Translator app, NW Kyushu

Visitors to the Saga Prefecture on the Japanese island of Kyushu can get 24-hour translation assistance, help in an emergency or simple travel advice with the “Doganshitato” smartphone app.

With the push of a button, the app will call the Multilingual Call Center, where an English-speaking operator can help the caller translate signs or speak to locals. The call center is also available on Skype. The app also offers advice on hotels, restaurants, onsen (hot springs) and sightseeing. It is free for iPhone and Android.