What is the voltage in Japan?
As a world-renowned tourist and business destination, Japan's electricity standards are a concern for many tourists and business travelers. Understanding the voltage and socket types in Japan can help you better prepare the adapters for your electronic devices that you need for your trip. Here is a detailed answer about Japan’s voltage:
Japanese voltage standards

Japan's voltage standards are different from many countries. The following are the main characteristics of Japanese voltage:
| Project | data |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 100 volts |
| Frequency | 50Hz in the eastern region, 60Hz in the western region |
| Outlet type | Type A (two-pin flat plug) |
Effects of voltage differences on electronic equipment
Japan's voltage is 100 volts, which is much lower than China's 220 volts. If you are traveling to Japan from China, there are a few things to note:
| Device type | Do you need an adapter? | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Cell phones, laptops | Usually not required | Most modern electronic devices support a wide voltage range of 100-240 volts |
| Hair dryer, iron | need | High power equipment may require a transformer |
| electric shaver | It depends on the situation | Some models support dual voltage |
Japanese socket types and adapter recommendations
Japanese sockets are type A, which is different from Chinese sockets. The following are socket adaptation recommendations:
| Outlet type | Image description | Adapter requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Type A | two-pin flat plug | Chinese tourists need to bring a Type A adapter |
Historical background of Japanese voltage
Japan's voltage standards stem from the electrification process in the early 20th century. Similar to the United States, Japan uses a lower voltage system. Here are key points in Japan's voltage history:
| Year | event |
|---|---|
| 1896 | Tokyo Electric adopts 100-volt system for the first time |
| 1950s | The national unified standard is 100 volts |
Japanese voltage compared with international
Compared with major countries in the world, Japan’s voltage is at a lower level:
| Country/Region | Voltage | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 100 volts | 50/60Hz |
| China | 220 volts | 50Hz |
| USA | 120 volts | 60Hz |
| Europe | 230 volts | 50Hz |
Tips on using electricity when traveling in Japan
1. Check in advance whether your electronic equipment supports 100 volts
2. Bring a suitable plug adapter
3. It is recommended to buy or rent high-power equipment locally
4. Hotels often offer limited adapter loaner services
5. Basic adapters can be purchased at convenience stores
Japan Voltage FAQ
Q: Will Japan's voltage damage my equipment?
A: Most modern electronic devices are designed with wide voltage support, but older devices may be at risk.
Q: Why are the frequencies different in the east and west of Japan?
A: This is caused by historical reasons. Different power generation equipment was introduced from Germany and the United States in the early days.
Q: Do I need to bring a transformer?
A: Not required in most cases unless you are carrying special high-power equipment.
With the above information, you should have a comprehensive understanding of Japan's voltage standards. Properly preparing electronic equipment can make your trip to Japan smoother and more enjoyable.
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