Japan operates with a simple yet different time system compared to european countries, mainly due to the absence of daylight saving time. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about time in Japan and how to easily adapt to the time difference.
What time is it in Japan right now?
What is Japan’s time zone?
Japan is located in the JST (Japan Standard Time) zone, which is UTC+9.
This means Japan is 9 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Japan does not observe daylight saving time, which can sometimes make calculating the time difference tricky depending on the season.
Time difference with somes cities
Berlin, Paris, Rome
- In winter, Japan is 8 hours ahead of France: 12:00 PM in Paris → 8:00 PM in Tokyo.
- In summer, Japan is 7 hours ahead of France: 12:00 PM in Paris → 7:00 PM in Tokyo.
West USA (Los Angeles) / Canada (Vancouver)
- In winter, Japan is 17 hours ahead of West USA : 12:00 PM in Los Angeles → 5:00 AM the next day in Tokyo.
- In summer, Japan is 16 hours ahead of West USA : 12:00 PM in Los Angeles → 4:00 AM the next day in Tokyo.
East USA (New York) / Canada (Torronto)
- In winter, Tokyo is 14 hours ahead of New York: 12:00 PM in New York → 2:00 AM the next day in Tokyo.
- In summer, Tokyo is 13 hours ahead of New York: 12:00 PM in New York → 1:00 AM the next day in Tokyo.
Australia (Sydney)
- In winter, Tokyo is 1 hour ahead of Sydney: 12:00 PM in New York → 11:00 AM in Tokyo.
- In summer, Tokyo is 2 hours ahead of Sydney: 12:00 PM in New York → 10:00 AM in Tokyo.
Sunrise and sunset in Japan
Once you're there, you'll notice that the sun rises and sets very early:
- Sunrise: Between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM
- Sunset: Between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM
This can be surprising, especially in winter when it gets dark as early as 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Why doesn't Japan change its time?
Japan briefly adopted daylight saving time after World War II under American occupation (1948-1951). However, this measure was abandoned due to its unpopularity, particularly because of the early work and school hours.
Since then, the country has remained on a single time zone year-round.
How to get over jet lag ?
The time difference between your country and Japan can be challenging, especially upon arrival. Jet lag can cause fatigue, insomnia, and appetite disruptions.
Generally, it takes one day per time zone difference to fully adjust.
Tips for minimizing jet lag
Before departure
- Try to adjust your sleeping schedule by shifting your sleep hours a few days before traveling.
On the plane
- Set your watch to Japanese time as soon as you board.
- Try to sleep according to Japanese time and follow our tips for a comfortable flight.
Upon arrival
- Expose yourself to daylight as soon as you arrive.
- Stay hydrated and avoid naps so you can sleep only at night.
The first few days
- Engage in outdoor activities to help your body adapt faster.
- Plan for a relaxing morning on the first day to avoid excessive fatigue.
What are typical hours in Japan?
Business and restaurant hours
Business hours in Japan are generally standardized:
- Post offices: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday
- Shops and shopping centers: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (open 7 days a week)
- Convenience stores (konbini / コンビニ): Open 24/7 (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)
- Restaurants:
- Cafes and tea rooms: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Lunch: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Dinner: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Bars and izakayas (bar-restaurants) often close around 2:00 AM.
The Japanese eat early. By 6:00 PM, many restaurants are already full.
In major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you'll easily find restaurants open late. However, in smaller towns, it's better to have dinner before 8:00 PM to avoid unpleasant surprises!
Public transportation hours
- Metro and trains: 5:00 AM - midnight (some lines close earlier).
- Shinkansen (bullet trains): First departure around 6:00 AM, last departure around 10:00 PM.
- Night buses: A budget-friendly alternative to trains, often operating between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
Note, public transportation stops at night, so if you're out late, plan to take a taxi or be prepared to walk.