more effectively in Kobe:

• Respect for Rules:

  • Japanese society places a high value on order and rules. Follow local regulations, such as traffic laws and smoking restrictions, to avoid trouble.

• Lost Items:

  • If you lose something, there’s a high chance it will be returned. Report lost items promptly to a koban or train station staff.

• Politeness:

  • Japanese people are generally polite and helpful. If you need assistance, approach someone with a polite greeting like “Sumimasen” (Excuse me).

• Language Barrier:

  • While many emergency services offer English support, not all locals speak English. Carry a phrasebook or use a translation app like Google Translate.

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6. Useful Apps and Resources

• Japan Official Travel App: Provides emergency information, maps, and transportation updates.
• Safety Tips App: Offers real-time alerts for earthquakes, tsunamis, and weather warnings in multiple languages.
• Google Maps: Essential for navigation and finding nearby hospitals or police stations.
• NHK World: Provides news and emergency updates in English.

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7. Summary of Key Locations

Here are some important sites to remember in Kobe:

• Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital: 2-1-1 Minatojima-Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe
• Kobe City Hall (for disaster information): 6-5-1 Kano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe
• Nearest Police Box (Koban): Use Google Maps to locate the nearest koban.

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By familiarizing yourself with these safety and emergency procedures, you can enjoy your time in Kobe with peace of mind. Always stay prepared, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed!