Emergency medical number119

Call 119 for an ambulance or fire service. Police is 110.

Food and preparation conversations

Dish names and recipes vary. These are prompts for a conversation, not a list of foods that are automatically unsafe.

Broths and seasoning

Dashi and other broths may contain fish. Soy sauce commonly contains wheat, and seasoning blends may combine several ingredients. Ask about the base of soups, noodle broths, sauces and marinades rather than checking only the toppings.

Shared preparation

Tempura, fried foods, grills and teppan surfaces may be shared. Ask specifically about fryer oil, batter, utensils and cooking surfaces. Removing a garnish after cooking does not address cross-contact.

Packaged food

Japanese allergen-labeling categories are not identical to those in the United States or United Kingdom. The Consumer Affairs Agency provides an English food-labeling guide and an official allergy communication sheet for visitors.

A sample Japanese allergy statement

Example only: sesame, peanuts and eggs

重度の食物アレルギーがあります。アレルギーの原因はごま、落花生（ピーナッツ）、卵です。

Build a card with the traveler’s exact allergens before using it.
Create the exact card

Questions to ask the restaurant

  • Can the kitchen check every ingredient, sauce, garnish and cooking oil used in this dish?
  • Is the same fryer, grill, pan, knife, board or serving utensil used for my allergen?
  • Can my meal be prepared with clean hands, clean utensils and a clean preparation area?
  • If the kitchen cannot confirm the ingredients or cross-contact controls, what unopened or simply prepared option is available?

Before you go

  • Save the Japanese card offline and also carry a printed copy.
  • Learn the Japanese characters used for each selected allergen.
  • Keep prescribed medication with you rather than in checked luggage.
  • Check the latest official travel and health guidance shortly before departure.

Official and primary sources

Links were checked during our August 12, 2026 review. Official guidance can change; inspect the current source before travel.