Power Plugs & Voltage in Japan
In Japan, the standard voltage is 100V at 50Hz, and plug types A, B are used.
Your plugs (Type A, Type B) fit Japan's sockets directly.
A moderate difference. Dual-voltage devices (marked 100–240V) are fine; single-voltage ones may need a converter.
Check your charger Most phone, laptop and camera chargers are dual-voltage (look for “INPUT: 100–240V” on the label). Those only ever need a plug adapter, never a voltage converter. High-wattage items with heating elements (hair dryers, straighteners, kettles) are the usual exception.Japan mains: 100V, 50 Hz.
Note Japan runs at just 100V — the lowest of any major country. Frequency is SPLIT: 50 Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo) and 60 Hz in the west (Osaka). Plugs are the same A/B as North America but the low voltage matters for some appliances.
Plug types in Japan
2 flat parallel pins (ungrounded, North America / Japan)
2 flat pins + a round grounding pin (North America)
Many modern chargers, laptops, phones and cameras are dual-voltage: their label reads INPUT: 100–240V. Those work anywhere in the world with just a plug adapter — no voltage converter needed. Only single-voltage, high-wattage devices (hair dryers, travel kettles, straighteners) are a real concern in Japan’s 100V supply. Always check the label on your own device.
How to check what you need for Japan
- 01 Pick your home country in the checker above.
- 02 See instantly whether your plugs fit Japan’s Types A & B sockets, and whether the 100V supply is a concern.
- 03 Read the label on each device — 100–240V means a plug adapter is all you need.
Frequently asked questions
What plug type is used in Japan?
Japan uses Types A & B plugs. Japan runs at just 100V — the lowest of any major country. Frequency is SPLIT: 50 Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo) and 60 Hz in the west (Osaka). Plugs are the same A/B as North America but the low voltage matters for some appliances.
What voltage is Japan?
The standard mains voltage in Japan is 100V at 50Hz. Most modern chargers and laptops are dual-voltage (100–240V) and work fine; single-voltage appliances from a country with very different voltage may need a converter.
Do I need an adapter for Japan from the US?
Japan accepts US-style Type A/B plugs, so a plug adapter may not be needed — but check the voltage: the US is 120V and Japan is 100V. Use the checker above for your exact home country.
Do I need an adapter for Japan from the UK?
Yes. UK Type G plugs don't fit Japan's Types A & B sockets, so you'll need a plug adapter. Voltage is 100V — check whether single-voltage devices need a converter.