Hakodate Living Guide
for Foreign Residents 2023

Hakodate City

Contents
Welcome to Hakodate ................................................................................................. 1
Consultation.............................................................................................................. 1
Resident Registration .................................................................................................. 4
Social Insurance Pensions ............................................................................................ 8
Tax ......................................................................................................................... 9
Renting an Apartment ............................................................................................... 10
Lifeline................................................................................................................... 11
Neighbourhood Councils ............................................................................................ 12
Waste Disposal ........................................................................................................ 13
Learning Japanese .................................................................................................... 16Child Rearing .......................................................................................................... 17
Day Nursery, Kindergarten, Registered Childcare Centers and School................................... 19
Libraries ................................................................................................................. 20
Community Centers .................................................................................................. 22
Transportation ......................................................................................................... 22
Health ................................................................................................................... 25
Medical Centers Which Can Provide Assistance in Foreign Languages ................................... 26
Help Desk............................................................................................................... 27
Dealing with Emergencies .......................................................................................... 27
International Exchange Groups.................................................................................... 29

Welcome to Hakodate
Welcome to Hakodate, an international tourism city
The purpose of this guidebook is to provide information necessary for foreigners living in
Hakodate.
If you have any problems or questions, please contact the Hakodate City Consultation Desk for
Foreign Residents (Tel. 0138-86-6065).
This guidebook is accompanied by an orientation video - please have a look.
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2020042200037/
Hakodate Overview
Hakodate is a city full of attractions such as rich nature, hot springs, historical cityscapes,
valuable cultural heritage, and delicious food.
According to surveys conducted by a private thinktank, Hakodate is frequently considered themost attractive of all Japanese cities, towns and villages.
Foreign Residents in Hakodate
In January 2023, there were 1,351 foreign residents from various countries living in Hakodate.
Hakodate City holds events to promote exchanges between foreign and Japanese residents please join in!
Information about these and other events is at https://www.hif.or.jp
Hakodate Event Information
Hakodate is blessed with four distinct seasons, and a variety of events are held in each of them.
Examples include the cherry blossoms in Goryokaku Park (spring), the Hakodate Port Festival(summer), Hakodate MOMI-G Festa (autumn leaves) and the Hakodate Christmas Fantasy.
There are many other local events that are unique to Hakodate. For more information:
https://event.hakobura.jp

Consultation◆ Foreign Residents' Assistance Desk

City Hall provides information and consultation on life in Hakodate for foreigners and their
Japanese supporters. Please visit or make contact by telephone, mail, e-mail or SNS.

Hakodate Consultation Center for Foreign Residents
Consultants speak Japanese, Chinese and English. By using video phone and translation services,
they can also provide consultation in the following languages:
한국/ภาษาไทย/Tiếngviệtnam/OrangIndonesia/Tagalog/नेपाली/Português/Espanol/Lefrançais/Deut
sch/Italiano/русский/Melayu/မြန်ြာ/ ខ្មែ រ។/Монгол/Bengali/Ukrainian
14-1 Motomachi, Hakodate
TEL 0138-86-6065
E-mail: hakodatelife@hif.or.jp
Mon-Fri 9:00-17:00 (Closed on national holidays and 12/29-1/3)

Hakodate City
International & Intercity Affairs Section, Planning Department
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 6F)
TEL 0138-21-3619
E-mail: hkd-intl@city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp
Mon-Fri 8:45-17:30 (Closed on national holidays and 12/29-1/3)
1

WeChat ID

Facebook◆ Hakodate Job Seekers’ Consultation Desk

Employment consultation and job placement
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 1F)
TEL 0138-21-3115
Mon-Fri 8:45-17:15 (Closed on national holidays and 12/29-1/3)◆ Hakodate Labour Consultation Desk (Hakodate Labour Standards Inspection Office)Consultation on troubles at the workplace
25-18 Shinkawa-cho, Hakodate (Hakodate Consolidated Municipal Government Offices Building)
TEL 0138-87-7600
Mon-Fri 8:30-17:15(Closed on national holidays and 12/29-1/3)◆ Advisory Desk for Foreign Workers (Hakodate Labour Standards Inspection Office)Consultation on troubles at the workplace (in Chinese)
25-18 Shinkawa-cho, Hakodate (Hakodate Consolidated Municipal Government Offices Building)
TEL 0138-87-7605
Every Tuesday 9:00-16:30 (Closed on national holidays and 12/29-1/3)◆ Foreign Worker Hotline

Explanation of labour laws and regulations, and referral to relevant organizations
Day*1

Language
EnglishChinesePortuguese
SpanishTagalogVietnamese
Burmese

MonFri

Nepalese

TueThuMon

Time

10:0012:00
and

TEL*2
0570-001-701
0570-001-702
0570-001-703
0570-001-704
0570-001-705
0507-001-706
0570-001-707
0570-001-708

13:00Thu15:00
Korean0570-001-709
Fri
Thai
Wed
0570-001-711
Indonesian Wed
0570-001-715
Cambodian Wed
0570-001-716
MongolianFri
0570-001-718*1 Closed on national holidays and 12/29-1/3*2 Telephone charges apply2◆ Hello Work Hakodate
Employment consultation and job placement26-6 Shinkawa-cho, Hakodate(Branch of Hakodate Consolidated Municipal Government Offices Building)
TEL 0138-26-0735
Mon-Fri 8:30-17:15 (except national holidays and 12/29-1/3)◆ Civic Life Counseling Section

4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 1F)
Counseling on personal debt problems and special counseling with legal experts

・ Consultation regarding personal debt
TEL 0138-21-3160
Hours: 8:45-17:30 from Mon-Fri (except national holidays and 12/29 - 1/3)
・ Consultation with a legal specialist
TEL 0138-21-3136
Hours: 8:45-17:30 from Mon-Fri (except national holidays and 12/29-1/3)
An appointment is required.
The appointment day depends on the nature of the consultation.

◆ Hakodate Consumer Affairs Centre

Consultation on consumer affairs
10:00-16:00 Mon-Sat
11:00-16:00 Sundays and national holidays (except 12/29-1/3)
10-25 Yanagawa-cho 6F (T.O. "Teio" Department Store)
TEL

0138-83-7441

FAX

0138-84-5524◆ Hakodate Minami Hokkaido Education Center
3-38-38 Yunokawa, Hakodate
TEL 0138-57-8251
Consultation on children’s education:
Mon-Fri 13:00-17:30 (face-to-face consultation)
Mon-Fri 8:45-17:30 (telephone consultation)(Closed on national holidays)◆ Hakodate Domestic Violence Counselling and Support Center
Consultation for domestic violence (DV).
Counselling times: Mon-Fri 8:45-17:30 (except national holidays and 12/29-1/3)
Children and Future Department, Childrearing Section
Shinonome-cho 4-13, Hakodate (City Hall 2F),
TEL

0138-21-3010

Kameda Welfare Centre
Mihara 1-26-8, Hakodate
TEL 0138-86-7100

3

For consultation on DV, the following website also provides information:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014012400480/

If consulting with theseorganisations, please confirm yourneed for an interpreter in advance.

Resident Registration◆ Moving-in Notification

When you (a foreign national with permission tostay more than 3 months) move to Hakodate, youneed to register at City Hall within 14 days. The
following documents must be submitted:
If you have moved from overseas
・ Passport
・ Residence card (or a passport in which the
Immigration Bureau has written “A residencecard will be issued later”) and a special
permanent resident certificate
If you have moved from within Japan・ Certificate of change of address issued by theCity Hall of your prior residence・ Residence card and special permanent resident certificate
・ Your “My Number” card (only if you or a family member in your household has one).
・ Basic resident registration card (only if you or a family member in your household has one)

◆ Notice of Change of Address
When you (a foreign resident) change your address within Hakodate, you need to submit a noticeof change of address within 14 days of settling into your new residence. The following documents
are necessary:・ Residence card and one of the following:o special permanent resident certificate
o Your “My Number” card (only if you or a family member in your household has one).
o Basic resident registration card (only if you or a family member in your household has one)4◆ Moving-out Notification
When you (a foreign resident) move out of Hakodate, you need to notify City Hall beforehand. The
following are necessary:・ Some valid identification, such as a residence card, special permanent residence certificate,driver’s license or passport
・ Your “My Number” card (only if you and your household have one).
・ Basic resident registration card (only if you or a family member in your household has one)
If moving to another municipality in Japan, a moving-out certificate is issued. This must be
submitted to your new City Hall within 14 days of arrival.

◆ Notification of change of relationship to the householder

If you (a foreign national) marry or divorce outside the Japanese system, and if that results in achange in the relationship to the householder on the Resident Record, you must notify City Hallwithin 14 days of the change. Please make an advance inquiry regarding supporting
documentation, since these vary with nationality, etc.
・ For residence registration done by an agent, they must bring a proxy and identification in
addition to the above documents.
・ If you don’t supply your residence card at moving in/out notifications, it is necessary to do“notification of resident place” within 14 days of your first day at the new place based on
immigration and other laws.
・ If you register yourself, you may be required to identify, with an official document, therelationship between yourself and the head of your household. Without official proof of thisrelationship, you may be registered as a ‘cohabitant’ or ‘relative’.
What is an official document proving relationships?
If you have submitted a marriage notification or a birth notification in Japan:
A certificate of acceptance of these notifications if issued by a municipal office outside
Hakodate.
If you have not submitted a marriage notification or a birth notification:
An official document issued by the public office of your country which identifies yourrelationship. If the document is not written in Japanese, attach a Japanese translation with thesignature of the translator.

◆ Issue of a copy of the Resident Record (Juminhyou)
The Resident Record is a document to notarize details about the residence of a resident.
Following the notification of resident register, residence information will be recorded on the
Resident Record.
To request a copy* of the Resident Record, fill in your address in Hakodate, name, date of birthand the name of the head of your household on a request form provided in City Hall. When you
submit the form you will need to present one of the following:a residence card, special permanent resident certificate, driver’s license, your "My Number" card,
passport or insurance identification certificate.
Copies of the Resident Record of Hakodate have two types:
・ Copy of the Resident Record with all the members of the household included.
・ Copy of the Resident Record with only one of the members of the household included.
Regardless of which type you request, you also need to decide whether the following items should
be included or not:・ Your relationship to the head of household and their name・ Your permanent domicile and the name of the head of your family register (only in the case thatJapanese persons are included in your household, and you are requesting a copy of the Resident
Record with one of the Japanese persons included.)・ Division 45 of Article 30 of the Residential Basic Book Act (an indication of a medium-to-longterm foreign resident, a special permanent resident, a person who may continue to staytransitionally in Japan, or others)5

・ Nationality / region
・ Date of expiration of stay, period of stay, and status of residence・ Number of residence card, etc.
・ History of nicknames (if applicable)
You should confirm the necessary type and the above items.
The issuance of a copy of the Resident Record costs 300 yen per copy, regardless of the type oritems included.

◆ "My Number" card
For those who wish to apply:

If you plan to apply for an extension to your period of stay or for a change in your status ofresidence in the near future, please delay your My Number application until these procedures
have been completed.

For current cardholders:
You are required to update it when you receive an extension to your period of stay.

For more information about the "My Number" card, refer to the following
website:https://www.kojinbango-card.go.jp/*Information in English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Free telephone support
For inquiries about the "My Number" system: TEL 0120-0178-26
Languages supported: English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Portugese, Thai, Nepali, Indonesian,Vietnamese and Tagalog.
11:00-20:00 Weekdays
9:30 - 17:30 Weekends and national holidays (except 12/29-1/3)
For inquiries about the "My Number" card: TEL 0120-0178-27
English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish and Portugese: 24 hours
Thai, Nepalese, Indonesian: 9:00 - 18:00
Vietnamese, Tagalog: 10:00 - 17:00*TEL

0120-0178-27 at any time to temporarily suspend your card if it is lost or stolen

Free telephone support in Japanese:
TEL 0120-95-0178◆ Registration of a BirthIf you (a foreign resident) give birth in Japan, the birth notice must be submitted to City Hallwithin 14 days. A certificate of residence will then be issued to your child as a person who may
continue to stay transitionally in Japan by birth. If you are on a tourist visa and your stay exceeds
60 days, you need to apply for Residence status within 30 days at the Immigration Bureau(Hakodate).
The following forms are required:・ Child's birth certificate
・ Your residence card
・ Your tax forms
・ Proof of employment
・ Your passport (If you don’t have a passport you should submit a form explaining why)
*Please contact the Immigration Bureau in Hakodate if you have any queries.
6In addition, the birth notice needs to be submitted to your country’s embassy or consulate.

◆ Death Notification
The death of a foreign resident needs to be reported to City Hall by the deceased’s family or
cohabitant within 7 days. Also, notification of the death needs to be submitted to the embassy or
consulate of the deceased’s country.

◆ Notification of marriage, divorce

・ Arranging marriage or divorce in Japan:
When the marriage or divorce of foreign national residents is arranged within the Japanesesystem, notification must be made at the local municipal office's family registry counter. Pleaseconfirm in advance which supporting documents are required since these vary with nationality,
age, etc.
・ Having arranged a marriage or divorce in a foreign country:
When the marriage or divorce of foreign national residents is arranged outside the Japanesesystem, notification of the marriage or divorce to City Hall is not required. However, if one
member of the couple is Japanese, the Japanese person must notify City Hall of the event.
Please confirm in advance which supporting documents are required.
Inquiries about Resident Registration
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 1F)
TEL 0138-21-3173
Inquiries about getting copies of Resident Records and "My Number" cards (including atconvenience stores):4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 1F)
Issuance of a copy of your Certificate of Residence and delivery service at convenience stores
TEL 0138-21-3168
Issuance of your "My Number" card
TEL 0138-21-3745◆ Returning your Residence Card

If you leave Japan without intending to return as a resident, your Residence Card (or Alien
Registration Card) must be handed in at the port of departure. This does not apply if you have are-entry permit.
If a foreign resident passes away, their Residence Card must be returned to the Immigration
Office within 14 days of their passing (or of the card being found after their death).

◆ Extension of period of stay, acquisition of status of residence,
qualifying residence Card, Japan Re-entry Permit, etc.
Please inquire at:
Hakodate Port Branch Office, Sapporo Immigration Bureau
5F, Hakodate Port Joint Government Bldg., 24-4 Kaigan-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-41-6922
For inquiries about the residence management system:
Immigration Department’s Residence Information Center (weekdays 8:30 - 17:15)
TEL 0570-01-3904

7

Social Insurance Pensions
Under the universal coverage system, all residents in Japan must obtain public medical insurance
and join a public pension plan.
National Health Insurance and Pension Plan Section, Citizens Affairs Department:
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 1F)
For inquiries and information on:
National Health Insurance TEL 0138-21-3150
Elderly Health Insurance TEL 0138-21-3184
National Pension Plan

TEL

0138-21-3159(1) Medical Insurance
There are three types of medical insurance plans in Japan: Social Insurance for full-time
employees, National Health Insurance for others, and a recently developed system for those over
75 years old. All residents, irrespective of nationality, should contribute to one of these plans even
if they hold private health insurance.
If you receive medical treatment without medical insurance, you must pay the fee in full. Medical
insurance covers 70% to 90% of the fee. Dental treatment is also covered. Simply present yourinsurance card when you receive medical treatment. (At some medical institutions, your "My
Number" card will suffice)Social Insurance premiums are based on your income and are automatically withheld from yoursalary. National Health Insurance premiums are based on your (or your household's) income theprevious year and your family’s make-up.
For information regarding the application process, inquire at your workplace. For information on
National Health Insurance, contact the National Health Insurance and Pension Plan Section at CityHall.
For information about Elderly Health Insurance, refer to the following homepage (English):https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/health-medical/health-insurance/index.html(2) Pensions
All residents between the ages of 20 and 59 must contribute to the National Pension
System irrespective of nationality. Enrollment is accepted at City Hall.
If you are covered by the Welfare Pension System at your workplace, it is not necessary to join
the National Pension Plan.
A social security agreement may also remove the obligation to join the National Pension Plan.
Your monthly contribution to the Welfare Pension is based on your current income andautomatically deducted from your salary. The National Pension has a fixed rate and the payment
has to be made by the insurer.
If you have satisfied all the requirements, the pension can be received at the age of 65. They also
provide a disability pension or a survivor’s pension if you have unexpected incidents causing
financial difficulties.
People who have paid in for six months or more and leave Japan are eligible to receive a lumpsum withdrawal refund.
An exemption may apply to those who cannot pay for the National Pension System depending on
their income. Also, exemptions for students and those who are receiving social welfare areavailable. Applications can be made at City Hall or the Pension Office.
For details, please check the Japan Pension Service Office’s English homepage:https://www.nenkin.go.jp/international/english/index.html

8

Tax
Japanese taxes consist of national income tax, residence taxes imposed by the prefecture and thecity, and others such as consumption tax and automobile tax. All people in Japan must pay therelevant taxes, regardless of their nationality.
(1) Income Tax
Income tax is imposed on income earned from January to December every year. For salaried
workers, it is deducted from their monthly salaries. Tax rates and taxable ranges vary according
to residence type, as well as the amount and type of income. The tax rate for non-residents(those who have lived in Japan for less than a year) is in total 20.42% (Income tax, plus a Special
Recovery levy imposed after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami). However, circumstances differ
per individual, and some people may be regarded as residents even though they have been living
in Japan for less than a year. Special conditions may apply for citizens of countries which haveconcluded tax treaties with Japan.
Business owners may also be required to file an income tax return and pay income tax.
For details, contact your employer or the tax office.
Hakodate Tax Office37-1 Nakajima-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-31-3171 (automated system, in Japanese)
http://www.nta.go.jp/english/index.htm (English)(2) Resident Tax (City tax・Prefectural tax)
Resident tax is based on the previous year’s income, and calculated by City Hall. Resident taxes
for salaried workers are directly deducted from their monthly salaries. Others should pay theirtaxes individually. Special conditions may apply for countries which have concluded tax treaties
with Japan. For details, inquire with your employer or the Finance Department of City Hall.
Resident Tax Section, Revenue Office, Finance Department
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 2F)
TEL 0138-21-3213(3) Consumption tax
A consumption tax of 10% is levied on most goods and services in Japan. Food, excluding alcoholand food that is eaten at restaurants etc., is taxed at 8%. The indicated prices of goods andservices usually include the consumption tax.
税込 means inclusive of tax.
税別 and 税抜き mean exclusive of tax.
In addition, those who run a business may need to pay consumption tax with their final tax
return. For details, contact the tax office.
Hakodate Tax Office37-1, Nakajima-cho, Hakodate City
TEL 0138-31-3171 (automated system, in Japanese)(4) Automobile tax and 'kei car' tax:
This tax is imposed on automobile owners. There are two kinds: one which applies to 'normal'
automobiles and one which applies to light ('kei') automobiles.

9Inquiries about 'normal' automobile tax:
Automobile Tax Department, Sapporo Prefectural Tax Office(queries about taxation and change of address)
Kita 22-jo, Nishi 2-chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo
TEL 011-746-1190 (tax)TEL

011-746-1197 (change of address)

Tax Payment Section, Regional Promotion Department, Oshima Subprefectural Bureau
4-6-16, Mihara, Hakodate
TEL 0138-47-9448
Inquiries about 'kei' automobile tax:
Residents Tax Section, Revenue Office,Finance Department
4-13, Shinonome-cho (City Hall 2F)
TEL 0138-21-3207

Renting an Apartment
When renting private rental housing, contact a real-estate agent. It is a good idea to decide yourpreferences in advance. In many cases, you will need to have five to six months' rent ready whensigning a lease contract.

◆ How to find/rent accommodation(1) How to find
You can begin by looking at property ads posted at the front of real estate agents, in magazines
or online. This can give you a feel for what is available in the area you want, and how much it
costs.
Then, go to a real estate agency (fudosan-ya) in the area you want to live in. They will show you
a list of available properties based on your preferences (size, rent and so on). If you are an
exchange student, you may also consult with the student affairs office at your university.
(2) How to rent
When renting a house or apartment, you sign a lease contract called chintai keiyaku (賃貸契約).
The contract period is usually two years.
10Lifeline(1) Electricity
Power voltage in Eastern Japan is 100V AC / 50Hz, and 100V AC / 60Hz in Western Japan. Almost
all modern appliances are compatible with both systems.
From April 2016 the retail electricity market was liberalised and you now have many choices.
Hokkaido Electric Power Co., Inc.
25-15 Chitose-cho, Hakodate
http://www.hepco.co.jp/english/index.html (English)
For fees and contracts: Hokuden Contract Center
TEL 0120-12-6565
For repairs:

Hakodate Branch Office
TEL 0138-22-4112(2) Water
The City Waterworks Bureau provides water and sewerage services in Hakodate. The tap water isdrinkable.
Hakodate City Website「Water Supply and Sanitation・hot springs・baths」
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/bunya/jougesuido/
Inquiries about fees and contracts:
・ Hakodate Water Customer Centre (run by Dai Ichi Kankyou Kabushiki Gaisha)
Hakodate City Enterprise Department
5-14 Suehiro-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-27-8731
・ Hakodate Water Customer Center Eastern Branch (run by Dai Ichi Kankyou Kabushiki Gaisha)156-1 Shinhama-cho, Hakodate (Todohokke Branch of Hakodate City Hall)TEL 0138-86-3533● Frozen water pipes and other problems
Water pipes can freeze in winter in Hakodate; even indoor water pipes supplying instantaneous
water heaters, boilers, toilets, showers, etc. To prevent this from happening, be aware of theminimum temperature and make a practice of draining water from pipes every night or during
long absences.
To drain water from water pipes, turn the tap on fully, and close the water supply valves while thewater is running. To drain water from water heaters, boilers, etc., do not forget to discharge
water from the drain valve after closing the water supply valve.
If your pipes freeze, call a city-designated waterworks repair shop, or the Waterworks Repair
Center at 0138-83-2661 (819-6 Nishi Kikyo-cho, Hakodate) and ask for a referral to a nearby
repair shop.
● Clogged drainpipes (toilet, kitchen, bathroom, etc.)
If clogging occurs in underground pipes laid on public land, call the Sewage Management Center(10-22 Kanabori-cho, Hakodate) on 0138-31-7211.
If clogging occurs in pipes laid on private land (e.g. next to a house), it is the resident's
responsibility. Call a city-designated repair shop or the Sewage Management Center (10-22
Kanabori-cho, Hakodate) on 0138-31-7211.

11

A list of city-designated repair shops is on Hakodate-City’s web page:https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014021200231/(3) GasThere are two types of gas provided for household use; city gas (natural gas) and LP gas(propane). Hokkaido Gas, (Kita Gasu), provides city gas and LP gas vendors provide LP gas. Make
sure that your appliances are compatible with the type of gas that is used in your residence. Using
incompatible gas in your appliances is dangerous.

Inquiries about city gas:
Hokkaido Gas Co., Ltd.
8-1 Bandai-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-41-3175
https://www.hokkaido-gas.co.jp/english/*For your nearest LP gas vendors, please ask your neighbors or your landlord.

Neighbourhood Councils
Japan has a system of town and community councils in which residents do various activities
together in order to promote a safe and comfortable living environment. For example, they
circulate folders which contain information from the local government (a kairanban 回覧板),
maintain street lighting, conduct safety patrols, hold festivals and other events, and organise littercollection days. These activities are funded by money contributed by the residents.
If you join your local community council (chonaikai 町内会) you can contribute to these activities
and connect with your neighbours. By doing this, you can more easily support each other if there
is an emergency or natural disaster. Membership is voluntary. To join, visit your local community
council or apply at Hakodate City's homepage.
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/inquiry-chokai/46/
Even if you don't speak much Japanese it is a meaningful way to connect with your neighbours.
Hakodate City residents section

4-13, Shinonome-cho (City Hall 4F)
TEL 0138-21-3139
FAX

0138-23-7173

E-mailHakodate City Neighbour Council Union

shiminsekatsu@city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp
Wakamatsu cho 33-6 (General Welfare Centre 3F)
TEL 0138-22-0180
FAX

0138-22-0185

E-mail hakodateshi-choren@lime.plala.or.jp
Membership information:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2016012600037/

12

Waste Disposal
Household garbage is separated into six categories.
<Burnable>, <Unburnable>, <Plastic Packages & Containers>, and <Cans, Glass Bottles and PET
Bottles> garbage must be put out on the designated day of collection in a city-designated garbagebag*.
<Burnable> and <Unburnable> garbage must be put in a city-designated garbage bag* or have acity-issued garbage disposal coupon* attached to it. Because <Plastic Packages & Containers>and <Cans, Glass Bottles and PET Bottles> are recycled, they are collected without charge. Thesecan be put in a normal plastic bag.
* These can be purchased at supermarkets and convenience stores
Check the collection schedule for your neighbourhood on the Garbage Calendar distributed by City
Hall.
<Bulk Garbage> is collected by appointment. Please call the number below for the collection
schedule and fees.
<Batteries> can be put into collection boxes at block association halls (choukaikan 町会館), branch offices of City
Hall and other public facilities.
There are collection centres for unburnable waste (household electronic appliances including
mercury-based lights) throughout the city. This is a free service.
Hakodate City Environment Department
Cleaning Section
26-2 Hinode-cho, Hakodate
Environment Promotion Section 1F Chateau Omori, 21-12 Omori-cho, Hakodate
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/soshiki/kankyoh_dept/

Inquiries about garbage collection:
Recycling Section
TEL 0138-51-0796
Garbage Calendar main page (in Japanese)
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014012100458/
Garbage separation and disposal guides
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014011600737/
Garbage disposal guide - Hakodate, Yunokawa area
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014011600737/files/hako_tebiki.pdf
Garbage disposal guide - Toi, Esan, Todohokke, Minami Kayabe
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014011600737/files/tebiki_4sisyo.pdf
Household garbage separation guide
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014012100816/files/bunbetujiten.pdf
Smartphone application:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2020042100047/<Bulk Garbage> collection
Cleaning Operation Section
TEL 0138-51-5163
For enquiries regarding the recycling of small household electronic appliances, andfluorescent lighting, contact:
Hakodate City Environment Department's Environment Promotion Section
TEL 0138-85-8236
13

<Recycling of small household electronic appliances>https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014082700015/<Disposal of mercury-based flurescent lighting>https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2018031200014/
・Recycling logos<Plastic Packages & Containers><Cans, Glass Bottles & PET bottles>

Garbage collected by the city
Classification

ArticlesCollection Schedule & Method<Burnable>
Kitchen waste,
paper*,
wood,
clothing,
plastic

Leftover food, tissue paper, paper
cups, paper diapers, wooden
pieces (<50 x 10 cm),
fallen leaves or branches,
clothes, bedding, shoes, video
tapes, CDs, DVDs, bowls,
disposable lighters, etc.

Twice a week. See the garbage collection
calendar for your neighbourhood.
Purchase and use designated garbage
bags (pink). Oversized garbage shouldhave agarbagedisposal
couponattached to it.
(one per item)
Once a fortnight. See the garbage
calendar for your area. Purchase and use
designated garbage bags (green).
Oversized garbage should have a garbage
disposal
couponattached to it.
(one per item)(smaller than 50cm)* Recycle where
possible - see
explanation below.

<Unburnable>
Ceramics,
glass
plastic(>50cm in length ordiameter)OthersTrays, glasses, cups, plates,
broken glass, plastic sleds,
chests, kitchen knives, portable
stoves, spray cans, cans smaller
than 20 cm, vacuum cleaners etc.
Ensure that cassette gas cylinders
and spray cans are empty. Don’tpuncture them.

<Plastic Packages& Containers>
Plastic containers,
caps,
plastic bags,
wraps,
trays, packages,
containers
aluminumcompound materials

Shampoo and detergent
containers, bottle caps,
confectionery and food bags, foodtrays, instant noodle containers,
egg containers, instant curry
packages, etc.

Once a week. See the garbage calendar
for your area.

Plastic items have this mark:Put the items in a clear plastic bag or asupermarket shopping bag.

<Cans, Glass
Bottles & PET
bottles>

Cans smaller than 20 cm, bottles,
PET bottles.

Once a fortnight. See the garbage
calendar for your area.
Rinse with water, remove cap and label.
Dirty cans and bottles are “unburnable”
garbage.
Put the items in a clear plastic bag or asupermarket shopping bag.

PET bottles have this mark:

14

Please empty and clean containers. If theycannot be cleaned completely, put themout as burnable garbage.

<Bulk Garbage>
Furnitureoversized items

Desks, wardrobes, chests,
cupboards, sofas bicycles, heaters
with chimneys, etc.

Cleaning Operation Section TEL 0138 515163.
Purchase a garbage disposal coupon,
attach it to each item and put it out on
the appointed day.

<Batteries>

Manganese batteries, alkaline
batteries

Collected at collection boxes placed atblock association halls, branch offices ofcity hall or another public facility. (free ofcharge)*Rechargeable batteries and button
batteries are collected at stores for free.

Recyclable materials collection
Newspapers, magazines, paper bags, boxes and trays, cardboard boxes, milk cartons etc arecollected once a month by various organisations in the community. There are specific ways of
preparing each of the items; see the website below.
Collection information:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2021120800033/
Hakodate City Environment Department's Environment Promotion Section
TEL: 0138-85-8238

Garbage not collected by the city
Hakodate City does not collect some types of garbage, such as the four main types of household
appliances (air conditioners, televisions, refrigerators/freezers, and washing machines/clothes
driers), as well as computers and their peripherals.
Classification

ArticlesToxic substances

Dangerous drugs, agrichemicals

Disposal Method

Explosives
and Inflammables

Compressed gas cylinders,kerosene, gasoline,
thinner, fire extinguishers, etc.

Automobiles, boats
and their parts

Auto bodies, tires, batteries, mufflers, bumpers, FRP boats
and ships, outboard motors, etc.

Electric appliances

Air conditioners, TV, refrigerators, washing machines

Computers and related
appliances

Personal computers, printersandother appliances

Garbage in enormous
quantity

Garbage at the time of moving out and general housecleaning

15

Call the Recycling
Section for information.
TEL 0138-51-0796

Others

Fireproof safes,
microwave cookers,
pianos, metal barrels,
kerosene tanks larger
than 90 litres, etc.

Needles andother sharp objects

Injection needles fordiabetes or other medical
uses

Return to the hospitalthat issued theprescription.

Designated garbage bags and stickers are available at supermarkets,convenience stores and other relevant shops.

Learning JapaneseCity Hall offers free Japanese language classes to all, regardless of nationality and age.
Courses:

Mondays
Thursdays

Sundays

18:45 - 20:00
18:45 - 20:00
9:45 - 11:00
11:15 - 12:30
11:15 - 12:30
18:45 - 20-00
10:30 - 11:45

Beginner
Elementary 1
Reading and writing
Beginner
Elementary 1
Elementary 2
Elementary 1

The above courses and times are tentative and may change depending on the number ofapplicants. Check the website for the latest information:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014012300605/
Each course has 33 lessons per year (May - March with a short summer and winter break).
Location:

Seinen (Youth) Center
27-5 Chiyogadai-cho, Hakodate

Inquiries (English/Japanese):Japanese Teaching Society – Hakodate
TEL 090-2697-4630
E-mail: keivivace@nifty.com
Hokkaido International Foundation
TEL 0138-22-0770 FAX 0138-22-0660
E-mail:info@hif.or.jp
Free Japanese online courses:
・ JF Japanese E-learning Minato
https://minato.jf.jp
・ Connect and Enhance Your Life in Japanese https://tsunagarujp.bunka.go.jp

16Child Rearing(1)Childbirth, health checks, inoculation

・ Maternal and Child Health Handbooks
Please submit a certificate of pregnancy issued by the maternity hospital. You will then receive
two handbooks in which your and your baby’s health information will be recorded. This will also
entitle you to a subsidy on future diagnoses.
・ Health Checkup
Hakodate city provides free health checkups for infants.
Eligibility:

4 months (i.e. between 4 and 5 months old)
10 months (between 10 and 11 months old)
1-and-a-half years (between 18 months and 23 months old)
3 years old (until the child’s 4th birthday)

Location:

City Health Center 2F.
23-1 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate

・ Routine vaccinations (parents must ensure that their children receive them)
An Inoculation Handbook is mailed about a month after birth. If you do not receive it, you can get
information for children who have not been vaccinated (in accordance with the following schedule)
from the Maternal and Child Health Section.
Types ofinoculation

Qualifying Age

Rotavirus

Between 6 and 24 weeks(first shot between 2 months and
14 weeks 6 days)
Between 6 and 32 weeks(first shot between 2 months and
14 weeks 6 days)
2 months - 5th birthday

2 shots(Rorarix)
3 shots(RotaTeq)

Hib

No. ofshots
2
3
4

Pneumococcus
Hepatitis B

before 1st birthday

3

BCG Vaccination

Between 3-11 months(5 - 8 months desirable)

1

DKTP vaccine(diphtheria,
pertussis/kinkhoest,
tetanus, and polio)

1st: between 6 months and 7 1/2
years old
2nd: between 11th and 13thbirthdays(diphtheria and tetanus)

4

Measles and Rubella

1st: Between 1st and 2ndbirthdays
2nd: Between 5th and 7thbirthdays (the year before
entering elementary school)
Between 1st and 3rd birthdays

1

Chicken Pox

17

Location

1

1
2

DesignatedMedical Offices
Appointment byphone
necessary (inJapanese).
Please contact
the Maternaland Child Health
Section or check
the City Hall
homepage toconfirm if the
Inoculation
Handbook isrequired.

RemarksJapanese encephalitis

1st round: Between 6 months and7 1/2 years
2nd round: between 9 and 13
years

3
1

Exception:
Children born before 1 Apr 2007
will complete both rounds of shots
before they turn 20.

Cervical cancer

6th year elementary school to 1styear high school (females)

3

Exception:
Girls born between 2 April 1997
and 1 April 2006 who have notreceived three previous shots are
eligible until 31 March 2025.

*The details of routine vaccinations are subject to change due to amendments to national laws
and regulations. For the latest information, refer to the website below or contact the Maternal andChild Health Section:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014012400794/(in Japanese)

Questions regarding health checks & inoculations
Child Future Bureau, Maternal and Child Health Section
23-1 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate (City Health Center 1F)
TEL 0138-32-1533(2)Children's medical expense subsidy system

Hakodate City subsidises the cost of children's treatment at
medical institutions. In order to receive a subsidy, you need toapply for a card.
Application
1. A child is eligible for a subsidy until they graduate fromsenior high school (until the first 31st of March following
their 18th birthday)
2. The subsidy is for hospitalisation (inpatient and outpatientcare), medical treatment, home visits by nurses, andequipment expenses. Exceptions apply.
3. In order to apply, you need your health insurance card.
For more information:
Child Medical Expenses Subsidy Section, Child Future Bureau
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 2F)
TEL 0138-21-3181(3)Child Allowance

When a foreigner who is registered as a resident has a child who also resides in Japan, they are
qualified to receive a child allowance.
18

Application
1. When a foreign resident has moved to Hakodate or gives birth here, they are asked tosubmit an application for certificate of child allowance within 15 days of the birth or move.
The allowance will be paid from the following month. A seal (or a signature), the recipient's
bankbook and their health insurance card are necessary. Those who have moved in fromwithin Japan are required to show their "My Number" card or notification card.
2. Changes of address or name have to be reported within 15 days. For changes to bankaccounts, a copy of the recipient's bankbook is necessary.
3. Changes in the number of registered children (by birth, death or change in residence status)
have to be reported within 15 days.
4. Moving out of Hakodate or leaving Japan
When a foreign resident moves out of Hakodate or leaves Japan, notice of discontinuationof the child allowance must be submitted prior to moving or departing.
For more information:
Hakodate City Welfare Office, Parenting Support Section, Child Future Bureau
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 2F)
TEL 0138-21-3267

Day Nursery, Kindergarten,
Registered Childcare Centers andSchool(1)

Day Nursery

Day nurseries (hoikuen) take care of children who have no guardians during the day. Day
nurseries generally accept infants aged 57 days up to 6 years.
For information:
Hakodate Child Future Bureau Child Planning Section
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 2F)
TEL 0138-21-3270
Esan Office (Tsutsuji nursery)
127 Hinohama-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-85-2335
19

Minamikayabe Office (Minamikayabe's authorised child centre)
1520 Kakkumi-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-25-6045
Important information about applying for placement at a hoikuen:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2017051700061/(2)

Kindergartens and the kindergarten part of registered childcare
centers

Kindergartens (Yochien) are for preschoolers from age 3. No restrictions areplaced upon entrance. For applications, please contact them directly.

https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2016061500135/*Registered childcare centres function as both day nurseries andkindergartens, so children can attend after they turn 3 regardless of the employment status of
their parents.
Information about Hakodate City’s yochiens:
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014031700271/ (in Japanese)(3)

Education

Basically, the Japanese education system consists of elementary school (6 years), junior highschool (3 years), senior high school (3 years) and university (4 years). There are also integrated
schools and special training institutions that offer elementary and junior high education, technicalcolleges, and junior colleges. Japanese children are required to attend elementary and junior highschool, however foreign nationals are not. The academic year extends from April to the end of
March.
① Elementary School, Junior High School and Compulsory Education Schools
The schools that students attend is determined by the area in which they live. Tuition andtextbooks are free for municipal schools, but school lunch is not. If you have a child or children,
the Hakodate Board of Education will contact you in order to start the enrollment process. There isalso guidance to help foreign students adjust to school life. Contact the Hakodate Board of
Education for information on enrollment in elementary, junior high and compulsory schools.
School Education Section, Board of Education
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 5F)
TEL 0138-21-3553
School Education Section, Board of Health and School Lunch
4-13 Shinonome-cho, Hakodate (City Hall 5F)
TEL 0138-21-3546② High School
Hakodate has 1 municipal, 6 prefectural and 8 private high schools. An entrance examination has
to be taken for entering or transferring to high schools. Please contact them directly.

Libraries
How to get a library card
A library users card allows you to borrow from any library in Hakodate.
When you apply for a card, some personal identification, showing youraddress in Hakodate, is necessary.
20Hakodate Central Library (Hakodate Chuo Toshokan)
It has more than 400,000 general books and more than 80,000 children’s books in its collection
and is the largest library in Hakodate. There are self-study spaces as well as training rooms. It isa library for children, school students and adults.
Details of services:book, magazine and CD lending. Picture story reading, movie etc.
screening rooms.
Address:
26-1 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate 040-0001
Access:By City Bus: alight at Chuo Toshokan Mae
By Streetcar: Goryokaku Koen Mae. It is a 15-minute walk.
Opening hours: 9:30 - 20:00
Closed every Wednesday, and the last Friday of the monthTEL:
0138-35-5500
Suburban Libraries:
Chitose Library
Address:
15-10 Chitose-cho, Hakodate 040-0033
Access:By City Bus: There are various routes. Alight at Shinkawa-cho.
By Streetcar: Shinkawa-cho. It is a 5-minute walk.
TEL:
Opening hours:
Minato Library
Address:
Access:TEL:
Opening hours:

0138-23-9811
10:00 - 17:00
Closed every Monday, the third Friday of the month and public holidays.
1-7, 2 chome, Minato-cho, Hakodate 041-0821, 2nd floor
Various City Bus routes. Alight at Higashi Minato.
0138-43-8211
10:00 – 17:00
Closed every Monday, the third Friday of the month and Public Holidays

Yunokawa Library
Address:
13-40, 2 chome, Yunokawa-cho, Hakodate 042-0932
2nd floor, Yunokawa Branch Office of Hakodate City Hall
Access:Various City Bus routes. Get off at Yunokawa Chugakko Mae. It’s a 3-minutewalk.
By Streetcar: Yunokawa. It is a 10-minute walk.
TEL:
0138-57-4120
Opening hours: 10:00 – 17:00
Closed every Monday, the third Friday of the month and public holidays
Asahioka Library
Address:
12-51, 2 chome, Asahioka-cho, Hakodate 042-0915
2nd floor, Asahioka 2 chome housing complex
Access:Various City Bus routes. Alight at Asahioka Danchi. It is a 5-minute walk.
TEL:
0138-50-2340
Opening hours: 13:00 – 17:00
Closed every Monday, the third Friday of the month and public holidays
Kikyo Book Delivery Center
Address:
1-18, 4 chome, Kikyo, Hakodate 041-0808
Inside the Kikyo Welfare Exchange Centre
Access:Various City Bus routes. Alight at Kikyo Fukushi Koryu Center Mae. It is a
3-minute walk.
TEL:
0138-47-1510
Opening hours: 13:00 – 16:45 (Open from 10:00 on Saturdays and during Elementary
Schools' spring, summer and winter holidays).
Closed every Monday, the third Friday of the month and Public Holidays

21Community Centers
Hakodate Machi Tsukuri Center(Hakodate Community Design Center)
Provides tourist information, supports citizen exchanges
and activities, NPOs etc, as well as providing general
local information. The center also supports the Hakodate
local scene and town development.
Address: 19–4 Suehiro-cho, Hakodate 040-0053
TEL:
0138-22-9700
FAX:
0138-22-9800
E-mail:info@hakomachi.com
Hakodate City Women’s Centre
There is a variety of walking tours, and courses on computers, cooking, and so on for everyone(men and women). A number of groups, such as handicrafts and dance are based at the center.
Address: 12–11 Shinkawa-cho, Hakodate 040-0042
TEL:
0138-23-4188
FAX:
0138-23-4189
E-mail:info@hakodate-josen.com
Hakodate Seinen Center (Hakodate Youth Center)
Holds classes on cooking, ceramics etc. Various groups and circles such as dance, sign language,
drama, and sports hold activities at the center.
Address: 5–27 Chiyogadai–cho, Hakodate 040-0013
TEL:
0138-51-3390
FAX:
0138-51-3395
E-mail:info@hako-youth.com

Transportation
The main means of transportation in Hakodate are streetcars, buses, cars and bicycles.

◆ Streetcar (shi-den)

The streetcar system is operated by the City and iscalled "shiden". Its routes cover tourist areas such as
the Seibu-chiku, Goryokaku and Yunokawa. Streetcars
operate at 7-minute intervals and are convenient fordaily life in the city. A placard with phrases near thefront helps you communicate with the driver.
Advance purchase of tickets is not necessary. Board
through the central entrance at a streetcar stop (dentei).
If you plan to pay with cash, take a numbered boarding
ticket from the ticket machine by the entrance. If you
want to pay by IC card, hold it in front of the card reader.
Press the "stop" button on the window frame or ceiling when your intended stop is announced.

22

Pay as you exit. Fares for the route are displayed on the fare board near the exit. Your fare isunder the number corresponding to the number on your ticket. Put your ticket and coins in thefare box. Deposit the exact amount since the fare box gives no change. If you want to pay by IC
card, place the card on the reader. The fare and remaining credit will be displayed.
Valid IC card types include: ICAS nimoca, Kitaca, PASMO, Suica, manaca, TOICA, PiTaPa, ICOCA,
Hayakaken and SUGOCA.
Children not yet in elementary school are half price (rounded up to the nearest 10 yen) andinfants under 1 ride for free. However, for each guardian, one child older than one but not yet
enrolled in an elementary school can ride for free. People who wish to pay for children underelementary school age with their IC card may do so by informing the driver before they pay.
Enquiries about streetcars:
Hakodate City Enterprise Department Transportation Section
15-1 Komaba-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-52-1273
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/bunya/hakodateshiden/◆ Bus

Hakodate Bus Corporation operates regular bus services in
the city. There are a number of routes so please checkbefore boarding. The destination and route number are
indicated at the front and on the side of the bus. Enter via
the center doors and exit from the front. The use of IC
cards is the same as for streetcars.
Bus stops at which you can transfer to another bus include
Hakodate Station, Goryokaku, in front of the Gas
Company, Fukabori cho, Yukura Shrine, Hanazono cho,
Kameda Branch Office, and T.O. ("Teio") Department
Store.
Hakodate Bus Corporation, Hakodate Service Office10-1 Takamori-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-51-3137
http://www.hakobus.co.jp/

IC Card: about the ICAS nimoca:
The ICAS nimoca IC card system allows you to get discounted travel on
Hakodate streetcars and buses, and other transport systems
throughout Japan. They can also be used to make purchases atconvenience stores and so on.
As you use your ICAS nimoca card on Hakodate streetcars you canaccumulate points, and get a discount on future travel.
A card costs 2,000 yen (including a 500 yen deposit), and it can berecharged an unlimited number of times. They are sold onboard
Hakodate buses and streetcars, at the bus centre in front of Hakodate
Station, Marui Imai department store, and other places.

Enquiry about ICAS nimoca:
Hakodate City Enterprise Department Transportation Section
15-1 Komaba-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-52-1273
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/bunya/hakodateshiden/23

Hakodate Bus Company, Hakodate Station Bus Center
12-11 Wakamatsu-cho, Hakodate
TEL 0138-22-8111
http://www.hakobus.co.jp/◆ Car
International Driver’s License
Holders of an international driver’s license that was issued by a country
that abides by the Geneva Convention and follows the formalitiesprescribed by Geneva Convention are allowed to drive in Japan for up to
one year from the day of arrival.

Changing to a Japanese driver’s license
Holders of a foreign-issued driver’s license who plan on staying long-term in Japan may apply fora Japanese license. Those with limited Japanese language skills should be accompanied by aninterpreter when applying. Please call before you go.
For inquiries or information
Hakodate Driver and Vehicle Licensing Center
TEL 0138-46-2007https://www.police.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/00ps/hakodatehonbu/kakuka/600_koutuu/646_kirikae/64
6_kirikae.html◆ Bicycle
If you own a bicycle, you are required to register it for crime prevention. This costs 650 yen andcan be done at any bicycle shop. In addition, due to the recent increase in bicycle-related crashes,
you should also purchase some third-party insurance. This is available at many locations,
including convenience stores, and only costs about 300 yen/month.
Five laws for safe cycling:
1. In principle, you should ride on the road (not the footpath), and keep to the left. If you rideon the footpath, pedestrians have right of way.
2. At intersections, obey traffic lights and stop signs, and proceed with caution.
3. Front and rear lights must be turned on at night.
4. Never ride after drinking alcohol.
5. Wear a helmet.

24

Health◆ Hospital Visits

Always carry your health insurance card when visiting a hospital.
To locate a hospital, consult a telephone directory, the Internet or ask your neighbors.
Emergency Care Information Center
https://www.qq.pref.hokkaido.jp/qq/qq01.asp(English, Chinese, and Korean)◆ Cancer Screening

Cancer Screening is conducted as follows:

Type ofCancerStomachCancer
Gastric
cancerLung
CancerAge

Subjects

35 and older

Interview, Barium
X-ray of stomach

1,000 yen

50 and over*

Medical history
andgastrointestinalendoscopy.
Interview,
X-ray of the chest,
sputum exam
Interview,
fecal occult blood
test

3,000 yen

40 and older
40 and older

Colon
CancerBreastCancerUterineCancerFemales
aged 40 andover *
Females
aged 20 andover *

Fee

Interview,
ocular inspection,
palpation,
mammography

100 yen (X-ray only)
600 yen (X-ray &sputum exam.)
1,000 yen(designated medical
office)500 yen (masscheckup)

Location
Designated medical
offices, General HealthCare Center & otherdesignated venues
Designated medical
offices
General Health Care
CenterDesignated medical
offices,
General Health Care
CenterDesignated medical
offices

1,800 yenInterview,
ocular/ internal
inspections,cytologicalexaminations

1,500 yen (cervical
only)
2,200 yen (cervicaland uterine )Designated medical
offices*People born in an even year (Western calendar) are eligible during even years and vice versa.
For inquiries and applications:
Health Promotion Section, Health & Welfare Department
23-1 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate General Health Care Center 3F
TEL 0138-32-1532

25

Medical Centers Which Can Provide
Assistance in Foreign Languages
Tel.

Languages
spokenCommunicationlevel

041-8680
1-10-1 Minato-cho,
Hakodate

0138-43-2000

EnglishDaily conversation
ability

040-8585
33-2 Hon-cho,
Hakodate

0138-52-1231

EnglishDaily conversation
ability

Hakodate
Goryokaku
Hospital

040-8611
38-3 Goryokaku-cho,
Hakodate

0138-51-2295

EnglishDaily conversation
ability

Hakodate
Shintoshi
Hospital

041-0802331-1 Ishikawa-cho,
Hakodate

0138-46-1321

English,RussianDaily conversation
ability

Hakodate
Neurosurgery
Hospital

041-0832
1-4-12 Kamiyama,
Hakodate

0138-53-6111

EnglishDaily conversation
ability

Goryokaku
Miyazaki Sei
Internal
Medicine Clinic

040-0011
20-14 Hon-cho,
Hakodate

0138-32-7008

EnglishFluentIsobe Dental
Clinic041-0812
4-34-10 Showa,
Hakodate

0138-43-2770

EnglishFluentKonishi Internal
Medicine andCardiovascular
Clinic040-0053
3-15 Suehiro cho,
Hakodate

0138-83-2080

EnglishFluentFujioka Eye
Clinic040-0802450-2 Ishikawa cho,
Hakodate

0138-34-5550

EnglishFluentClinic name
Hakodate
Hospital
Hakodate
Central Hospital

AddressIf you get sick or injured, it is usual to go to a clinic first. If the doctor deems it necessary, they
will refer you to a larger hospital (Hakodate Hospital, Hakodate Central Hospital or Goryokaku
Hospital). It may not be possible to see a doctor without a referral, so please check in advance. If
you can see a doctor without a referral, it may cost more and take more time.
Many hospitals and clinics do not accept credit cards, so be sure to take cash.

26

Help Desk
Interpreting support for foreigners who need urgent medical assistance (Hotline)

090-2694-7985 (24 hours)
In order to help foreign residents and foreign tourists to have a safe visit, Hakodate City has
established a 24-hour telephone hotline for those who need emergency medical care or otherassistance. The hotline operator assesses the caller's situation then assigns an interpreter.
Currently, support is available in 8 languages: English, Chinese (Mainland and Taiwanese),
Korean, Russian, Tagalog, Burmese and French)*The operator can speak English and Japanese.

Dealing with Emergencies
Emergency Phone Numbers■ [110] Police■ [119] Fire, ambulance, rescue■ [118] Coast Guard
You can call [110], [119], and [118] for free from public telephones. If you do not have a phone,or if you have a smartphone but no SIM card to access the cellular network, please check thelocation of the nearest public phone.
If your phone has a data-only SIM card, you can make emergency calls by downloading an IP
phone app and an emergency call app.

◆ Traffic Accidents
Call [110].

◆ Theft

Call [110] or go to a police station.

◆ Medical assistance at night

If you become ill or injured at night but do not require an ambulance, go to the Hakodate Night
Emergency Center:
Hours: 19:30-24:00 (midnight)
Clinical department: internal medicine, pediatrics, and surgery
23-1 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate
Tel 0138-30-1199*You should visit a regular clinic or hospital in the daytime if possible.
■ How to call 119. (What you should say)・ Whether a fire, ambulance or rescue.
・ The location (the address and/or name of a nearby building)・ Details. In the case of a fire, what is burning; in the case of an ambulance, who is injured andwhat kind of injuries they have sustained.
・ Your name, your phone number. After the phone call has ended please do not turn off yourmobile phone - they may call you back.
・ When you hear the ambulance or fire engine, try to attract the driver's attention.

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*The Fire Department offers an interpreting service in English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese,
Spanish, Thai, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Indonesian, Nepalese, German, French, Italian, Russian,
Malaysian, Burmese, Khmer, Mongolian, Sinhalese, Hindi and Bengali. This is available 24 hours aday, 365 days a year.
*Please be aware that if you call 119 on a mobile phone, your call may be connected to a fire
department outside Hakodate.

◆ If you need interpreting assistance
Please call the interpreting helpdesk. There is more information on p27.
Prepare an emergency backpack containing the following:Food:
One 500ml bottle of drinking water per family member, portable food (biscuits, chocolate,cans ...)
Information:
Portable radio, batteries, smartphone charger, spare battery, etc.
Everyday items:
Plastic bags, disposable heat packs, nappies, baby formula
Current medicine, knife, can opener, toilet paper, tissues, wet tissues
Dentures, contact lens, glasses, flashlight , some cash, insurance and other important
documents
Towel, blanket, underwear, socks, personal sanitary items (mask, disinfectant, body
thermometer), sanitary napkins, a magic marker, slippers● Safety tips
This free app is designed to convey important information to foreign visitors in the event of anatural disaster. It is available in English, Chinese (traditional or simplified), Korean andJapanese.
For Android users:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.co.rcsc.safetyTips.android
For iOS users:
https://itunes.apple.com/jp/app/safety-tips/id858357174?mt=828

International Exchange Groups
There are various interest groups in Hakodate; we introduce the most active foreign exchangegroups here.
Please refer to the following link for more information on other groups in Hakodate.
http://www.hif.or.jp/organization/

Hokkaido International Foundation (HIF)
Contact

Representative: Kohji Iida

Contact
details

14-1 Motomachi, Hakodate 040-0054
TEL: 0138-22-0770
E-Mail: info@hif.or.jp
http://www.hif.or.jp

Activities

Programs for exchange students: Japanese Language and Japanese Culture
Program, Summer Cultural Exchange etc.
Events, seminars and lectures to promote foreign exchange and cultural
togetherness, etc.

Japanese Teaching Society - Hakodate
Contact
Contact
details
Activities

President: Katsuko Takahashi
TEL: 090-8370-3556
E-mail: jts.jimukyoku@gmail.com
http://takako9.wixsite.com/nihongo-jts
Japanese language classes in Hakodate
Japanese Salon (every Saturday)
Various exchange events, walking tours of Mt. Hakodate, potluck parties etc.

Hakodate Japan-China Friendship Association
Contact
Contact
details
Activities

President: Kenji Matsumiya
2-15 Bandai-cho, Hakodate 040-0075
TEL: 0138-40-2633
Exchange meetings and parties with Chinese students
Japan China Friendship Newspaper “Japan and China"
Chinese language classes, Chinese cooking classes etc.

Korean Residents' Union in Japan Hakodate BranchContact
Contact
details

Activities

President: Jo Gye Do
16-3 Ote-machi, Hakodate 040-0064
TEL: 0138-22-6411
http://www.mindan.org/
Exchanges with Korean students.
Korean language classes
Supporting exchange activities with our sister city Goyang.
Education for Korean children in Japan29

Hakodate Goodwill Guides
Contact
Contact
details
Activities

President: Atsuko Iwamoto
2-33-3 Kaji, Hakodate 041-0852
TEL: 080-4046-8369
E-mail: sgghakodategga@yahoo.co.jp
https://hakodategoodwill.wixsite.com/hakodatesgg/home
As a member of the national tourism organisation, they conduct tours mainly
within Hakodate city.

While credit cards and electronic money are being accepted as payment at an increasing numberof stores, Japan is still a cash society compared to other countries, so it is advisable to carry somecash with you in case something goes wrong.

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*This guide is revised annually.
For information on the latest version, please contact:
Hokkaido International Foundation
TEL 0138-22-0770 / FAX 0138-22-0660
E-mail info@hif.or.jp
http://www.hif.or.jp
Hakodate City
International & Intercity Affairs Section, Planning Department
TEL 0138-22-3619 / FAX 0138-23-7604
E-mail hkd-intl@city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp
This guide is also downloadable at:
http://www.hif.or.jp/hakodatelife/
https://www.city.hakodate.hokkaido.jp/docs/2014012300551/(As of April 2023)
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