Special numbers are short phone numbers assigned to specific services. Most are 1-3 digits long and include emergency numbers (110/119/118) as well as various information services and consultation hotlines useful in daily life. Officially also called "special codes," they are managed under the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' Telecommunications Numbering Plan.
Special numbers are organized by purpose. Emergency: 110 (police), 119 (fire/ambulance), 118 (coast guard). Information services: 104 (directory assistance), 117 (time announcement), 177 (weather forecast). Disaster-related: 171 (disaster message dial). Telecom services: 115 (telegram), 116 (NTT procedures). Consultation numbers starting with #: #9110 (police consultation), #7119 (emergency consultation center), #8000 (pediatric emergency hotline), 188 (consumer hotline).
Fee structures vary by number, requiring attention. Emergency calls (110/119/118) are free, but 104 (directory assistance) is a paid service at approximately 66-165 yen per inquiry. 177 (weather forecast) also incurs call charges. Since internet-based phone number lookup services and weather apps provide equivalent information for free, digital services are more cost-effective. However, during disasters when internet service is down, phone-line-based special numbers may be the only source of information.
Properly distinguishing between # consultation numbers and emergency calls is important. When unsure whether to call an ambulance, call #7119 instead of 119. When you have concerns that don't constitute a crime, call #9110 instead of 110. Proper usage prevents congestion on emergency lines, ensuring truly urgent calls are processed promptly. You can learn the numbering system systematically in the phone number structure guide.