120
Ambulance · China
120 is the China Ambulance emergency number. Verified 2026-01. Source: National Health Commission. Works from mobile. Free to call. One-tap dial.
📞 About 120 — Ambulance in China
📍 Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
🗣️ Emergency Phrases in China
Use these phrases to communicate in an emergency when language is a barrier. Tap the speaker to play pronunciation.
⚠️ When NOT to Call 120
- • Do not call 110 for non-urgent police matters - visit the local police station
- • Do not call 120 for minor ailments - visit a local hospital or clinic
- • Do not make false emergency calls - punishable under Chinese law with possible detention
- • Do not call 119 for controlled burns or fireworks complaints
- • Do not call 122 for non-accident traffic inquiries
✈️ Travel Notes — China
Emergency response is generally fast in major cities. Response in rural and remote areas may be delayed. Public hospitals provide emergency care; international hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou offer English-speaking services. Ambulance services may require payment. The 12110 SMS service is available for hearing-impaired users.
🛡️ Traveling to China? Protect Yourself
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We recommend securing travel insurance before your trip.
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What is 120 in China?
120 is the official Emergency Medical Service emergency number in China. This number is operated by National Health Commission and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Ambulance and emergency medical services via 120. Operates in all cities and counties. Response faster in urban areas.
When to Call 120
Call 120 immediately in situations involving ambulance-related emergencies in China. When you call, clearly state:
- Your exact location (street address, landmark, GPS coordinates if possible)
- The nature of the emergency
- The number of people involved or injured
- Your name and callback number
Stay on the line until the operator tells you to hang up.
Technical Details — 120 in China
Here are the key technical facts about calling 120 in China:
- Works from mobile: Yes — you can call from any mobile phone.
- Works without SIM card: A SIM card is typically required. Try 112 if you have no SIM.
- Free to call: Yes — calling is completely free. No credit needed.
- Last verified: 2026-01
- Official source: National Health Commission
How to Call 120 from Abroad
If you are calling 120 from outside China, or from a foreign SIM card, dial the international format: +86 followed by 120 (omitting any leading zero). However, in a genuine emergency within China, simply dialing 120 directly from any local or roaming SIM will connect you to the Emergency Medical Service. The universal number 112 is also active across China and can be dialed from any phone.
All Emergency Numbers in China
Besides 120 (Emergency Medical Service), China has the following emergency services available: Police (Public Security): 110 · Emergency Medical Service: 120 · Fire and Rescue Service: 119 · Traffic Accident Emergency: 122. Save all these numbers before traveling to China.
Data Source & Verification Policy
The number 120 is listed as the Emergency Medical Service emergency line for China based on data from National Health Commission. It was last verified in 2026-01. If this number has changed or is incorrect, please contact us immediately — accuracy of emergency contact information is our highest priority.
Frequently Asked Questions — 120 (China)
What is 120 in China? ▼
120 is the Emergency Medical Service emergency number in China. Ambulance and emergency medical services via 120. Operates in all cities and counties. Response faster in urban areas.
Can I call 120 without a SIM card in China? ▼
A SIM card may be required. Try 112, the universal number, which works without a SIM on most networks.
Is calling 120 free in China? ▼
Yes, calling 120 is completely free in China. No airtime credit needed.
Does 120 work from mobile in China? ▼
Yes, 120 works from all mobile phones in China.
Who do I reach when I call 120 in China? ▼
Calling 120 in China connects you to Emergency Medical Service (National Health Commission), available 24/7.
What is the source for 120 being the Ambulance number in China? ▼
Verified from National Health Commission: https://www.119.gov.cn/. Last verified: 2026-01.
Can I call 110 from a mobile phone without a SIM card in China? ▼
Yes. Emergency calls to 110, 119, 120, and 122 are free and can be made without a SIM card or airtime credit.
Do emergency operators speak English in China? ▼
English-speaking operators are not guaranteed. In major international cities like Beijing and Shanghai, some operators may have basic English. Travelers should have a Chinese speaker assist with emergency calls.
What is the difference between 110 and 122 in China? ▼
110 is the general police emergency number. 122 is the dedicated traffic accident and road emergency number. Both are operated by the Ministry of Public Security.
Is there an SMS service for deaf users in China? ▼
Yes. 12110 is the SMS police emergency number for deaf and hearing-impaired users nationwide.
What should I do if I need medical help but don't speak Chinese? ▼
Call 120 and try to state your location in English. International hospitals in major cities have English-speaking staff. Hotel concierges can assist with medical emergencies.