Asia · field briefing
日本
Japan uses Type A / Type B power outlets at 100V, 50/60Hz. The general emergency number is 110 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance). Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed . Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
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Japan runs at 100V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
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Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even cause confusion. Excellent service is standard and included. Do not leave cash on the table unless a venue clearly has a tip box or service system.
Spring and autumn are the classic seasons, with cherry blossoms from late March to April and foliage in October to November. June is rainy in many regions, and midsummer can be hot and humid.
Many nationalities can enter Japan visa-free for short tourism stays, while others need a visa before travel. Rules can change by passport and purpose, so check the Japanese embassy or Ministry of Foreign Affairs before departure.
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Questions
Yes. Tap water in Japan is considered safe to drink.
Japan uses Type A, Type B plugs running at 100V, 50/60Hz. Japan runs at 100V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
Dial 110 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance) for general emergencies in Japan. Police: 110. Ambulance: 119.
Spring and autumn are the classic seasons, with cherry blossoms from late March to April and foliage in October to November. June is rainy in many regions, and midsummer can be hot and humid.
In Japan, traffic drives on the left side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the right. Visitors from right-hand-drive countries should take extra care.
The international dialing code for Japan is +81. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a Japan number from abroad.
Sources
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