Japan Coast Guard Emergency Number 118: Sea and Beach Emergencies Explained

If you encounter an emergency on the water or at the beach in Japan, you should dial 118. This is the direct emergency number for the Japan Coast Guard, used for reporting drownings, ship collisions, or any incident occurring at sea.

When to Call 118

It is important to distinguish between land-based and sea-based emergencies to ensure help arrives as quickly as possible. You should use 118 for the following situations:

• Life-threatening situations at sea: Someone is drowning, or a person is lost at sea.

• Maritime accidents: Boat collisions, shipwrecks, or vessels in distress.

• Maritime crimes: Reporting suspicious activity on the water or theft involving vessels.

• Environmental hazards: Large oil spills or significant maritime pollution.

If the emergency is happening on land (such as a medical emergency on a sidewalk or a fire in a building), you must dial 119 for fire and ambulance services or 110 for the police. While the police or fire departments can sometimes relay information to the coast guard, dialing 118 directly is the fastest way to reach maritime specialists.

What to Say During the Call

When you call 118, the operator will attempt to identify your location, but providing specific details immediately can save critical time. Because maritime locations can be difficult to pinpoint, try to provide the following information:

• Your exact location: If you are on a beach, mention the name of the beach and nearby landmarks. If you are on a boat, provide your GPS coordinates or the name of the nearest port or island.

• The nature of the emergency: Clearly state if it is a medical emergency (drowning), a vessel accident, or a crime.

• Number of people involved: State how many people are in danger or involved in the incident.

• Description of vessels: If the incident involves a boat, describe its color, size, and type if possible.

Note that emergency response times and the availability of specific rescue assets (such as helicopters or specialized patrol vessels) depend on weather conditions and your distance from the nearest Coast Guard station. Always follow the instructions provided by the operator.

Good to know

• Language barriers: While some operators may be able to assist in English, it is helpful to have a translation app ready or ask for an English speaker immediately.

• Cost: Emergency calls to 118 are free from landline and mobile phones.

• Land vs. Sea: If you are unsure if an incident is "sea-based," err on the side of caution and call 119 or 110; they can transfer you to the Japan Coast Guard if necessary.

Official information

• Prime Minister's Office of Japan
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
• Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Rules and fees can change. Please confirm the latest details with the official sources above.