Easy Japanese Emergency Phrases for Foreign Residents in Japan
Simple Japanese phrases for emergencies, hospitals, city offices, and asking for help.

- 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.
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
