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Information for
International Travelers

	GENERAL ADVICE

	WORLDWIDE POWER & BROADCASTING INFORMATION

Tax-Free Shopping
in Japan

Things to think about before you open your wallet!
If you walk into the average electrical store in Japan, buy a product, and take it back to your home country, there is a very strong possibility that it will NOT work. A few electrical appliances (like shavers) are made for worldwide use, so they have features like automatic voltage adjustment. Most do not. If you buy a standard Japanese model TV, VCR, computer, video camera, kitchen appliance or washing machine, you are likely to be disappointed when you get home.

Power companies around the world supply their power at different voltages. Electrical products only work correctly if they are given the power supply they were made for. And it is extremely dangerous to plug a low-voltage product into a high-voltage outlet.

Most countries use a voltage in the range from 110 to 240 volts AC. Japan uses the very low voltage of 100 volts. So if, for example, you take a Japanese 100-volt product to Europe and connect it to a standard power supply there, you are in for a very unpleasant surprise. At best, the product will be ruined. In some cases, you might give yourself an electric shock or start a fire. So our simple advice is DON'T USE JAPANESE MODEL PRODUCTS OUTSIDE JAPAN.

Power frequencies are another problem. Although less dramatic than voltage problems, incorrect frequency will cause the product to malfunction. Japan is unusual in having two power frequencies - 50 hertz in one half of the country, 60 hertz in the other.

Buying in Japan
If you are buying electrical appliances in Japan, go to a tax-free tourist shop.
Ask for an export model that is made to suit your country. The store assistant should be able to give you some advice.

For basic information on power supplies, go to Worldwide Power & Broadcasting Information.

Even if you find a product of the right voltage and frequency, you are likely to have problems with the plug.
There are many different types of power plug around the world. Plugs fall into two main types: two-pin plugs and three-pin plugs. With three-pin plugs, one of the pins is the earth (ground). The seven most popular plug types are shown here.

You can buy adapter plugs that let you plug in without physically changing the original plug. If you are visiting several countries, and you have auto voltage adjustment appliances, it is worth buying a set of adapters. These are available at tourist electrical stores.

Major plug socket types	A	B	B3
Major plug socket types
BF	C	SE	O

However, please remember, ADAPTER PLUGS DO NOT TRANSFORM THE VOLTAGE OF THE POWER SUPPLY.
You should be OK if you are using an appliance with auto voltage adjustment. If not, you will need a transformer.

Note:
Some hotels provide a range of sockets in the bathroom. These are for electric shavers only (unless stated otherwise). Also note that in some countries (e.g. the UK), you need to switch the power socket on before use.

Battery-powered appliances can be used anywhere in the world with confidence. However, it is a good idea to take along spare batteries when you go on a trip. You may not be able to find the right kind of batteries in the country you are visiting.

If you intend to use a battery charger, you face the same complications with the charger as with any other AC-powered product.