Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Tokyo

Japan has a centralized emergency response system with specific numbers for different types of emergencies:

Police (for crimes, accidents, or other law enforcement issues):
Dial 110
Available 24/7. Calls are free of charge.
Fire and Ambulance (for fires, medical emergencies, or rescue situations):
Dial 119
Available 24/7. Calls are free of charge.
Non-Emergency Medical Consultation (Tokyo Metropolitan Health Hotline):
Dial 03-5285-8181
This hotline provides advice on non-urgent medical issues and guidance on nearby hospitals or clinics.

2. How to Call Emergency Services

When calling emergency services in Tokyo, follow these steps:

Dial the appropriate number (110 for police, 119 for fire/ambulance).
Provide your location.
- If you don’t know the exact address, describe nearby landmarks, train stations, or buildings.
- Use your smartphone’s GPS to provide coordinates if possible.
Explain the situation clearly.
- For police: Describe the crime or accident.
- For fire/ambulance: State whether it’s a fire, medical emergency, or rescue situation.
Language Support:
- Operators may not always speak fluent English, but Tokyo’s emergency services are increasingly equipped to handle foreign-language calls.
- Say “English, please” at the start of the call. If no English-speaking operator is available, they may connect you to a translator or use a three-way interpretation service.

3. Police Services in Tokyo

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD) is responsible for maintaining law and order in the city. Here’s what you need to know:

Koban (Police Boxes):
- Small neighborhood police stations called "koban" are scattered throughout Tokyo.
- Koban officers can assist with minor issues, such as lost items, directions, or reporting non-urgent incidents.
- They are a great resource for tourists and residents alike.
What to Do in Case of a Crime or Accident:
- Call 110 immediately.
- If you’re involved in a traffic accident, do not move your vehicle until the police arrive unless it’s unsafe to stay in place.
- For lost or stolen items, visit the nearest koban to file a report.

4. Fire and Rescue Services

The Tokyo Fire Department (TFD) handles fire emergencies, rescue operations, and ambulance services. It is one of the largest and most advanced fire departments in the world.

Fire Emergencies:
- Call 119 and report the fire.
- Evacuate the building immediately and follow the instructions of emergency responders.
Rescue Services:
- The TFD also handles rescue operations, such as helping people trapped in buildings, vehicles, or natural disasters.

5. Medical Emergencies and Ambulance Services

Tokyo’s ambulance services are operated by the Tokyo Fire Department and are free of charge. However, there are important considerations:

Ambulance Services:
- Call 119 for an ambulance.
- Be prepared to describe the patient’s condition and provide your location.
- Ambulances are equipped with basic life support equipment, but they are not as advanced as those in some other countries. They primarily focus on transporting patients to hospitals.
Costs:
- Ambulance rides are free, but you will be charged for medical treatment and hospitalization at the hospital.
- Japan’s healthcare system is not free, but it is relatively affordable compared to many other countries. If you have travel insurance or are enrolled in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI), your costs will be significantly reduced.
Hospital Admission:
- Not all hospitals in Tokyo accept walk-in patients or ambulances, so the ambulance crew will contact hospitals to find one that can accept you.
- Some hospitals may not have English-speaking staff, so it’s advisable to carry a phrasebook or use a translation app.

6. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance

If your situation is not life-threatening but you still need medical advice or assistance, you can use the following resources:

Tokyo Metropolitan Health Hotline (03-5285-8181):
- Available 24/7.
- Provides advice on medical issues and guidance on nearby clinics or hospitals.
- English-speaking operators are available.
AMDA International Medical Information Center (03-6233-9266):
- Offers multilingual medical information and can help you find English-speaking doctors.
- Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

7. Cultural Considerations

When dealing with emergency services in Tokyo, keep the following cultural norms in mind:

Stay Calm and Polite:
- Japanese culture places a high value on politeness and calmness, even in emergencies. Try to remain composed when speaking to emergency responders.
Language Barriers:
- While Tokyo is an international city, not all emergency personnel speak English fluently. Use simple words and speak slowly. If possible, learn a few basic Japanese phrases, such as:
  - “Kaji desu” (There’s a fire).
  - “Kega o shimashita” (Someone is injured).
  - “Watashi wa eigo o hanashimasu” (I speak English).
Respect for Procedures:
- Japanese emergency services are highly procedural. Follow their instructions carefully and avoid questioning their methods unless absolutely necessary.
Insurance:
- Always carry proof of health insurance (travel insurance or NHI card) to ensure smooth processing at hospitals.

8. Additional Tips

Emergency Apps:
- Download the “Safety Tips” app by the Japan Tourism Agency. It provides real-time emergency alerts (e.g., earthquakes, tsunamis) and guidance in multiple languages.
Earthquake Preparedness:
- Tokyo is in an earthquake-prone region. Familiarize yourself with earthquake safety procedures and locate the nearest evacuation sites (often marked on maps in parks or public spaces).
Lost in Translation:
- If you’re unable to communicate effectively, show your address or location in writing (in Japanese, if possible) to emergency responders.

By understanding Tokyo’s emergency services and cultural nuances, you can navigate crises with confidence and ensure your safety in this vibrant city.