How to Call Japan
Complete guide to dialing Japan (country code +81)
Calling Japan doesn't have to be complicated, whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to call Japan from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions to ensure your call goes through smoothly, highlight common mistakes people make when calling Japan so you can avoid them, and share essential Japanese phone etiquette to help you make a great impression. You'll also find a helpful list of useful numbers for emergencies, customer service, and travel assistance. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making international calls to Japan and understanding the process inside and out. Let's get started with the basics of calling Japan successfully.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Japan from abroad, follow this format: Exit Code + 81 + Local Number (without leading zero) + Subscriber Number
Japan's country code is +81. When dialing internationally, always remove the leading "0" from Japanese phone numbers.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the USA:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 81 (Japan country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 81 (Japan country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From other countries:
Most countries use 00 as their exit code. Some use + which automatically replaces the exit code. Check your country's specific exit code if different.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Tokyo Landline (03-1234-5678):
- From USA: 011-81-3-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-81-3-1234-5678
- Using + format: +81-3-1234-5678
Example 2 - Osaka Landline (06-9876-5432):
- From USA: 011-81-6-9876-5432
- From UK: 00-81-6-9876-5432
- Using + format: +81-6-9876-5432
Example 3 - Japanese Mobile (090-1234-5678):
- From USA: 011-81-90-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-81-90-1234-5678
- Using + format: +81-90-1234-5678
Example 4 - Japanese Mobile (080-9876-5432):
- From USA: 011-81-80-9876-5432
- Using + format: +81-80-9876-5432
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Japanese domestic numbers begin with "0" (landlines like 03, 06 or mobiles like 090, 080). Always drop this leading zero when dialing internationally. The zero is only used for domestic calls within Japan.
Mobile numbers starting with 070, 080, or 090 follow the same rule—remove the first zero when calling from abroad.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Japan, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Japanese phone numbers start with 0 domestically (like 03-1234-5678 for Tokyo), but you must remove this zero when calling internationally. Dial +81-3-1234-5678 instead, not +81-03-1234-5678.
Using the wrong exit code: Different countries use different exit codes (011 from the US/Canada, 00 from most of Europe). Instead of memorizing these, simply use the + symbol, which works universally on mobile phones. Press and hold 0 to generate it.
Confusing the country code with area codes: Japan's country code is 81, not to be confused with area codes like 3 (Tokyo) or 6 (Osaka). Always dial +81 first, then the area code without the zero.
Including unnecessary spaces or dashes: While spacing helps readability (like +81-3-1234-5678), your phone doesn't need them. Both +81-3-1234-5678 and +81312345678 work equally well.
Calling during off-hours: Japan is 13-17 hours ahead of US time zones. Double-check the local time to avoid calling in the middle of the night.
Cultural Etiquette
Phone etiquette in Japan follows strict cultural norms that reflect the country's emphasis on respect and consideration. Understanding these customs helps avoid miscommunication and shows cultural awareness.
When answering calls, Japanese people typically say "moshi moshi" for personal calls, while business calls require stating your company name and surname. Always begin by apologizing for the intrusion with "osore irimasu" (I'm sorry to bother you).
Business calls demand formality. Use honorific language (keigo), speak clearly, and get to the point efficiently. Personal calls allow more casual conversation, but maintain politeness, especially with elders or acquaintances.
Timing matters significantly. Avoid calling before 9 AM or after 9 PM unless it's an emergency. For business calls, stick to working hours between 10 AM and 5 PM. Lunch hours (12-1 PM) are generally inappropriate for business matters.
Voice messages aren't as common in Japan as in Western countries. Many Japanese people prefer text messages or emails over voicemail. If you must leave a message, keep it brief and formal, stating your name, purpose, and contact information clearly.
Important cultural considerations include speaking softly in public places and never making calls on trains or buses. Many Japanese people step outside or into designated areas when receiving calls. Always ask "ima daijoubu desu ka?" (Is now a good time?) when calling someone, showing consideration for their schedule.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 110
Fire & Ambulance: 119
Japan Helpline (General Emergency Assistance): 0570-000-911
Coast Guard (Maritime Emergencies): 118
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from any phone, including mobile devices. Services operate 24/7 nationwide. When calling 110 or 119, English-speaking operators may not always be immediately available, though major cities typically have better English support. The Japan Helpline offers multilingual assistance and can help coordinate with emergency services if you face language barriers.
When calling, clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency. For ambulance calls, specify if the situation is life-threatening. Keep your phone nearby as operators may call back for additional information. Mobile phones can dial emergency numbers even without a SIM card inserted.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 104: Domestic directory assistance (Japanese language)
- 0051: International operator for assistance with overseas calls
Tourist Support
- Japan National Tourism Organization Helpline: 050-3816-2787 (English, Chinese, Korean support available 24/7)
- JNTO Tourist Information Center: Various locations in major cities
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy directly for consular services. Major embassies are located in Tokyo, with consulates in other cities.
Additional Services
- Travel-SIM/Pocket WiFi Support: Check your provider's customer service number
- Japan Travel by NAVITIME: Tourist navigation app with English support
- Lost & Found Centers: Available at major train stations and airports
Keep these numbers saved in your phone for quick access during your travels.
Tips for Calling Japan
When calling Japan, timing is crucial for successful communication. Japan operates on Japan Standard Time (UTC+9) with no daylight saving changes. To find the best calling window, calculate the time difference from your location—for example, Japan is 14 hours ahead of US Eastern Time.
For business calls, aim for Japanese business hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Mid-morning (10:00 AM-12:00 PM) and mid-afternoon (2:00 PM-4:00 PM) typically work best, avoiding lunch breaks around noon. Always schedule business calls in advance via email, confirming the date and time in both time zones to prevent confusion.
Avoid calling during major holidays like Golden Week (late April-early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year (December 29-January 3), when most businesses close.
For clear communication, speak slowly and enunciate clearly, as many Japanese professionals use English as a second language. Prepare an agenda beforehand and follow up with written confirmation. Consider using video calls when possible, as visual cues aid understanding. Finally, begin calls with formal greetings and maintain a respectful, patient tone throughout the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Japan is +81. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Japan from anywhere in the world. It's the essential prefix that routes your call to Japan's telephone network.
To dial Japan from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 81 (Japan's country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and finally the local number. For example: +81-3-XXXX-XXXX for Tokyo.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from Japan's area code when calling internationally. Japanese area codes start with 0 domestically (like 03 for Tokyo), but you omit the zero and dial just the remaining digits (3) after the country code +81.
The cheapest way to call Japan is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Japan.
In Japan, dial 110 for police emergencies and 119 for fire or medical emergencies. These numbers are toll-free and can be dialed from any phone. For non-emergency assistance, the Japan Helpline (0570-000-911) offers English support for tourists and residents.
Yes, you can call Japan directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Japanese phone number you wish to call, and connect instantly—no downloads or installations required. It's convenient and works on any device with internet access.
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