PlugVoltage

Country power profile

Power Outlets & Plugs in Japan

Japan uses Type A/B sockets at 100⁠V / 50/60⁠Hz. Dual-voltage (100–240V) devices need only a plug adapter; single-voltage US devices need a converter.

Voltage
100⁠V
Frequency
50/60⁠Hz
Plug type
Type A/B
US plug
Often fits
Reviewed
2026-07-16

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Check one device Get an exact verdict using your device label. Build a trip checklist Check several devices and share the packing verdict. Size a converter Calculate watts and headroom before buying.
Japan runs 100V — close to the US 120V. Most US devices work with at most a plug adapter.

Fast checks for Japan

Traveler checkWhat the data saysAction
100-240V chargersVoltage-safe on 100⁠V / 50/60⁠Hz.US plugs often fit; still confirm the charger label.
120V-only appliances100V is close to US voltage, but heat/motor performance can still vary.Check the label before packing a converter.
Plug shapeSockets are Type A/B in the country data.Adapter choice is about pin shape only; it never changes voltage.

Japan at a glance

Voltage100⁠V
Frequency50/60⁠Hz
Plug typesType A/B
Voltage zoneLOW
US plug fits?Often yes

Plug types used in Japan

Type A Reference shape and compatible sockets Type B Reference shape and compatible sockets

Type A Type B · grounded

Japan uses 100V — the lowest standard mains voltage of any developed country. Plugs look identical to US Type A/B, but the lower voltage means even a US 120V device runs slightly weaker. The frequency is split: 50Hz in the east (Tokyo), 60Hz in the west (Osaka). This matters only for motor- and clock-based devices, not for 50/60Hz-labeled chargers.

Your devices in Japan

Hair Dryer Yes MacBook Pro Charger (USB-C Power Adapter) Yes iPhone Charger Yes CPAP Machine Yes Curling Iron Yes Laptop Charger Yes Electric Shaver Yes Nintendo Switch Charger Yes
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Get a travel adapter for Japan(opens in new tab)

Safety check: a plug adapter only changes plug shape. It does not convert voltage, so confirm your device label before buying.

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Japan outlet FAQ

Can I charge my phone in Japan without a converter?

Yes. Phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (100–240V) — you only need a plug adapter.

Is 100V dangerous for US devices?

Japan runs 100V, close to the US 120V, so US devices are generally safe.

What plug type does Japan use?

Japan uses Type A/B sockets at 100⁠V / 50/60⁠Hz.

Related

Adapter vs converter · What "100–240V" means
Nearby: South Korea · China
Travelling to Japan? From United States · From United Kingdom · From Canada · From Australia

Guidance only — not professional electrical advice. Always confirm against your device's label before plugging in. Local wiring (especially in hotels and older buildings) can vary.