What type of plugs does Japan use?
Japan mainly uses the Type A plug: two flat parallel pins, no earth, the same as the standard in the United States and Canada. In some modern buildings there are also Type B sockets (the same two flat pins plus a third earth pin). Both are physically incompatible with European Type C, E or F plugs (round pins), so travellers from Europe always need a shape adapter to Type A. Also check what else to pack for Japan.
What is the electrical voltage in Japan?
The standard voltage in Japan is 100 V, the lowest in the world and well below the 220–230 V of Europe. The frequency is 50 Hz in the east of the country (Tokyo, Nikko, Kamakura) and 60 Hz in the west (Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Fukuoka).
Do I need a plug adapter for Japan if I come from Europe?
Yes, you need a shape adapter from Type C/E/F to Type A so your European plug fits the Japanese wall socket. They are very cheap (2–5 €) and can be found in electronics shops, airports or at the reception of many Japanese hotels.
Do I need a voltage transformer to use my devices in Japan?
Most modern devices (phone chargers, laptops, cameras, tablets) have universal power supplies that accept 100–240 V and do not need a transformer, just the shape adapter. Check on the label or charger whether it says "INPUT: 100–240V AC". If it says only "220V" or "230V" you need a transformer.
Does a hair dryer work in Japan?
It depends on the model. Dryers designed exclusively for 220 V will not work well with Japan's 100 V. Many hotels and ryokan offer a 100 V dryer free to use in the room; it is worth asking before bringing your own.
Where can I buy an adapter for Japan?
Type F to Type A adapters are sold in electronics shops (Media Markt, Fnac, Amazon) for 2–5 €. They are also sold in Japanese convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart), in Daiso shops (for 100 ¥) and at the reception of many tourist hotels.
Can I charge an iPhone or Android in Japan?
Yes. The official chargers from Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi and virtually all phone manufacturers are universal (100–240 V). You only need the physical Type F to Type A adapter. The USB-C or Lightning cable is the same; the only thing that changes is the charger plug in the wall.
Why is electricity in Japan 100 V and not 220 V like in Europe?
Japan's electrical system was developed historically following the American standard. The difference between 50 Hz (Tokyo) and 60 Hz (Osaka) is because the first power plants in each area came from different manufacturers: German in the east (50 Hz) and American in the west (60 Hz). The country never unified the standard.
Can I bring a European power strip to Japan?
Not directly: the power strip plugs (European round pins) do not fit Japanese sockets. The solution is to connect the European power strip to a single Type F to Type A adapter, which is the most practical option if you have several devices to charge. Make sure the power strip supports 100 V.
Are there sockets on the Shinkansen to charge a phone?
Yes. The Shinkansen have Type A sockets under the window and in the seats by the wall (those at the ends of the carriage); in the most recent models (N700S series) all seats have a power socket. Use the long journeys to charge. If you run low on battery in the city, in Japan there are power bank rental machines (ChargeSPOT) in konbinis and stations. Remember that power banks must travel in carry-on luggage, never in checked baggage.
