Japan Plug Type: Power Outlet Adapter

Japan is often called “the land of the rising sun,” and for good reason. Aside from breathtaking natural sights, the country has plenty of amazing attractions, including historical and cultural landmarks. In Tokyo, for example, there’s the majestic Imperial Palace, Meiji Shinto Shrine, and the bustling Shibuya district. Meanwhile, Kyoto is known for its ancient temples and traditional houses.

Let’s not forget many other things that Japan is famous for: Mount Fuji, delicious cuisine, and “sakura” (cherry blossoms). Be sure to bring out your cameras, because you’ll be taking picture after picture in this beautiful country. Of course, you must make sure that your phones and cameras are fully charged, and that your gadgets can be plugged into Japan’s power outlets!

What is the Electrical Outlet Power Socket in Japan?

Did you know that there are two main type of plugs in Japan? These are Type A, a plug that has two parallel pins, and Type B, which has two parallel pins and one grounding pin. Both types of plugs are used in Japan, United States, and Canada.

The Type A socket is compatible with Type A plugs only. Here’s what the Type A plug and socket look like:

Meanwhile, the Type B socket is compatible with both Type B and Type A plugs. Here’s what the Type B plug and socket look like:

The standard voltage in Japan is 100V. As for frequency, it depends on your location. In Eastern Japan (Tokyo, Hokkaido, Tohoku, and Yokohama, etc.), the standard frequency is 50Hz; while in Western Japan (Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kyushu, Nagoya, Osaka, Shikoku, etc.), the standard frequency is 60Hz. Please note, however, that most devices are not affected by the slight difference in frequency.

What is the Plug Adapter Type in Japan?

As mentioned earlier, the most common types of plugs in Japan are Type A and Type B. In any case, consider bringing a Type A (two-pronged) plug adapter because this can fit into both Type A and Type B sockets in Japan.

Here’s what a Type A plug adapter looks like. Take note that it can fit most types of plugs, including Type G (three-pronged) plugs:

Should I Bring a Travel Adapter to Japan?

Yes, you should bring a travel adapter to Japan if your country of origin uses a different type of plug and socket. In particular, consider bringing a Type A plug adapter, as this will allow you to charge your devices in Japan’s power outlets.

Should I Bring a Voltage Converter to Japan?

The answer to this question depends on the standard voltage and frequency in your home country, and whether these are the same as in Japan.

Remember that each country has a standard frequency. For example, most of the countries in North and South America have a standard voltage of 100V to 120V. On the other hand, most of the countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East have a standard voltage ranging from 220V to 240V.

As mentioned earlier, the standard voltage in Japan is 100V. If your home country has the same voltage, you don’t need to bring a voltage converter. But if the voltage is different in your home country, then consider bringing a voltage converter.

As for frequency, the standard frequency in Eastern Japan is 50Hz, whereas the standard frequency in Western Japan is 60Hz. If these figures are the same as in your home country, then a converter may not be necessarily.

Where Can I Buy Electrical Supplies in Japan?

As soon as you arrive in Japan, you are likely to see travel adapters and other electrical supplies at the airport. Keep in mind, though, that these tend to be more expensive. Rather, consider buying electrical supplies outside the airport, at the nearest shopping mall, supermarket, or convenience store instead.

Travel Adapter vs. Voltage Converter

What’s the difference between a travel adapter and voltage converter? Don’t get confused… It’s pretty simple, really! A travel adapter is a device that enables us to charge phones and other appliances into power outlets with a different plug type. A travel adapter does not convert electric voltage.

In contrast, a voltage converter is a device that can change or convert electricity from one level to another. For example, if the standard voltage in your home country is 220V, then you might need a converter in Japan, where the standard voltage is 100V.

What About Devices with Dual Voltage?

Have you heard about devices that are “dual voltage?” As the term suggests, these are gadgets that can be plugged into power sockets of any frequency or voltage.

How can you tell if your device is dual voltage? Simply look for the small print. If it says “INPUT: 100-240V” and “50/60HZ,” this means that your device is dual voltage, and you can plug it anywhere!

That being said, even if your devices are dual voltage, they may still have a different type of plug than those in Japan. Hence, consider bringing a travel adapter, so you can charge your devices in Type A and Type B power sockets.

Video: Japan Travel Tips

If you are planning to visit Japan anytime soon, check out this video shared by “Gaijin Tips Japan,” a YouTube channel that offers helpful tips, suggestions, and information about this beautiful country. The video features 20 essential tips for Japan, including the types of power outlets used:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some commonly asked questions and answers about power sockets, plugs, and travel adapters in Japan:

1. What type of power sockets are used in Japan?

There are two types of power sockets that are typically used in Japan: Type A, which features two parallel pins; and Type B, which features two parallel pins plus a grounding pin.

2. What other countries use Type A and B plugs?

Other than Japan, there are plenty of other countries that use Type A and Type B plugs. These include Cambodia, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Jordan, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United States, Venezuela, Vietnam, and Yemen, among others.

3. What type of adapter do I need?

In Japan, you will need a Travel A plug adapter. You can use this when charging your phone and other devices in Japan, which uses mostly Type A and Type B power sockets.

4. Any tips when buying a travel adapter?

What exactly are you looking when buying a a travel adapter? Perhaps you need an adapter that has several USB ports, or one that has “fast charging” capabilities. Take note of the exact features that you need, so you can find and buy the best travel adapter, which you’ll be using in Japan.

5. Will I need a voltage converter?

The standard voltage in Japan is 100V. If this figure is the same in your home country, then a voltage converter may not be necessary. But if the standard voltage in your country is between 220V and 240V, then consider bringing a converter.

Nonetheless, some of your gadgets might be “dual voltage,” which means that these can be plugged into power outlets of any voltage or frequency. If your phones, tablets, and other gadgets are dual voltage, then a converter may not be necessary.

6. Where can I buy electrical supplies?

Upon arrival in Japan, you are likely to find travel adapters and other electrical supplies at the airport. However, these are usually more expensive than those sold in other stores outside. Fortunately, you can also buy electrical supplies in most convenience stores, supermarkets, and malls that are located across Japan.

7. Is the Japan plug the same as in the UK?

No, the Japan plug is not the same as in the United Kingdom. The British or “UK plug” has three rectangular pins, arranged in a triangular pattern.

8. Is the Japan plug the same as in the US?

Yes, the Japan plug is the same as in the United States. Both of these countries use Type A and Type B plugs and sockets.

9. Will my hotel room have a USB socket?

Some hotels in Japan may have USB sockets, although some hotels may not have them. Just to be sure, you can contact the hotel where you’ll be checking in and ask about the types of power sockets available, and whether you need to bring a travel adapter with USB ports for your devices.

10. Do I need to bring a power strip?

If you are traveling with the whole family, or as part of a large travel group, having a power strip would be a great idea. Using this, you can plug and/or charge multiple gadgets at the same time.

On the other hand, if you are traveling solo, or with your husband/wife only, then it’s probably not necessary to bring a power strip to your hotel in Japan.

Summary

Without a doubt, a trip to Japan is bound to be an unforgettable trip of a lifetime! You will not only get to see beautiful sights, but experience a unique and amazing culture. With a travel adapter and other essentials, make sure that you have everything you could ever need for a hassle-free and enjoyable stay!

Another must-visit in Japan are the festivals. Here’s a list of the best traditional festivals in Japan, so you can plan your vacation accordingly!