Japanese Phone Numbers: A Simple Guide

Kim Anderson

-Oct 31, 2025

Introduction

If you're planning a trip to Japan or need to contact someone there, understanding the structure of Japanese phone numbers is essential. This guide breaks down the format, provides practical examples, and offers tips for making calls to and within Japan. We'll also cover international dialing codes and common prefixes, ensuring you're well-prepared for any communication needs. Whether you're calling a business, a friend, or an emergency service, this information will help you navigate the Japanese phone system with ease.

Decoding the Structure of Japanese Phone Numbers

What is the format of a Japanese phone number?

Japanese phone numbers typically consist of 10 digits for landlines and 11 digits for mobile phones. These numbers are usually presented in a format that includes an area code, a central office code, and a subscriber number. Let's break down each part:

Area Code: This is usually 2 to 3 digits long and indicates the geographic region within Japan. For example, Tokyo's area code is 03, while Osaka's is 06.
Central Office Code: This is a 2-digit number for landlines and a 3-digit number for mobile phones. It identifies the specific exchange within the area code.
Subscriber Number: This is a 4-digit number unique to each phone line or mobile phone.

Landline Numbers

A typical landline number in Japan follows this format: 0AA-BB-CCCC, where:

0 is the trunk prefix for domestic calls.
AA is the area code (2-3 digits).
BB is the central office code (2 digits).
CCCC is the subscriber number (4 digits).

For example, a landline number in Tokyo might look like this: 03-1234-5678.

Mobile Phone Numbers

Mobile phone numbers in Japan follow a slightly different format: 0AB0-BCD-EFGH, where: — Nina Kayy OnlyFans: Exclusive Content & Subscription Guide

0 is the trunk prefix.
AB0 is the mobile carrier prefix (e.g., 090, 080, 070).
BCD is the central office code (3 digits).
EFGH is the subscriber number (4 digits).

A typical mobile phone number would look like this: 090-1234-5678.

Special Service Numbers

Japan also has special service numbers, such as emergency numbers, which have their own unique formats:

110 for police.
119 for fire and ambulance.
117 for the time.
104 for directory assistance.

These numbers are free to call and can be dialed from any phone in Japan.

Dialing from Abroad: Calling Japan from Another Country

What is the international dialing code for Japan?

To call Japan from another country, you need to use Japan's international dialing code, which is +81. This code must be prefixed to the Japanese phone number you are trying to reach.

How to dial a Japanese number from overseas

To make an international call to Japan, follow these steps:

Dial your country's exit code: This code allows you to make an international call. In the United States and Canada, the exit code is 011. In many European countries, it's 00. Check the specific exit code for your country.
Dial Japan's country code: This is 81.
Dial the area code or mobile prefix without the leading zero: For example, if the Japanese number is 03-1234-5678, you would dial 3 instead of 03. If it’s a mobile number like 090-1234-5678, you would dial 90 instead of 090.
Dial the rest of the phone number: Add the remaining digits of the phone number.

So, the complete dialing sequence from the US to a Tokyo landline (03-1234-5678) would be: 011-81-3-1234-5678. For a mobile number (090-1234-5678), it would be: 011-81-90-1234-5678.

Making Local Calls: Dialing Within Japan

How to dial a number within Japan

When making calls within Japan, you need to include the trunk prefix 0 before the area code or mobile prefix. Here’s how to do it:

For landlines: Dial 0 followed by the area code, central office code, and subscriber number.
For mobile phones: Dial 0 followed by the mobile prefix, central office code, and subscriber number.

For example, if you are in Tokyo and want to call another landline in Tokyo with the number 03-1234-5678, you would dial 03-1234-5678. To call a mobile phone with the number 090-1234-5678, you would dial 090-1234-5678.

Toll-free numbers in Japan

Toll-free numbers in Japan typically start with 0120 or 0800. These numbers are free to call from anywhere in Japan. When dialing a toll-free number, include the 0 prefix.

Understanding Area Codes and Common Prefixes

Major city area codes

Knowing the area codes for major cities in Japan can be very helpful. Here are a few of the most important ones:

Tokyo: 03
Osaka: 06
Kyoto: 075
Yokohama: 045
Nagoya: 052
Sapporo: 011
Fukuoka: 092

Mobile phone prefixes

Mobile phone numbers in Japan begin with specific prefixes that indicate the carrier. The most common prefixes are:

These prefixes are used by major mobile carriers such as NTT Docomo, KDDI (au), and SoftBank. When dialing a mobile number, always include the prefix after the trunk prefix 0.

Tips for Calling Japan

Time zone considerations

Japan Standard Time (JST) is 9 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+9). This means that when it's noon in Tokyo, it's 11 PM the previous day in New York and 8 PM the previous day in Los Angeles. Be mindful of the time difference when making calls to avoid disturbing people during their sleep hours. A simple Google search like "time in Japan" will give you the current time.

Language barriers

While many people in major cities speak some English, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of Japanese or use a translation app if you anticipate any language barriers. Knowing a few basic phrases like "Hello" (Konnichiwa) and "Thank you" (Arigato) can go a long way in making a positive impression.

Using VoIP and calling apps

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and calling apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber can be cost-effective options for making international calls to Japan. These services often have lower rates than traditional phone calls, especially for long-distance calls. However, both the caller and the recipient need to have the app installed and an internet connection.

Emergency calls

In case of an emergency, remember the following numbers:

110 for police.
119 for fire and ambulance.

These numbers can be dialed from any phone in Japan and are free of charge. If you don’t speak Japanese, try to find someone who can assist you or clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency.

Conclusion

Understanding how Japanese phone numbers are structured and how to dial them from both within Japan and abroad is crucial for effective communication. Whether you're calling a friend, a business, or an emergency service, knowing the correct format and dialing codes will ensure your calls go through smoothly. Remember to consider the time zone differences, be mindful of language barriers, and explore cost-effective calling options like VoIP services. With the information in this guide, you'll be well-prepared to navigate the Japanese phone system with confidence.

FAQ Section

What is the country code for Japan?

The country code for Japan is +81.

How do I dial a Japanese mobile number from the US?

To dial a Japanese mobile number from the US, you would dial 011 (US exit code) + 81 (Japan country code) + the mobile prefix without the leading 0 (e.g., 90) + the rest of the number. For example, to call 090-1234-5678, you would dial 011-81-90-1234-5678. — Bengals Vs. Vikings Showdown: Game Analysis

What are the emergency numbers in Japan?

The emergency numbers in Japan are:

110 for police
119 for fire and ambulance

Do I need to include the trunk prefix '0' when calling within Japan?

Yes, when making domestic calls within Japan, you need to include the trunk prefix '0' before the area code or mobile prefix.

Are there toll-free numbers in Japan?

Yes, toll-free numbers in Japan typically start with 0120 or 0800. These numbers are free to call from anywhere in Japan.

What is the area code for Tokyo?

The area code for Tokyo is 03. When calling from abroad, you would dial 3 after the country code (+81).

Can I use VoIP services to call Japan?

Yes, you can use VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber to make calls to Japan. These services often offer lower rates than traditional phone calls, especially for international calls. — Kotler's Marketing Management 17th Edition: A Comprehensive Guide