Calling Japan from the USA can be a daunting task. However, with the right information and preparation, you can make the process as smooth and efficient as possible. Whether you’re traveling to Japan for business or pleasure, staying connected with friends and family back home is essential. Fortunately, there are several convenient and cost-effective ways to make international calls to Japan, regardless of your budget or preferences.
One of the most straightforward methods is to use a traditional landline phone. Simply dial the international access code (011) followed by Japan’s country code (81) and the local phone number. While this method is reliable and widely available, it can be expensive, especially for extended calls. Additionally, you may need to purchase an international calling card or use a service provided by your phone carrier to reduce per-minute rates.
For a more cost-effective option, consider using a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service. VoIP providers allow you to make international calls over the internet, often at significantly lower rates than traditional phone lines. To use a VoIP service, you’ll need a computer, smartphone, or tablet with an internet connection. Once you’ve created an account with a VoIP provider, you can typically make calls directly from their website or mobile app. Some popular VoIP providers include Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp.
Dialing the Exit Code for Japan
To call Japan from the USA, you’ll need to dial the exit code, which is "011" for the USA. After dialing the exit code, dial the country code for Japan, which is "81."
| Country | Exit Code |
|---|---|
| USA | 011 |
| Japan | 81 |
Once you’ve dialed the exit code and country code, you’ll need to dial the local area code for the city you’re calling in Japan. Area codes in Japan are typically 3-5 digits long.
For example, to call a number in Tokyo, you would dial:
011 (exit code for USA) + 81 (country code for Japan) + 3 (Tokyo area code) + [local number]
To summarize, the general format for dialing Japan from the USA is:
011 + 81 + Area Code + Phone Number
Remember to remove the parentheses when you’re actually dialing the number.
Entering Japan’s Country Code
When dialing a phone number in Japan from the United States, you must include the country code for Japan, which is 81.
Dialing Format
To call a Japanese phone number from the USA, follow these steps:
- Dial the exit code for the US, which is 011.
- Next, dial the country code for Japan, which is 81.
- Then, dial the area code for the city or region you are calling in Japan.
- Finally, dial the local phone number.
Example
To call a phone number in Tokyo, which has an area code of 3, you would dial the following:
| Step | Number |
|---|---|
| Exit Code | 011 |
| Country Code | 81 |
| Area Code | 3 |
| Local Number | XXXXXX |
| Total Number | 011 81 3 XXXXXX |
Adding the Area Code for a Specific City
When calling Japan from the USA, you’ll need to add the country code (011) followed by 81 (Japan’s country code) and then the area code for the specific city you’re trying to reach. Here’s how it works:
- To call Tokyo, use the area code 03
- Osaka: 06
- Kyoto: 075
- Nagoya: 052
- Sendai: 022
- Sapporo: 011
- Hiroshima: 082
- Fukuoka: 092
For example, to call a landline in Tokyo, you would dial:
011 - 81 - 03 - [8-digit local number]
Note that mobile numbers in Japan start with the digits 090, 080, or 070. If you’re calling a mobile number, you would include the area code as well.
Here is a table of the major cities in Japan and their corresponding area codes:
| City | Area Code |
|---|---|
| Tokyo | 03 |
| Osaka | 06 |
| Kyoto | 075 |
| Nagoya | 052 |
| Sendai | 022 |
| Sapporo | 011 |
| Hiroshima | 082 |
| Fukuoka | 092 |
It’s important to remember that these area codes are only used when calling Japan from outside the country. Within Japan itself, you can simply dial the 8-digit local number.
Inputting the Local Phone Number
After dialing the international prefix and the country code, you will need to input the local phone number of the person you are calling in Japan. The local phone number will typically be 8-11 digits long.
1. Drop the Leading Zero (if any)
If the Japanese local phone number starts with a zero, you need to drop it before dialing. For example, if the local phone number is 03-1234-5678, you would dial 3-1234-5678.
2. Number of Digits
The local phone number can be 8 to 11 digits long. Most landline numbers are 8 or 9 digits, while mobile numbers are typically 10 or 11 digits.
3. Area Code
Japanese phone numbers have a 2-3 digit area code. The area code is followed by the local exchange and subscriber number.
4. Prefixes for Special Services
Certain prefixes are used for special services in Japan. Here are some common prefixes and their functions:
| Prefix | Function |
|---|---|
| 0120 | Toll-free number |
| 0570 | Navigation service |
| 0990 | Dial-up internet access |
Cost Comparison of Calling Methods
The cost of calling Japan from the USA can vary depending on the method you choose. Here’s a comparison of the most common options:
Calling Cards
Calling cards allow you to make international calls at a fixed rate per minute. The cost varies depending on the calling card provider and the country you’re calling. Typically, calling cards cost between 5 cents and 30 cents per minute to call Japan.
VoIP Services
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services allow you to make phone calls over the internet. They often offer lower rates than traditional phone companies, especially for international calls. Many VoIP providers offer plans specifically for calling Japan, with rates ranging from 2 cents to 10 cents per minute.
Mobile Phone Plans
Some mobile phone plans include international calling minutes. The cost of these plans varies depending on the provider and the plan you choose. Typically, mobile phone plans with international calling start at around $5 per month. However, the per-minute rates for calling Japan can be higher than other options.
Comparison Table
| Method | Cost per Minute |
|---|---|
| Calling Cards | 5-30 cents |
| VoIP Services | 2-10 cents |
| Mobile Phone Plans | Varies |
Best Times to Call Japan from the USA
Understanding the time difference between the USA and Japan is crucial for making a successful phone call. Japan is 13 hours ahead of the U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST) and 16 hours ahead of the U.S. Pacific Standard Time (PST). Therefore, the best times to call Japan from the USA are:
For EST
- From 8:00 PM to 9:00 AM the next day.
For PST
- From 5:00 PM to 6:00 AM the next day.
To avoid waking up the receiver, it’s best to make calls during these hours. However, note that these times may vary slightly depending on Daylight Saving Time in the USA.
Using VoIP or Calling Apps for International Calls
Making International Calls to Japan Using VoIP or Calling Apps
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services and calling apps offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional phone calls. These platforms utilize the internet to transmit voice data, allowing you to make international calls at a fraction of the cost of regular long-distance services.
Popular VoIP and Calling Apps
- FaceTime
- Skype
- Google Voice
- Rebtel
How to Use VoIP or Calling Apps to Call Japan
- Download and install the preferred VoIP or calling app on your smartphone or computer.
- Create an account and add your contacts.
- Dial the Japanese phone number in the following format: +81 (area code) (phone number).
Advantages of Using VoIP or Calling Apps
There are several advantages to using VoIP or calling apps for international calls, including:
- Cost savings: VoIP and calling apps offer significantly lower rates than traditional phone services.
- Convenience: You can make calls from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Additional features: Most apps offer additional features such as video calling, instant messaging, and call recording.
Tips for Using VoIP or Calling Apps
- Use a stable internet connection for optimal call quality.
- Check the app’s coverage in Japan before making a call.
- Consider purchasing a prepaid calling plan for additional savings.
Cost Comparison Table
| Service | Cost per Minute |
|---|---|
| Regular long-distance | $0.20-$0.50 |
| Free | |
| Skype | $0.02-$0.03 |
| Google Voice | $0.01 |
| Rebtel | $0.05-$0.10 |
How To Call Japan From Usa
To call Japan from the USA, you will need to dial the following numbers:
1. Dial 011 – This is the exit code for the United States.
2. Dial 81 – This is the country code for Japan.
3. Dial the area code for the city you are calling. Note that Tokyo does not have an area code.
4. Dial the local number of the person you are calling.
For example, to call someone in Tokyo, you would dial 011 81 3 12345678.
People Also Ask
How much does it cost to call Japan from the USA?
The cost of calling Japan from the USA will vary depending on your phone plan. However, you can expect to pay around $0.10 per minute for a landline call and $0.25 per minute for a mobile call.
What is the time difference between the USA and Japan?
Japan is 13 hours ahead of the USA Eastern Time Zone and 16 hours ahead of the USA Pacific Time Zone.
What is the currency of Japan?
The currency of Japan is the yen.
