Moving to Japan as an exchange student requires understanding how to stay safe during natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. By installing emergency alert applications, saving official helpline contacts, and preparing multilingual communication cards, you can respond effectively to unexpected emergencies while studying abroad. This 2026 safety guide outlines official disaster communication channels, essential contacts, shelter tools, and guidance for arranging housing.
How can exchange students receive emergency alerts in Japan?
Staying informed during a natural disaster is crucial for international exchange students. Official information is broadcast through several specialized applications and media services that provide real-time updates in multiple languages:
- Emergency Alert Applications: You can download the Safety tips application to receive immediate push notifications regarding earthquakes, tsunamis, and weather warnings on App Store or Google Play.
- International Broadcasts: NHK WORLD-JAPAN delivers up-to-date natural disaster news and updates from Japan's public broadcaster.
- Social Media Safety Channels: Official social accounts operated under Japan Safe Travel (JNTO) offer disaster updates on X (@JapanSafeTravel) and Weibo (安心访日JapanSafeTravel).
- Municipal Websites: Local government websites, such as Yuzawa Town's official portal updated in early 2026, allow users to check localized disaster damage by selecting the desktop display view and choosing their preferred language from the top right corner.
Always verify specific administrative procedures and localized warning details with official local authority sources.
What hotline numbers and emergency contacts should you save?
Having key emergency phone numbers saved on your mobile device allows you to request assistance immediately when accidents, illnesses, or disasters happen:
- Police Emergency Call: Dial 110 (available 24 hours a day, free of charge) to report crime or traffic accidents.
- Ambulance and Fire Service: Dial 119 (available 24 hours a day, free of charge) for medical emergencies or fire outbreaks.
- JNTO Japan Visitor Hotline: Call 050-3816-2787 (24 hours a day) for multi-language emergency support and guidance in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese during disasters, medical emergencies, or general travel situations.
- Medical Institution Search: If you fall ill, search for suitable hospitals and clinics by language and clinical department on the JNTO Emergency Medical Portal.
What tools help foreign students communicate during evacuations?
When evacuating to a temporary shelter, language barriers can make it difficult to convey your urgent needs or health condition. Preparing specific multilingual communication resources beforehand provides vital support:
- Multilingual Pointing Board: Shelter occupants can utilize the Multilingual Pointing Board published by CLAIR to express health conditions and basic requests by pointing to visual symbols and translations.
- Help Cards and Safety Cards: Local governments, including Tachikawa City, provide foreign resident help cards in up to 12 languages. Exchange students should print or carry a physical Help Card or Safety Information Card at all times.
- Disaster Handbooks: City guidebooks and publications such as Tokyo Bousai offer detailed safety instructions for navigating urban disaster scenarios in multiple languages.
Finding a place to stay
When preparing for your exchange term in Japan, organizing your accommodation after your Certificate of Eligibility or visa is processed—and before your flight—ensures a smooth arrival. International students typically look for housing that offers simple booking procedures and reliable basic utilities. OHAYO Stay offers furnished monthly apartments and rooms in Tokyo; most homes have a minimum stay of 30 nights (shown on each listing). No guarantor, no key money and no agency fee; booking is online with a passport or ID and a credit card. Groups, longer stays and students can ask for a quote; a special price is often possible. Securing your living quarters early lets you focus on your exchange program and disaster preparedness.
FAQ
How do I report a fire or medical emergency in Japan?
Call 119 for free 24 hours a day to connect directly with emergency medical and fire services.
Where can international students find multi-language emergency phone support?
Call the JNTO Japan Visitor Hotline at 050-3816-2787, available 24 hours a day in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.
What app provides push notifications for earthquakes and tsunamis in Japan?
The Safety tips app delivers real-time push notifications for earthquakes, tsunamis, and severe weather warnings.
Sources
- 自治体公式サイト「Disaster prevention information for foreigners 外国人のための防災情報｜立川市」(checked 2026-10-28)
- 自治体公式サイト「外国人向け防災情報の案内（Disaster prevention information for foreigners）／湯沢町公式ホームページ」(checked 2026-10-28)
Facts are summarized in our own words; see the linked pages for the official details.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.