What are the most common questions when calling Japan from the US?
What's the exact dialing code sequence for calling Japan from the US?
The exact dialing code sequence for calling Japan from the US is: 011 + 81 + [Japanese phone number]. Let's break that down to ensure clarity.
First, you need to dial "011," which is the exit code for the United States. This tells your US phone carrier that you're making an international call. Next, dial "81," which is the country code for Japan. This directs your call towards the Japanese telephone network. Finally, you enter the Japanese phone number. Note that if the Japanese phone number starts with a "0," you usually drop that leading zero when calling from abroad. For example, if the Japanese number is 03-1234-5678, you would dial it as 3-1234-5678 after the country code. Therefore, putting it all together, to call the hypothetical Japanese number 03-1234-5678 from the US, you would dial: 011-81-3-1234-5678. Remember to confirm the recipient's full phone number beforehand, including any area codes, to ensure a successful call.Do I need to use a different exit code depending on my US phone provider?
No, you do not need to use a different exit code depending on your US phone provider. The exit code, also known as the international access code, is standardized as "011" for all calls originating from the United States and Canada, regardless of the service provider (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.).
The exit code "011" signals to the phone network that you are about to dial an international number. It tells your phone company to route the call outside of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). Without this prefix, the phone system will assume you're dialing a domestic call.
Therefore, to call Japan from the US, you will always dial 011 + 81 (Japan's country code) + the area code (omitting the leading zero, if present) + the local number. The specific phone provider you use only affects billing rates and call quality, not the dialing sequence itself. Remember to verify call rates with your provider before making international calls, as charges can vary significantly.
How much does it typically cost to call Japan from the United States?
The cost of calling Japan from the United States varies significantly depending on the method you use, ranging from virtually free to upwards of $1.00 per minute. Factors influencing the price include whether you use a mobile phone, landline, VoIP service, or a calling card, as well as the specific plan or provider you choose.
Several options exist for making international calls to Japan, each with different pricing structures. Traditional landline and mobile phone providers often charge the highest per-minute rates, sometimes exceeding $0.50 per minute without an international calling plan. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services like Skype, Google Voice, and WhatsApp offer significantly cheaper alternatives, often leveraging internet connectivity to reduce or eliminate per-minute charges, especially when calling other users of the same service. Many mobile carriers now offer international calling plans or add-ons that provide discounted rates to specific countries like Japan, which can be a cost-effective solution if you make frequent calls. To minimize costs, consider using VoIP services whenever possible, especially for longer conversations. These services usually require both parties to have the app installed and an internet connection, but the savings can be substantial. Comparing international calling plans from different mobile carriers is also crucial. Look for plans that offer unlimited or reduced-rate calls to Japan. Finally, if you only need to make occasional calls, purchasing an international calling card might be a viable option, though be sure to check for hidden fees and expiration dates.Are there any free or cheaper alternatives to directly dialing Japan?
Yes, several free or cheaper alternatives exist to directly dialing Japan from the United States. These options leverage Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which transmits calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines, significantly reducing costs. Popular methods include using calling apps, VoIP services, and utilizing international calling plans offered by mobile carriers.
Many apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, and Google Voice offer free calls to other users of the same app, regardless of their location. If the person you are calling in Japan also uses the same app, the call is entirely free (data charges may apply). For calls to landlines or mobile numbers that don't have the app installed, these services typically offer very competitive international calling rates, often much lower than standard long-distance charges from traditional phone companies. You can often purchase credits or subscribe to a calling plan for even greater savings. Another cost-effective option is to explore international calling plans offered by your mobile carrier (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile). These plans often include a certain amount of talk time to specific countries, including Japan, for a fixed monthly fee. Depending on your calling frequency, this could be more economical than paying per-minute charges. Before committing to a plan, compare the rates and included minutes with other VoIP services to determine the best value. Also, consider the call quality – while VoIP services have improved dramatically, factors such as internet connection speed can impact call clarity.What time in Japan is it when I call from the US, considering time zones?
The time difference between the United States and Japan can range from 13 to 17 hours, depending on which part of the US you're calling from and whether Daylight Saving Time is in effect. Japan Standard Time (JST) is always ahead of US time zones.
To determine the precise time in Japan when you're calling, you first need to know your local time zone and whether you are observing Daylight Saving Time (also known as summer time). Then, use the following guidelines: Pacific Time (PST/PDT) is 16 or 17 hours behind JST. Mountain Time (MST/MDT) is 15 or 16 hours behind. Central Time (CST/CDT) is 14 or 15 hours behind. Eastern Time (EST/EDT) is 13 or 14 hours behind. Note that Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time. Because Japan does not observe Daylight Saving Time, the time difference fluctuates when the US switches in the spring and returns in the fall. A quick online search for "current time in Japan" and "current time in [Your City, State]" will provide the most accurate, real-time comparison.What's the best way to call a Japanese mobile phone versus a landline?
The calling process is essentially the same whether you're calling a Japanese mobile phone or a landline from the United States. You'll use the same international dialing format, but the area code will differ. The main distinction lies in understanding the structure of Japanese phone numbers and ensuring you have the correct area code and mobile prefix for the number you're dialing.
To call either a mobile phone or landline in Japan from the US, dial: 011 (US exit code) + 81 (Japan country code) + area code (without the leading zero for landlines and including the mobile prefix) + local number. The "011" allows your call to exit the US network, "81" routes it to Japan, and then the rest of the number tells the Japanese network where to send the call. For example, if you're calling a Tokyo landline, you'd typically omit the initial '0' from the Tokyo area code '03', dialing '3' instead. For mobile phones, prefixes like '090', '080', or '070' are included in full after the country code.
While the dialing process remains consistent, cost considerations might vary depending on your chosen method. Using your mobile phone provider directly can be expensive, so consider alternatives like VoIP services (Skype, Google Voice, WhatsApp, etc.) or international calling cards, which often offer significantly lower rates. These options utilize the internet to complete the call, potentially saving you a substantial amount of money, especially for longer conversations. Ensure you are connected to Wi-Fi to avoid incurring data charges when using VoIP services.
Are there any specific cultural considerations when calling Japan?
Yes, several cultural considerations can significantly improve the reception of your call and demonstrate respect. Being mindful of time zones, the formality of language, and appropriate greetings are crucial. Avoid making calls very early in the morning or late at night in Japan. Using polite language, even if you don't speak fluent Japanese, is appreciated, and being direct but respectful in your communication style will be beneficial.
Calling at inconvenient hours is a major faux pas. Japan Standard Time (JST) is 13-16 hours ahead of the United States, depending on Daylight Saving Time. Before placing your call, double-check the current time in Japan to ensure it's within reasonable business hours (typically 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) or a suitable time for personal calls (generally avoiding before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM). If you're unsure, err on the side of caution and call later in the day.
While many Japanese businesspeople and some individuals are proficient in English, showing an effort to use basic Japanese phrases like "Konnichiwa" (hello) or "Arigato" (thank you) can create a positive impression. Even if you are speaking primarily in English, a polite introduction and closing, using respectful language such as "please" and "thank you," will be well-received. It's also generally more acceptable to be slightly more formal in your communication, especially in initial interactions. Avoid overly casual language or slang.
Finally, be prepared for a potentially more indirect communication style compared to the US. While directness is valued in many contexts, Japanese communication often involves a greater emphasis on politeness and avoiding direct confrontation. If you're making a request or seeking information, be clear and concise, but also patient and understanding if the response isn't immediately straightforward.
And that's all there is to it! Hopefully, this guide has made calling Japan from the US a little less daunting. Thanks for reading, and we hope you have a great conversation with whoever you're calling. Come back soon for more helpful tips and tricks!