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Japan
Electrical outlets and plug types

Travelers from United Kingdom need a power plug adapter and voltage converter in Japan.

Country of residence

Your destination
Voltage100 V
Frequency50 / 60 Hz
from🇬🇧 United Kingdom
to🇯🇵 Japan
Outlet type APlug type A
A
Outlet type BPlug type B
B

In Japan, they use power outlets and plugs of type A and type B. The voltage is 100 V, and the frequency is 50 / 60 Hz.

Travel adapter neededYou will need an adapter for type A and B power outlets in Japan
Voltage converter needed You will need a voltage converter as well.
Frequency converter needed Be cautious with some devices due to the frequency difference.

Do power plugs from United Kingdom fit into Japan outlets?

In Japan, type A and B power outlets are used, while in United Kingdom, you use plugs G. If you're traveling to Japan, you'll need a power adapter for types A and B, as your power plugs won't fit the sockets there.

sockets from🇯🇵 Japan
plugs from🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Outlet type A
A
Plug type not compatiblePlug type G
G
Socket type not compatible

Your plug G does not match outlet type A.

Outlet type B
B
Plug type not compatiblePlug type G
G
Socket type not compatible

Your plug G does not match outlet type B.

Power adapter for Japan needed?

Since you'll need a travel adapter for Japan when coming from United Kingdom, we suggest opting for a universal power adapter that works in many countries and will also prepare you for future trips.

We recommend getting a universal travel (plug) adapter that covers the most popular countries.
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Make sure to get a power adapter for outlets of type A and B. If you often go abroad, consider getting an all-in-one adapter (most adapters even have additional charging ports for USB-A and USB-C). Since you also need an international power (voltage) converter to keep your devices protected (more info further down), getting a combo power adapter/converter might be the best solution.

Do I need a voltage converter for Japan?

Japan uses 100 V at 50 / 60 Hz, while United Kingdom operates on 230 V at 50 Hz. This voltage and frequency difference can affect your devices if they are not designed to handle both standards, potentially causing damage or malfunction.

Origin🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Destination🇯🇵 Japan
Voltage230 V
Frequency50 Hz
Frequency
Voltage100 V
Frequency50 / 60 Hz
A voltage converter is necessary to safeguard your devices in Japan.
Look for a voltage converter that can adjust the frequency as well.

A voltage converter keeps your electrical devices from Japan running properly by adjusting the power to the right voltage. Without it, your devices could overheat or get damaged from the wrong power supply. Since you need a travel adapter as well, a combo power (voltage) converter with adapter features might be a good choice.

You need a voltage converter for Japan if you live in United Kingdom.
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Please note: If your voltage converter can't switch the frequency, it’s safer not to use your electronics. Proceeding without caution could lead to issues, especially with devices that rely on precise timing or motors, like hair dryers, electric razors, kitchen appliances, and health-related equipment such as blood pressure monitors. These kinds of electronics are more vulnerable to damage or malfunction when the frequency is off. If you choose to use them anyway, be extremely cautious and always check the specifications first.

To confirm, check if your devices require a voltage converter by looking at the 'INPUT' label, typically found on the power adapter or charger. If the label shows "INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz," the device is built to handle different voltage and frequency ranges, meaning you’ll only need a plug adapter for the outlets in Japan. This is typical for devices such as notebooks, smartphones, digital cameras, and also for tablets, e-readers, and some battery chargers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my British hair dryer in Japan?

No, you will need a voltage converter. United Kingdom uses 230 V, while Japan uses 100 V, and the frequency difference (United Kingdom's 50 Hz vs. Japan's 50 / 60 Hz) may also affect the motor in your hair dryer. Without a converter, the device could malfunction or not work properly.

Can I use my British laptop or smartphone in Japan?

Yes, most laptops and smartphones are designed to work with a voltage range of 100-240V, so they will work in Japan without a voltage converter.

Can I use my British curling iron or hair straightener in Japan?

No, you will need a voltage converter to use your British curling or flat iron in Japan due to the lower voltage (230 V vs. 100 V). The frequency difference (50 / 60 Hz in Japan) may also cause performance issues, such as uneven heating. A voltage converter is required to safely use the device.

If I live in United Kingdom, do I need a power plug adapter in Japan?

Yes, when traveling from United Kingdom, you will need a power adapter for type A and B power outlets in Japan.

Do I need a voltage converter for Japan when traveling from United Kingdom?

Yes, you will need a voltage converter for devices that are designed to work with 100 V. United Kingdom operates on 230 V, and the different frequency (50 / 60 Hz) may also affect some devices with motors or timers. However, modern devices like laptops and smartphones that support 100-240V won’t require a converter.

Traveling to more countries?

See if your power plugs from United Kingdom fit into the sockets of other destinations and whether you need a voltage converter.

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