
How to Call Japan from the US :

Dailing Format:
Practice these simple steps to dial Japan from the USA successfully.
Calling Mobile Phones in Japan
To call mobile phones in Japan from the USA, practice these comprehensive steps:
- Step 1: Enter the US Exit Code Begin the call by entering 011, the standard code to exit the USA for international calls.
- Step 2: Include Japan’s Country Code Later, input 81, the international entering code for Japan. This code leads your call to Japan's phone network.
- Step 3: Include the Mobile Prefix Japanese mobile numbers usually start with a 0, but this 0 is removed when calling internationally.
- Step 4: Include the Local Mobile Number Now, enter the recipient's mobile number, excluding the first 0 (if present). Japanese mobile numbers commonly have 10 digits.
Complete Example for Japan Mobile Call
If the local mobile number is 080-XXXX-XXXX, the complete series would resemble
this:
011 + 81 + 80 + XXXX XXXX.

Calling Landlines in Japan
To call landline phones in Japan, the process is different:
Step 1: Enter the US Exit Code Begin by entering 011, similar to what you would for mobile calls.
Step 2: Add Country Code Enter 81, which directs your call to Japan’s telephone network.
Step 3: Include the Area Code Japan’s area codes differ by city and region. Common area codes include:
- Tokyo: 3
- Osaka: 6
- Kyoto: 75
Ensure you utilize the right area code for the city you are calling.
Step 4: Enter the Landline Number Start the call by dialing the landline number, which usually has 7 digits, excluding the area code.
Complete Example for Japan Landline Call
If you are calling a landline in Tokyo with the number XXXX-XXXX, the full
sequence will be:
011 + 81 + 3 + XXXX XXXX

Mobile Vs. Landline Calls in Japan
Mobile Numbers: Discard the first 0, and mobile numbers commonly have 10 digits next to the prefix.
Landline Numbers: Utilize the area code and usually have 7 digits next to the area code.
Key Takeaways
Type | Local Format | U.S. Dialing Format | Final Number |
Landline | (3) XXXX-XXXX | 011 + 81 + 3 + XXXX-XXXX | 011 81 3 XXXX XXXX |
Mobile | (80) XXXX XXXX | 011 + 81 + 80 + XXXX-XXXX | 011 81 80 XXXX XXXX |
Start Calling Japan!
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Time Zone Considerations When Calling Japan
When calling Japan from the United States, understanding the time difference is important to avoid calling at inappropriate times. Japan works on Japan Standard Time (JST), which is 14-17 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time (ET) based on whether Daylight Saving Time is in effect in the U.S.
example :
During U.S. Daylight Saving Time (March to November): Japan is 13 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time (ET).
Outside Daylight Saving Time (November to March): Japan is 14 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Time (ET).
Understanding the time variance ensures that your calls to Japan are made at the most appropriate times.
Time zone differences
U.S. time zones | Japan |
---|---|
Eastern (ET) | 14 hours ahead |
Central (CT) | 15 hours ahead |
Mountain (MT) | 16 hours ahead |
Pacific (PT) | 17 hours ahead |
Keynote: Japan does not observe DST, so the time difference remains fixed at UTC+9 (JST - Japan Standard Time).
Understanding the Basics
Country Code for Japan
+81 is the country code for Japan; to call Japan from the USA, This code connects your call to Japan’s telecommunications system. Every time, add this code prior to the area code and local number for an effective connection.
Japan Area Codes:
Japan's area codes vary from 1 to 4 digits, based on the region. Some usual examples include:
Japan | Area codes |
---|---|
Tokyo | 3 |
Osaka | 6 |
Kyoto | 75 |
Sapporo | 11 |
Understanding the right area code ensures your call attains the correct location.
Costs of Calling Japan from the US
Are Calls to Japan Costly?
The cost of calling Japan from the US varies. Landline calls are usually affordable, while mobile calls are costly. Charges can vary from $0.20 to $3.00 per minute based on your carrier.
Free or low-cost alternatives include:
- VoIP services like Vitel Global provide crucial savings for calls through data connections.
- International calling plans that cut per-minute rates.
Reducing Calling Costs
To cut costs when calling Japan:
- Use VoIP services like Vitel Global for free or low-cost calls through a data connection.
- International calling plans provided by carriers can assist you in reducing rates for frequent calls.
Utilizing Technology for Calling Japan
Should You Utilize Traditional Phone Lines?
Traditional phone lines for calling Japan from the USA are costly because of high per-minute rates. VoIP services provide an affordable, more flexible, and clearer option, particularly for usual or business calls.
Advantages of Virtual Phone Numbers
Virtual Japanese phone numbers build a local presence without any hardware connection, reducing global calling costs.
Businesses : Create local trust with a Japanese number.
Individuals : Remain connected with loved ones at cut rates.
Utilizing VoIP Services
VoIP services like Vitel Global are cost-effective and offer high-quality calls.
Pros
Affordable, high-quality, and additional features like call forwarding, voicemail, and video calls.
Cons
Based on data connection quality, may encounter compatibility issues.
VoIP is an adaptable and affordable option for frequent calls to Japan.
Wrapping Up

To sum up, calling Japan from the USA includes entering the US exit code (011), then the international code for Japan (+81), followed by the recipient's area code and phone number. Whether you're calling a mobile phone or landline, it's crucial to be aware of the correct dialing sequence.
To cut costs, take into account utilizing VoIP services or international calling plans, which can provide more cost-effective and adaptable options. Innovative tools and technologies like Vitel Global can assist you in communicating easily and successfully without charging high costs.
Learn more about these alternatives to ensure your calls to Japan are both affordable and adaptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How do I call Japan from the USA?
To call Japan from the USA, enter 011 (the US exit code), then +81 (the international code for Japan), and after that the local area code and phone number.
-
Can I call Japan from the USA for free?
Calling Japan is expensive unless you utilize a service like VoIP (e.g., Vitel Global) through a data connection. Traditional calls can incur charges based on your carrier and plan.
-
Can I utilize my regular mobile plan to call Japan?
Yes, most regular mobile plans permit you to make international calls to Japan. However, the rates differ by provider, so it's important to verify with your carrier to be aware of any extra charges.
-
What is the international code for Japan?
+81 is the country code of Japan. Every time, add this code when dialing Japan from the US to transfer your call appropriately to the Japanese network.
-
Are there any practices to cut the cost of calling Japan from the USA?
Yes, utilizing VoIP services like Vitel Global or purchasing international calling plans can assist you in reducing calling costs to Japan from the USA.