Travel Tips

Japan plug type: Complete adapter guide for travellers

Learn everything about the Japan plug types A and B, voltage, and which travel adapters you need.

Japan uses plug types A and B with 100V voltage. If you’re planning a trip to Japan soon, figuring out electrical compatibility and packing the correct plug type should be top priorities on your Japan packing list.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Japan plug type, voltage levels, and where to buy a Japan travel adapter to keep your devices powered during your trip. Stay connected on your trips abroad with an unlimited data travel eSIM.

In this article

What plug type does Japan use?

Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs. The most common Japanese plug type is Type A, which has two flat parallel pins and is unearthed (no earth pin).

The second common Japan plug type is Type B and has the same two flat pins, plus a round ground pin (earth pin). Type B is an earthed Japanese plug.

Japan’s plug types A and B. Source: Holafly.

These plugs in Japan are the same types used in the United States and Canada, so they may look familiar. Most hotels and accommodations in Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto offer both power outlet types (two-prong and three-prong). However, older buildings may only have two-prong electrical outlets.

Voltage and frequency in Japan

The standard voltage in Japan is 100V, and the frequency varies by region.

Eastern Japan operates at 50Hz (including Tokyo and Yokohama), while Western Japan operates at 60Hz (including Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima).

This won’t be a problem for dual-voltage devices such as modern phones, laptops, and cameras. Check the input label on your device’s charger before using any Japanese plug sockets.

If the power supply label says “INPUT: 100-240V”, your electrical appliance should operate normally, and you won’t need a voltage converter.

Do you need a travel adapter for Japan?

This will depend on where you’re travelling from:

From the UK or Ireland: Yes, UK plugs (Type G with three rectangular prongs) don’t fit Japan outlets. Italy and UK travellers will need a UK to Japan plug adapter, designed for Type A or B plug sockets.
From the US or Canada: Usually, no. The Japan plug type is similar to those used in the United States and Canada. However, if your electrical appliance has a Type B plug with a ground pin, it may not fit in older sockets that support Type A only.
From Australia or New Zealand: Yes, Type I plugs don’t match the plug types used in Japan. You’ll need a Japanese plug adapter.

Unless you’re travelling from America or Canada, it’s best to pack a Type A/B travel adapter or a universal travel adapter to accommodate multiple sockets. If you don’t have the correct plug type, you won’t be able to power your devices or use your phone in Japan, which can quickly become an issue in a foreign country.

Even if you’ve sorted out your internet needs via an eSIM, a local SIM card for Japan, or a pocket WiFi for Japan, you still need a plug adapter to keep everything charged.

Do you need a voltage converter for Japan?

This depends on the voltage levels your appliances can handle. Japan operates at a lower voltage level than most countries. For example, in the UK and most of Europe, the standard voltage is 230V. America and Canada typically use 110-120V.

This won’t be an issue for dual-voltage appliances, but hair dryers, curling irons, or other heat-based products may be designed for a single voltage level.

In this case, you’ll need a voltage converter. That said, you might want to avoid bulky converters and opt for dual-voltage devices instead. Always check the input voltage rating for your device first before plugging it in.

Where to buy Japan travel adapters

You have three main options to buy a travel adapter for Japan:

Buy online: This is the easiest option. Retailers such as Amazon, Argos, or Curry’s offer Type A and B travel adapters, including universal travel adapters that fit multiple plug sockets. Prices range between £8 and £25 GBP.
Buy at the airport: If you forget to pack one, you can usually buy a Japan plug adapter at the airport before departure or upon arrival in Japan. Though prices are often 2-3 times higher than buying online.
In Japan: Major electronics stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto sell Japan plug adapter options. While you can easily find one in Japan, bringing your own travel adapter is a more convenient option.

Stay connected in Japan with an unlimited data eSIM

Along with understanding and getting the correct Japan plug type, staying connected online is just as important when travelling.

You’ll need reliable mobile internet for Google Maps, translation apps, booking tickets, and sharing photos during your trip. International roaming in Japan can be expensive, and a local SIM card means searching for a shop, dealing with registration, and navigating possible language barriers.

A Holafly eSIM for Japan offers an easier solution. Order the eSIM plan online, scan a QR code to install it on your device, and it automatically activates when you arrive in Japan. Get unlimited data, 24/7 customer support, and a daily hotspot allowance of up to 1 GB for over 200 destinations.

For extended stays, Holafly Plans offers flexible internet plans on a monthly subscription basis, without any cancellation fees or long-term contracts – perfect for frequent travellers and remote workers.

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Mahnoor Bangush

SEO Content Writer

Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!

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