As the Golden Week approaches in Japan, various cities are gearing up to accommodate an influx of tourists while ensuring the safety and well-being of their residents. From April 29 to May 6, 2025, Kitakyushu City will implement emergency medical measures, while Kamakura City will introduce strategies to alleviate congestion and enhance visitor experience.
In Kitakyushu, the local government has announced that many medical institutions will be closed during the Golden Week period. To prepare for any sudden illnesses or injuries, the city will provide information on available emergency medical facilities. The Fukuoka Prefecture Emergency Medical Telephone Consultation service, reachable at #7119 or 092-471-0099, will be available year-round, 24 hours a day, to assist individuals in assessing the urgency of seeking medical care.
For pediatric emergencies, the Fukuoka Prefecture Children's Emergency Medical Telephone Consultation can be contacted at #8000 or 092-731-4119. This service operates on a specific schedule: weekdays from 7 PM to 7 AM the following morning, Saturdays from noon to 7 AM the next morning, and Sundays and holidays from 7 PM to 7 AM the next morning.
In addition to these resources, the Night/Holiday Emergency Center will be operational throughout the Golden Week, providing services for various medical needs, including internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, and more. Located at 1-7-1 Bajaku, Kokurakita Ward, Kitakyushu City, the center can be reached at 093-522-9999. Its operating hours on April 29 will be from 9 AM to 11:30 PM, while from April 30 to May 2, it will be open from 7:30 PM to 11:30 PM. From May 3 to May 6, the center will again operate from 9 AM to 11:30 PM.
Moreover, Kitakyushu's second Night/Holiday Emergency Center, located at 3-15-3 Kurosaki, Yahatanishi Ward, will also serve patients during the same hours. This center specializes in treating injuries and requires prior consultation for certain cases.
As the city prepares for the holiday, residents are advised to check with their regular doctors about their availability during Golden Week and to ensure they have sufficient supplies of any necessary medications. This proactive approach can help mitigate the pressure on emergency services during this busy period.
Meanwhile, in Kamakura City, officials are taking steps to manage the expected surge of visitors during Golden Week, which runs from April 26 to May 6, 2025. The city is collaborating with various railway companies to enhance safety measures, disperse tourism, and reduce congestion.
Among the initiatives, Kamakura will deploy multilingual volunteer guides at key locations, including the East and West exits of Kamakura Station, to assist tourists. Additionally, the city will install guidance signs directing visitors to the Hase area, a popular destination known for its temples and scenic views.
Social media will play a crucial role in disseminating real-time congestion information, allowing both tourists and residents to plan their outings effectively. Furthermore, a campaign encouraging visitors to take their trash home will be implemented, promoting environmental responsibility among tourists.
One of the unique measures being introduced is a social experiment for priority boarding on the Enoden line for residents living along its route. This initiative, running from May 3 to May 5, aims to ease the commuting experience for locals who rely on this transportation for daily activities.
On May 6, 2025, Kamakura will host beach cleanup activities at Zaimokuza Beach, Yuigahama, and Koshigoe Beach, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. This event invites anyone to participate without prior registration, fostering a sense of community and environmental stewardship.
As the Golden Week draws near, both Kitakyushu and Kamakura are taking significant steps to ensure that residents and visitors alike can enjoy the festivities safely and comfortably. With emergency services prepared and congestion management strategies in place, these cities are setting a positive example for how to balance tourism and local needs during one of Japan's busiest holiday seasons.
In summary, as the Golden Week approaches, it is essential for residents and visitors to be aware of the available medical services in Kitakyushu and the congestion management measures in Kamakura. This awareness will not only help individuals navigate the busy holiday but also contribute to a smoother experience for everyone involved.
