Case of accident, illness in Japan
If a foreigner has an accident or falls ill in Japan, they can receive medical treatment through the country's healthcare system.
Foreign visitors who are staying in Japan for less than one year are not eligible for the NHI system, but they can still receive medical treatment through the country's medical facilities. In this case, they will need to pay for the medical expenses out of their own pocket, so it is recommended that they purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage before coming to Japan.
If a foreigner needs emergency medical treatment in Japan, they can go to the nearest hospital or call an ambulance by dialing 119. It is important to note that emergency medical treatment in Japan can be expensive, so it is recommended that foreign visitors purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for emergency medical treatment.
If a foreigner needs ongoing medical treatment or medication while in Japan, they can visit a hospital or clinic and present their passport and health insurance card, if they have one. The hospital or clinic will then bill them for the medical treatment, and they will need to pay the bill out of their own pocket or through their travel insurance.
Specific cases:
In the event of an accident or criminal act
Please call 110 (free calls): 110 is the emergency contact number, the police will come to assist shortly.
- Crime: theft, stalking, bag snatching, child seduction, money transfer scam, etc.
- Traffic accident
Content to convey when making a call
- What happened (such as an accident, etc.)
- What happened, when, where...
- If someone is injured, explain their condition.
(Gender, age, wound condition, etc.) - Your name and phone number
When suddenly falling ill or seriously injured
Please call 119 (toll free): 119 is the contact number in case of emergency, an ambulance will come to assist immediately.
Content to convey when making a call
- I need an emergency (きゅうきゅうです)
- The place you want the ambulance to go (Address)
- Explain how the person is sick or injured.
(Gender, age, medical condition or injury, etc.) - Your name and phone number
When there is a fire
Please call 119 (toll free): 119 is the contact number in case of emergency, there will be an ambulance and fire truck to assist immediately.
Content to convey when making a call
- There is a fire (かじです)
- Location of fire
- If someone is injured, explain their condition.
(Gender, age, wound condition, etc.) - Your name and phone number
