Living in Japan
Essential, always-available information for Bangladeshis living in Japan — what to dial in an emergency, what to do in an earthquake, and the basics every newcomer needs.
Emergency numbers
Police
Crime, accidents, lost items
Fire & Ambulance
Fire, medical emergencies, rescue
Coast Guard
Accidents & emergencies at sea
Disaster Message Dial
Leave / retrieve messages after a major disaster
Calls to 110 and 119 are free from any phone. If you cannot speak Japanese, say your language slowly — operators can connect an interpreter.
If an earthquake strikes
Drop, cover, hold on
Get under a sturdy table, protect your head and neck, and hold on until the shaking stops. Stay away from windows and tall furniture.
Don't rush outside
Most injuries come from falling objects. Wait for the shaking to stop. If you safely can, open a door to secure an exit.
After the shaking
Turn off gas and heat sources, put on shoes (broken glass), check on those around you, and be ready for aftershocks.
Evacuate on foot
Go to your municipality's designated evacuation site (避難所). Carry your residence card and a power bank.
Newcomer essentials
Residence card (在留カード)
Carry it at all times — it is your legal ID. Report address changes at your city/ward office within 14 days of moving.
My Number
Issued after you register your address. Needed for work, banking and tax. Keep the notification card safe.
National Health Insurance
Enrol at your city/ward office. It covers ~70% of medical costs and is required for most residents and students.
Bank account & phone
You usually need your residence card and My Number to open a bank account and sign a mobile contract.
Garbage sorting
Rules are strict and vary by municipality — separate burnable, non-burnable and recyclables, and follow the collection calendar.
Language & daily life
Many offices offer multilingual support. Translation apps and your local international association can help with paperwork.
Official resources
Need help from BSSAJ?
For community support, partner agencies and how-to guides, visit our Helpdesk — kept up to date by the BSSAJ team.
Go to Helpdesk