How to Call Japan | Area Codes in Japan

Calling Japan from the United States can be an essential skill, whether you’re reaching out to family, friends, or business contacts. With a few simple steps, you can connect with anyone in Japan, regardless of whether they are on a mobile or landline. This guide will walk you through the process, including dialing codes, area codes, costs, and tips for making successful calls to Japan.

Understanding International Dialing

International dialing involves a specific format that varies from country to country. When calling Japan, you need to be familiar with the exit codes, country codes, and local area codes. This knowledge will ensure that your calls go through without any hitches.

Dialing Codes and Format

To call the Japan Phone Number List from the US, you will need to follow this dialing format:

1. US Exit Code: 011 (This code is used to exit the US telephone system)
2. Japan Country Code: 81 (This code directs your call to Japan)
3. Area Code: This varies by region; omit the leading 0.
4. Local Number: The specific number you wish to reach.

Example of Dialing a Landline in Japan

To call a landline in Tokyo, for example, you would dial:

• 011-81-3-XXXX-XXXX

Here, 3 is the area code for Tokyo, and XXXX-XXXX is the local number.

Example of Dialing a Mobile Phone in Japan

To call a mobile phone in Japan, the format is slightly different:

• 011-81-90-XXXX-XXXX

In this case, the 90 indicates that it is a mobile number, followed by the local number.

Area Codes in Japan

Japan has a variety of area codes that correspond to different cities and regions. Here are some of the most common area codes:

When calling a landline, remember to omit the leading zero from the area code. For example, to call a landline in Tokyo, you would dial 3 instead of 03.

Costs of Calling Japan from the US

The cost of calling Japan from the US can vary significantly based on your phone service provider and the method you choose to make the call. Here are some general cost considerations:

1. Direct Dialing: If you call directly from your phone service provider, the rates can be quite high, often ranging from $3 to $5 per minute.
2. Calling Cards: Using an international calling card can reduce costs significantly. Rates can be as low as 5 to 10 cents per minute, depending on the card and provider.
3. VoIP Services: Services like Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp can offer lower rates or even free calls if both parties are using the same service. However, be aware that internet connectivity may affect call quality.
4. Local Dial-in Numbers: Some services provide local dial-in numbers that allow you to call a local number first, which then connects you to Japan. This method can also reduce costs significantly.

Tips for Making Calls to Japan

1. Check Time Zones: Japan is typically 16 hours ahead of the US West Coast and 9 hours ahead of the US East Coast. Be mindful of the time difference when making calls to ensure you reach your contacts at a suitable hour.
2. Use a Reliable Connection: Poor call quality can lead to misunderstandings. If possible, use a landline or a high-quality VoIP service with a strong internet connection.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Cultural Norms: Understanding the cultural context can enhance your communication. For example, greetings and formalities may differ from those in the US. A common greeting in Japan is “Moshi Moshi” when answering the phone.
4. Save Frequently Called Numbers: Store important numbers in your phone using the international format (e.g., +81-3-XXXX-XXXX). This will save time and reduce the risk of dialing errors.
5. Consider Language Barriers: If you’re not fluent in Japanese, consider using a translation app to facilitate communication. While many Japanese people speak English, especially in urban areas, knowing a few basic phrases can go a long way.

Making Calls Using Apps

In today’s digital age, many people prefer using apps to make international calls due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness. Here are some popular options:

1. WhatsApp: If both you and the person you are calling have the Latest Lead WhatsApp, you can make free voice and video calls over the internet. This is a popular option among Japanese users, especially for personal calls.
2. Skype: Skype allows you to call landlines and mobiles in Japan at lower rates. You can also make free Skype-to-Skype calls.
3. Google Voice: This service allows you to make international calls at competitive rates and send texts.
4. Yolla: Yolla is an app specifically designed for making international calls. It allows you to call Japan easily without needing to memorize complex exit codes.

Understanding Japanese Phone Number Formats

Japanese phone numbers can be a bit complex due to their varying lengths and formats. Here’s a breakdown:

• Landline Numbers: Typically consist of 4 to 8 digits, preceded by a 1 to 5-digit area code. For example, a Tokyo landline number might look like this: 03-1234-5678 (where 3 is the area code).
• Mobile Numbers: Usually consist of 10 to 11 digits, starting with a 0 that is dropped when dialing internationally. For example, a mobile number might look like this: 090-1234-5678 (where 90 is the mobile code).

Challenges While Calling Japan

While calling Japan is generally straightforward, there can be challenges:

• Time Zone Differences: As mentioned, Japan is ahead of the US, which can lead to inconvenient calling times.
• Language Barriers: Not everyone in Japan speaks English fluently. If you don’t speak Japanese, it might be helpful to have a translation app handy.
• Cultural Differences: Japanese communication styles can be more formal than what you might be used to in the US. Understanding these nuances can help avoid misunderstandings.

Business Phone Call Etiquette in Japan: Dos and Don’ts

If you’re calling Japan for business purposes, it’s essential to be aware of local etiquette:

Dos:

• Be Punctual: Time is highly valued in Japanese culture. Make sure to call at the agreed-upon time.
• Use Formal Greetings: Start your conversation with a formal greeting. Use “Moshi Moshi” when answering the phone.
• Prepare Your Points: Have a clear agenda for your call to ensure that you cover all necessary topics efficiently.

Don’ts:

• Avoid Personal Questions: Japanese people tend to be private and may find personal questions intrusive, especially in a business context.
• Don’t Interrupt: Allow the other person to finish speaking before you respond. Interrupting can be seen as rude.
• Avoid Calling During Lunch Hours: It’s best to avoid calling during typical lunch hours (12 PM – 1 PM) when people may be unavailable.