Sudden Illness, Ambulances, and Night/Holiday Care

When you suddenly become ill or injured at night or on a holiday, first check how urgent your symptoms are.

When You Think It May Be Life-Threatening

If there is a high level of urgency — such as no consciousness, difficulty breathing, or heavy bleeding — call 119.

Tell them that an ambulance is needed, your location, and your symptoms.

When You Are Unsure Whether to Call an Ambulance

Depending on your area, you may be able to use an emergency consultation service such as "#7119."

At an emergency consultation service, you can describe your symptoms and receive advice on whether you should call an ambulance or seek medical care right away.

Check whether it is available in your area and at what times.

When You Want to See a Doctor at Night or on a Holiday

Check your municipality's or local medical information for medical institutions open at night or on holidays.

If you are unsure about a child's sudden illness or injury, you can use the "#8000" Children's Emergency Telephone Consultation.

The hours when you can consult differ by prefecture.

When You Want to Consult in a Foreign Language

There are medical institutions and consultation counters that can respond in foreign languages.

In an emergency, call 119 even if you cannot speak Japanese well.

Is an Ambulance Free?

Using an ambulance itself does not cost anything.

However, the medical treatment you receive at the hospital you are taken to will cost money.

What You Can Check Next

• Sick or injured, want to go to the hospital
• Medical departments, reception, examinations, and medical costs
• Want to be examined in a foreign language
• 119, fire, and emergency phone numbers

Main Sources to Check

• Fire and Disaster Management Agency (Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications)
• Prefectural and municipal governments
• Local emergency consultation counters

Last checked: August 2026