+81 Country Code for Japan
Use +81 when calling Japan from abroad. International calls normally include the country code, an area or city code, and the local number.
Country code
+81
ISO code
JP
Japan phone number format
Japan uses the international calling code +81. Most full numbers include the country code, an area or destination code, and the local subscriber number.
Standard international format
Country code
+81
Area or city code
This part identifies a region, city, or carrier depending on the country.
Local number
This is the subscriber number you dial after the prefix information.
Mobile numbers
Mobile numbers in Japan may use a different prefix or length than landlines, so it helps to confirm the full format before calling.
Landline numbers
Landline numbers in Japan often include an area code that points to a city or region.
Example numbers
+81 90 1234 5678
Example mobile number for Japan
+81 XX XXXX XXXX
Example landline format for Japan
Postal code format
Japan commonly uses the postal code format ###-####.
Important notes
- • Always start with +81 when placing an international call to Japan.
- • Double-check whether the local number already includes any regional prefix before dialing.
- • Spacing varies by provider, but the digits themselves must stay in the right order.
- • If a call fails, verify the exit code, country code, and local number format.
How to call Japan
To call Japan from abroad, enter your international exit code, then +81, then the full local number.
Dial your international exit code
This tells your carrier you are placing an international call.
Common exit codes
- United States & Canada: 011
- Most of Europe: 00
- Australia: 0011
- Japan: 010
Dial Japan's country code
After the exit code, enter +81 for Japan. If a form asks for digits only, use 81.
81
Add the area code and local number
Enter the rest of the number exactly as it is written for Japan.
Important: Some published numbers include a trunk prefix used only for domestic calls. Leave it out if the number should be dialed in full international format after +81.
Place the call
Review the full sequence, then start the call from your mobile, landline, or VoIP app.
Complete example
+81 90 1234 5678
Exit code reference
| Region | Exit code | Example |
|---|---|---|
| United States & Canada | 011 | 011 81 XXX XXXX |
| Most of Europe | 00 | 00 81 XXX XXXX |
| Australia | 0011 | 0011 81 XXX XXXX |
| Japan | 010 | 010 81 XXX XXXX |
Tip: Many phones also let you start with +81 by using the + symbol instead of an exit code when supported.
Common dialing mistakes
- • Using the local number without your international exit code.
- • Forgetting to include the country code.
- • Including a domestic trunk prefix that is not needed for international calls.
- • Missing a city or regional area code when one is required.
- • Copying a number with spaces or punctuation but changing the digit order.
Why your call may not connect
If calls to Japan are failing, the issue is usually the exit code, area code, number format, or carrier restrictions.
Call not connecting
- Confirm that you entered your exit code before 81.
- Check that the number for Japan is written in international format.
- Remove extra zeros, spaces, or punctuation if your provider does not accept them.
- If needed, try dialing with +81 or 81 depending on how your carrier formats international calls.
Missing area code
- Many calls to Japan need a city, region, or carrier code before the local number.
- Ask the recipient to confirm the full number they give to international callers.
- Check whether the number is mobile, landline, or toll-free because formats can differ.
- Try the full published number exactly as shown in international format.
International calling blocked
- Verify that your phone plan allows international calling.
- Some destinations in Japan may be restricted by your carrier or calling app.
- Try another provider, app, or network to see whether the route changes.
- Contact your carrier if calls fail before they ever start ringing.
Time zone confusion
- Japan uses a single time zone (UTC+09:00), so try again during local daytime hours.
- Businesses and support lines are easiest to reach during local working hours.
Number format issues
- Make sure the digits are in the correct order before you redial.
- Do not mix domestic and international formats in the same number.
- Look up a recent example for Japan if you are unsure about spacing or length.
- If the number came from a website, compare it with another trusted source.
Poor call quality
- Switch from weak Wi-Fi to mobile data, or vice versa, and try again.
- Use a headset or quieter connection if the audio keeps cutting out.
- VoIP apps and direct carrier calls may route differently, so test both when possible.
- If quality stays poor, consider a different calling provider for Japan.
Quick tips
- • Save the number in full international format starting with +81.
- • Try calling from a different carrier or app if one route keeps failing.
- • Ask the recipient to confirm the exact digits they use for international callers.
- • If you are calling a business in Japan, try again during local business hours.
- • Check whether your plan allows international dialing and whether extra charges apply.
Japan at a glance
Here are a few helpful details about Japan that can make dialing, scheduling, and comparing rates easier.
Capital
Tokyo
Time zones
UTC+09:00
Region
Asia (Eastern Asia)
Currency
Japanese yen (JPY) · ¥
ISO code
JP
Best time to call
Japan follows UTC+09:00. Aim for local daytime or business hours if you want the best chance of reaching someone.
Need a cheaper way to call Japan?
See current calling rates and compare options before your next call to Japan.
Frequently asked questions
These quick answers cover the most common questions about +81 and calling Japan from abroad.
What country uses +81?
Japan uses the +81 international calling code for incoming calls from abroad.
How do I dial +81?
Dial your exit code first, then 81, then the area code and local number. On mobile phones you can often replace the exit code with +81.
How do I call Japan from another country?
Start with your international exit code, add +81, and then enter the full national number for Japan.
Is +81 always enough to reach Japan?
Not always. You may also need an area, city, or carrier code before the local number depending on the destination.
Are mobile and landline numbers different in Japan?
They can be. Japan may use different prefixes or lengths for mobile and landline numbers, so confirm the full format before dialing.
Can I dial 81 without the plus sign?
Yes. The plus sign is just shorthand for your exit code. If you are entering digits only, use 81 after your exit code.
Why can't I connect to Japan?
Most failed calls happen because of an incorrect exit code, missing area code, blocked international calling, or a number copied in domestic rather than international format.