Japan Phone Code: The Correct Way to Call from Australia

International calls can feel confusing at first, especially when country codes and exit numbers are involved.

Whether you're calling family, friends, or business contacts, this guide keeps it simple.

To Call Japan from Australia, Dial:

+81 [area_code] [local_number]

Example:

If someone gives you: (03) 1234 5678

Dial: +81 3 1234 5678

If the number is written with brackets, ignore the brackets and dial the digits only.

When calling Japan from another country, you must remove the leading '0' (trunk prefix) from the start of the Japanese area code or mobile number. For example, a Tokyo number written as 03-xxxx-xxxx becomes +81-3-xxxx-xxxx.

What Is the Japan Country Code?

The country code for Japan is +81.

Step-by-Step Dial Format (From Australia)

1. Dial + (or 0011)

2. Dial 81

3. Dial the area code (without the leading 0)

4. Dial the local number

Full format: +81 [area_code] [local_number]

Or using Australia's exit code: 0011 81 [area_code] [local_number]

+ vs 0011 — What's the Difference?

The + symbol works globally and is the recommended method. The 0011 exit code works specifically when dialling from Australia. Either format will connect your call.

Is Calling Japan Expensive?

Without included international minutes, calls are usually billed per minute.

All E.Tel mobile plans include international minutes to call Japan directly from your mobile — 100, 200, or 300 minutes depending on your plan. No per-minute fee within your allowance, and predictable monthly billing.

Cheapest Way to Call Japan

There are three main options:

Internet calling apps — free or low cost but require a stable data connection.

Standard international dialling — reliable but billed per minute without an included allowance.

Mobile plan with included international minutes — best for regular callers who want simplicity and cost control.

If you call Japan regularly, a mobile plan with included international minutes is usually the simplest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Japan country code?

The country code for Japan is +81.

How do I call Japan from Australia?

Dial +81 followed by the area code and local number. You must remove the leading '0' from the start of the number. You can also use 0011 instead of +.

Do mobile numbers use a different format?

The format is the same, but you must still remove the leading '0'. Japanese mobile numbers typically start with 070, 080, or 090. To call from Australia, you would dial +81 70..., +81 80..., or +81 90... followed by the rest of the number.

Can I use + instead of 0011?

Yes. The + symbol works globally and is the preferred method. 0011 is Australia's exit code and works the same way.

Summary

To call Japan from Australia: +81 [area_code] [local_number]

With the right structure and plan, international calls don't need to be stressful.

Before making frequent international calls, check if your plan includes international minutes.