Japan Coast Guard Number: 118
+81 · Japan Coast Guard (Kaijō Hoan-chō)
The coast guard emergency number in Japan is 118. Operated by Japan Coast Guard. Free to call. Works from mobile phones.
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.
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🗣️ 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.
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Coast Guard Emergency Service in Japan — Complete Guide
When traveling to Japan or living there as an expat, knowing the correct coast guard number in Japan is critical for 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 Dial 118 in Japan
To reach the Japan Coast Guard (Kaijō Hoan-chō) in Japan, dial 118 from any local fixed line, cellular phone, or public payphone. Dialing from mobile devices is fully supported across local mobile operators and international roaming SIM cards. A SIM card is typically required by mobile operators in Japan. If you lack a SIM card, dial the universal emergency number 112. Calls to this emergency service are 100% free of charge — no prepaid airtime credit or active subscription plan is required.
Calling from International Roaming or Abroad
If you are within Japan using an international roaming SIM card, you can dial 118 directly without any country code prefix. If you need to contact emergency dispatch in Japan from an international location, the country calling code is +81.
Language & Communication with Dispatchers
Emergency operators in Japan communicate primarily in ja. If you do not speak ja, remain calm and state your language immediately (e.g. "English, please"). Most national dispatch centers have access to telephonic interpretation services or English-speaking officers to ensure rapid dispatch.
What to Expect When You Dial 118
When you call the coast guard number in Japan, you will be connected to a trained dispatcher at Japan Coast Guard. These operators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. When connected, clearly state:
- Your exact location (city, neighborhood, landmark, or GPS coordinates)
- The nature of the emergency (coast guard assistance)
- Number of individuals involved or needing immediate medical/police/fire assistance
- Your contact number for callback if disconnected
All Emergency Numbers in Japan
Please note that Japan utilizes dedicated emergency lines for different agencies. 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 emergency contact number 112 is active across Japan and will redirect calls to the appropriate local agency.
Official Regulatory & Government Source
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 our editorial team 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.