Can we use electrical appliances from the U.S. in Japan and Korea?
The voltage used throughout Japan is uniformly 100 volts, A.C. There are two kinds of frequencies in use: 50 Hertz in eastern Japan (e.g. Tokyo, Tochigi) and 60 Hertz in western Japan (e.g. Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima). 2-flat-pin-plug outlets are used, but not 3-pin-plug outlets. Although electrical appliances from Japan can be usually used in the U.S. without a voltage converter, it is strongly advised to use a “step-down transformer” for the US electrical appliances you will bring to Japan. The voltage used in Korea is usually 220 volts (2-round-pin-plug outlet), but you may find 110 volts (2-flat-pin plug outlet) used in some older buildings. Both 220 V and 110 V are 60 Hertz. A “step-up transformer” as well as the outlet adjuster will be required if you plan to use any US electrical appliances in Korea. Here are some sites where you can get more information on using your electrical appliances overseas and purchase step-up and step-down transformers (dual transformers are also availabl
