Japan power converter question.

[tabster100]

Staying in Yokohama several days post cruise.  Is a US to Japan adapter sufficient for hair appliances, curling iron etc or will I need a converter?

Thank you, Carol 

[BruceMuzz]

For all practical purposes, electric power in Japan is identical to that in the USA. The prongs on the plug and the outlets are identical.

The only real differences are a slightly lower voltage (100 volts in Japan vs 120 in America) and 50 Hertz in East Japan, vs 60 Hertz in America and West Japan.

[Milhouse]

The prongs on the plug for US devices and Japanese outlets are similar but I find some outlets do not have a third hole for the ground so we now bring an outlet adaptor (without any voltage conversion) that creates a placeholder space for the ground prong (and in the past have asked to see if we can borrow one from the front desk).  We're only charging electronics like laptops and phones vs hair appliances.

[JomCruise]

26 minutes ago, Milhouse said:

The prongs on the plug for US devices and Japanese outlets are similar but I find some outlets do not have a third hole for the ground so we now bring an outlet adaptor (without any voltage conversion) that creates a placeholder space for the ground prong (and in the past have asked to see if we can borrow one from the front desk).  We're only charging electronics like laptops and phones vs hair appliances.

You're correct that no voltage conversion is necessary, just an adapter. I always carry a universal travel adapter for international trips, including to Japan. You should be able to find an affordable adapter at 100 yen shops, which are plentiful throughout cities like Yokohama. Purchasing one locally means you won't need to pack an extra adapter from home. Enjoy your time in Japan - an inexpensive adapter is all that's required to use your appliances during your stay.

[micruiser2002]

You do not even need an adapter, they use the same plugs we do.  Except as stated above if you are bringing anything with the 3 prong.