It is important to determine if you need a travel adapter or a voltage converter for Japan plug and power outlets.
Not to worry, we have all the information you need to ensure a problem-free trip.
What type of plug is used in Japan power outlets?
The power plugs and outlets used in Japan are the types A and B plugs.
The type A plug has two flat parallel pins.
Type B plug is similar to the type A plug but with the addition of a grounding pin.
What is the voltage and frequency in Japan?
The standard voltage and frequency used in Japan are 100 V and 50/60 Hz.
Travelers from countries with a standard voltage between 110 V and 127 V, such as Canada, the US, and countries in South America, can use electric appliances in Japan without a voltage converter.
This is because manufacturers consider slight deviations in voltage of up to plus or minus 5%.
However, suppose you are from a country with a standard voltage between 220 V and 240 V, such as Australia, the UK, Europe, Africa, and most parts of Asia. In that case, you can use electric appliances in Japan only with a voltage converter.
In rare instances where the standard frequency of Japan is different from that of a traveler’s country, it is best that electric appliances are not used in Japan.
If no voltage difference exists, electric appliances can be used at the owner’s risk but only for a limited period.
When doing so, caution should be exercised when using rotating, moving, or time-related appliances such as electric fan heaters, shavers, or clocks, as they will not function optimally.
Certain appliances are free from voltage issues as they can be used with all voltages and frequencies.
On the label of such appliances, an inscription such as “INPUT: 100 V – 240 V; 50/60 Hz” is written.
These devices include chargers of phone cameras, cell phones, tablets, laptops, and electric toothbrushes.
Want to buy a power plug/travel adapter or voltage converter?
The list of travel adapter products and converters available online is endless. However, when you choose a quality travel adapter, you can stay connected to a power source.
Fortunately, here’s our top-3 travel adapter picks from Amazon, in terms of quality, design, and price.
Electricity in Japan: How does Japan get its energy?
Japan generated electricity from fossil fuels and renewable sources.
In 2014, Japan produced 46.2% of its electricity from liquefied natural gas (LNG), 31% from coal, 10.6% from oil, 9% from hydropower, and 3.2% from renewable sources. Japan imports most of its fossil fuel for electricity production.