International Calling

How to Call Japan from Italy: A Complete Guide

Last Updated: September 16, 2025
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Connecting with friends, family, or business partners across the globe can feel daunting. When you need to call Japan from Italy, you might wonder about the correct dialing codes, time differences, and even the best service to use. Japan, with its vibrant culture and thriving economy, is a significant communication destination for many in Italy. This guide will clarify the entire process, making your international calls Italy Japan straightforward and stress-free.

 

Making an international call requires a specific sequence of numbers. This sequence ensures your call reaches the correct country, city, and individual phone. Understanding these steps is the first key to a successful connection. Whether you are planning a trip, managing business operations, or simply catching up with a loved one, knowing how to dial Japan from Italy correctly is essential. Let’s dive into the details and make sure your next call goes smoothly. For more general international calling tips, you might find this guide helpful: International Calling Guide.

 

Understanding International Dialing: The Basics

 

Before you pick up your phone, it helps to understand the components of an international phone number. Every successful call from Italy to Japan relies on a few critical numbers. These include the exit code, the country code, and the area code. Think of them as a specific address for your call, guiding it across continents to the right destination. Getting this sequence right is crucial for calling Japan from Italy code.

 

First, you need to tell your phone system that you are making an international call. This is where the exit code comes in. Next, you direct your call to the right country using its unique country code. Finally, if you are calling a landline, you will need the specific area code for the city or region in Japan.

 

Calling Japan from Italy: Step-by-Step Guide

 

Successfully dialing Japan from Italy involves a clear, sequential process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your call connects. This method applies whether you are making a personal call or a business call.

 

1. Italy’s Exit Code

 

Every country has an exit code, also known as an international direct dialing (IDD) prefix. This code signals to your phone carrier that you are initiating an international call.

  • For Italy, the exit code is 00.
  • You will dial these two zeros first.

 

2. Japan’s Country Code

 

After the exit code, you must enter the country code for Japan. Each country has a unique code to route calls correctly.

  • Japan’s country code is +81.
  • When dialing from a landline, you will use 81. From a mobile, you can often just use +.

 

3. Japanese Area Codes

 

Within Japan, major cities and regions have specific area codes. These codes are vital for connecting to a landline in a particular location. For mobile phones in Japan, you typically do not need an area code; you just dial the country code followed by the mobile number.

 

Here are some common Japanese area codes for major cities:

 

CityArea Code
Tokyo3
Osaka6
Kyoto75
Nagoya52
Sapporo11
Hiroshima82
Fukuoka92

 

4. The Local Japanese Number

 

The final part of the sequence is the actual local phone number of the person or business you wish to reach in Japan. Make sure you have this number accurate and complete.

 

Calling from a Landline in Italy

 

When you make a call Japan from Italy using a landline, you need to dial the full international sequence. This method ensures your call is routed correctly through the traditional phone network.

 

Here’s the sequence for a landline:

 

  1. Dial Italy’s Exit Code: 00
  2. Dial Japan’s Country Code: 81
  3. Dial the Japanese Area Code: (e.g., 3 for Tokyo)
  4. Dial the Local Phone Number: (e.g., XXXX-XXXX)

 

So, if you are calling a landline in Tokyo, Japan, the complete dialing format would be: 00-81-3-XXXX-XXXX. Always double-check the area code and local number before you dial to avoid any errors.

 

Calling from a Mobile Phone in Italy

 

Making a call Japan from Italy using a mobile phone is often simpler. Most modern smartphones allow you to use the + symbol, which automatically replaces the international exit code. This simplifies the dialing process significantly.

 

Here’s the sequence for a mobile phone:

 

  1. Dial the Plus Sign: + (hold down the 0 key until + appears)
  2. Dial Japan’s Country Code: 81
  3. Dial the Japanese Area Code (if calling a landline): (e.g., 3 for Tokyo)
  4. Dial the Local Phone Number: (e.g., XXXX-XXXX)

 

For example, to call a mobile phone in Japan, you would dial +81-XX-XXXX-XXXX. If you are calling a landline in Osaka, you would dial +81-6-XXXX-XXXX. The + symbol is a universal international dialing prefix, making mobile calling convenient.

 

Japanese Phone Number Format Explained

 

Understanding the structure of Japanese phone numbers can prevent confusion. Japanese phone numbers typically range from 10 to 11 digits when dialed domestically, including a leading 0 for the area code. However, when you make international calls Italy Japan, you usually drop this leading 0 from the area code.

 

Let’s look at an example:

 

  • Domestic Tokyo Number: 03-1234-5678

0: Domestic access code

3: Tokyo area code

1234-5678: Local subscriber number

 

  • International Tokyo Number (from Italy): 00-81-3-1234-5678 or +81-3-1234-5678

Notice the 0 before the 3 (Tokyo’s area code) is removed for international dialing. This is a common practice for many countries when calling internationally.

 

For Japanese mobile numbers, they usually start with 070, 080, or 090. When dialing internationally, you also drop the leading 0.

 

  • Domestic Mobile Number: 090-1234-5678
  • International Mobile Number (from Italy): 00-81-90-1234-5678 or +81-90-1234-5678

 

Always confirm the specific number with your contact, especially if they provide it in a domestic format. This small detail can make all the difference for a successful connection.

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Best Time to Call Japan from Italy

 

Considering the time difference is crucial when planning your call Japan from Italy. You want to avoid waking someone up in the middle of the night or calling during inconvenient hours. Japan Standard Time (JST) is generally 7 or 8 hours ahead of Italy.

 

Understanding Time Zones

 

  • Italy: Operates on Central European Time (CET) during winter, which is UTC+1. During summer, it switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2.
  • Japan: Operates on Japan Standard Time (JST), which is UTC+9. Japan does not observe daylight saving time.

 

Calculating the Ideal Window

 

Let’s assume Italy is on CEST (UTC+2) and Japan is on JST (UTC+9). The difference is 7 hours (9 – 2 = 7). Japan is 7 hours ahead of Italy.

 

If Italy is on CET (UTC+1), the difference is 8 hours (9 – 1 = 8). Japan is 8 hours ahead of Italy.

 

Here’s a practical guide for calling during standard business or personal hours (e.g., 9 AM to 6 PM in Japan):

 

  • If Japan is 7 hours ahead:

9:00 AM in Japan = 2:00 AM in Italy (too early)

6:00 PM in Japan = 11:00 AM in Italy (good for end of Japanese workday)

To call at 9:00 AM Japan time, you would need to call at 2:00 AM Italy time.

To call at 2:00 PM Japan time, you would need to call at 7:00 AM Italy time.

A good window for calling Japan from Italy for business would be mid-morning in Italy, aiming for Japan’s afternoon. For example, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM in Italy would be 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM in Japan.

 

  • If Japan is 8 hours ahead:

9:00 AM in Japan = 1:00 AM in Italy (too early)

6:00 PM in Japan = 10:00 AM in Italy (good for end of Japanese workday)

To call at 9:00 AM Japan time, you would call at 1:00 AM Italy time.

To call at 2:00 PM Japan time, you would call at 6:00 AM Italy time.

A good window for calling Japan from Italy for business would be late morning in Italy, aiming for Japan’s afternoon. For example, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM in Italy would be 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM in Japan.

 

Always confirm the current time in both locations before making an important call. Many online tools and smartphone apps can quickly show you the current time in Tokyo or other Japanese cities.

 

Cost of Calling Japan from Italy

 

The cost of international calls Italy Japan can vary significantly depending on your service provider and method of calling. Traditional phone services often charge high per-minute rates, which can quickly add up. Understanding these costs helps you choose the most economical option.

 

Traditional Providers

 

If you use your standard Italian landline or mobile service, you might face substantial charges. These traditional carriers typically have specific rates for international destinations, and Japan is often considered a premium destination.

 

  • Per-minute rates: These can range from a few cents to over a euro per minute.
  • Connection fees: Some providers might also apply a one-time connection fee for international calls.
  • Hidden costs: Be aware of potential charges for unsuccessful calls or calls that go to voicemail.

 

Checking your specific carrier’s international calling plan is always a good idea before making a long call. Many people are surprised by the cost of traditional international calls once they receive their bill.

 

Cost-Saving Alternatives

 

Fortunately, there are more affordable ways to call Japan from Italy. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services have revolutionized international calling, offering significantly lower rates, or even free calls, when using app-to-app communication. These services leverage your internet connection, bypassing the traditional phone networks. This is where solutions like Telfon become incredibly valuable.

 

VoIP services typically offer:

 

  • Lower per-minute rates: Often fractions of what traditional carriers charge.
  • Subscription plans: Unlimited international calls for a fixed monthly fee.
  • Free app-to-app calls: If both parties use the same VoIP app.

 

Choosing a VoIP service can lead to substantial savings, making regular communication with Japan much more manageable.

 

Why Call Japan? Common Reasons and Connections

 

People in Italy connect with Japan for a multitude of reasons, reflecting the deep cultural, economic, and personal ties between the two nations. A call Japan from Italy can serve many purposes, from expanding business horizons to maintaining cherished personal relationships.

 

Business Opportunities

 

Japan is a global economic powerhouse, making it a critical hub for international business. Companies in Italy often reach out to Japan for various commercial activities.

 

  • Trade and Export: Italian businesses frequently export goods to Japan, ranging from luxury fashion to specialized machinery. Regular communication is vital for managing orders, logistics, and partnerships.
  • Partnerships and Collaborations: Many Italian companies seek Japanese partners for joint ventures, research, and development. Effective communication builds strong professional relationships.
  • International Hiring: With a growing need for diverse talent, Italian firms may recruit employees from Japan. HR personnel rely on clear international calls for interviews and onboarding.
  • Customer Support and Sales: Businesses with Japanese clients or markets need reliable ways to provide support and engage in sales efforts.

 

Personal Connections

 

Beyond business, many individuals in Italy have personal ties to Japan. Keeping these connections alive requires easy and affordable communication.

 

  • Family and Friends: Many Italians have family members, friends, or relatives living or studying in Japan. Regular calls help maintain these important bonds.
  • Travel Planning: As a popular tourist destination, Italy sees many planning trips to Japan. Calls to hotels, tour operators, or local contacts are common.
  • Academic and Cultural Exchange: Students and academics often participate in exchange programs or research collaborations between Italian and Japanese institutions.

 

Cultural Exchange

 

The rich cultural heritage of Japan, from its ancient traditions to its modern pop culture, attracts many enthusiasts in Italy. Calls might be made to:

 

  • Language Exchange Partners: Practicing Japanese with native speakers.
  • Event Organizers: Inquiring about cultural festivals, workshops, or exhibitions.
  • Specialty Businesses: Contacting unique shops or service providers in Japan.

 

No matter the reason, having a reliable and affordable way to communicate is key.

 

Telfon: Your Smart Solution for Calling Japan

 

When you need to call Japan from Italy, Telfon offers a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution. As a leading virtual phone calling app, Telfon simplifies international calls Italy Japan by leveraging cloud telephony and VoIP technology. It’s designed for both individuals and businesses, providing a seamless communication experience.

 

What is Telfon?

 

Telfon is a virtual phone system that allows you to make and receive calls, send SMS, and even integrate WhatsApp, all through an internet connection. It acts as a cloud phone system, freeing you from the limitations and high costs of traditional phone lines. For anyone needing a virtual number for Japan, Telfon is an excellent choice.

 

Key Benefits for Calling Japan

 

Telfon brings a host of advantages, especially when bridging the distance between Italy and Japan:

 

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Say goodbye to exorbitant international rates. Telfon’s international calling plans are designed to be affordable, helping you save significantly on your calls to Japan. You get clear call quality without the high price tag.
  • Virtual Number for Japan: This is a game-changer. Telfon allows you to purchase a virtual number for Japan. This means you can have a local Japanese phone number, even if you are physically in Italy. When you call someone in Japan from this virtual number, it appears as a local call on their caller ID. This encourages them to answer and makes it easy for them to call you back at local rates, fostering trust and accessibility.
  • Reliability & Quality: Telfon uses robust cloud infrastructure, ensuring crystal-clear voice quality for your calls to Japan. Forget about dropped calls or choppy conversations.
  • Ease of Use: The Telfon app is user-friendly. You can manage your calls, contacts, and features intuitively, without needing complex technical knowledge.
  • Advanced Features: Telfon provides many useful features to enhance your communication:

Call recordings: Keep records of important conversations.

Send & Receive SMS: Text your contacts in Japan.

WhatsApp integration: Manage multiple WhatsApp accounts for seamless messaging.

Multi-country numbers simultaneously: Manage different virtual numbers from one account.

Voicemail: Never miss a message.

Call forwarding: Route calls to another number if you’re busy.

Bulk SMS: For business communications.

 

How Telfon Simplifies Calling Japan

 

Telfon simplifies the entire process. You do not always need to remember complex dialing codes if you are using your virtual Japanese number. Your calls automatically route through Telfon’s network, connecting you efficiently. This makes Telfon international calling a truly hassle-free experience for both individuals and businesses. HR personnel, sales executives, and traveling agencies find Telfon particularly useful for daily interactions with clients and partners in Japan.

 

Steps to Use Telfon for Your Japan Calls

 

Getting started with Telfon to call Japan from Italy is a straightforward process. You can quickly set up your account and begin making international calls with ease.

 

1. Sign Up for Telfon

 

The first step is to create your Telfon account. Visit the Telfon website or download the app from your device’s app store. The sign-up process is quick and simple, requiring basic information.

 

2. Purchase a Virtual Japanese Number

 

Once your account is active, you can purchase a virtual number for Japan. This is a powerful feature that gives you a local presence in Japan, even while you are in Italy.

 

  • Navigate to the “Purchase Virtual Number” section within the Telfon platform.
  • Select “Japan” as the country for your virtual number.
  • Choose from available numbers and complete the purchase.

 

Having a virtual Japanese number means when you call someone in Japan, your caller ID will show a local Japanese number. This can increase pick-up rates and make your calls feel more personal and professional. It also allows your Japanese contacts to call you back at their local rates, making communication more convenient for them.

 

3. Start Calling

 

With your Telfon account set up and a virtual Japanese number (if desired), you can begin making calls.

 

  • Open the Telfon app or access the platform.
  • Dial the Japanese number directly, just as you would from a regular phone.
  • Telfon handles the international routing, providing clear and reliable connections.

 

Whether you’re calling a landline or a mobile number in Japan, Telfon streamlines the process, ensuring your Telfon international calling experience is efficient and affordable.

Stay connected to Japan with Telfon.

 


Ensuring a Smooth International Call

 

Making a call Japan from Italy involves more than just dialing the right numbers. A few simple checks can ensure your call goes through without a hitch, whether you’re using a traditional phone line or a service like Telfon.

 

Check Your Balance or Plan

 

Before making a long or important international call, especially with traditional carriers, confirm your call plan or available credit. This prevents unexpected interruptions or high charges. Telfon, with its clear pricing and subscription models, helps you manage your budget effectively.

 

Confirm the Number

 

Even a single incorrect digit can lead to a failed call or, worse, connect you to the wrong person. Always double-check the full Japanese number, including the country code and area code, before you dial. Ask your contact to send it to you digitally to avoid transcription errors.

 

Stable Internet Connection (for VoIP)

 

If you are using a VoIP service like Telfon, a stable and strong internet connection is crucial. A weak Wi-Fi signal or slow mobile data can result in poor call quality, dropped calls, or delays.

 

  • Wi-Fi: Connect to a strong, reliable Wi-Fi network whenever possible.
  • Mobile Data: Ensure you have enough data and a good signal if using your mobile network.

 

A consistent internet connection guarantees that your international calls Italy Japan are clear and uninterrupted.

 

Common Questions About Calling Japan

 

Here are some questions people often ask about calling Japan from Italy, structured as if you might ask an AI or a search engine.

 

Q: Do I need a special plan to “Call Japan from Italy”?

A: Not necessarily. You can use your standard mobile or landline plan, but be prepared for potentially high international calling rates. Using a specialized VoIP service like Telfon often provides much more affordable rates or specific international calling plans, making it a better option for frequent calls.

 

Q: Can I send SMS messages to Japan from Italy?

A: Yes, you can. Your mobile carrier typically supports international SMS, though rates may apply. Services like Telfon also offer SMS capabilities, sometimes at a lower cost or as part of a bundle, along with features like broadcast messages and WhatsApp integration.

 

Q: What is the most reliable way to make “international calls Italy Japan”?

A: While traditional phone lines can be reliable, modern VoIP services are generally more cost-effective and equally reliable, especially with a good internet connection. Services like Telfon offer high-quality audio and a suite of features that enhance reliability and convenience for making international calls Italy Japan.

 

Q: How do “virtual numbers for Japan” work with Telfon?

A: Telfon allows you to purchase a virtual number for Japan. This number functions like a local Japanese phone number, even though you are in Italy. When you call someone in Japan using this virtual number, it appears as a local call on their caller ID. This makes it easier for them to answer and to call you back at local rates, improving communication flow and accessibility.

 

Q: Is it better to call a Japanese mobile or landline from Italy?

A: From a technical standpoint, either is fine as long as you have the correct dialing codes. However, from a cost perspective, some traditional carriers might charge different rates for mobile vs. landline. With Telfon, the distinction often matters less, as its virtual numbers and VoIP rates are typically consistent and low. For convenience, mobile numbers are generally easier to reach.

 

Conclusion

 

Making a call Japan from Italy doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By understanding the correct dialing codes, considering the time difference, and choosing the right communication tool, you can connect seamlessly with your contacts in Japan. Whether your call is for business, family, or personal reasons, a clear and reliable connection is paramount.

 

Telfon stands out as an excellent solution for international calls Italy Japan. Its virtual number feature, affordable rates, and comprehensive suite of communication tools make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to simplify their global communication. With Telfon, you gain a local presence in Japan, reduce costs, and enjoy crystal-clear calls, making your Telfon international calling experience truly effortless. Embrace the ease of modern technology and stay connected to Japan without boundaries.

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. What is the dialing code for Japan from Italy?

The full dialing sequence to call Japan from Italy is 00 (Italy’s exit code) + 81 (Japan’s country code) + Japanese area code (if landline, without the leading 0) + local number. For mobile phones, you can use +81 + mobile number.

 

2. Is there a time difference when I call Japan from Italy?

Yes, Japan Standard Time (JST) is generally 7 or 8 hours ahead of Italy, depending on whether Italy is observing Central European Time (CET) or Central European Summer Time (CEST). Always check the current local times before calling.

 

3. Can I use my regular mobile plan for “international calls Italy Japan”?

You can, but it might be expensive. Regular mobile plans often have high per-minute rates for international calls. Consider using VoIP services like Telfon for more affordable and feature-rich options.

 

4. How does a “virtual number for Japan” benefit me?

A virtual number for Japan from Telfon gives you a local Japanese phone number without needing to be physically in Japan. This allows your calls to appear as local calls to your Japanese contacts, increasing the likelihood they will answer and enabling them to call you back at their local rates.

 

5. Are Telfon calls to Japan clear and reliable?

Yes, Telfon uses advanced cloud telephony solutions and VoIP technology to ensure high-quality, clear, and reliable connections for your international calls. A stable internet connection is key for the best experience.

 

6. Can I send text messages to Japan using Telfon?

Absolutely. Telfon supports sending and receiving SMS messages to and from international numbers, including those in Japan. It also offers features like bulk SMS and WhatsApp integration.

 

7. What if the Japanese number starts with a ‘0’?

When dialing internationally to Japan, you usually drop the leading ‘0’ from the Japanese area code or mobile prefix. For example, a Tokyo number 03-XXXX-XXXX becomes 81-3-XXXX-XXXX.

 

8. What are the peak hours for business calls in Japan?

Typical business hours in Japan are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM JST, Monday to Friday. Considering the time difference, late morning in Italy often aligns with the afternoon in Japan, which is a good window for business calls.

 

9. Is Telfon available for individuals and businesses?

Yes, Telfon is designed to cater to both individuals and businesses. It offers features beneficial for personal use, like international calls and virtual numbers, as well as B2B features like user analytics, number management, and team budgets.

 

10. How secure are calls made through Telfon?

Telfon employs robust security measures within its cloud phone system to protect your communications. It provides a secure platform for all your international calls, SMS, and other interactions.

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