I nearly made a mistake packing for Japan. My European adapter collection was useless because Japan uses the same plugs as the United States – flat two-pin Type A. But the voltage caught me out: Japan runs at 100V, which is lower than both the UK (230V) and the US (110-120V). My laptop and phone chargers handled it fine because they are dual-voltage, but I am glad I did not pack my UK hair dryer. The good news is that most electronics from the past decade will work; you just need to check the small print on your charger.
Japan uses Type A plugs (two flat parallel pins) and operates at 100V – lower than most other countries. Here’s what you need to know.
Quick Answer
- Plug Type: Type A (two flat pins), some Type B
- Voltage: 100V
- Frequency: 50Hz (eastern Japan) / 60Hz (western Japan)
- UK travelers: Need an adapter
- US travelers: Usually don’t need an adapter
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Plug Types in Japan
Type A: Two flat parallel pins, ungrounded. Most common in Japan.
Type B: Same as Type A plus a grounding pin. Less common.
Both are the same as used in North America, but Japanese outlets may be narrower.
Voltage: The 100V Difference
Japan operates at 100V – this is important:
- UK uses 230V – significant difference
- US uses 110-120V – close enough for most devices
- Most of Europe uses 220-240V – significant difference
Do You Need a Converter?
Modern electronics (laptops, phones, tablets, cameras): Usually no. Most are dual-voltage (100-240V). Check the label on your charger.
Hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons: Often yes. These are typically single-voltage and designed for your home country’s voltage. Using a 230V hair dryer on 100V will result in weak performance; using a 110V device might work but not optimally.
Tip: For high-wattage appliances, consider buying a local version in Japan rather than using a voltage converter.
Who Needs What
| From | Adapter? | Converter? |
|---|---|---|
| UK | Yes | Usually no (dual-voltage devices) |
| USA/Canada | Usually no | Usually no |
| Europe | Yes | Usually no (dual-voltage devices) |
| Australia | Yes | Usually no (dual-voltage devices) |
Frequency Note
Japan has two frequencies:
- 50Hz: Eastern Japan (Tokyo, Yokohama, Tohoku, Hokkaido)
- 60Hz: Western Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Hiroshima)
This rarely matters for travelers unless you’re using devices with motors or older electronics.
Charging on the Go
- Shinkansen (bullet trains): Many newer trains have Type A outlets at seats
- Cafes and restaurants: Many have outlets for customers
- Stations and airports: Paid charging lockers available
Where to Buy
Before travel: Amazon, electronics stores, travel stores
In Japan: Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, 100 yen shops (Daiso), hotel reception
Related
Frequently Asked Questions
What plug type does Japan use?
Japan uses Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (same as Type A plus a grounding pin) plugs, which are the same as North American plugs. However, Japanese outlets may be narrower than US outlets.
Do UK travelers need an adapter for Japan?
Yes, UK plugs (Type G with three rectangular pins) won’t fit Japanese outlets. You need a UK to Type A adapter to use your devices in Japan.
Do US travelers need an adapter for Japan?
Usually no. US plugs (Type A/B) fit Japanese outlets directly. However, some US plugs may be slightly wider, so bring an adapter as backup if your plug doesn’t fit.
What voltage does Japan use and do I need a converter?
Japan uses 100V, which is lower than most countries. Most modern electronics (laptops, phones, tablets, cameras) are dual-voltage (100-240V) and work fine. Check your device label – hair dryers and straighteners may not work optimally.
Is there a frequency difference in Japan?
Yes, Japan has two frequencies: 50Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo, Yokohama) and 60Hz in western Japan (Osaka, Kyoto). This rarely affects travelers unless using devices with motors or older electronics.
Where can I buy a travel adapter in Japan?
Before travel, buy from Amazon, electronics stores, or travel shops. In Japan, you can find adapters at Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, 100 yen shops like Daiso, or hotel reception.
