Safety On-site

What to do in case of an Emergency

In a medical emergency or other immediate crisis, you can call emergency services (119) for an ambulance, although a taxi is often the fastest way to get to the hospital. As soon as you are able, please call the CIS Abroad emergency phone (+1 413 210 7091). This number is also on the emergency contacts card you receive upon arriving on site.

1. First dial 119 to reach health and police resources, firefighting resources, rescue and civil protection. The operator will answer the phone in Japanese. Respond in English and you will be transferred to an English-speaking operator in a few moments. Be prepared to say your name and share your exact location and type of emergency.
2. Then call CIS Abroad US Emergency Phone at +1 413 210 7091 / Emergency Email: emergency@cisabroad.com (you can share this number with your parents). The CIS Abroad emergency phone is used for on-site emergencies across the world, and someone will always be able to answer, as the phone is monitored 24/7.

Crime

Tokyo, like many cities in Japan, is generally considered safe. Visitors will only encounter police or military officers carrying firearms, and instances of violent crime against visitors are very rare.

However, pickpocketing can be an issue, and tourists should remain vigilant in order to prevent it. Pickpockets, who often work in teams, are skilled at their craft and can quickly steal your phone or wallet without you even noticing. To protect yourself, it's important to watch out for pickpocketing techniques. Check out this video to learn more about 7 ways you may be vulnerable to pickpockets and how to prevent them.

• Avoid sketchy areas at night such as Kabukicho, Shinjuku.
• Be careful when drinking. Be aware of your level of inebriation, and do not let yourself become heavily intoxicated to the point of being unable to keep yourself safe. Don't leave your drinks unattended. If drinking with a group, make sure you all leave together, and do not let a drunk friend go off on their own. 
• Know the common scams. This typically involve a "friendly" stranger offering you a free gift or asking for a small favor. They can be pushy, so know that it is not rude to decline. If you accept, they will either ask you to pay for it, or another person will attempt to pick your pocket while you are distracted. 
• Keep a low profile to deter pickpockets. Don't show off expensive jewelry. Consider switching from a purse to a more secure crossbody bag. (Fanny packs are not only fashionably "in" around Japan, but are also incredibly practical!) If you carry a bag or backpack, place it on your lap on public transportation.
  • A note on passports: In Japan, foreign visitors and residents are required by law to carry their passports or, for residents, their Japanese Residence Card (Zairyu Kado) at all times. This requirement is enforced to ensure that individuals can show proof of identity and legal status in Japan when asked by authorities. Failure to present these documents upon request can lead to being taken in for questioning. Be sure to secure your passport in public, or obtain a passport card before you leave that you can carry in your wallet.  
    

Take these precautions when out:

• Leave your passport at home (make a photocopy of the front page to carry out).
• Don’t carry large sums of cash on you.
• Wear your bag and camera across your chest.
• Put your wallet and anything else of value in your front pockets.
• Keep your belongings in your lap when sitting outside or at the bar/restaurant not on the floor or slung over the back of the chair.
• Be careful who you ask to take a picture with your camera (you may not see it again!).
• Use taxis to get home late at night.

Major Incidents 

In the event of a major incident happening in Japan, it is important to take the following steps to ensure your safety:

1. Stay away from the incident area and avoid any unnecessary travel in the immediate vicinity.
2. Find a safe location to take refuge, such as a friend's house, hotel, or restaurant.
3. Notify the staff immediately and contact your family and friends to inform them of your situation.
4. If you need assistance, reach out to the CIS Abroad US Emergency Phone: +1 413 210 7091 for help. It is crucial to remain calm and follow these steps to ensure your safety and well-being during a crisis.

Calling For Help

If you find yourself in need of assistance in Japan, there are several ways to call for help. In case of an emergency, dial "119" on any  phone. When calling for help, it's important to clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and any other relevant information to ensure a prompt and effective response. English is widely understood in tourist areas, but having some basic Japanese phrases may also be helpful in communicating with local authorities. Here are a few helpful phrases:

1. 警察に電話してください (keisatsu o yonde kudasai) – Please, call the police
2. 助けてください (tasukete kudasai) – Please, help me
3. 救急車に電話してください (kyūkyūsha wo yonde kudasai) – Please, call an ambulance
4. 医者を呼んで下さい (isha o yonde kudasai) – Please, call a doctor
5. 救急車お願いします (kyūkyūsha onegai shimasu) - Send an ambulance, please
6. けがをしました (kega wo shimashita) – I'm injured
7. 火があります (kaji desu) – There is a fire
8. 事故が** です** (jiko desu) – There was an accident
9. 気分が良くありません (kibun ga amari yokuarimasen) – I'm not feeling well
10. パスポートを失くしました (passupoto wo nakushimashita) I lost my passport

These phrases will be helpful in various situations, whether you need assistance with directions, medical attention, or other emergencies. Knowing these basics can make it easier for you to communicate your needs to Japanese-speaking locals and get the help you require.

STEP Program

The US government provides a free service known as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to all US citizens. Enrolling in this program registers your trip with the U.S. Embassy. In the case of an emergency, this allows the Embassy to contact you with important safety information, and can help put you in touch with friends and family. 

US Embassy in Tokyo