IＮＤＥＸ Alien Registration Re-entry Permits and Stay Extensions Using the Telephone Water Supply Electricity Gas Garbage Collection Transportation Taxes National Pension Medical Insurance Housing Notification of Death Marriage Divorce Pregnancy and Child Delivery Day-care in Japan Health Care and Well-being of Infants Allowances for Children Education Medical Insurance Working in Japan Banking and Sending Money Overseas Japanese Language Classes Hirakata’s Cultural and Sports Facilities Information and Foreign Media Emergencies ＊Hirakata Central Area Map

Alien Registration

All foreign residents who are planning to stay in Japan for 90 days or more must register at the municipal office and obtain an Alien Registration Card. You are legally required to register within 90 days of arrival in Japan.

This card must be carried at all times by all foreign residents over the age of 16. It may come in handy for many types of procedures or contracts, as it gives proof of many of your details including your address in Japan.

１．Where to Register

If you are staying in Hirakata City, apply at the Citizens Section（Shimin-ka）of the Hirakata City Office.

You need to show your passport and submit two identical 4.5cm×3.5cm photos (not required for those under 16) taken within the last 6 months.

２．Extensions and Renewals

The card is valid for five years. You need to apply for renewal within 30 days following your 5th birthday from the date of issue (application period is specified on your card).

In the following cases, you have to notify the municipal office within 14 days:

・If any changes occur or any correction is necessary from what is written on the card

・If your card is severely damaged or soiled

・If the space on the back to write notes becomes full

・If the card is lost or stolen

・If you move out to another city, register at the municipal office of your new residence.

３．Returning Your Certificate of Alien Registration

・When leaving Japan, return your card to the Immigration Inspector at the airport or port(If you have a re-entry permit, you do not have to return the card but must present it).

・If you acquire Japanese nationality, you must return the card.

Re-entry Permits and Stay Extensions

１．Re-entry Permit (when temporarily leaving Japan)

When temporarily leaving Japan within the valid period of your visa, you must obtain a re-entry permit in order to enter Japan upon your return. The permit is valid for up to three years (but it can't exceed your period of stay in Japan) and is available in single and multiple reentry forms.

The following are items you must submit when applying:

(1)Application form for reentry permit (obtain at receptionist’s desk at the Immigration Bureau)

(2)Certificate of Alien Registration

(3) Passport

(4)3,000 yen revenue stamp (for single re-entry permits) or 6,000 yen revenue stamp (for multiple re-entry permits)

Reentry permits are usually issued on the spot. Applications in Osaka Prefecture are taken at the Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau Central Office.

２．Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau

Central Office

Osaka Dai-ni(2) Homu-godo　chosha,

2-1-17, Tanimachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi

TEL: 06-6941-0771

Weekdays: 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m.

South from Tenmabashi station on the Tanimachi Subway or the Keihan Main Line

３．Stay Extensions

There is a time limit to the stay you have been granted in Japan. When wishing to extend this stay, you must apply for and obtain a permit within two months before the limit of your current stay. The following are the items you must submit when applying:

(1)Application form (This can be found at the receptionist's desk in the Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau.)

(2)Passport

(3) Certificate of Alien Registration

(4)Documents that verify your activities in Japan, past, present and future. (We recommend that you inquire about the required documents at the Osaka Alien Residency Comprehensive Information Center (⇒P.53) as they differ with each status.

(5)Documents such as a proof of employment and a proof of tax payment verifying that you can pay the necessary costs for living in Japan and were engaging in the specified activities during your stay.

Whether you will be permitted to extend your stay is determined upon a review of your case after you submit the necessary documents. When you apply, your passport will be stamped with a message stating that you are currently applying for an extension.

The review process takes a look at whether you have achieved your purpose of stay and whether you have a reason to extend your stay, which means that you may not always be permitted to receive an extension.

Please note that marital status, for example divorce, can influence your status. Make all applications at the Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau Central Office.

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Using the Telephone

１．International　Calls

When placing an international direct call, dial:

International call company number + country code + phone number of the person you are calling

Call the respective business for details on company number, rates etc. (Service available in English)

●KDDI 0057 (24 hours everyday)

http://www.kddi.com/

●i-tel 06-6271-2444 (Weekdays 9a.m.-6p.m.)

http://www.i-tel.com

●Japan Telecom 0088-41 (Everyday 9a.m.-9p.m.)

http://www.japan-telecom.co.jp/

●NTT Communications 0120-54-0033 (Weekdays　9a.m.-9p.m.)

http://www.ntt.com/

●World Link 042-388-5958 (Weekdays 9a.m.-5p.m.) http://www.worldlink-tel.com/

●Cable & Wireless IDC 0066-11 or 0120-03-0061 (Everyday 9a.m.-9p.m.) http://www.cw.com/JP/

２．Installation of a Telephone

Before you can install a new telephone in your home you are required to purchase a telephone line, either new from NTT, or used at a discounted price. An installation fee is required. As telephone lines are relatively expensive, some companies also offer rental lines.

Inquiries:

116(in Japanese)or

0120-364-463(English,Spanish,Portuguese, Chinese, French) (Weekdays 9a.m.-5p.m.)

３．Telephone Bills

You can pay monthly telephone charges at banks, NTT offices, or convenience stores. Bank transfer is also available.

International calls will be billed separately with your International Call Company and can be paid at the post office or convenience stores.

４．Operator Service

Dial 104. The operator will search for your desired telephone number for a charge. This service is also available in English.

５．Telephone Book

An English telephone directory is available on the Internet (http://english.itp.ne.jp/).

６．Cellular Phones (keitai denwa)

A cellular phone is a light and easy-to-carry telephone that generally weighs less than 90 grams. There are some that allow you to change displays into English. Charges are generally more expensive than subscription telephones (but the security deposit needed for subscription telephones is not required for cellular phones.) Purchases can be made at locations such as local agents that handle cellular phones. (In addition to those specializing in cellular phones, other venues such as electronic shops may also carry them.) In order to enter into a contract to use a cellular phone you will be required to show items such as documents verifying your identity and address.

７．PHS

PHS (Personal Handy Phone System) is another type of mobile phone that is virtually the same size as a cellular phone. In general, the outdoor service area is smaller than that of cellular phones; however, it can be used in more underground areas such as underground arcades and subway stations. Moreover, it enables high-speed data telecommunications and has a long-lasting battery. It is generally cheaper to call from than a cellular phone and purchase can be made at locations such as a local agent that handles PHS (in addition to those specializing in PHS, other venues such as electronic shops may also carry them). In order to enter into a contract to use a PHS, you will be required to display items such as documents verifying your identity and address.

●NTT DoCoMo (cellular phone and PHS)

TEL: 0120-800-000 (Japanese)

TEL: 0120-005-250 (English, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese and Spanish)

●Tu-Ka Phone Kansai (cellular phone)

TEL: 0077-787-151 (Japanese and English)

URL: http://www.tu-ka-kansai.co.jp/

●au by KDDI (cellular phone)

TEL: 0077-7-004 (Japanese and English)

URL: http://www.au.kddi.com/

●Vodafone (cellular phone)

TEL: 0088-242-157 (Japanese and English)

URL: http://www.j-phone-west.com/

●DDI Pocket (PHS)

TEL: 0077-775

URL: http://www.ddipocket.co.jp/

●Astel Kansai

TEL: 0088-240-017

URL: http://www.k-opti.com/astel/

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Water Supply (Suido)

In Hirakata City, tap water is safe and drinkable. According to the law, municipal tax cannot be used for water utilities, thus the cost of providing water is covered by the money collected from users.

１．When Moving In

Check the faucet number (this is written on a diamond-shaped blue plate and is referred to as the Suisen Bango) and contact the Waterworks Bureau (can be done by telephone).

２．When Moving Out

Bring the latest Notification of the amount of water used or the water bill receipt to the counter of Waterworks Bureau. The bill for the month you are moving out is prorated on a daily basis according to the previous amount of water you used.

３．Water Bills

Water meters are checked once every two months. You are given notification of the amount of water used. Your water bill is calculated based on the reading of the meter.

For areas where sewerage water is supplied, sewerage charges are added to your bill based on the amount of tap water you used.

Payment for water bills is once every two months at a financial institution or by using direct debit.

Families on welfare are exempted from the base charge for tap water and sewerage water use.

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Electricity

Electricity in Japan is provided at a stable voltage of 100 Volts. Depending on the region, the frequency can be 50Hz or 60Hz. In Hirakata it is 60 Hz.

Take special care because when the frequency differs, the performance of some electrical appliances or tools may be impaired, they may not be able to be used and even could breakdown. In particular, take extra-special care when trying to use appliances or tools bought in the areas east of Shizuoka Prefecture.

１．When Moving In

To apply for the provision of electricity, contact the customer service department in your nearest Kansai Electric Power Company office (Hirakata Branch TEL 841-1131) after you have pulled the main breaker. The main breaker is usually located in the entrance way or within an electrical box on a wall near your kitchen. A contact voucher will be in either of these locations. Apply by either phoning the telephone number on the voucher or sending the attached postcard to the office.

２．Payment

A monthly bill will be sent according to the meter reading. You can pay at various locations such as your local Kansai Electric Power Company office, a financial institution(bank) or a convenience store. You can also pay by direct debit from your bank account.

３．When Moving Out

If you are going to move, it is recommended that you contact your local office (TEL 841-1131) beforehand and have your bill calculated for you.

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Gas

There are several types of gas: city gas sent by the city through pipes and propane gas in tanks placed near households and the like. The equipment used differs with respect to the gas. It is very dangerous to use equipment that does not suit the gas type.

１．City Gas

Gas sent by the city features a steel meter on the outside of your residence. To apply for gas, you should phone the number on the meter for new service. When phoning, you will be asked what the user number (Shiyo Bango) is on the tag. A specialist will visit your residence to turn on the gas line. Usually, gas service is available from the day after you have contacted the office.

２．Propane Gas

As with city gas, there is a tag on the meter for propane gas with a number to call. Please dial that number to apply for the propane gas service.

３．Immediately Report Gas Leaks

Gas does have an odour and smells when it leaks. If you suspect a gas leak, immediately turn off the main line and contact the gas company.

For gas leaks of city gas, call the gas leak hotline at Osaka Gas:

TEL 06-6583-0223 (only in Japanese)

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Garbage Collection

Please separate your garbage according to the rules for disposing garbage, and note that collection days and frequency differ according to the type of garbage. Refer to the pamphlet on ‘Garbage Disposal’ which is given out along with this guidebook.

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Transportation

１．Trains (JR, Private Railways, Subways)

You can usually buy tickets (kippu) at automatic ticket machines. Check the price of commuting to your destination before buying tickets. If you buy a wrong ticket, ask a station staff member to change it before you go through the ticket gate. The ‘Surutto Kansai Card’ can be used for affiliated railways and buses in the Keihanshin Area system.

２．Buses on regular routes

There are no conductors on regular buses. Usually you ride on the bus from the rear door and pay the fare when getting off from the front door. Try to carry small change for this. To get off the bus, push one of the stop buttons after the announcement of the next stop is made.

３．Taxi

When hailing a taxi, signal the driver by raising your hand at a place where the driver can easily pull over and park. Taxis available have a red ‘空車’(kusha) sign in front. There are also taxi stands in front of train stations. It is convenient to have a memo or map to the destination.

Fares are determined by distance and time of the ride. Avoid using 5,000 Yen or 10,000 Yen bills, as drivers may not have change.

４．Bicycles

In Hirakata City, in accordance with the ‘Prevention of Illegal Parking of Bicycles Act’, areas around all train stations along the Keihan Line and JR Gakken-toshi Line are designated as illegal parking zones. Bicycle parking spaces with a charge are available. Please make use of the parking spaces.

If you leave your bicycle or motorbike unattended in illegal parking zones, they will be removed immediately to: Nishi-Makino Jitensha Hokan Basho (TEL 809-2295) if it is from Kuzuha, Makino or Gotenyama stations, and to Kaida-Higashi-Machi Jitensha Hokan Basho (TEL 848-7422) if it is from other stations in Hirakata. Cost for removal and storage fee is charged upon collection 1,500 Yen for bicycles and 2,500 Yen for motorbikes. Uncollected bicycles or motorbikes are kept for up to a month, after which they will be disposed of.

５．Driving in Japan

To be able to drive in Japan, you have to possess at least one of the following licenses:

(1) Japanese driver’s license

(2) Valid driver’s license from your home country and a valid international driving permit (IDP) ratified by the Geneva Convention

(3) Driver’s license of a foreign country that does not issue international licenses AND is recognized to have the same level of licensing system as that of Japan (currently Switzerland, Germany and France are recognized). The license must be translated into Japanese by a body specified by government ordinance (see below ‘Translation of Foreign License’).

６．The period in which you can drive in Japan

・If you hold a Japanese license, it is within the term of validity.

・For international driver’s license and foreign license: one-year period from the date of arrival in Japan or from the date of issue of the international license, whichever is the shorter (Note that date of arrival means first arrival, not re-entry, unless the period before re-entry exceeds three months).

７．Switching Your Foreign License

If you have a valid license in another country, you can obtain a Japanese license by passing a test and transferring the information.

Applications can be made at the Kadoma Drivers License Examination Office.

●Kadoma Drivers License Examination Office（23-16, 1-bancho, Kadoma-shi）

Catch the Keihan Railway to Furukawabashi station, then catch the Keihan bus at the bus terminal right (South) of the ticket gate and get off at the second stop, （Shikenjo-mae）

TEL 06-6908-9121

Necessary Items:

(1) Your passport and a copy of it (to verify that you have resided at least three months in the country in which you got your license.)

(2) Certificate of Alien Registration and a copy of it

(3) A valid driver's license issued in another country and copies of both sides and a Japanese translation of the license (Only translations by your consulate or JAF are valid.)

(4) One 3×2.4cm photograph

(5) Application fee (2,400 yen for automobiles of a max. 11,000 kg and 3,300yen for motorcycles) and an issuing fee of 1,800 yen

After applying, you will have to take a written exam and eye test. If you pass, you must make an appointment to take a driving test. The written test can be taken in Japanese, English, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, Portuguese, and Persian. However, other materials such as application forms and lectures are in Japanese. Thus, it is recommended that you bring along someone competent in Japanese if you don't understand it.

８．Translation of Foreign Licenses

The Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) translates foreign licenses. There are times when JAF has staff on duty that are proficient in English. When requesting a translation, you will have to show your valid foreign driver's license.

●JAF Address（Yamakawa Building 1-13-3 Shinmachi, Nishi-ku, Osaka-shi）

Catch the Yotsubashi Subway Line to Yotsubashi station. Go out the No.23 exit and walk south on Yotsubashi-suji for 5 minutes.

TEL: 06-6543-5811

URL: http://www.jaf.or.jp/inter/index.htm

９．Driving Rules in Japan

You can buy the JAF-issued ‘Rules of the Road’ in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Korean and Persian for a 1,010 yen charge.

１０．Obtaining a New Japanese Driver's License

Many people in Japan go to a driving school, pass the school’s test and the one at the Drivers License Examination Office and then obtain a new driver's license. The cost is between 200 and 300 thousand yen.

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Taxes

Regardless of nationality, all persons residing in Japan must pay taxes.

１．When working at a company (income tax, prefectural tax, municipal tax)

In the event you have been hired and are receiving a salary from a business that is required to have taxes collected by the tax office, and income tax, prefectural tax and municipal tax are automatically deducted from your salary, it is not necessary to pay the tax office any additional taxes if you have not received any other income.

２．When not working in an office OR working in a place not required to pay tax OR when taxes are not automatically deducted

You must file a tax return and pay your income tax (national tax), prefectural tax and municipal tax every year. Moreover, if you are operating a business, you will probably have to pay a business tax.

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National Pension

The national pension is a public pension scheme managed by the government.

All those above 20 years old and below 60 years old living in Japan are required to be covered by the national pension scheme (if you are covered by Employee's Pension Insurance you do not have to pay the National Pension). By paying the premium, you will receive a pension in the future. It is possible to receive a refund if you did not receive any benefits and return to your country (see below ‘Pension Refund’).

Inquiries:

National Pension Section (kokumin-nenkin ka), 2F annex (bekkan), Hirakata City Hall TEL 841-1221

OR

Hirakata Social Insurance Office (Hirakata Shakai Hoken Jimusho) 2-2-8 Shinmachi

TEL 846-5011

Procedures are necessary to be covered by the national pension plan or to change the category in which you have joined. Please note that not all procedures are done at the City Hall's National Pension Section.

１．Premium

Fixed premium is 13,300Yen per month (as of 2003); additional premium is 400Yen per month (application necessary). There are prepayment systems with discounts.

The statement of payment is posted to you from the Social Insurance Agency (Shakai Hoken Cho) every April. However, it may arrive a little late if your application is processed in the middle of the financial year, as it will be mailed to you after the procedure is completed.

Payment by direct debit is possible.

２．Premium Exemption

If you have difficulty paying the premium, exemption systems are available:

● Special Payment Scheme for Students: By making necessary applications and being approved, premium payment from the month before application until the following March can be postponed. This scheme is directed at students of universities (including postgraduate schools), junior colleges, senior high schools, vocational schools etc.

●Exemption application: It is possible to be fully or partially exempt from payment of insurance fees if you have financial difficulties.

３．Pension Refund

A Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment (pension refund) can be granted on request to those who have enrolled in Japanese public pension schemes.

To be considered for pension refund, you must fulfill all of the following four conditions and apply within two years of leaving Japan.

(1) You do not possess Japanese citizenship

(2) You have paid National Pension or Employees' Pension Insurance premiums for six months or more.

(3) You do not have a place of residence in Japan (only those who cancelled their Alien Registration and then left Japan).

(4) You have never qualified for pension benefits (including Disability Allowance)

Amount Refunded

Those who have been insured under the National Pension or Employees' Pension Insurance shall be granted an amount by multiplying the average standard monthly remuneration with the rates shown in the following table according to the insured period.

Insured Person Coverage Period Rate

6 -11 months 35,100円　　 0.5

12-17 months 70,200円　　 1.0

18- 23 months 105,300円　　 1.5

24- 29 months 140,400円　　 2.0

30-35 months 175,500円　　 2.5

36 months - 210,600円　　 3.0

Filing for the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment

Before leaving Japan, obtain the ‘Claim Form for the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment’ (Dattai ichijikin saitei seikyu-sho) from the Social Insurance Office or the National Pension Section of the Hirakata City Hall.

You need to fill in information included in your blue Pension Book and mail it to the Social Insurance Agency after leaving Japan.

You must attach to your application:

(1) Pension Book

(2) A photocopy of your passport (pages showing your name, date of birth, nationality, signature and the date of departure from Japan)

(3) A document verifying the name of your bank, name and address of the branch office and your bank account number in your name. (Please specify a bank in your home country)

Please mail the claim form with the accompanying documents to:

Social Insurance Agency

3-5-24 Takaido Nishi, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 168-0071 JAPAN

Method of Payment

Payment is remitted to your account at the currency exchange rate on the date of transaction.

Tax Refund on Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment

Those who are eligible to file for the Pension Refund on the Employees’ Pension Insurance may also qualify to receive a refund on the 20% flat tax placed on the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment.

Application of the refund

(1) Designate a person to file your tax paperwork

Before leaving Japan, get a copy of the form Nozeikanrinin no todokedesho (gaikokujin-yo) [Declaration Naming a Person to Administer the Taxpayer’s Tax Affairs (for use by foreigners)], appoint a tax representative and submit the form to the Hirakata Tax Office.

A Tax Representative must be a resident of Japan. When designating a tax representative, find someone you trust (a colleague, friend, etc.) with financial matters and whom you can easily correspond with once you return to your home country.

(2)File for the Pension Refund

After leaving Japan, file for the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment. On receiving your Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment, send the original Dattai ichijikin shikyu kettei tsuchisho [Notice of the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment (Entitlement)] to your Tax Representative.

3) Designate a bank account for the Tax Refund and file for the Tax Refund

Have your Tax Representative go to the same tax office as before and file the kakutei shinkokusho on your behalf. A bank account in Japan needs to be designated at the time of filing. The refund will be deposited into that account.

(4)Applications must be made within 5 years after leaving Japan

You can file for the Pension Tax Refund as soon as you receive your Notice of the Lump-sum Withdrawal Payment. You do not need to wait until January 1 of the following year in order to file.

Inquiries: Hirakata Tax Office

2-9-9,Ogaitocho (beside Hirakata Post Office)

TEL: 844-9521

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Medical Insurance

１．Social Insurance System and National Health Insurance

Health care costs can be expensive in Japan. In order to provide for emergencies, it is strongly recommended that those who can do so apply for medical insurance.

If you are employed by a company, it is possible to apply for insurance through the company or its respective industry. Consult with your company's general affairs or welfare section when applying for such insurance. (This is referred to as the Social Insurance System.)

If you are not covered by the Social Insurance System, you may apply for the National Health Insurance offered by your municipality. Those with a Certificate of Alien Registration and who can confirm they will reside in Japan for more than one year are eligible.

Apply at the National Health Insurance Section (Kokumin-kenko-hoken-ka) on 3F of the annex (bekkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

２．International Students and Health Care (Medical Expenses Assistant Program for International Students)

The Association of International Education, Japan (Students Affairs Division: 03-5454-5213) operates a system which partially subsidizes the health care costs that international students have paid to health care providers for treatment of their illnesses or injuries.

３．Nursing Care Insurance

In Japan, when a person needs nursing care due to his/her becoming bedridden and/or suffering from dementia, necessary service is offered through the Nursing Care Insurance.

(1) People Who are Covered

All residents in a municipality over 65 years of age, and all people between 40 to 64 years of age who are medically insured are covered by the Nursing Care Insurance.

Foreign residents are also covered by the Nursing Care Insurance, unless he/she belongs to one of the following categories:

・Residents with short-term visas.

・Residential status of less than one year. (Those who are approved to stay in Japan for more than 1 year are eligible.)

・Those who have diplomat visas, such as consulate staff.

・Those whose visa has expired.

(2) Consultation Offices at Municipal Governments

For more information regarding the nursing care insurance, please ask at the Senior Citizen’s Center on 2F of the annex (bekkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

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Housing

Finding a place to live that suits your requirements is one of the most difficult tasks in Japan. Since very few foreign people consider purchasing a house or condominium in Japan because of the extraordinary high cost of real estate, this section provides you with information regarding renting a house / apartment.

１．Looking for Housing

When you are looking for private housing, clarify your needs, including rent, deposit, area and size of housing. Real estate agents in the area you plan to live can introduce you to rental housing. There is no fee for being introduced to open housing, however, when you sign the contract there is a fee generally equal to one month’s rent to be paid to the agent as a brokerage commission. State your wishes and be informed of general housing costs.

It is possible to look up housing in information magazines. Also, see the classified advertisement in foreign language magazines, such as the Kansai Time Out and Kansai Flea Market.

Public housing subscriptions such as the Osaka prefectural housing are also available. Inquire at Osaka Prefectural Housing Administration Center TEL: 06-4398-5255.

<Hosing Terminology>

●Shikikin or Hoshokin (leasehold deposit or security deposit):

Shikikin is a large amount of money, known as key money, to be held on deposit by the landlord. Generally, a certain amount specified in advance and the cost of repairs are to be deducted from the Shikikin, and the remaining amount is to be refunded when you terminate the contract. In general, the amount of Shikikin is equal to several months’ rent. The meaning of Hoshokin is almost the same as that of Shikikin. However, a certain additional amount may be deducted from your Hoshokin as ‘depreciation’ when you move out. Typically a partial amount of your key money deposit will be returned.

●Reikin (landlord’s fee):

In general, you are also required to pay an amount equal to one month’s rent as remuneration to the landlord. This is part of the cost necessary for the lease agreement. Note that this is not refundable.

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Notification of Death

In the event that a non-Japanese perishes in Japan, there is a legal requirement that notification be submitted to the head (i.e. mayor) of the local municipality and this must be done within seven days of confirmation of death. A licensed physician or medical examiner must essentially carry out confirmation of death in Japan, whatever the case may be.

１．Required Forms

The required forms for notification of death are available at the Civic Section (Shimin-ka) on 1F of the main building (honkan) of Hirakata City Hall, or hospitals.

２．Burials

The practice of burial is carried out also in Japan; however, in densely populated Osaka Prefecture there are virtually no cemeteries that will allow burials. Consult the respective consulate when looking for a cemetery for a non-Japanese if you are planning to conduct a burial in the native country of the deceased.

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Marriage

１．Marriage to a Japanese National

When marrying a Japanese national in Japan, it is necessary to submit notification to the public office in your local municipality. Please inquire at the alien registration desk at the Civic Section (Shimin-ka) on 1F of the main building (honkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

２．Marriage to a Non-Japanese National

It is possible, according to determined conditions, for two non-Japanese to marry under Japanese law. Note that the marriage may not be valid in the respective native country or countries in the future. Registration should be carried out at the respective embassy or consulate and the public office in your local municipality.

３．Changing Status

You may change your status upon marrying a Japanese national. Confirm details at the Osaka Alien Residency Comprehensive Information Center (⇒P.53)

４．Changing Alien Registration Information

If you change your name, address or any other personal information because of marriage, you must submit notification of the changes to the alien registration desk on 1F of the main building (honkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

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Divorce

When both wife and husband are non-Japanese, the status of the divorce will depend on the laws of their respective native country or countries. In such cases, you are advised to inquire upon such matters at the respective consulates in Japan.

If either the wife or husband is a Japanese national residing in Japan, and both have agreed to divorce under Japanese law, the divorce will stand according to Japanese law. For details, inquire at alien registration desk on 1F of the main building (honkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

１．When You Do Not Consent to a Divorce

When you, as a foreign national, are pressed by a Japanese national for a divorce that you don't want, submission of a signed notification of divorce can result in a standing divorce. To prevent this you should submit a request not to accept the divorce notification to the municipal office in which the family register of your Japanese spouse is held.

２．Divorce and Your Status to Reside in Japan

If you are residing in Japan with the status of Spouse or Child of a Japanese National, you may lose that status once divorced. Also, the same may be said for any non-Japanese who is married to another non-Japanese and residing in Japan withthe status of Dependent. In both cases, not changing the status can result in your not being able to reside in Japan. Thus, for such cases it is recommended that you inquire at the Alien Residency Comprehensive Information Center, Osaka (⇒P.53).

３． Changing Alien Registration Details

If you change your name, address or any other personal information because of divorce, you must submit notification of the changes to the alien registration desk on 1F of the main building (honkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

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Pregnancy and Child Delivery

１．When Pregnant

By notifying your municipality that you are pregnant and planning to give birth, you will be given a Maternal and Child Health Handbook. This handbook will serve as an important record of various items for pregnancy, child delivery and necessary vaccinations the following seven years.

The English, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Korean, Thai, Indonesian, and Tagalog translated versions of the Maternal and Child Health Handbook (published by the Mother and Child Health Research Foundation) can be purchased through the mail from the organization below.

For more information, contact the Limited Company Mother and Child Health Corporation

URL: http://www.mcfh.net/

TEL: 03-3499-3111 (available only in Japanese)

２．Cost Involved

Normal pregnancies/child deliveries are not classified as an illness, and are thus not covered by health insurance. Instead the health insurance system provides expecting families with a predetermined amount of money somewhere in the range of 200 to 300 thousand yen. It is common for mothers who have given birth in Japan to be required to stay in hospital for four or five days, thus the money provided may be insufficient. The costs involved in hospitalization generally run from 200 to 300 thousand; however, you should make a note that this figure differs with respect to the hospital. The provision from the insurance system is made subsequent to discharge from hospital, so it is necessary to have the above stated funds ready when discharged.

Inquiries regarding provision of the costs involved in childbirth for those with National Health Insurance coverage can be made at the National Health Insurance Section on 3F of annex (bekkan) at the Hirakata City Hall.

３． Notification of Birth

You must submit a Notification of Birth to Hirakata City within 14 days (including the day of birth) of the birth of any baby, because this serves as identification for you and the baby as well as having ramifications in terms of tax and benefits. If the baby is of a foreign nationality, you must obtain a passport for the baby at the embassy or consulate of your native country and obtain a status for the baby within 30 days of birth from the Regional Immigration Bureau. In such a case, you must also apply for an alien registration card for the baby within 60 days of birth at the Civic Section (Shimin-ka) on 1F of the main building (honkan) at the Hirakata City Hall.

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Day-care in Japan

Day-care is available in three forms in Japan: (1) Day-care centers (Hoikusho) certified by the self-governing body (for infants whom the government administration has certified as eligible due to receiving insufficient care), (2) Uncertified day-care centers that are run autonomously, and (3) Day-care services operated by private companies. Certified day-care centers can be public or private; however, their fees for service are the same as long as they are within the same self-governing body. Generally, day-care centers do not operate in the early morning or late evening nor do they offer overnight, Sunday or holiday service. Applications are essentially made through the respective municipality within which the applicant resides, and children are only allowed to go to day-care centers within their own area or district.

Please inquire at the Childcare Section (kosodateshien-shitsu) of the Hirakata City Hall at the Murano annex (bunkan) (Sapuri Murano) (TEL: 805-3523) for information on how to apply, the period for applications and the cost of day-care. The fee for day-care service can differ with respect to income or family situations.

Babysitters Competent in Foreign Languages

The number of individuals that can offer such services is limited, so it is recommended that appointments be made well in advance. There may be some services requiring initiation fees and the like.

●Poppins Service

(TEL in English: Ashiya 0797-32-2100 / Kyoto 075-252-2100)

URL: http://www.poppins.co.jp/menu.html

●Grace Co. Ltd.

(TEL in English: 06-6309-8000)

URL: http://jin.ne.jp/grace-co/

●Kids Escort Ltd.

(TEL in English: 06-6386-9408)

URL: http://www.jin.ne.jp/kids-et/

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Health Care and Well-being of Infants

１．Health Care for Children

Health care for children is at an extremely high level as Japanese infant mortality rate is maintained at the lowest level in the world. There are children's hospitals; however, it is recommended that you initially take children to your nearest pediatrician.

２．Vaccinations

Vaccinations are offered for infants and young children at medical health centers.

When receiving vaccinations, a handbook ‘Health and Immunization for Children’ explaining the importance of vaccinations and their side effects is handed out. Remember to bring your Maternal and Child Health Handbook when your child receives vaccination.

３．Health Examinations (kenko-shindan)

The Medical Health Center provides free health examinations at four, eighteen, thirty and forty-two months after birth. Please notify the medical health center (TEL: 840-7221) if you did not receive notice for the health examination because you just moved into the city or for other reasons.

４．Health care assistance for infants and children

Hirakata City offers assistance towards health care costs (amount paid out-of-pocket for examination under health insurance) for infants and children living in Hirakata City. Apply at the Medical Support Section (iryojosei-ka) on 1F of the annex (bekkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

● For 0 to 1 year-old infants

Treatment and meal expenses incurred from hospitalization or attending hospital up until the last day of the month of the second birthday are supported. An infant medical certificate is issued upon application (please bring the infant’s health insurance card and personal seal).

●For 2 to 6 year-old children (before entering primary school)

Treatment and meal expenses for hospitalization are supported. Please bring the receipt, personal seal and health insurance certificate to the Medical Support Section (iryojosei-ka) within one year of being discharged from the hospital. Please note that conditions apply to your income.

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Allowances for Children

１．Children’s Allowance

For guardians raising children before the age for compulsory education, an allowance of 5,000 yen a month per child for the first and second child and 10,000 yen a month per child from the third child is available (conditions apply to your income). The allowance is directly debited to the bank account in the name of the claimant in February, June and October every year for the amount until the previous month. To claim, please bring your personal seal and bankbook bearing your name to the National Pension and Child Benefits Section (Nenkin Jidouteate Ka) on 1F of the annex (bekkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

２．Children's Dependency Allowance

For mother-and-child families, an allowance for the mother or guardian raising children is available until the last day of the year in which the child becomes 18 years old, and varies with the amount of income the mother or guardian receives. Please note that beneficiaries of the public pension scheme are ineligible.

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Education

Japanese school education begins from kindergarten to primary school (6 years from the age of 6), junior high school (3 years), senior high school (3 years), and university or other higher education institutions. Compulsory education is 9 years from the first year of primary school to the third year of junior high school. Within this period, tuition fees and textbooks are free of charge. However, other expenses such as for additional materials needed in lessons and school trips must be paid out-of-pocket.

The school year begins in April and runs until the next March. There is a summer holiday from mid July to the end of August, a winter holiday from late December to early January, and a spring break in late March.

１． School registration

When your children reach school age, please call the Hirakata City Board of Education (kyoiku iinkai) (TEL: 841-1221 switchboard). When enrolling your children for school, their alien registration card is required. The school your child will attend is determined by where you live.

２．Kindergarten

●Municipal kindergarten admission

Infants of pre-school age (4 to 5 years old) living in the city are eligible to apply for a place. An entrance fee and tuition fee are required. Households facing financial difficulty in paying fees may apply for reduction or exemption of fees.

●Fee assistance for private kindergartens.

Guardians/parents of infants living in the city and attending private kindergartens receive assistance towards their fees.

Depending on the municipal tax payable by the parents/guardians, supplementary benefits to encourage pre-school education may be paid out.

３．Primary school, Junior high school

●Notification of primary school admission

Parents of children entering primary school will receive official notification through the post before the end of January. The notifications are sent out according to the local residents’ register. Please report if notification is not received.

Parents of children entering junior high school will be given official notification around the end of January through their children’s respective primary schools.

●Pre-school medical checks

Children entering primary school in the coming academic year are given medical checks around November. Parents will be notified of the date.

●Schooling assistance

Parents of compulsory education age children who have financial difficulties in sending their children to school may be able to receive assistance in the form of expenses, including those for stationery, school meals and senior school trips.

●Lunches (Bento)

School meals are provided at certain primary schools but not at secondary schools. High school students are generally required to bring lunch from home. This is referred to as bento (lunch). Please note that schools do not sell food.

４．Scholarships

Scholarships are available to students who, for financial reasons, face difficulty in continuing their education at senior high school, technical college, senior high section of special school, special training school (those with more than 3-year curriculum), or the senior high section of an international school. Primary school and junior high school children in Hirakata who have lost their parents/guardians in traffic accidents are eligible for assistance through the Hirakata Traffic Accident Orphans Scholarship System.

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Medical Insurance

１．Types of Medical Care Facilities

One can go to regional health care facilities such as GPs, clinics or hospitals. Be aware that some hospitals only see patients in the morning. GPs generally see patients in both the morning and afternoon hours, however some are closed in the afternoons on weekdays. And, it is probably a good idea to initially receive an examination and specific instructions in cases where maybe you don't know the name of your illness or have a slight cold.

Within Hirakata, there is the Hirakata City Hospital.To reach the hospital, take the Keihan bus (numbers 3 or 4) from the north entrance of Hirakata-shi Station. Alight at “Shimin byoin mae”. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.

２．Procedures when using medical care facilities

In order to receive medical care, you must show your valid insurance card at the desk of the respective health care facility. There are many facilities in which physicians do not particularly see patients by appointment. Generally, patients must wait in a waiting room until their number is called.

Once the physician has seen you, it is common to pick up the required drugs (if any are required) and then wait in order to pay the bill. As of late, an increasing number of facilities have begun writing prescriptions and having the patients buy the drugs at an out-of-hospital pharmacy.

３．Hospitalization

When being hospitalized in Japan, unless your condition is of a highly serious nature, you will generally have to share a room with one to seven people. A portion of the charge for private rooms or semi-private rooms is not covered by medical insurance; you will be required to pay for this portion out-of-pocket. Except for private rooms, it is rare to have a telephone in hospital rooms.

Large hospitals often provide complete nursing care; however, some hospitals not doing so will instruct the patient to have someone attend to them and this will be covered by medical insurance.

４．Hospitals that Understand Foreign Languages

Refer to the Medical Passport issued by the Osaka Prefectural Government (Medical Administration Division, Public Health Department TEL: 06-6941-0351 Ext.2538) for information regarding hospitals that understand foreign languages. Also, the content of the Medical Passport can be viewed in English on the Internet.

URL: http://www.pref.osaka.jp/iryo/medicalinfo/

５．Injuries and Illness Occurring at Night or on Holidays

When suffering from injuries or illness at night or on holidays, you can use the Hirakata Holiday Emergency Clinics (2-9-29 Ogaito-cho, Hirakata City TEL: 845-2656). However, these may not be able to provide care in a foreign language, so it is recommended that you bring along someone competent in Japanese. Be aware that these facilities are not open except for specified operation dates and hours.

* Refer to the Map.

６．Health and prevention

The Health Center (Hoken Senta TEL: 840-7221) serves as a base for maintaining the health of citizens, and provides various vaccinations, health examinations and consultation services. This facility is equipped with rooms for health-related lectures and nutrition guidance. Available hours of Municipal Health Center are 9.00a.m. to 5.30p.m..

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Working in Japan

１．Labor Conditions

Laws such as the Labor Standards Law regulate labor conditions in Japan. There are no differences in labor conditions with respect to nationality. When starting a new job, your employer must clearly state the labor conditions.

２．Accidents on the Job

If the Labor Standard Inspection Office has determined that you have become ill or injured during work or as a result thereof, you will be paid money necessary for treatment, compensation for time off work, a disability pension, and any other funds required out of worker’s compensation insurance (which the employer is required to have).

３．Consultation

There is consultation in English available concerning troubles stemming from matters such as labor conditions.

●Osaka Labor Standards Office Foreign Worker Consultation Corner

Osaka Legislation Bureau Human Rights Protection Department Human Rights Consultation Center

Consultation regarding Labor Standards Laws in English

4-1-67 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi

TEL: 06-6949-6490

9a.m. to 4p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday

URL: http://www.osaka-rodo.go.jp/

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Banking and

Sending Money Overseas

１．Banks (Ginkoh)

You are allowed to open a bank account if you work at a company in Japan or have resided in Japan for at least 6 months.

You are required to show your bankbook and Hanko (personal seal) when withdrawing money, but a signature will suffice for non-Japanese.

If you wish, you will be issued an ATM card. It will enable you to deposit and withdraw money at an ATM without a bankbook. Tellers and such are usually open until 3p.m. on weekdays; however, you are able to make transactions at an ATM after operating hours. Note that transaction fees incur during certain hours or on public holidays.

２．The Post Office (Yubinkyoku)

Japan's post offices offer services similar to a bank. You can open an account with your Certificate of Alien Registration. They also issue cards for use at ATMs. Post offices allow you to deposit or send money from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Excluding Year-end, New Year's, Saturdays/Sundays, and national holidays)

３．Sending money overseas

This can be done through banks and post offices.

Please note that not all branch offices of a bank offer international money sending services. This service is only available at large post offices.

You can send money from account to account and also send cash by money order. Money orders can be issued at banks or post offices.

According to legal regulations, you may be asked to show identification such as your Certificate of Alien Registration when sending money. Furthermore, it is illegal to send money through non-certified facilities other than banks or post offices.

An International Postal Money Order can be sent either by airmail or by on-line computer. Although remittance by airmail is the least expensive way of sending money abroad, it takes a longer time.

INDEX

Ｊapanese Language Classes

Hirakata City provides free Japanese language classes for all foreigners living in Hirakata City.

１．Hirakata Japanese Language Volunteer

Association

Venue: 2F of Hirakata Civic Hall

Times: Tuesday 1.30p.m. − 3.00p.m.

Tuesday 6.30p.m. − 8.00p.m.

Wednesday 6.30p.m. − 8.00p.m.

Saturday 6.30p.m. − 8.00p.m.

Contact:Hirakata Foundation for Culture and International Exchange

Tel 072-843-5931 (Tuesday to Saturday 9a.m.-5.30p.m.)

Email: kokusai@city.hirakata.osaka.jp

２．’Yomikaki’

Class at 6 Regional Community Centers (kominkan) 3 times a week:

Kuzuha Community Center 855-4971

Sun Plaza Civic Center 846-5557

Sada Community Center 831-5337

Makino Community Center 851-2566

Tsuda Community Center 859-6600

Sugawara Community Center 866-8820

＜Hirakata Foundation for Culture and International Exchange＞

(1) Activities

To assist in Hirakata’s efforts to develop into an international city, in April of 2004, the Hirakata Foundation for Culture and the Hirakata International Association amalgamated to establish the Hirakata Foundation for Culture and International Exchange. The activities with which the foundation is involved in include, drama, music, movie screenings and other cultural pursuits.

Along with supporting cultural activities for citizens and international exchange, the foundation is also involved in;

l???????? promotional activities

l???????? sister city exchange activities

l???????? exchanges between local citizens and Hirakata’s foreign residents

l???????? providing study materials and various information

l???????? collecting and providing data

l???????? administration associated with the Civic Hall

l???????? promotion and cooperation with the city’s internationalization policy and activities.

（２）Information corner

The information corner next to the Hirakata Foundation for Culture and International Exchange office offers information and books concerning international exchanges. It also has a notice board where messages can be put up for up to 3 weeks.

（３）Volunteer registry system

A volunteer registry system is available for Hirakata citizens to cooperate in projects organized by the Hirakata Foundation for Culture and International Exchange. Types of volunteer activities include:

● Language volunteer (interpreter and translator, no qualification is required)

●Project support volunteer (assisting events hosted by the Association)

● Homestay volunteer (no special condition is required but all family members must agree)

● Home visit volunteer (to invite foreign residents to a Japanese home for a day to encourage international exchange)

INDEX

Hirakata’s Cultural and Sports Facilities

１．Civic Hall (8-33, Oka-higashicho TEL 843-1122) houses the Hirakata Foundation for Culture and International Exchange, Hirakata Library, as well as conference rooms and a cookery classroom for general use.

It also has a large auditorium and a small one for various events such as theatre, concerts and lectures.

*Refer to the Map.

２．Community Centers (Kominkan) are free public facilities providing space for citizens’ active learning and cultural activities. City-sponsored events are also held here.

Kuzuha Community Center

(2-29-5, Kuzuha-namiki TEL 855-4971)

Sada Community Center

(3-27-10, Kita-nakaburi TEL 831-5337)

Makino Community Center

(4-5, Uyamacho TEL 851-2566)

Tsuda Community Center

(2-25-3, Tsuda-kitamachi TEL 859-6600)

Sugawara Community Center

(1-35-1, Nagao-motomachi TEL 866-8820)

Gotenyama Art Center

(10-16, Gotenyamacho TEL 847-8351)

Hirakata-koen Youth Center

(6-8, Ikaga-higashimachi TEL 843-4699)

Sun Plaza Civic Center

(12-3-508, Oka-higashicho TEL 846-5557)

Southern Region Civic Center

(1-1-2, Kourigaoka TEL 860-0501)

３．Libraries

The Hirakata public library system consists of 9 libraries, 10 branches, and 2 bookmobiles that visit 30 places within the city. The libraries lend up to 12 books per person for a period of 2 weeks.

Hirakata Library (8-33 Oka-higashimachi TEL 846-4761) *Refer to the Map.

４．Historic Museums

The‘Hirakata-Shuku Kagiya Museum’ (10-27, Tsutsumicho TEL 843-5128) uses a building called ‘Kagiya’ that operated as an inn for ship passengers typically found in Hirakata during the Edo period, as it was a post town on the Tokaido Highway.

The‘Tanaka Metal Casting Museum’ (5-1, Fujisaka-tenjincho TEL 858-2852) uses an old metal casting factory to display the history and techniques of metal casting.

５．Sports Facilities

Hirakata City provides facilities to support sports activities of its citizens.

General Sports Center

(4-10-1, Nakamiya-oike TEL 848-4800 for General Gymnasium / TEL 848-4899 for Field and Track Arena)

Nagisa Civic Gymnasium

(3-26-10, Nagisa-nishi TEL 898-8181)

Wani Park Pool (available in July and August) (1-1 Wani-koen TEL 858-3000)

６．Outdoor Activity Center

(4550, Hotani TEL 858-0300)

Camp and recreation facility surrounded by greenery. It includes campfire areas, outdoor cooking facilities, astronomical observatory etc.

７．Accomodation

●Hirakata Sunplaza Hotel

11-11 Okahigashi Cho

Hirakata-shi, Osaka (Two minute walk from Hirakata Station)

TEL 072-846-5511

・Single Room from \7,500

URL http://www.sunplazahotel.co.jp/

●Business Hotel Koraku

7-52 Ikaga Kitamachi

Hirakata-shi, Osaka (Four minute walk from Hirakata-koen Station)

TEL 072-844-2121

・Single Room: \5,500

・???? Single Room with Bath: \6,500

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Information and

Foreign Media

１．Koho Hirakata and Hirakata City Handbook

Koho Hirakata is a free newspaper issued by the Hirakata city government once a month. Useful information on various services as well as local news are provided. Only a Japanese version is available. It can also be viewed from the Hirakata City homepage

(http://www.city.hirakata.osaka.jp/).

Hirakata City Handbook (Shiseiyoran) provides an overview of Hirakata’s history, culture and welfare and is distributed at the Public Relations Section (Koho-ka) on 3F of the annex (bekkan) of Hirakata City Hall (available in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean).

２．Hirakata Guide Map

Other than providing a map of Hirakata, Hirakata Guide Map includes a list of public facilities and a description of eight scenic spots in Hirakata. It has both Japanese and English versions and is available for ?100 at the Public Relations Section (Koho-ka) on 3F of the annex (bekkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

３．Radio

◆FM Hirakata (77.9MHz)

FM Hirakata provides a wide range of local information from what items are available at your nearest supermarket to what kind of activities citizen’s groups engage in. The FM station also presents various kinds of music programs.

http://www.kiku-fm779.com/

◆FM CO・CO・LO (76.5MHz)

FM CO・CO・LO broadcasts in 14 different languages. You can obtain a program guide by sending a request along with a 90-yen stamp inside the envelope to the address below. There are also some large record shops that carry them. Kansai Intermedia Corporation 3F Osaka World Trade Center, 1-14-16 Nankokita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka-shi 559-0034

URL http://www.cocolo.co.jp/

◆NHK radio 2 (82.8KHz) broadcasts news in various languages.

English: 2 to 2.15p.m. and 11 to 11.15p.m.

Portuguese: 6 to 6.10p.m.

Spanish: 6 to 6.10p.m.

Chinese: 1 to 1.10p.m.

Korean: 1.10 to 1.20p.m.

◆Radio Japan

Broadcasting foreign news in 22 different languages (Internet broadcasting)

URL: http://www.nhk.or.jp/rj/

４．TV

NHK evening news at 7p.m. and 10p.m. can be heard in English in Japanese if your TV has the multiplex broadcasting function.

By subscribing to cable TV, you can watch programs in English and some satellite TV. Please enquire at KCAT (Keihan Cable TV)

TEL: 072-857-7123

URL: http://www.cw1.zap.ne.jp/kcat/

５．Newspapers and Magazines

Foreign newspapers and magazines can be purchased at large bookstores or from the Overseas Courier Service (OCS) (TEL 0120-092-707 URL http://www.ocs.co.jp/)

６．Osaka Information Service for Foreign Residents

Consultation is available in Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Tagalog, Thai, Chinese, Korean, English. Hours are Monday to Friday 9a.m. to 5.30p.m., excluding national holidays, year-end and New Year’s (December 29 to January 3)

TEL: 06-6941-2297

Email Consultation (Japanese/English):

kokusai-g03@sbox.pref.osaka.jp

７．Alien Residency Comprehensive Information Center, Osaka

1-9 Rokumantai-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka-shi

TEL: 06-6774-3409?10

Weekdays: 9a.m. to noon and 1p.m. to 4p.m.

URL:

http://www.moi.go.jp/NYUKAN/nyukan05.html

８．Essentials for Living in Osaka

This guide provides information on emergency measures and place for consultation; health and health care; housing and lifestyle; residency and necessary procedures, marriage, divorce; transportation; pregnancy, delivery, child rearing and education; information and telecommunications; labor, taxes, and sending money overseas etc. It is available in Korean, Chinese, English, Spanish and Portuguese for 660 yen; in Tagalog, Thai, Indonesian and Vietnamese for 740 yen. Please enquire at the Osaka Public Information Center (TEL 06-6941-0351 ext 5045) at Tanimachi Kowa Building 3F, 1-2-12, Otedori, Chuo-Ku, Osaka City.

９．Job-hunting with Hello Work

There are Public Employment Security Offices (Hello Work) in Japan that offer job consultation and introduce work. It is a free public facility. If an individual has the status to work in Japan, even non-Japanese can use the office.

●Hirakata Hello Work at 2-9-21, Ogaito-cho, Hirakata City. TEL 841-3363

*Refer to the Map.

●Kadoma Hello Work (TEL 06-6906-6831)

Interpreting services are available in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Chinese (must be reserved beforehand)

Moriguchi Kadoma Shokokaikan Bldg. 4F, 6-4 Tonoshima-cho, Kadoma

7 min. walk south from Kadomashi station on the Keihan Main Line / Osaka Monorail.

URL: http://www.osaka-rodo.go.jp/

INDEX

Emergencies

Police (emergency calls) 110

Fire Department (fires/first aid) 119

Hirakata City Hall 841-1221

Hirakata Waterworks Bureau

848-5511

Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. 0120-5-19424

Kansai Electric Power Co., Ltd. Hirakata City Hall (electricity problems) 841-1131

１．Hirakata City Disaster Prevention Map

Japan is a volcanic country highly prone to earthquakes. Furthermore, between June and September, typhoons often strike. Consequently, it is important to provide against such emergencies.

The Hirakata City Disaster Prevention Map has been compiled so people can physically and mentally prepare themselves for such emergencies. It is available in English, Chinese, Korean and Portuguese. Obtain a free copy at the Safety and Disaster Prevention Section (Anzen-bosai-ka) on 3F of the annex (bekkan) of Hirakata City Hall.

２．Ten Safety Rules During an Earthquake

(1) Protect yourself and your family

Staying alive is the most important goal. When the shaking starts, protect yourself by immediately getting under a table.

(2) Immediately turn off stoves and heaters

Once the tremors have stopped, turn off all heaters, stoves and open flames. Before evacuating, turn off the gas tap to your house.

(3) Open the door and make sure you can get out

Particularly for those living in medium and high rise buildings.

(4) If a fire has started, extinguish it immediately

Shout “kaji” (fire) and ask those around you to help put out the fire at once.

(5) Do not rush out the door in a panic

Rushing out the door may result in being hit by falling objects. Act calmly while assessing the situation around your house.

(6) Avoid narrow lanes and stay away from blocked walls

Do not walk close to blocked walls and other dangerous places where you may be struck by falling objects.

(7) Be careful of landslides, slope failures and tidal waves

If you feel tremors near a mountain or by the seashore, escape to a safer place immediately.

(8) Evacuate on foot carrying only necessities

Do not drive to the evacuation site as your car will hinder rescue activities. Remember to carry only essential items.

(9) Assist and give first aid to others

To relieve the strain on medical personnel, it is important to assist in basic first aid and help one another.

(10) Do not park your car on the street

Parked cars disrupt rescue efforts, obstructing the path of rescue vehicles. Never leave your car parked on the street.

３．Japanese for Emergencies

●In case of emergencies

FIRE! ⇒ Kaji da!

HELP! ⇒ Tasukete.

There’s a sick person.

⇒ Kyubyo nin desu.

There’s an injured person.

⇒ Kega nin desu.

My name is ( ).

⇒ Watashi no namae wa ( ) desu.

My telephone number is ( ).

⇒ Denwa bango wa ( ) desu.

My address is ( ).

⇒ Jusho wa ( ) desu.

There’s gas leak. ⇒ Gasu more desu.

There’s a short-circuit. ⇒ Rohden desu.

The power is out. ⇒ Teiden desu

Water is leaking. ⇒ Rohsui desu

●Describing an illness at a hospital

It hurts. ⇒ Itai

It hurts a lot. ⇒ Hageshiku itai

A dull pain. ⇒ Nibuku itai

A prickly pain. ⇒ Sasu yoni itai

I have a fever. ⇒ Netsu ga aru

I feel cold (chills). ⇒ Samuke ga suru

I have no appetite. ⇒ Shokuyoku ga nai

I feel nausea. ⇒ Hakike ga suru

My nose is clogged. ⇒ Hana ga tsumaru

I have a cough. ⇒ Seki ga deru

I feel dizzy. ⇒ Memai ga suru

There is swelling. ⇒ Hare ga aru

Convulsion ⇒ Keiren

Hives ⇒ Jinmashin

Insomnia ⇒ Fuminsho

Puncture wound ⇒ Sashi kizu

Scratch ⇒ Suri kizu

Contusion ⇒ Uchimi

Sprain ⇒ Nenza

Fracture ⇒ Kossetsu

Bruise ⇒ Daboku

Diarrhea ⇒ Geri

Constipation ⇒ Benpi

Bloody urine ⇒ Ketsunyo

●Names of body parts

Face ⇒ Kao

Eye ⇒ Me

Nose ⇒ Hana

Mouth ⇒ Kuchi

Ear ⇒ Mimi

Head ⇒ Atama

Jaw ⇒ Ago

Neck ⇒ Kubi

Shoulder ⇒ Kata

Chest ⇒ Mune

Back ⇒ Senaka

Abdomen ⇒ Hara

Lower back ⇒ Koshi

Arm ⇒ Ude

Elbow ⇒ Hiji

Wrist ⇒ Te kubi

Finger ⇒ Yubi

Hip ⇒ Shiri

Thigh ⇒ Momo

Knee ⇒ Hiza

Shin ⇒ Sune

Ankle ⇒ Ashi kubi

Heel ⇒ Kakato

Toe ⇒ Tsumasaki

INDEX