Molly Ayala
Japan uses two types of power plugs and sockets (outlets): Type A and Type B. Type A plugs are the most common and feature two flat parallel pins, while Type B plugs include a grounding pin and are less common. The standard voltage in Japan is 100V, which is lower than in many other countries. As a result, travellers from countries with higher voltages, such as the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia, may need to use a voltage converter or transformer in addition to a travel adapter to safely use their electrical appliances in Japan. It is important to check the voltage requirements of your devices before plugging them into Japanese power outlets to avoid any damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plug Types | A, B |
| Voltage | 100V |
| Frequency | 50Hz in the east (including Tokyo, Yokohama, Tohoku, Hokkaido) and 60Hz in the west (including Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Shikoku, Kyushu) |
| Plug Shape | Two flat parallel pins for Type A, two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin for Type B |
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What You'll Learn
Plug types in Japan
Japan uses two main plug types: Type A and Type B. Type A plugs have two flat parallel pins, and Type B plugs have two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. The standard voltage in Japan is 100V, with a frequency of 50Hz in eastern Japan (including Tokyo, Yokohama, Tohoku, and Hokkaido) and 60Hz in western Japan (including Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Shikoku, and Kyushu).
If you are travelling to Japan from North America, your devices will likely use Type A or Type B plugs, so no adapter is necessary. However, if you have three-pronged plugs (Type B), it is recommended to bring a Type B to Type A adapter for convenience, as three-pronged outlets are less common in Japan.
If you are travelling from Europe, the UK, Australia, or other countries, your plugs are likely different (e.g., Type C, G, or I). In this case, you will need a universal travel adapter that works with Type A and Type B outlets. These adapters are available at electronic stores in Japan, such as Bic Camera, or on Amazon before your trip.
It is important to note that voltage can differ between countries, so you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer for your electrical appliances while in Japan. Most voltage converters come supplied with plug adapters, but it is essential to check the appliance's rating plate to determine if a converter or transformer is necessary. Some travel adapters are not suitable for appliances that require an earth connection, so be sure to only use them with double-insulated equipment.
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Voltage and frequency
Japan operates on a 100V supply voltage, which is lower than the voltage in many other countries. For example, North America operates on 120V, and Central Europe on 230V. As such, when travelling to Japan, it is important to consider the voltage of your electrical appliances, as using an electrical appliance with a voltage rating different from the supply can be extremely dangerous.
Most voltage converters and transformers come supplied with plug adapters, so you may not need to buy a separate travel adapter. However, it is important to note that travel adapters do not convert voltage or frequency. If you are using a dual voltage appliance, you will not need a converter or transformer, but simply a travel adapter. You can determine whether you will need a converter or transformer by looking at the appliance rating plate. A dual voltage-rated appliance will display 'INPUT: 100-240V' on the body of the appliance or its power supply.
Converters are typically used with appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2 hours), while most transformers can be used alongside appliances that operate continuously. It is also important to note that some travel adapters are not suitable for appliances that require an earth connection. These types of travel adapters should only be used with double-insulated equipment, which will be clearly marked.
In addition to voltage, it is important to consider the frequency of the electricity supply in Japan, as the frequency can vary by region. In eastern Japan, including Tokyo, Yokohama, Tohoku, and Hokkaido, the frequency is 50Hz, while in western Japan, including Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Shikoku, and Kyushu, the frequency is 60Hz. If the frequency is different from that of your home country, the normal operation of your electrical appliances may be affected. For example, a 50Hz clock may run faster on a 60Hz electricity supply.
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Travel adaptors
When travelling to Japan, it is important to consider what to pack to ensure you can use your personal electrical appliances safely. This normally includes the use of a travel adaptor, which is a device that allows you to plug any electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket.
In Japan, there are two associated plug types, A and B. Plug type A has two flat parallel pins, and plug type B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. Type A is the most common. Japan operates on a 100V supply voltage and 50/60Hz. Electricity supplies worldwide can vary from 100V to 240V. It can be extremely dangerous to use an electrical appliance that is rated at a voltage different from the supply. As voltage can differ from country to country, you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer while in Japan.
If you are from the US or Canada, your devices likely use Type A or Type B plugs, so no adapter is necessary. However, if your devices have three-pronged plugs (Type B), it is recommended to bring a Type B to Type A adapter for convenience. If you are from Europe, the UK, Australia, or other countries, your plugs are likely different (e.g., Type C, G, or I), and you will need a universal travel adapter that works with Type A outlets.
Adapters are readily available in Japan at electronic stores like Bic Camera and Donki, as well as convenience stores. Most voltage converters and transformers come supplied with plug adapters, so you may not need to buy a separate travel adapter. However, converters and transformers perform similar but different functions, with converters typically used for appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2 hours) and transformers used with appliances that operate continuously.
It is important to note that some travel adapters are not suitable for appliances that require an earth connection. These types of travel adapters should only be used with double-insulated equipment, which will be clearly marked. Additionally, some North American equipment will work fine in Japan without an adapter, but certain equipment, especially those involving heating (e.g., hair dryers), may not work properly or may even get damaged.
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Voltage converters
Japan's electricity supply operates at 100V, which is lower than the voltage in many other countries. For example, the voltage in North America is 120V, and in Central Europe, it is 230V. This means that if you are travelling to Japan from abroad, you will likely need to use a voltage converter for your electrical appliances.
Converters are typically used with appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2 hours), whereas transformers can be used with appliances that operate continuously. It is important to note that some travel adapters are not suitable for appliances that require an earth connection. These types of travel adapters should only be used with double-insulated equipment.
Most voltage converters and transformers will have a maximum power rating (AMPS or WATTS), so it is important to ensure that any appliance you intend to use does not exceed this rating. You can check this by looking at the appliance's rating plate. If a device is dual voltage rated, it can be used in every country in the world and will not need a converter or transformer, just a travel adapter.
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Buying electronics in Japan
Japan is known for its cutting-edge technology and high-quality electronics, making it a popular destination for travellers seeking the latest gadgets and appliances. From the neon-lit streets of Akihabara in Tokyo to the tech hubs of Osaka, here are some things to keep in mind when buying electronics in Japan:
Voltage and Plug Types
Japan uses a standard voltage of 100V, which is lower than in many other countries such as the US (120V) and Central Europe (230V). Japanese outlets mostly use two-prong flat plugs, known as Type A, with two flat parallel pins. Occasionally, you may come across Type B plugs, which include a grounding pin. If your devices use three-pronged plugs, it is recommended to bring a Type B to Type A adapter for convenience.
Pricing and Tax Exemptions
Electronics in Japan are often priced similarly or cheaper than in other countries, especially when factoring in exchange rates. As a foreign visitor, you may also be eligible for tax exemptions on certain products. For example, you can be exempt from paying the consumption tax, currently 8% (increasing to 10% in April 2017). Additionally, stores like Yodobashi and Bic Camera offer long-running deals where foreign customers receive an additional 5% off when purchasing tax-free items with a VISA card.
English Language Options
If you are purchasing electronics in Japan, pay attention to language settings. For instance, Sony products sold in Japan do not have English menus. Look for the Overseas Model section in stores for English alternatives. For rice cookers and other kitchen appliances, visit the Tax-Free section, where products are specifically made to work in 220V-240V countries and will display voltages and have English instructions.
Warranty and Specifications
Before purchasing electronics in Japan, understand the specifications and warranty policies of your desired products to ensure they will work safely and properly in your home country. Most voltage converters and transformers have a maximum power rating, so check that your appliances do not exceed this limit.
Where to Shop
Major electronic stores in Japan include Yodobashi Camera, Yamada Deki, and BIC CAMERA, which offer a wide range of products. These stores are often located near major stations and in large malls. For online shopping, platforms like imy Shop Japan provide an alternative, offering comprehensive after-sales service and warranty support in multiple languages.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can navigate the unique and memorable experience of buying electronics in Japan, ensuring you make informed choices and return home with some of the best technology in the world.
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Frequently asked questions
In Japan, the power plugs and sockets are of type A and type B. Type A has two flat parallel pins, and type B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin.
The standard voltage in Japan is 100V, and the frequency is 50Hz in eastern Japan (including Tokyo, Yokohama, Tohoku, and Hokkaido) and 60Hz in western Japan (including Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Shikoku, and Kyushu).
If you are from the US or Canada, you likely use type A or type B plugs, so no adapter is necessary. If your devices have three-pronged plugs (type B), it is recommended to bring a type B to type A adapter. If you are from Europe, the UK, Australia, or other countries, your plugs are likely different (e.g., type C, G, or I), and you will need a universal travel adapter that works with type A outlets. It is important to note that some travel adapters do not convert voltage, so if your device is not dual voltage rated, you may need a voltage converter or transformer to allow your appliance to work safely.
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