A medical emergency is stressful enough without the added complexity of being in a foreign country where you may not speak the language. Knowing what to do before an emergency happens can save valuable time \u2014 and potentially save a life. This guide explains how emergency medical care works in Tokyo, including how to call for help, what to expect at the hospital, and how to handle the costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Japan, the emergency number for both ambulance and fire services is 119<\/strong>. This is different from the US (911), Europe (112), or the UK (999). When you call 119, an operator will answer in Japanese, but many dispatch centers in Tokyo now have access to interpretation services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you call, be prepared to provide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Key fact:<\/strong> Ambulance service in Japan is completely free. There is no charge for calling an ambulance or being transported to the hospital. This is true for both Japanese citizens and foreigners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not sure if your situation is a true emergency? Tokyo offers the #7119<\/strong> helpline, which connects you with a medical professional who can assess your symptoms over the phone and advise whether you need an ambulance, should visit an emergency room, or can wait to see a regular doctor. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and has English interpretation available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Use #7119 when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Call 119 immediately if you or someone near you experiences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Japanese ambulances are operated by the fire department and staffed by trained emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Here is the typical process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you can transport yourself to the hospital, you can go directly to an emergency room (\u6551\u6025\u5916\u6765 \/ ky\u016bky\u016b gairai). Major hospitals in Tokyo with emergency departments include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Note that not all emergency rooms operate 24\/7 for all conditions. Some have specific hours or only accept patients brought by ambulance during off-hours. Call ahead if possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For medical issues that are urgent but not life-threatening \u2014 such as a high fever, vomiting, or a minor injury \u2014 Tokyo has a network of after-hours clinics (\u4f11\u65e5\u30fb\u591c\u9593\u8a3a\u7642\u6240) that operate during evenings, weekends, and holidays. These facilities can treat common conditions and provide prescriptions for short-term relief until you can see your regular doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finding these clinics can be challenging for foreigners. Your best resources are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Emergency medical care in Japan follows the same insurance rules as regular care:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
#7119: The Medical Consultation Hotline<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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When to Call 119 (True Emergencies)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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What Happens When the Ambulance Arrives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Emergency Rooms in Tokyo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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After-Hours and Holiday Clinics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Costs and Payment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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