⚓ Coast Guard in Japan
+81 · Japan Coast Guard (Kaijō Hoan-chō)
Japan Coast Guard emergency number is 118. Verified 2026-01. Official source: Japan Coast Guard. One-tap call, works offline.
Japan Coast Guard (Kaijō Hoan-chō)
Japan · Coast Guard
📝 Maritime emergency number 118. Handles all maritime emergencies around Japan's extensive coastline. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
🔢 Dedicated Number Pages
📍 Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
🗣️ Emergency Phrases in Japan
Use these phrases to communicate in an emergency when language is a barrier. Tap the speaker to play pronunciation.
⚠️ When NOT to Call Coast Guard
- • Do not call 110 for non-urgent police matters - visit the local Koban (police box)
- • Do not call 119 for minor injuries - visit a local clinic or hospital
- • Do not make false emergency calls - punishable under Japanese law
- • Do not call emergency numbers for power outages - contact the local power company
- • Do not use emergency lines for road conditions or earthquake information
✈️ Travel Notes — Japan
Emergency response is fast and excellent throughout Japan. Ambulance services are free and well-equipped. The Japan Visitor Hotline provides multilingual emergency interpretation. Earthquake and tsunami warning systems are highly advanced. Medical care is world-class.
🛡️ Traveling to Japan? Protect Yourself
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We recommend securing travel insurance before your trip.
Best for digital nomads, expats, and long-term travel. Flexible monthly subscription.
Best for standard holidays, adventure sports, hiking, and activity-filled trips.
ℹ️ We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Coast Guard Emergency Service in Japan — Complete Guide
When traveling to Japan or living there as an expat, knowing the correct coast guard number Japan can be critical for safety and emergency preparedness. The official emergency contact line for coast guard services in Japan is 118, which is operated and monitored by Japan Coast Guard. Maritime emergency number 118. Handles all maritime emergencies around Japan's extensive coastline. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
How to Call the Coast Guard in Japan
To reach the Japan Coast Guard (Kaijō Hoan-chō) in Japan, dial 118 from any local telephone network, cellular phone, or public payphone. This emergency number is fully compatible with mobile networks and roaming devices. Calls to this emergency service are free of charge, meaning no prepaid airtime credit or active service plans are required. When dialing, make sure you stay calm, wait for the dispatcher to connect, and clearly speak in the local language or request English translation. State your location, the nature of the emergency, and any injuries immediately.
What to Expect When You Dial 118
When you call the coast guard number in Japan, you will be connected to a trained operator at Japan Coast Guard. These operators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to coordinate immediate dispatch. If you are a traveler facing a language barrier, remain on the line. Operators have access to translation services or are trained to handle foreign queries to ensure response teams are routed to your exact coordinates.
All Emergency Numbers in Japan
Please note that Japan utilizes different emergency lines for distinct situations. Besides the Coast Guard (118), the following emergency services can also be reached directly: Police (Keisatsu) (110), Ambulance and Fire Service (119), Fire and Disaster Response (119), Japan Coast Guard (Kaijō Hoan-chō) (118). Additionally, the universal European/global emergency contact number 112 is active in Japan and will redirect calls to the appropriate local agency.
Data Source & Verification
The emergency number 118 is verified against official directories published by Japan Coast Guard. Last verified on 2026-01. If you notice any outdated information or changed hotline details, please contact us so we can update the platform for traveler safety.
Frequently Asked Questions — Coast Guard in Japan
What is the Coast Guard number in Japan? ▼
The Coast Guard emergency number in Japan is 118. Maritime emergency number 118. Handles all maritime emergencies around Japan's extensive coastline. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
Does 118 work from mobile in Japan? ▼
Yes, 118 works from all mobile phones in Japan.
Can I call 118 without a SIM card? ▼
A SIM card is typically required. Try 112, the universal number, which works without a SIM on most networks.
Is calling 118 free in Japan? ▼
Yes, calling 118 is free in Japan. No airtime credit needed.
Who operates Coast Guard in Japan? ▼
The Coast Guard service in Japan is operated by Japan Coast Guard. Source: https://www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp/
Is 119 for both ambulance and fire in Japan? ▼
Yes. 119 is the unified number for both ambulance and fire emergencies. Municipal fire departments operate ambulance services.
Can I call 110 from a mobile without a SIM card in Japan? ▼
Yes. Emergency calls to 110, 118, and 119 are free and can be made without a SIM card.
Are emergency calls free in Japan? ▼
Yes. All emergency calls are free. Ambulance transport is also free of charge.
Do emergency operators speak English in Japan? ▼
English-speaking operators are not guaranteed. The Japan Visitor Hotline (050-3816-2787) provides 24/7 multilingual emergency interpretation including English, Chinese, and Korean.
What number do I call for maritime rescue in Japan? ▼
118 is the Japan Coast Guard emergency number. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16. Handles all maritime emergencies.