Power Sockets in Japan

You may wonder whether a plug adapter is needed before your travel to Japan. Here is the detailed answer.

Voltage in Japan

The standard voltage is 100V around Japan, with a power frequency of 50/60Hz. It is 50Hz in the eastern region centered on Tokyo, while it’s 60Hz in the western region of Kyoto, Osaka and Nagoya, etc.

Nice Hotel Room, Kyoto

Voltage in some countries around the world:

Countries or Regions	Voltage
Canada, United States	110-120V
Austria, Belgium, Switzerland, Demark, Finland, Spain, Russia, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore...	220V
Germany, Poland, Norway, United Kingdom, Australia, Malaysia, India	230-240V

What Types of Power Plugs and Sockets Are Used in Japan?

According to the plug standards of International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce, the United States, Type A and Type B power sockets and plugs are mainly used in Japan.

Type A: 2 flat pins, no grounding

In Japan, each of the two pins of type A plug has a small hole at the end usually. Also, the two socket holes are not the same. The left socket hole is a little larger than the right one, which is to differentiate the live line and zero line. Thus, there is a small sign on the plug sometimes to indicate the front side.

Type B: 3 pins (2 flat pins paralleled to each other vertically and 1 round grounding)

The two flat pins are the same with Type A, while a round grounding pin/socket hole is added.

Tips about Voltage & Power Sockets in Japan

Power Sockets in A Hotel

  If you are from the United States, Canada, Mexico, etc., the power sockets and voltage are almost the same. Therefore, you needn’t to prepare an adapter. If you come from other countries and regions, please select the suitable adapters.

  Japan may have limits on the power of some high power appliances. Thus, you’d better not take high power appliances when going to the nation.

  Generally, the latest plug of smart phone, tablet PC, camera, or other electric gizmos could adapt the voltage around the world. But just in case, please make sure all the electric appliances, including gizmos, hair dryer or shaver, you take on your journey could adapt the voltage and power frequency in Japan.

  Usually, you can ask the hotels for a voltage adapter or plug adapter in Japan. However, not all hotels have adapters for guests.

  It is easy to find adapters in the convenience stores at airports and major home appliance retailers in the cities. Multiple adapters are often offered for travelers. There are many appliance shops in Akihabara in Tokyo, Nihonbashi in Osaka, etc. English-speaking shop assistants can be found sometimes, and some shops also have the tax-free service.

  A reliable universal adapter is also good on the trip.

More Tips for Appliance Use in Japan

In a Traditional Ryokan

Please utilize the original USB cable of your phone, etc., as it may be slower somewhat to charge with other data cables.

Plugs should be closely connected to power sockets while using, to avoid damage or danger caused by loose or poor contact.

You can select the adapter or other electronic products for overseas use, which can be used in your hometown or other country. Those for Japan domestic use can be applied in Japan only.

Consult about the warranty of electronic products before purchase in Japan, and think it clear if it’s troublesome to repair when you leave Japan.

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