Easy Japanese Emergency Phrases for Foreign Residents in Japan

Simple Japanese phrases for emergencies, hospitals, city offices, and asking for help.

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Quick checklist

  • You Do Not Need Perfect Japanese
  • Useful Phrases
  • For Phone Calls
  • At City Office or Hospital
  • Use Translation Tools Carefully

You Do Not Need Perfect Japanese

In an emergency, short and simple words are better than long sentences. Say your name, place, problem, and what help you need.

Useful Phrases

Use phrases such as tasukete kudasai, byouin ni ikitai desu, kega wo shimashita, nihongo ga sukoshi wakarimasu, and eigo ga hanasemasu ka.

For Phone Calls

Prepare your address in Japanese. You can say juusho wa, followed by your address, and nani ga okimashita ka if you need to explain what happened.

At City Office or Hospital

Show the document and say kore ga wakarimasen, yasashii nihongo de onegaishimasu, or soudan shitai desu.

Use Translation Tools Carefully

Translation apps can help, but they may be wrong. For important legal, medical, or immigration matters, confirm with an official office or professional.

Source and note

This article is based on official public information and is written in simple English. Procedures may differ by person and city. Please check the official page or a consultation office for your own case.

Source: https://www.bunka.go.jp/seisaku/kokugo_nihongo/kyoiku/92982301.html