Voltage, Plugs & Chargers

Japan's Electrical System

Japan's electrical system differs from most other countries. Here are the key specifications:

What This Means for Your Devices

• US and Canadian travelers: Your two-prong (Type A) plugs fit directly into Japanese outlets without an adapter. However, three-prong (Type B) plugs with a grounding pin will not fit, as most Japanese outlets only have two slots.
• European, UK, and Australian travelers: You need a plug adapter to convert your plug shape to the Japanese Type A format. The adapter only changes the physical shape. It does not convert voltage.
• Voltage difference: Japan runs at 100V, which is lower than most countries. Most modern phone chargers, laptop chargers, and tablet chargers are dual-voltage (listed as "100-240V" on the charger label). These will work in Japan without a voltage converter. Check the label on your charger before plugging in.

Power Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Charging

Charging a power wheelchair or mobility scooter in Japan requires extra attention due to the 100V power supply.

Before You Travel

• Contact your wheelchair dealer or manufacturer. Ask whether your battery charger is compatible with 100V, 50Hz power. Some chargers are designed only for your home country's voltage and will not work properly, or may be damaged, when used at a different voltage.
• Check the charger label. If it says "100-240V, 50/60Hz," it will work in Japan without modification. If it says "110-120V" or "220-240V" only, you need a solution.
• Ask about an international charger. Some wheelchair manufacturers offer international versions of their battery chargers that work across multiple voltages. Your dealer may be able to loan one.
• Consider a voltage converter. If your charger is not compatible with 100V, you may need a step-up or step-down voltage converter. These must be rated for the wattage your charger draws. Wheelchair battery chargers typically draw 200 to 500 watts, so you need a converter rated for at least that amount.

Grounding Pin Issue

Most Japanese outlets are Type A only (two flat pins, no grounding). Some medical equipment and wheelchair chargers have a three-prong Type B plug with a grounding pin. If your charger has a grounding pin:

• Buy a Type B to Type A adapter (also called a "cheater plug" or grounding adapter) before your trip. These are inexpensive and widely available online or at hardware stores in your home country.
• Some newer Japanese hotels have Type B outlets (with grounding) in the bathroom or near the desk. Ask your hotel when booking.

Where to Buy Adapters in Tokyo

If you arrive without an adapter, you can find one at:

• Daiso (100-yen store) - Sells basic plug adapters for approximately 100 to 300 yen. Locations throughout Tokyo, including near major stations. Not suitable for high-wattage devices.
• BIC Camera - Large electronics stores with a wide range of adapters and converters. BIC Camera Yurakucho (near Ginza/Tokyo Station) and BIC Camera Shinjuku are accessible with elevators. Staff at the adapter section often speak English.
• Yodobashi Camera - Similar to BIC Camera. Yodobashi Camera Akihabara is one of the largest electronics stores in Tokyo and is fully accessible.
• Don Quijote (Donki) - Discount stores that carry travel adapters. The Shinjuku and Shibuya locations are open 24 hours.
• Airport shops - Both Narita and Haneda airports have electronics shops in the arrival area selling plug adapters.

Frequency Difference Within Japan

Tokyo uses 50 Hz power. If you travel to western Japan (Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima), the frequency changes to 60 Hz. Most modern devices handle both frequencies without issue. Older devices with motors (some older wheelchair chargers, certain clocks) may behave differently. Check your charger's specifications if you plan to travel between eastern and western Japan.

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