🇯🇵 Plugs & Voltage in Japan
Type A, Type B · 100V · 50/60Hz
Voltage
100V
100V (lower than N. America)
Frequency
50/60Hz
AC power
Plug Types
Type AType B
Travelling from a different country? Check if you need an adapter or voltage converter with our interactive tool.
Check my adapter needs →Plug Types Used in Japan
Type A
Two flat parallel pins
USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan
Type B
Two flat + round earth pin
USA, Canada, Mexico
Do I need an adapter for Japan? Quick answers by home country
| Travelling from | Plug adapter | Voltage |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Usually not needed (3-prong and some polarised plugs may not fit older 2-slot sockets) | Similar (120V → 100V) |
| Canada | Usually not needed (3-prong and some polarised plugs may not fit older 2-slot sockets) | Similar (120V → 100V) |
| United Kingdom | Needed | Different (230V → 100V): check device labels |
| Germany / most of the EU | Needed | Different (230V → 100V): check device labels |
| Australia | Needed | Different (230V → 100V): check device labels |
| New Zealand | Needed | Different (230V → 100V): check device labels |
| India | Needed | Different (230V → 100V): check device labels |
Based on the plug types listed above. Phone, tablet and laptop chargers are almost always rated 100–240V and only need a plug adapter; hair dryers, straighteners and kettles often are not. Check any country pair →
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Frequently Asked Questions
What plug type is used in Japan?
Japan uses Type A, Type B. Type A (Two flat parallel pins — used in USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan). Type B (Two flat + round earth pin — used in USA, Canada, Mexico).
What voltage does Japan use?
Japan uses 100 volts at 50 Hz in eastern Japan (including Tokyo) and 60 Hz in western Japan (including Osaka and Kyoto). That is a little lower than the 110–127V used in North America. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) accept 100–240V and will work fine with just a plug adapter.
Do I need a power adapter for Japan?
If your home country uses different plug types to Type A, Type B, yes — you will need a plug adapter. Whether you need a voltage converter depends on your device. Check the label: if it says '100–240V', you only need a plug adapter.
Do New Zealanders need a power adapter for Japan?
New Zealanders travelling to Japan need both a plug adapter and to check device voltage compatibility — Japan runs on 100V vs New Zealand's 230V.
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