Do I need a plug adapter for Japan?
Japan uses Type A / Type B plugs at 100V, 50/60Hz. Find your home country below to see if you need an adapter or converter.
| Travelling from | What you need |
|---|---|
| USA (Type A, 120V) | Fine No adapter needed |
| Canada (Type A, 120V) | Fine No adapter needed |
| UK (Type G, 230V) | Adapter Adapter needed (Type A / B), and voltage differs (230V → 100V) |
| Europe (most of EU) (Type C, 230V) | Adapter Adapter needed (Type A / B), and voltage differs (230V → 100V) |
| Australia / NZ (Type I, 230V) | Adapter Adapter needed (Type A / B), and voltage differs (230V → 100V) |
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Plug types in Japan
- Type A: two flat parallel pins
- Type B: two flat pins plus a round grounding pin
Eastern Japan (including Tokyo) runs at 50Hz and western Japan (including Osaka) at 60Hz; modern chargers handle both. Many older sockets are two-pin only, so three-prong plugs may need a small adapter.
Will my devices work on 100V?
Check the small print on your charger. If it says INPUT: 100–240V, it works anywhere with just a plug adapter. Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage. Hair dryers, curling irons and some kitchen gadgets are often single-voltage and can be damaged on the wrong voltage.
FAQ
What plug type does Japan use?
Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs, with a standard voltage of 100V at 50/60Hz.
Do I need a voltage converter for Japan?
Usually not for phones, tablets, laptops or cameras, because their chargers are almost always rated 100–240V. Single-voltage appliances like some hair dryers and straighteners may need a converter or a dual-voltage model.
What's the difference between a plug adapter and a converter?
An adapter only changes the plug shape. A converter changes the voltage. Most travelers only need an adapter.
Is a universal travel adapter worth it?
If you visit more than one region, yes. One universal adapter covers most plug types, and many have USB ports built in.
Plan the rest of your Japan trip
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