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Plugs and voltage

Japan

Japan uses plug types A and B. The most common is type A – the North American two-prong plug.

Type
A · B
Voltage
100 V
Frequency
50/60 Hz

Type A

North American two-prong plug · most common

Two flat parallel blades, no earth – the everyday plug of the USA, Canada, Mexico and Japan.

15 A · ungrounded

Type B

North American three-prong plug

Type A with an extra round earth pin – the standard socket in North America.

15 A · grounded

Good to know

Japan runs on 100 V – the lowest mains voltage in the world. The east (Tokyo, Tōhoku, Hokkaidō) uses 50 Hz and the west (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Kyūshū) 60 Hz; the border runs roughly along the Fuji River in Shizuoka. Most sockets are two-slot type A, so three-prong type B plugs may need an adapter.

Mains frequency by prefecture

  • 50 Hz (east)
  • 60 Hz (west)
  • Both (split along the Fuji River)

Will your plugs fit here?

Where plugs from this country fit

Travelling to Japan

Travelling from Japan

Frequently asked questions

What plug type is used in Japan?

Japan uses plug types A and B. The most common is type A – the North American two-prong plug. Japan runs on 100 V – the lowest mains voltage in the world. The east (Tokyo, Tōhoku, Hokkaidō) uses 50 Hz and the west (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Kyūshū) 60 Hz; the border runs roughly along the Fuji River in Shizuoka. Most sockets are two-slot type A, so three-prong type B plugs may need an adapter.

What is the voltage in Japan?

The mains voltage in Japan is 100 V and the frequency is 50/60 Hz. Devices from countries with 100–127 V work without a converter. Devices from Europe and most of the world (220–240 V) should only be plugged in if the power supply says 100–240 V – otherwise you need a voltage converter.

Do I need a travel adapter for Japan?

You need an adapter if your devices have plugs other than types A and B. You won’t need one if you’re coming from Canada and United States. Only some plugs fit for travellers from China. Travellers from Australia, France, Germany, India, Poland and United Kingdom need an adapter to type A.

Do I need a voltage converter in Japan?

Not if you’re coming from Canada and United States – the voltage is similar. If you bring devices from Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Poland and United Kingdom, check their rating labels. Phone and laptop chargers usually work on 100–240 V, but hair dryers, straighteners and kettles often do not – those need a voltage converter.

Same sockets and voltage