ambulance

Ambulance Guide

When and how to call an ambulance in Japan.

Emergency Number

119

Ambulance & Fire — 24 hours, free to call

Call 119 Immediately For:

priority_highLoss of consciousness or unresponsive

priority_highStopped breathing or severe difficulty breathing

priority_highSevere chest pain or pressure

priority_highSuspected stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech)

priority_highSevere bleeding that cannot be stopped

priority_highSuspected spinal injury — do not move the person

priority_highPoisoning or drug overdose

priority_highDrowning or severe burns

"Kyūkyū desu" (救急です) — "It's an emergency."

Give your address (building name, floor, room number). Use GPS if unsure.

Describe the patient's condition briefly.

Stay on the line — the operator will guide you until the ambulance arrives.

Bring insurance card and ID to the hospital.

Calling 119 and ambulance transport is free. Hospital treatment costs apply — typically 30% with National Health Insurance.

Hospitals may charge a ¥5,000–¥10,000 initial consultation surcharge for emergency walk-in visits without a referral.