Safety Information
Japan is known for its clean cities and very low crime rates. Kyoto is no exception, and is safe for even single women travelers. Find information on police stations and hospitals here.
Emergencies
Japan is renowned for its low crime rate but in Japan as anywhere it is a good idea to take basic precautions for protection. Though Japan is still a cash-based society, carry no more cash than is necessary. To the extent that you can, use credits cards and travelers checks instead. Store your valuables at the front desk of the hotel or in a safe in your hotel room. You may want also to keep the originals of your travel documents in a safe and carry copies with you. Don't forget proof of health and travel insurance either. Remember to bring enough medication to last the duration of your stay. It may also be a good idea to register with the embassy of your country before departing for Japan.
Emergency Hospital
| Kyoto Prefectural University of Kyoto | 075-251-5111 |
| Kyoto Second Red Cross Hospital | 075-231-5171 |
| Kyoto University Hospital | 075-751-3111 |
| Kyoto First Red Cross Hospital | 075-561-1121 |
| National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center | 075-641-9161 |
| Kansai Medical University Otokoyama Hospital | 075-983-0001 |
| Meiji University of Oriental Medicine Hospital | 0771-72-1221 |
Hospitals with Foreign Language Speaking Doctors
You can also find information on hospitals with English-speaking doctors by visiting the Kyoto City International Foundation website.
Medical Services
In the event that you become ill while traveling in Kyoto, medical supplies may be purchased at one of the many local pharmacies. Hospitals, ranging from small clinics to large institutions, are also abundant in Kyoto.
Medical care in Japan is relatively expensive. Although the cost of a basic consultation is cheap (about \3,000), the costs tend to escalate with further examinations. Japanese doctors also have a tendency to over-prescribe medication. Be careful! Credit cards are rarely accepted here. If you are insured for medical care, obtain a list of acceptable overseas hospitals from your insurer. In many cases however, your hospital bills will be paid by the insurance. The TIC has lists of English-speaking doctors and hospitals in Kyoto. You can also find information on hospitals with English-speaking doctors by visiting the Kyoto City International Foundation website.
Police Box ("Koban") System
Koban are the manned police boxes located in almost every Japanese neighborhood. They are usually marked with signs in English and red lights. If you need to ask directions; report lost, found, or stolen items; or report a crime, Koban are the places to go. In the vicinity of tourist destinations they are likely to be staffed by English-speaking officers. If no English-speaking officer is on hand, the police in Koban can make use of a telephone interpreting service. Not all Koban are staffed 24 hours a day. The police can be reached at any time by calling 110 or the local numbers listed below
| Kawabata-police station | 075-251-5111 |
| Kamigyo-police station | 075-465-0110 |
| Higashiyama-police station | 075-525-0110 |
| Horikawa-police station | 075-823-0110 |
| Gojyo-police station | 075-352-0110 |
| Shichijyo-police station | 075-342-0110 |
| Shimogamo-police station | 075-703-0110 |
| Fushimi-police station | 075-602-0110 |
| Yamashina-police station | 075-575-0110 |
| Ukyo-police station | 075-865-0110 |
| Minami-police station | 075-682-0110 |
| Kita-police station | 075-493-0110 |
| Nishikyo-police station | 075-391-0110 |
