Japan Area Code: Everything You Need to Know About Calling Japan

Understanding Japan's Telephone Number System

Japanese phone numbers consist of several parts: the country code (+81), an area code, and a local number. Area codes in Japan vary in length, ranging from one to five digits, depending on the size and population of the region they represent. For example, Tokyo's area code is a brief 03, while smaller cities might have longer area codes. Mobile phone numbers in Japan are distinct from landlines and typically begin with prefixes 070, 080, or 090.

List of Japan's Area Codes by Prefecture

To help you navigate Japan's telephone system, here is a list of area codes for major prefectures and cities:

• Fukuoka: 092
• Hiroshima: 082
• Kobe: 078
• Kyoto: 075
• Nagoya: 052
• Osaka: 06
• Sapporo: 011
• Tokyo: 03
• Yokohama: 045

For example, to call a landline number in Tokyo, like (03) 1234-5678, you would dial +81 3 1234-5678.

How to Dial Within Japan

When making calls within Japan, you can simply dial the number as-is from both landlines and mobile phones, including the area code. The only exception is for landline to landline calls within the same area code, where you can omit the area code. However, it's always safe to include it to avoid any confusion.

How to Call From Japan to Other Countries

To make an international call from Japan, follow these simple steps:

1. Dial the international access code (010)
2. Enter the destination country code
3. Dial the phone number, omitting any leading 0 in the area code

For instance, to call the U.S. number (123) 456-7890 from Japan, you would dial: 010 1 123-456-7890.

How to Call Japan From Abroad

Calling Japan from abroad follows a similar pattern:

1. Dial your country's international access code (e.g., 011 for the U.S., 00 for many European countries)
2. Enter Japan's country code (81)
3. Dial the Japanese phone number, omitting any leading 0 in the area code

For example, to call the Tokyo number (03) 1234-5678 from the U.S., you would dial: 011 81 3 1234-5678.

Example Dialing Instructions For Popular Destinations

Here are step-by-step examples for calling the U.S. from Japan and Japan from Australia:

Calling the U.S. (123-456-7890) from Japan:

• Dial the international access code: 010
• Enter the U.S. country code: 1
• Dial the U.S. number: 123-456-7890

Calling Japan (03-1234-5678) from Australia:

• Dial Australia's international access code: 0011
• Enter Japan's country code: 81
• Dial the Japanese number, omitting the leading 0: 3-1234-5678

Keep in mind that direct international dialing can be expensive. Consider using online calling services or international calling cards for more affordable rates.

By understanding Japan's area codes and dialing procedures, you can confidently communicate with businesses, friends, and family in Japan and stay connected during your travels or while conducting international business. Familiarizing yourself with this information will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when making calls to and from Japan.

For more helpful information on communicating in Japan, check out our guides on Embassies & Consulates, Important Telephone Numbers, International Dialing Codes, and Tourist Information Offices.