Connecting with someone in Japan from the UK can seem difficult. You face different country codes, confusing time zones, and high call costs. This guide will simplify the entire process for you. It covers everything from dialing formats to cost-effective solutions.

We will explain how to call Japan from any UK phone. We will also explore the structure of Japanese phone numbers. Finally, you will learn how modern tools like Telfon make these calls easier and cheaper. For a broader overview, you can review official international dialing conventions from sources like the ITU.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Japan

Making an international call requires a specific number sequence. This ensures your call connects to the right country and person. Getting this sequence correct is the first step to a successful conversation. Here is how it works for both landlines and mobile phones.

The Core Dialing Formula

Every international call follows a standard pattern. You begin with an exit code to signal you are calling abroad. Next, you add the destination’s country code. Then comes the local area code, followed by the subscriber’s number.

The complete formula looks like this:

• UK Exit Code: 00 or +
• Japan Country Code: 81
• Japanese Area Code: (e.g., 3 for Tokyo, without the leading 0)
• Local Phone Number: The final set of digits.

Calling from a UK Landline or Mobile

The process is nearly identical for landlines and mobiles. The main difference is how you enter the UK exit code. Mobile phones offer a universal symbol for this.

1. Dial the UK Exit Code. For landlines, dial 00. For mobiles, you can press and hold 0 to get the + symbol. The + works globally.
2. Enter Japan’s Country Code. Immediately after the exit code, dial 81. Your number should now look like 0081 or +81.
3. Add the Japanese Area Code. Dial the area code for the city you are calling. Crucially, you must omit the leading 0. For instance, Tokyo’s 03 area code becomes just 3.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number. Finish by entering the rest of the person’s phone number.

Example for a Tokyo landline (area code 3): 00-81-3-1234-5678 or +81-3-1234-5678.

Example for a Japanese mobile (prefix 90): +81-90-1234-5678.

Understanding Japanese Phone Numbers

Japanese phone numbers have a distinct structure. Knowing this format helps you avoid dialing errors. Landline and mobile numbers follow different patterns. Understanding these details ensures your call connects on the first try.

Japan’s Country Code: The Essential +81

Japan’s country code is always 81. You must use this number every time you call Japan from another country. It directs your call through the global telephone network to Japan. Always place 81 right after your exit code (00 or +).

A Closer Look at Japanese Area Codes

Area codes in Japan identify specific cities and regions. They range from one to five digits long. When calling from the UK, remember to drop the first 0 from the area code. For instance, Tokyo’s 03 area code becomes just 3.

Landline vs. Mobile Number Formats

Japanese phone numbers usually have a total of 10 digits after the country code. However, their internal structure differs.

• Landline Numbers: These include an area code. The format is typically (Area Code) - XXXX - XXXX. For a call to Osaka, it would be +81-6-XXXX-XXXX.
• Mobile Numbers: These do not use city area codes. Instead, they start with a prefix like 70, 80, or 90. The format is +81 - (Prefix) - XXXX - XXXX. For example: +81-90-1234-5678.

When you call a mobile number, you use the full 10-digit number after +81.

Planning Your Call: Time Zones and Costs

Knowing how to dial is only half the battle. You also need to consider when to call and how much it will cost. Japan has a significant time difference from the UK. Additionally, traditional international call charges can be very high.

Navigating the Time Difference

Japan operates on Japan Standard Time (JST), which is GMT+9. The UK uses Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter and British Summer Time (BST) in summer.

This creates a large time gap:

• During UK Winter (GMT): Japan is 9 hours ahead.
• During UK Summer (BST): Japan is 8 hours ahead.

For business calls, aim for standard working hours (9 AM to 5 PM JST).

The best time for business calls is between 8 AM and 10 AM in the UK. For personal calls, early mornings in the UK align with evenings in Japan.

The Hidden Costs of Traditional Calls

Calling Japan from the UK with traditional carriers can be expensive. Rates often range from £0.50 to over £2.00 per minute. These costs add up quickly, especially during long conversations. Many providers also charge connection fees. This can lead to surprisingly high phone bills. It is always wise to check your provider’s rates before you call.

A Better Way to Call Japan: Introducing Telfon

Traditional calling challenges can be frustrating. High costs and complex dialing codes create unnecessary stress. Telfon offers a modern solution. It uses cloud technology to make international calls simple, affordable, and reliable.

Simple, Stress-Free International Dialing

Telfon removes the complexity of international calling. The app handles all the technical routing for you. You do not need to memorize exit codes or worry about formats. Calling Japan becomes as easy as making a local call. This user-friendly approach saves you time and effort.

Transparent Pricing That Saves You Money

With Telfon, you avoid unpredictable bills. We offer clear and competitive per-minute rates. You can see the cost upfront, which helps you manage your budget. This transparency means you can call Japan frequently without financial anxiety. Our pay-as-you-go plans often save users up to 50% compared to other providers.

The Power of a Virtual Japanese Number

Telfon allows you to get a virtual number for Japan. This number is not tied to a physical phone line. When people in Japan call this number, it is a local call for them.

Benefits of a virtual number include:

• A Local Presence: Your business appears local, building trust with Japanese clients.
• Cost Savings: Your contacts in Japan avoid international calling fees to reach you.
• Professional Image: A local number makes your business seem more accessible.
• Total Convenience: Receive calls on your UK devices from your Japanese number.

Telfon for Business: Unlock the Japanese Market

For companies expanding into Japan, Telfon is a powerful strategic tool. Our features are designed to enhance your international operations. We help businesses in various sectors connect with the Japanese market efficiently. With over 600 companies and 30,000 users globally, Telfon is a trusted communications partner.

Enhance Customer Support and Sales

A virtual Japanese number is invaluable for customer support. It lets Japanese customers reach you at local rates. This greatly improves their experience. Sales teams can also make outbound calls without fearing high costs. This fosters better client relationships. Features like call recording help with training and quality assurance.

Streamline Operations for HR and Travel

HR teams often manage international staff or candidates. Telfon simplifies communication with Japanese contacts. It ensures clear and reliable conversations. Travel agencies also benefit from affordable calling rates. They can easily confirm bookings with hotels and tour operators in Japan. This makes their operations smoother and more responsive.

Key Takeaways

• Dialing Format: Use 00 or +, followed by 81 (Japan’s code), the area code (minus the first 0), and the local number.
• Time Zone: Japan is 8 to 9 hours ahead of the UK, so plan your calls carefully.
• Traditional Costs: Standard phone networks charge high per-minute rates for calls to Japan.
• Telfon’s Solution: Telfon offers an affordable, simple, and high-quality alternative for international calls.
• Virtual Number: Get a virtual Japanese number with Telfon to establish a local presence and save your contacts money.
• Business Features: Telfon provides tools like call recording and user analytics to support business growth in Japan.
  

FAQs

Q1: What is Japan’s country code?

A1: Japan’s country code is +81. You must use it for all calls to Japan from another country.

Q2: Do I need an area code for Japanese mobile numbers?

A2: No. For mobile numbers, you dial +81 followed by the 10-digit mobile number, which usually starts with 70, 80, or 90.

Q3: What is the time difference between the UK and Japan?

A3: Japan is 9 hours ahead of the UK during GMT (winter) and 8 hours ahead during BST (summer).

Q4: What is the best time to call Japan for business?

A4: The best time is typically between 8 AM and 10 AM in the UK. This corresponds to the late afternoon and early evening in Japan.

Q5: How can Telfon make calling Japan more affordable?

A5: Telfon offers competitive pay-as-you-go rates that are much lower than traditional carriers. A virtual number also lets your Japanese contacts call you at local rates.

Q6: What is a virtual number and why is it useful?

A6: A virtual number is a phone number not tied to a physical line. It allows people in Japan to call you locally, making it cheaper and easier for them to connect.

Q7: Can I send SMS messages to Japan using Telfon?

A7: Yes, Telfon supports sending and receiving SMS messages. This gives you another convenient way to communicate.

Q8: What do I do if my call to Japan does not connect?

A8: First, double-check the dialing sequence: exit code (+ or 00), country code (81), area code (no leading 0), and local number. Also, ensure you have sufficient credit in your Telfon account.