Japan Postal Code System Guide — 7-Digit Format Explained
Japan uses a seven-digit numeric postal code, written with the postal mark 〒 and formatted as NNN-NNNN. For example, 100-0001 is the code for the Chiyoda area of Tokyo. The system is simple to read once you know how the digits are grouped.
The 7-Digit Format (NNN-NNNN)
The first three digits identify a geographic region and the last four digits narrow it down to a neighborhood or block. Major examples:
| Code | Area |
|---|---|
| 100-0001 | Chiyoda, Tokyo |
| 150-0001 | Shibuya, Tokyo |
| 530-0001 | Kita, Osaka |
| 600-8000 | Nakagyo, Kyoto |
| 060-0001 | Chuo, Sapporo |
| 810-0001 | Chuo, Fukuoka |
A Brief History
Japan introduced a 3-digit system in 1968 and a 5-digit system in 1990. The current 7-digit system has been in use since February 1998 and is maintained by Japan Post.
Writing Japanese Addresses
- In Japan, addresses are written largest-unit first: prefecture, city, district, block, building.
- The postal code is usually prefixed with the postal mark, for example 〒100-0001 Tokyo, Chiyoda.
- For international mail, write "JAPAN" in capital letters as the final line.
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