Childline: phone number and hours

Childline is a telephone line for children up to age 18. They listen to anything, from friends and family to just wanting to chat. Calls are free, and the line is open every day from 16:00 to 21:00 (closed December 29 to January 3). You do not have to give your name, and nothing you say is shared with anyone without your permission.

• Online chat

  Children up to age 18 can talk one-on-one with a counselor by text. Monday to Saturday 16:00–21:00, and the 4th Sunday of the month 16:00–18:30 (closed December 29 to January 3). Free.

• Post your feelings

  A space only for children up to age 18 where you can freely write down and let out how you feel right now. There are no replies to posts. Posts may be published in a way that does not identify you, and you can also choose "do not publish."

• A line that children up to age 18 can call. It is toll-free, so there are no call charges, and it is free from public phones too (coins you insert are returned after the call).
• You are not asked for your name, contact details or school. What you talk about, and the fact that you called, is not shared with family, teachers or anyone else without your permission.
• The people who listen are volunteer adults across Japan called "receivers" who have learned how to listen. Neither side gives a name, and you may not reach the same person the next time you call.
• You can talk about anything: friends, family, the future, or just chat. They do not lecture you or push opinions on you; they think with you about what to do. If you want to hang up partway through, that is fine.
• Some mobile phones and kids' phones, and IP phones starting with 050, may not connect, and you cannot call from internet calling services such as LINE calls.

• IP phones starting with 050 and some other services may not be able to connect.

Your municipality (city, ward, town or village) also has counters for welfare, health and child-rearing concerns. Call the main number, explain what you want to discuss, and ask for the counter in charge.