Japan’s safety environment
National safety context: Japan consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, with extremely low crime rates and a strong culture of public safety. This creates an environment where students can generally move freely with minimal safety concerns and makes Japan an ideal environment for international students to focus on their studies with peace of mind. However, there is the risk of crime anywhere in the world, including Japan. This page provides guidance to help you stay safe while studying at Nagoya University.
Emergency contacts and response
Emergency numbers
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Campus security guard station: 052-789-4917/2111
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Police: 110
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Fire/ambulance: 119
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Mental health crisis support: 052-788-6117
When to contact emergency services
In case you are involved in any kind of trouble or become an eyewitness to a violent act or crime, call the police immediately (Tel: 110).
If you witness any trouble on campus:
- Contact the Security Guard Station (052-789-4917 / 2111)
- Report immediately to the nearest school office
Legal compliance and prohibited activities
Compliance with Japanese law
During their stay in Japan, any student who commits a crime, misdemeanor or any other illegal act, will be subject to legal procedures according to Japanese Law. Nagoya University also takes strict disciplinary measures against staff and students who commit crimes or misdemeanors and may expel them from university.
Prohibition of narcotics
- The possession and sale, for personal use or otherwise, of all narcotics and any illegal substances are strictly prohibited
- There are so called “legal herbs” which are in fact poisonous and have caused serious damage. If offered, refuse them
- Never agree to look after a stranger’s luggage at the airport
Drinking and smoking restrictions
- People aged under 20 are not allowed to drink or smoke
- In gatherings where there are participants aged under 20, never offer them alcohol
- Nagoya city has special zones where smoking on the street is banned. If found smoking there, you will be fined
- There are many non-smoking areas on university campuses
- Driving a car, riding a motorcycle or bicycle after drinking any amount of alcohol is a serious offence in Japan. Those who accept a ride in a car that is driven by a drunk driver or those who offer alcohol to a driver are all subject to punishment under Japanese law
Prohibition of computer crime
Copying, distributing, or using movies, music or software on computer networks without the permission of copyright holder is prohibited.
See the Information and Communications Information Security page for information about online security.
Personal safety and crime prevention
Protection against theft and fraud
- Bag-snatchings have occured in Nagoya. Keep your handbag close when walking on the street
- There is the risk of theft inside and outside of buildings on campuses. Please always protect your property
- Do not answer phone calls from unknown numbers
- It is not necessary to open the door for an unknown visitor. Lock and chain the door of your apartment when you are at home
Avoiding scams and fraud
- To avoid being a victim of crimes such as fraud, illegal business practices, or stalking, do not answer advertising gimmicks and tempting campaigns
- Do not give out your personal information easily
- Trouble on the internet has increased. Be careful about buying and selling through online auctions
Suspicious invitations and groups
There may be occasions when unknown people talk to you very kindly and invite you to their parties and gatherings. Some of these groups may ask you to become a member of antisocial organizations, or to be involved in illegal works, or force you to buy expensive goods. Please be cautious about these invitations from unknown people even if they appear very kind at first.
Lost or stolen items
Immediate actions for lost items
When you lose your cash card, credit card or mobile phone and cannot find them immediately after searching:
- Contact the bank or relevant companies to proceed with the suspension of services
- Report the loss to the nearest police station or “KOBAN” (police box)
Student ID card replacement
Loss of your student ID card should be reported to the office of your school. Please apply for a new card.
Residence card replacement
To apply for reissuing a Residence Card due please see the Immigration Services Agency website.