Prefecture Directory · Shikoku
Kochi 高知県
Kochi Prefecture occupies the Pacific coast of Shikoku, known for its dramatic coastline, cape forests, and one of Japan's most active fishing industries. The prefecture has one of the lowest population densities among non-Hokkaido mainland prefectures. Foreign residents include technical training workers in fishing, agriculture, and food processing, concentrated in coastal municipalities.
Healthcare landscape
Kochi University Hospital is the prefecture's primary advanced-treatment facility; Kochi Medical Center provides supplementary acute capacity. The prefecture's rural geography and small population create access challenges for residents outside Kochi City. Kochi International Association (KIA) provides consultation in 22 languages and is the main resource for foreign residents navigating healthcare across the prefecture.
Multilingual medical support
高知県外国人生活相談センター
公益財団法人高知県国際交流協会
- Phone
- 088-821-6440
- Hours
- 月〜金 9:00〜17:00；土 9:00〜12:00（日・祝・年末年始・連休の土曜・8月の土曜閉）
- Languages
- 22 languages
Public health center (保健所)
Kochi Prefecture operates public health centers (保健所, hokenjo) across its municipalities. Public health centers manage infectious disease surveillance, maternal and child health programs, and mental health consultation. Contact the prefectural health department or your municipal office to locate the nearest hokenjo.
Emergency numbers in Japan
- Ambulance / Fire: 119
- Police: 110
- Japan Helpline (24-hr English): 0570-000-911
- JNTO Tourist Helpline: 050-3816-2787 (available for medical referrals)
See our emergency guide for full details on calling an ambulance and communicating with emergency services in Japan.
Last reviewed: September 2026