Emergencies while hiking in Japan

  • Japan has an online form where you can submit your hiking plans in case of an emergency. For more details please see the direct website called Compass.

  • If you encounter a medical emergency while hiking in Japan, it's important to take quick action to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected person. Here are some steps you can take:

    1. Call for help: If you have a mobile phone and there is network coverage, call for emergency services by dialing 119. If you do not have a mobile phone or there is no network coverage, try to find the nearest ranger station or other hiker who can assist.

    2. Administer first aid: If you are trained in first aid, administer appropriate care based on the person's condition. If you are not trained, stay calm and reassure the person that help is on the way.

    3. Stay with the person: If the person is unable to move or is unconscious, do not leave them alone. Stay with the person and monitor their breathing and pulse until help arrives.

    4. Follow instructions from emergency responders: When emergency responders arrive, follow their instructions and provide any necessary information about the person's condition and location. Be prepared to answer questions about the person's age, gender, medical history, and any medications they may be taking.

    5. Evacuate the person: Depending on the severity of the emergency, the person may need to be evacuated by helicopter or other means. Follow instructions from emergency responders and assist in any way possible.

    Remember that prevention is the best way to avoid medical emergencies while hiking. Be sure to carry appropriate gear and supplies, stay hydrated, and be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards.

    If you are regularly recreating in the outdoors, Consider a wilderness first aid course.

  • If you need medical help in Japan, there are several options available to you. Here are some steps you can take:

    1. Find a clinic or hospital: There are many clinics and hospitals in Japan, both public and private. You can search for medical facilities in your area using Google Maps or other online resources. Most hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff or provide translation services.

    2. Make an appointment: Most medical facilities in Japan require an appointment. You can call ahead to schedule an appointment, or you may be able to make an appointment online through the facility's website.

    3. Bring your health insurance card: If you have health insurance in Japan, make sure to bring your insurance card with you to your appointment. If you do not have insurance, you may need to pay for your medical treatment out of pocket.

    4. Explain your symptoms: When you visit the doctor, explain your symptoms clearly and honestly. If you do not speak Japanese, try to bring a translator or use translation apps to communicate effectively with your doctor.

    5. Follow your doctor's advice: Your doctor will give you a diagnosis and may prescribe medication or recommend further treatment. It's important to follow your doctor's advice and take any medication as directed.

      Overall, seeking medical help in Japan is relatively straightforward, but it's important to be prepared and informed before your visit. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to ask your doctor or medical staff for assistance.

      Check out this helpful guide for when you are feeling ill in Japan.

  • It is common to experience hay fever in Japan, especially around March and April during springtime. If you are looking for allergy medicine in Japan, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) options available at pharmacies and drugstores. Here are some common allergy medicines that you can find in Japan:

    1. Allegra (fexofenadine): Allegra is an antihistamine that can help relieve symptoms of allergies such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

    2. Claritin (loratadine): Claritin is another type of antihistamine that can help alleviate allergy symptoms.

    3. Zaditen (ketotifen): Zaditen is an antihistamine eye drop that can help relieve symptoms of eye allergies such as redness, itching, and watering.

    4. Benza (phenylephrine hydrochloride): Benza is a decongestant nasal spray that can help relieve nasal congestion caused by allergies.

    5. Nasivin (oxymetazoline hydrochloride): Nasivin is another type of decongestant nasal spray that can help relieve nasal congestion caused by allergies.

    It's important to note that some allergy medicines may require a prescription from a doctor in Japan. It's always a good idea to consult with a medical professional before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

  • Yes, bears can be dangerous in Japan. In fact, Japan has two species of bear: the brown bear (Ursus arctos) and the Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus), both of which are known to attack humans if they feel threatened or if they are protecting their cubs. Attacks are rare, but they do happen, and hikers in bear country should take precautions to reduce the risk of an encounter.

    The brown bear is found on the northern island of Hokkaido, while the Asiatic black bear is found throughout Japan, including in mountainous areas on the main island of Honshu. To reduce the risk of a bear encounter, hikers should stay on designated trails, make noise while hiking (e.g., by talking loudly or wearing a bell), and carry bear spray or bear bells. It's also important to be aware of bear warning signs and to avoid hiking alone, especially in areas known to have bears. If you do encounter a bear, back away slowly and avoid making eye contact. If the bear charges, stand your ground, raise your arms to look bigger, and yell loudly to try to scare it away.

  • In Japan, there are several types of painkillers that are available over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription. However, the availability and dosage of certain painkillers may be different compared to other countries, and it's important to check the package insert or consult with a pharmacist before taking any medication. Here are some common painkillers available in Japan:

    Acetaminophen (パラセタモール or "paracetamol" in Japanese): This is a common painkiller and fever reducer that is available in various strengths and forms, including tablets and powders. It is also often found in combination with other medications, such as cold or flu remedies.

    Ibuprofen (イブプロフェン or "ibuprofen" in Japanese): This is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation. It is available in tablets and capsules.

    Aspirin (アスピリン or "asupirin" in Japanese): This is another NSAID that is used to relieve pain and inflammation, as well as to reduce fever and prevent blood clots. It is available in tablets and powders.

    Loxoprofen (ロキソプロフェン or "rokisopurofen" in Japanese): This is a NSAID that is used to relieve pain and inflammation, particularly in cases of arthritis and menstrual cramps. It is available in tablets and ointments.

    Mefenamic acid (メフェナム酸 or "mefenamicusan" in Japanese): This is a NSAID that is used to relieve pain and inflammation, particularly in cases of menstrual cramps. It is available in tablets and capsules.

    Again, it's important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before taking any painkiller medication.

    Brands

    There are several painkiller brands available in Japan. Here are some examples:

    Tylenol (タイレノール or "tairenooru" in Japanese): This is a brand of acetaminophen that is commonly used to relieve pain and fever.

    Bufferin (バファリン or "bafarin" in Japanese): This is a brand of aspirin that is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever.

    Advil (アドビル or "adobiru" in Japanese): This is a brand of ibuprofen that is commonly used to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation.

    Loxonin (ロキソニン or "rokisonin" in Japanese): This is a brand of loxoprofen that is commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation.

    Ponstan (ポンスタン or "ponsutan" in Japanese): This is a brand of mefenamic acid that is commonly used to relieve pain, particularly in cases of menstrual cramps.

    It's important to note that these are just a few examples, and there are other painkiller brands available in Japan as well. Additionally, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before taking any medication.

Emergency Phone Numbers in Japan

Police: 110

Ambulance/Fire/Rescue: 119