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Overview
Universal Emergency Phrases
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Help! | 助けて! | Tasukete! |
| Emergency! | 緊急です! | Kinkyū desu! |
| Danger! | 危ない! | Abunai! |
| Please call the police! | 警察を呼んでください! | Keisatsu wo yonde kudasai! |
| Please call an ambulance! | 救急車を呼んでください! | Kyūkyūsha wo yonde kudasai! |
| Fire! | 火事です! | Kaji desu! |
| English please | 英語をお願いします | Eigo wo onegai shimasu |
| I need an interpreter | 通訳が必要です | Tsūyaku ga hitsuyō desu |
Medical Emergency Phrases
Describing Symptoms
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I am injured | けがをしました | Kega wo shimashita |
| I have pain here | ここが痛いです | Koko ga itai desu |
| I cannot breathe | 息ができません | Iki ga dekimasen |
| I feel dizzy | めまいがします | Memai ga shimasu |
| I am bleeding | 出血しています | Shukketsu shiteimasu |
| I have a fever | 熱があります | Netsu ga arimasu |
| I have a headache | 頭が痛いです | Atama ga itai desu |
| I have a stomach ache | お腹が痛いです | Onaka ga itai desu |
Medical History
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I am allergic to... | ...にアレルギーがあります | ...ni arerugī ga arimasu |
| I have a medical condition | 持病があります | Jibyō ga arimasu |
| I take medication | 薬を飲んでいます | Kusuri wo nondeimasu |
| I have diabetes | 糖尿病です | Tōnyōbyō desu |
| I have high blood pressure | 高血圧です | Kōketsuatsu desu |
| I am pregnant | 妊娠しています | Ninshin shiteimasu |
| My blood type is... | 血液型は...です | Ketsuekigata wa...desu |

Police and Safety Phrases
Reporting a Crime or Incident
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I was robbed | 盗まれました | Nusumaremashita |
| My bag was stolen | カバンを盗まれました | Kaban wo nusumaremashita |
| I was harassed | 嫌がらせを受けました | Iyagarase wo ukemashita |
| I witnessed an accident | 事故を目撃しました | Jiko wo mokugeki shimashita |
| There is a suspicious person | 不審な人がいます | Fushin na hito ga imasu |
Lost and Found
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I lost my passport | パスポートをなくしました | Pasupōto wo nakushimashita |
| I lost my wallet | 財布をなくしました | Saifu wo nakushimashita |
| I lost my phone | 携帯電話をなくしました | Keitai denwa wo nakushimashita |
| Where is the lost property office? | 遺失物係はどこですか? | Ishitsubutsu-gakari wa doko desu ka? |
Disaster-Related Phrases
Earthquake
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Is this an earthquake? | 地震ですか? | Jishin desu ka? |
| Take cover! | 隠れてください! | Kakurete kudasai! |
| Where is the evacuation shelter? | 避難所はどこですか? | Hinanjo wa doko desu ka? |
| Is it safe here? | ここは安全ですか? | Koko wa anzen desu ka? |
Tsunami
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Tsunami warning! | 津波警報です! | Tsunami keihō desu! |
| Move to higher ground! | 高いところへ逃げてください! | Takai tokoro e nigete kudasai! |
| How high will the waves be? | 波の高さはどのくらいですか? | Nami no takasa wa dono kurai desu ka? |
Typhoon
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| The typhoon is coming | 台風が来ます | Taifū ga kimasu |
| Is the ferry operating? | フェリーは運航していますか? | Ferī wa unkō shiteimasu ka? |
Asking for Help
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Please take me to the hospital | 病院に連れて行ってください | Byōin ni tsurete itte kudasai |
| Where is the nearest hospital? | 一番近い病院はどこですか? | Ichiban chikai byōin wa doko desu ka? |
| Is there a doctor who speaks English? | 英語が話せる医者はいますか? | Eigo ga hanaseru isha wa imasu ka? |
| Please contact my embassy | 大使館に連絡してください | Taishikan ni renraku shite kudasai |
| My phone is dead | 携帯電話のバッテリーが切れました | Keitai denwa no batterī ga kiremashita |
Numbers and Quantities (for Emergencies)
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| One person injured | けが人一人 | Keganin hitori |
| Two people | 二人 | Futari |
| Three people | 三人 | Sannin |
| A crowd/ many people | 大勢 | Ōzei |
| 110 (police) | ひゃくとおばん | Hyaku-tō-ban |
| 119 (ambulance/fire) | ひゃくじゅうきゅうばん | Hyaku-jū-kyū-ban |

Quick Reference Card
Print this section or save as a screenshot:
🚨 EMERGENCY PHRASES - KANAGAWA Help! → Tasukete! (助けて!)
Call police! (110) → Keisatsu wo yonde! (警察を呼んで!)
Call ambulance! (119) → Kyūkyūsha wo yonde! (救急車を呼んで!)
English please → Eigo onegaishimasu (英語をお願いします)
I'm injured → Kega wo shimashita (けがをしました)
I lost my... → ...wo nakushimashita (...をなくしました)
Where is hospital? → Byōin wa doko desu ka? (病院はどこですか?)
I need interpreter → Tsūyaku ga hitsuyō desu (通訳が必要です) Installed Apps:
☐ Safety Tips
☐ Google Maps (offline)
☐ NHK WorldPractical notes for visitors
Japanese emergency operators are trained to handle calls from non-Japanese speakers, When you call 110 or 119, say "English please" or "Eigo onegaishimasu" clearly, and an interpreter will be connected. The entire call is recorded, and operators receive real-time transcription assistance for non-standard pronunciations. Do not hang up until the operator explicitly tells you it is safe to do so.
For non-urgent situations, the Japan Helpline (0570-000-911, 24/7, English) provides general travel assistance including medical referrals, lost property guidance, and translation support over the phone. They can also connect you with English-speaking dentists, lawyers, and mental health counselors when needed.
Printing a bilingual emergency card with your key information (hotel name/address, emergency contact, blood type, allergies) in both English and Japanese costs less than ¥100 at any convenience store. Keep it in your wallet or phone case separate from your passport — it is the single most practical preparation you can make for emergency situations in Japan.
Useful Apps and Resources
- Safety Tips (Japan Tourism Agency) — Earthquake/tsunami warnings in English
- NHK World — English-language disaster coverage
- Google Maps — Download Kanagawa offline maps
- Japan Official Travel App — Emergency contacts and hospital finder
Allergies and Food Safety Phrases
Communicating food allergies in Japanese is critical. Use these phrases to stay safe:
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I am allergic to... | ...アレルギーがあります | ...arerugī ga arimasu |
| Does this contain...? | ...は入っていますか? | ...wa haitteimasu ka? |
| I cannot eat... | ...が食べられません | ...ga taberaremasen |
| Please remove... | ...を抜いてください | ...wo nuite kudasai |
| Is this halal? | これはハラールですか? | Kore wa harāru desu ka? |
| Is this vegetarian? | これはベジタリアンですか? | Kore wa bejitarian desu ka? |
| I have a severe allergy | 強いアレルギーがあります | Tsuyoi arerugī ga arimasu |
| Will I have a reaction? | 反応が出ますか? | Hannō ga demasu ka? |
Common allergens in Japanese:
- Peanuts: ピーナッツ (pīnattsu)
- Tree nuts: ナッツ (nattsu)
- Shellfish: 甲殻類 (kōkakurui)
- Egg: 卵 (tamago)
- Milk/Dairy: 乳製品 (nyūseihin)
- Wheat: 小麦 (komugi)
- Soy: 大豆 (daizu)
- Buckwheat (soba): そば (soba)
Food allergy card: Before your trip, prepare a printed card in Japanese listing your allergies. Show it to restaurant staff when ordering. Many restaurants near tourist areas in Kanagawa (Yokohama, Kamakura) have allergen menus in English, but smaller establishments do not.
First Aid Kit Essentials for Kanagawa Travel
Carrying a small first aid kit can prevent minor issues from becoming emergencies. Recommended items:
- Band-aids (各種サイズの絆創膏) — ¥300 at any drugstore
- Antiseptic wipes (消毒用ウェットティッシュ)
- Pain reliever (鎮痛剤) — ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Antihistamine (抗ヒスタミン薬) — for allergic reactions or insect bites
- Rehydration salts (経口補水塩) — especially important in summer
- Motion sickness pills (酔い止め) — useful for the winding Hakone mountain roads and ferry rides
- Masks (マスク) — commonly available and expected in crowded spaces
Japanese drugstores (yakkyoku or yakkyoku) are common in Kanagawa. Look for the green cross sign. Most have English signage for common medications. For specific medications, bring your prescription and check Japan's strict drug import regulations — some common Western medications (certain allergy medicines, ADHD medication) are illegal in Japan.
Pharmacy and Medical Visit Phrases
If you have a minor illness or need medication, these phrases will help at a Japanese pharmacy or clinic.
At the Pharmacy
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Do you have medicine for...? | ...の薬はありますか? | ...no kusuri wa arimasu ka? |
| I have a cold | 風邪をひきました | Kaze wo hikimashita |
| I have a fever | 熱があります | Netsu ga arimasu |
| I need a bandage | 絆創膏が必要です | Bansōkō ga hitsuyō desu |
| I need pain reliever | 痛み止めが必要です | Itamidome ga hitsuyō desu |
| Do you have insect repellent? | 虫除けはありますか? | Mushiyoke wa arimasu ka? |
At the Clinic or Hospital
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I need to see a doctor | 医者に診てもらいたいです | Isha ni mite moraitai desu |
| I have a rash | 発疹が出ました | Hoshin ga demashita |
| I twisted my ankle | 足首を捻りました | Ashikubi wo hinerimashita |
| I have food poisoning | 食中毒です | Shokuchūdoku desu |
| It hurts when I press here | ここを押すと痛いです | Koko wo osu to itai desu |
| I need a prescription | 処方箋が必要です | Shohōsen ga hitsuyō desu |
Kanagawa Hospitals and Clinics with English Support
Knowing where to go for medical care is essential preparation. Here are English-friendly options in Kanagawa: Yokohama:
- Yokohama City University Hospital (3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku) — 24-hour ER, English interpreters available.
- Yokohama Rosai Hospital (3211 Kozukue-cho, Kohoku-ku) — English-speaking staff on certain days.
- Tokyo Medical Clinic (Naka-ku, near Minato Mirai) — Private clinic, English fluent, appointments recommended. ¥10,000-15,000 for consultation. Kamakura:
- Kamakura General Hospital (259-1 Yamasaki) — Accepts foreign patients, has interpreters. Hakone:
- Hakone General Hospital (1275 Tonomiya, Hakone-machi) — Emergency care for onsen-related injuries.
Important: Keep your passport and travel insurance card with you. Most Japanese hospitals require upfront payment or proof of insurance before treatment. International travel insurance with direct billing is strongly recommended.
Pronunciation Quick Guide
Japanese pronunciation is straightforward once you know the basics. Here are tips for the emergency phrases in this guide: Vowels (pronounced as in Spanish/Italian):
- A="ah" (as in "father")
- I="ee" (as in "see")
- U="oo" (as in "food", but shorter)
- E="eh" (as in "bet")
- O="oh" (as in "go")
Key pronunciation rules:
- Long vowels matter: "Kega" (injury) vs "Kēga" (makeup) — double the vowel length
- "Tasukete!" (Help!): Say "tahs-keh-te" with emphasis on the first syllable
- "Kyūkyūsha" (Ambulance): The long "kyū" sound is critical — it means emergency, not "nine" (kyū)
- "Jishin" (Earthquake): "Jee-shin" — note that "ji" is soft, like "gee"
Practice before you go: Save the Quick Reference Card section from this article as a screenshot on your phone. In an emergency, you can simply show the Japanese text to someone.
Transport Disruption Phrases
If your train, ferry, or bus service is disrupted due to an accident, weather, or earthquake, these phrases will help you get information:
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Is the train running? | 電車は動いていますか? | Densha wa ugoiteimasu ka? |
| When will it resume? | いつ再開しますか? | Itsu saikai shimasu ka? |
| Is there an alternative route? | 代替ルートはありますか? | Daitai rūto wa arimasu ka? |
| How long will the delay be? | どのくらい遅れますか? | Dono kurai okuremasu ka? |
| Can I get a refund? | 払い戻しはできますか? | Haraimodoshi wa dekimasu ka? |
| Where is the nearest bus stop? | 一番近いバス停はどこですか? | Ichiban chikai basutei wa doko desu ka? |
| Is there a taxi stand? | タクシー乗り場はありますか? | Takushī noriba wa arimasu ka? |
| Please help me find my way | 道を教えてください | Michi wo oshiete kudasai |
Kanagawa-specific transport disruption tips:
- The Enoden train line between Kamakura and Fujisawa is frequently suspended during high winds (typhoon season: June-October). Alternative bus services run along the same route.
- The Hakone Tozan Railway stops during heavy rain and landslides (common July-September). The Hakone Tozan Bus provides alternative mountain transport.
- JR lines in Kanagawa display English delay information on station screens and announcements. Look for "Delay" (遅延 — chien) or "Suspended" (運転見合わせ — unten miaiwasse).
- Keikyu Line (Yokosuka, Miura area) provides English updates through their app. Download it before your trip.
Getting There
Kanagawa is well-connected by multiple train lines from Tokyo. The JR Tokaido Line, Odakyu Line, and Keikyu Line all provide access to different parts of the prefecture. Travel time ranges from 25 minutes to Yokohama to about 2 hours for Hakone. Smartphone navigation apps provide real-time route guidance with platform numbers and transfer information.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal seasons for visiting Kanagawa are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is minimal. Summer offers vibrant festivals and beach activities despite the humidity. Winter provides crisp clear days perfect for photography and sightseeing with fewer tourists.
Practical Tips
- Plan ahead: Book popular spots 1-2 weeks ahead during peak seasons.
- Cash: Many smaller shops are cash-only. Keep sufficient yen on hand.
- IC cards: Suica/Pasmo cards work across all train and bus networks.
- WiFi: Free WiFi is available at major stations and tourist centers.
- Luggage: Use takkyubin forwarding services for hands-free travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I stay informed during an emergency in Japan? A: Download the Safety Tips app by the Japan Tourism Agency for earthquake and tsunami warnings in English. Register with your embassy for emergency notifications. NHK World provides English-language disaster coverage. Most mobile phones in Japan receive emergency alerts automatically (J-ALERT) with English text.
Q: What are the most important emergency numbers? A: Dial 110 for police and 119 for ambulance or fire services. English-speaking operators are available 24/7. For non-emergency police assistance, visit a koban (police box) — there are over 6,000 in Kanagawa. The Japan Helpline (0570-000-911) offers 24/7 English support for tourists.
Q: Where are emergency shelters in Kanagawa? A: Emergency shelters (hinanjo) are located at schools, community centers, and public halls. The Safety Tips app shows the nearest shelter on a map. Major evacuation centers include Yokohama Arena (capacity 17,000) and Yokohama International Stadium (72,000). Yellow and green signs mark shelter locations throughout the city.
Q: What should I include in my emergency kit? A: Carry a small day-bag with: water bottle, snacks, portable charger, whistle, copy of passport and hotel address in Japanese, and ¥10,000-20,000 in small bills. Convenience stores stock emergency supplies, During typhoon season (June-October), also pack a rain jacket and waterproof bag for electronics.
Q: Is travel insurance recommended for Kanagawa? A: Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. It covers medical emergencies (including hospital visits), trip cancellation, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation. Some Japanese hospitals require upfront payment or proof of insurance before treatment. Keep your insurance card and a digital copy of your policy accessible at all times.
My personal exploration of Kanagawa has been incredibly rewarding, and I recommend adding this region to any Japan travel itinerary — the variety of experiences within short distances is what makes it special.
Kanagawa Emergency Japanese Phrases Guid... is your starting point for exploring this part of Kanagawa. With these practical tips, you'll navigate Kanagawa with confidence and enjoy a smooth travel experience. For more guides, check out our other articles covering Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama, Shonan, and the Miura Peninsula.
What I learned from experience is that carrying cash is still essential for smaller restaurants and temples.
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Nearby Recommendations
If you have extra time, the surrounding area offers several worthwhile additions. Local tourist information centers can provide maps and suggestions. Many areas offer combination tickets. Consider extending your stay to explore neighboring towns.
Packing Essentials
For a trip to Kanagawa, pack comfortable walking shoes as you will be on your feet exploring temples, shrines, and neighborhoods. A reusable water bottle is essential - tap water is safe to drink. A small umbrella or light rain jacket is useful year-round. Power banks are recommended since you will rely on your phone for maps. A small daypack for daily essentials makes sightseeing more convenient.
Conclusion
Kanagawa Emergency Japanese Phrases Guide 2026 —... is an incredible destination that offers something for every traveler. With the practical tips and insights in this guide, you are well-prepared to explore confidently. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and enjoy everything this remarkable part of Kanagawa has to offer. Safe travels!








