Japan Phone Number Format: An In-Depth Review

Do you have no idea how to call 📞 Japanese phone numbers or how they are structured?

The format of Japanese phone numbers might be a little difficult to understand to begin with, especially because of their prefixes and international differences.

This ultimate guide will simplify everything you need to know about the Japanese Phone Number Format so you don’t end up confused ever again.

Let’s get started! 🚀

What is the Japan Phone Number Format?

The Japan phone number format is unique and well-structured. Starting with the country code +81, the Japanese numbers are followed by an area code and subscriber number. 

Landline numbers typically start with the area code, like “03” for Tokyo or “06” for Osaka. After being combined with the subscriber number, they are 9 digits long. Mobile numbers start with “070,” “080,” or “090” and are usually 10 digits in total.

Moving on, the first 0 is omitted while dialing internationally. Knowing this format ensures smooth communication within Japan and outside the country. 

Structure of the Japan Phone Number Format with Examples

Japanese phone numbers are structured carefully to simplify the dialing process. Here’s a breakdown of it:

Country Code

Japan’s country code is +81, which is the international code for calling Japan. It is used for international dialing to Japan. Dial +81 at the first place on the dial pad if you’re calling Japan from abroad.

Prefix

The trunk prefix comes after the country code on the dialpad. It typically identifies the type of the number.

Landline Numbers

Landline numbers in Japan use area codes as prefixes. For example, the area code of Tokyo is “03,” and of Osaka is “06.” These are followed by the subscriber number.

Mobile Numbers

In Japan, mobile numbers start with either “070”, “080”, or “090”. This typically indicates the mobile service providers. 

Subscriber Number

Subscriber numbers are the last part of Japanese numbers that are unique to the specified users. They are usually 8 digits long. With subscriber numbers combined, landlines are 9 digits long, and mobile numbers are 10 digits total.

Examples with Explanation

• Landline: +81-6-1234-5678
  Here, +81 is the country code for Japan, 6 denoted Osaka, and 1234-5678 is the subscriber number.
• Mobile: +81-80-1234-5678
  Here, +81 is the country code for Japan, 80 indicates that it is a mobile number and 1234-5678 is the local number.

Types of Phone Numbers in Japan

Japan uses various types of phone numbers based on purpose and functionality. Let’s discuss some important ones:

Mobile Numbers

Mobile numbers in Japan start with prefixes 070, 080, or 090, followed by an 8-digit subscriber number. They are 10 to 11 digits long, including the local number. Newer services like IoT devices use the 020 prefix. Mobile numbers in Japan don’t include regional codes. 

Example:

• Prefix: 080
• Subscriber Number: 1234-5678
• Full Number: 080-1234-5678

Landline Numbers

Landline numbers in Japan contain area codes that are 1 to 5 digits long, followed by a local number, which is 6 to 8 digits long. Major cities like Tokyo (03) and Osaka (06) have shorter area codes, while small towns and rural areas have longer area codes. 

Example (Tokyo)

• Area Code: 03

• Local Number: 1234-5678

• Full Number: 03-1234-5678

Toll-free numbers

Toll-free numbers in Japan start with either 0120 or 0800 and are followed by a 6-digit subscriber number. These numbers allow users to call businesses or service providers for free. 

Example

• Prefix: 0120
• Subscriber Number: 123-456
• Full Number: 0120-123-456

How to Dial Japan Phone Numbers

Dialing Japan telephone numbers involves several steps based on the type of call. But don’t worry; here’s a detailed guide to help you get connected:

How to Dial Japan Phone Numbers Domestically

Steps to local calls within Japan:

• For landlines, enter the area code (e.g., 06 for Osaka). You must dial it even if you are in the same region.
• On the other hand, you do not need to include the area code to dial mobile numbers. Simply dial the number starting with 070, 080, etc.
• The next step is to combine the area code and the local number for landlines (e.g., 06-1234-5678).
• For mobile phones, directly dial the number (e.g., 070-1234-5678).

Examples:

• Calling an Osaka landline: 03-1234-5678
• Calling a mobile number: 070-1234-5678

How to Dial Japan Phone Numbers from Abroad

Steps to call a Japanese number from outside Japan:

• Always start with dialing the international code, which depends on your country. 
  • For the U.S. or Canada: Dial 011. 
  • For the U.K.: Dial 00.
• The next step is to dial Japan’s country code, which is 81.
• After the country code, dial the subscriber number. 
• Omit the initial 0 in the area or mobile code. For example, for 070-1234-5678, dial 71-90-1234-5678. For an Osaka landline, 06-1234-5678, dial 81-6-1234-5678.

Example Format:

• From the US to a Japanese mobile: 011-81-70-1234-5678
• From the UK to a Tokyo landline: 00-81-6-1234-5678

How to Dial Internationally from Japan

You should know the international phone number format before international dialing. Here are the steps to make an international call from Japan:

• Start with dialing the international access code which is 010 for most carriers.
• Then, enter the country code of the destination country that you’re trying to call. For example, 1 for the USA, 44 for the UK, and 61 for Australia. 
• Lastly, dial the local number. Include the area code only when dialing a landline number, and skip any leading zeros.

Example Format:

• To call a US number, (123) 456-7890: 010-1-123-456-7890
• To call a UK number, 020-1234-5678: 010-44-20-1234-5678

Most Commonly Used Area Codes in Japan

Japan has around 563 area codes that are 1 to 5 digits long. These area codes help to identify the specific regions of Japan. Shorter codes denote major cities, while longer ones are used in rural areas.

Here are some commonly used area codes in Japan:

Practical Uses for Understanding Japan Phone Number Formats

Understanding Japan’s phone number system is essential for easy communication with Japanese people. It is mostly important for tourists, business professionals, digital nomads, and virtual phone number users.

Let’s discuss them one by one:

For Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Understanding the Japanese phone number format is crucial for business people operating inside or outside Japan. 

With proper knowledge of these formats, businesses operating inside Japan can enhance customer support and interact better with the Japanese customer base. Entrepreneurs can take advantage of this awareness to attract regional customers and establish reliability. 

Business owners from abroad looking to expand their business in the Japanese market should also properly understand local phone number formats. Understanding premium rate numbers also helps to optimize customer interaction. 

For Tourists and International Visitors

Whether you are a domestic or international tourist, understanding the Japan telephone number format can help you stay connected with your friends and family. Knowing these formats can also benefit seamless communication.

Proper knowledge of dialing local, toll-free, and emergency numbers helps tourists to travel across the country more effectively. Knowing the phone number format may sound simple, but it can enhance your overall travel experience. 

For Virtual Number Users and Digital Nomads

Virtual number users and digital nomads can take advantage of Japan’s phone number format to stay connected while working remotely or while traveling. With a virtual number, they can establish a local presence in Japan, making it easier to connect with local clients and partners.

Proper knowledge of these formats makes you look more professional and engaging. Knowing the right prefixes, area codes, etc., ensures you never miss a call or call the wrong person.

Emergency Numbers in Japan

Japan has a wide range of emergency numbers to assist its citizens and tourists in crisis. These numbers include emergency services like police, medical emergencies, fire, etc. 

Here is a handy table of some emergency numbers you must know while in Japan:

What Is the Best Time To Call Japan?

If you want to call Japan, you need to understand that Japan is in the Japan Standard Time (JST) zone, which is UTC+9. Calling Japan at the best time is important for seamless communication.

Let’s see some best times to call Japan from different regions:

Key Considerations

• Work hour in Japan is generally 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM JST.
• Avoid late-night calls after 9:00 PM as it may be disturbing.
• Use world clock tools to confirm the exact time.

Final Words

Understanding Japan’s phone number format is crucial for seamless communication, whether you’re an individual traveling to Japan, a businessman, or a digital nomad. 

Proper knowledge of dialing Japanese numbers correctly can save time and avoid frustration. Learning the country and area codes, and their dialing methods can improve your connectivity and ensure fluent communication. 

Use this review as your quick guide for all things regarding Japanese phone numbers!

FAQs

How many digits are in a Japanese phone number?

Japanese phone numbers have 9 to 11 digits, depending on the type of number and area code. For example, landline numbers are 9 digits long (03-1234-5678), and mobile numbers are 10 digits long (070-1234-5678).

What is the Japanese phone number format example?

The Japanese phone number format typically looks like this:

• Mobile: 090-1234-5678
• Landline: 03-1234-5678

What does +81 mean in a phone number?

+81 is Japan’s country code for international calls. When you receive a call with +81 in the front, understand it’s a call from Japan. 

What is the 0120 number in Japan?

The 0120 number in Japan is a toll-free number. Users can call businesses for free. 

How do you dial a Japanese phone number?

To dial a Japanese phone number:

From abroad:

• Dial +81, omit the leading 0, then the rest of the number.
• Example: +81 90-1234-5678.

Within Japan:

• Simply dial the number as provided.
• Example: 090-1234-5678 (mobile) or 03-1234-5678 (landline).