What Plug Do You Need for Japan? (+ Bonus Travel Tips for First-Timers)
Planning a trip to Japan? Besides packing your travel essentials, it's important to know what kind of electrical outlets and plugs are used across the country. It’s a small detail that can save you a big headache!
Japan uses a unique voltage of 100 volts, lower than in many other countries. The last thing you want is to arrive and realise you can’t charge your phone or camera.
This quick guide covers everything you need to know about Japan’s plug types, power outlets, voltage, and whether you’ll need an adapter for your devices.
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What type of plug sockets are used in Japan?
Credit: kellymarken via Getty Images, tab1962
Japan uses two main types of plugs — Type A and occasionally Type B power outlets.
- Type A plug: This is a two-pronged, flat plug often found in North America. It’s the most common type of plug in Japan.
- Type B plug: This is also a flat, two-pronged plug but includes a grounding pin. While Type B outlets exist, they are not as widely used as Type A.
For most travelers, the Type A plug will work perfectly fine in Japan!
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Top things to do in Japan
- Attractions in Tokyo: teamLab Planets | SHIBUYA SKY | Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea | Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo | Go Kart Experience
- Attractions in Osaka: Universal Studios Japan | teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka | Osaka Castle | Go Karting
- Visiting multiple attractions in a city? Get the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo (up to 48% savings) or Klook Pass Osaka (up to 43% savings)!
Getting around
- Airport transfer from Tokyo: Skyliner Narita Express | JR Narita Express (NEX) | Airport Limousine Bus
- Airport transfer from Osaka: Nankai Rapi:t Kansai Airport Express | JR Haruka Kansai Airport
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Do You Need a Plug Adapter in Japan?
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Whether or not you need an adapter depends on where you're travelling from:
- From the U.S. or Canada: Good news — Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs, just like back home. Most of your devices should work without an adapter. However, keep in mind that some outlets in Japan only accept two-pronged Type A plugs. If your device has a three-pronged plug (Type B), it’s handy to bring a Type B to Type A adapter just in case.
- From Europe, the UK, Australia, or elsewhere: Your plugs (like Type C, G, or I) won’t fit in Japanese outlets. You’ll need a universal travel adapter that supports Type A plugs — ideally one that also handles voltage conversion if needed.
Forgot your adapter? Don’t worry — you can easily pick one up at large electronics stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera. Some convenience stores also carry basic travel adapters near major stations and airports.
What Voltage Does Japan Use?
Japan operates on 100 volts, which is lower than the standard voltage in many countries. The frequency of electricity varies by region:
- 50 Hz in eastern Japan, including Tokyo, Yokohama, and Hokkaido.
- 60 Hz in western Japan, including Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
You should avoid using an electrical appliance that is rated at a voltage different from the supply — take note if you're planning to bring your electronics like a hair dryer!
Do You Need a Voltage Converter for Dual Voltage Devices?
Japan’s 100-volt system may be lower than what your devices are designed for. Here’s how to determine if you need a converter:
- Check the Voltage Range on Your Devices: Many modern electronics like smartphones, laptops, and cameras are dual voltage (e.g., 100-240V). If your device falls within this range, you won’t need a voltage converter.
- High-Wattage Devices: Appliances like hair dryers, curling irons, or electric kettles may not support Japan’s lower voltage. In this case, you’ll need a voltage converter to safely use them. For continuous use with appliances, consider using a voltage transformer instead.
- Japan-Specific Electronics: If you plan to buy electronics in Japan, ensure they’re compatible with your home country’s voltage if you intend to bring them back.
First-Time Visiting Japan? Here Are a Few Extra Tips!
Ride the famous Shinkansen trains that can take you from Tokyo station to Shin Osaka station in under three hours! Credits: @jayob27
Navigating Japan is easy once you get the hang of it — but a few smart tips can make your trip even smoother:
1) Get an eSIM for instant connectivity: Skip the hassle of physical SIM cards and stay connected as soon as you land with a Japan eSIM. It’s quick to activate and super convenient — no need to swap out your original SIM.
2) Book tickets and experiences ahead of time: Japan is full of must-see attractions, from teamLab Planets Tokyo to Universal Studios Japan. Popular spots sell out fast, so skip the queues and guarantee your spot with advance bookings on Klook!
3) Take advantage of airport transfers: After a long flight, figuring out transport into the city can be overwhelming. With Klook, you can pre-book a private airport transfer for door-to-door convenience, or opt for train options like the Narita Express, Haruka Kansai Airport Express or Skyliner Narita Airport Express — all offering comfortable and efficient rides straight to the city centre.
FAQs About Japan’s Electric Outlets
What type of plug is used in Japan?
Japan uses Type A plugs, which are two flat parallel prongs, and occasionally Type B plugs, which include a grounding pin. Type A is the most common.
Are Japan and the US plug the same?
Yes, the plugs in Japan (Type A and Type B) are the same as those used in the US. However, Japan operates on a lower voltage (100V) compared to the US (120V).
Can I charge my phone in Japan?
Yes! Most smartphones are dual voltage (100-240V). If your plug is Type A, you can directly charge it without an adapter.
Do Japanese outlets have a grounding pin?
Some outlets support Type B plugs with a grounding pin, but they are less common. If you use three-pronged plugs, bring a Type B to Type A adapter.
Are USB-C chargers compatible in Japan?
USB-C chargers are compatible as long as you have a USB port or a plug adapter for your charger.
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