Understanding how to write and read Japanese addresses is essential for anyone planning to visit, live, or conduct business in Japan. Unlike Western address formats, Japanese addresses follow a unique order, which can be confusing at first. In Japan, addresses start with the largest geographical unit and gradually narrow down to the smallest one. This hierarchical structure makes it crucial to understand how to correctly write and interpret addresses.
This guide will explain the structure of Japanese addresses, their key components, and the correct way to format them for different purposes such as mailing letters or filling out online forms.
Understanding how to write and read Japanese addresses is essential for navigating life in Japan, from mailing letters to finding locations. Unlike Western formats, Japanese addresses start from the largest geographical unit and move to the smallest, which can be confusing for beginners.
Japanese addresses are written in reverse order compared to Western addresses. Instead of beginning with a street number and ending with the country, Japanese addresses start with the prefecture and move down to the building or house number.
See exactly how a typical Japanese address looks in real life. This example breaks down each line—from postal code and prefecture to city, district, and building number—so you can understand how addresses are formatted and written in Japan.
Tokyo Tower
4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan
Curious about the roots of modern Japanese? Explore the influence of Classical Japanese (Bungo) on the language today.
105-0011
東京都 港区 芝公園4-2-8
東京タワー
Japan Post Official Website
Learn about each part of a Japanese address and what it means. This overview explains key components like prefectures, cities, wards, chome (blocks), ban (numbers), and building names, helping you read and write addresses accurately.
A 7-digit number (e.g., 105-0011) that helps categorize locations for postal delivery. It is usually written at the top and preceded by the 〒 symbol.
Example:
〒160-0023 (Tokyo, Shinjuku-ku)
Japan has 47 prefectures, categorized as follows:
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| Type | Japanese | Example |
| Metropolitan Area | 都 (To) | 東京都 (Tokyo) |
| Urban Prefectures | 府 (Fu) | 大阪府 (Osaka), 京都府 (Kyoto) |
| Rural Prefectures | 県 (Ken) | 福岡県 (Fukuoka), 北海道 (Hokkaido) |
| City Wards | 区 (Ku) | 港区 (Minato-ku), 新宿区 (Shinjuku-ku) |
Japan Post – How to Write Japanese Addresses
Official instructions from Japan Post on formatting addresses for mail.4. District, Block, and House Number (丁目・番・号 - Chome, Ban, Go)
Japan uses a numbering system instead of street names:
| Japanese | Meaning | Example |
| Chome (丁目) | District Number | 芝公園4丁目 (Shibakoen 4-chome) |
| Ban (番) | Block Number | 2番 (Block 2) |
| Go (号) | House/Building Number | 8号 (Building 8) |
Example: 芝公園4-2-8 means: 芝公園 neighborhood → 4丁目 (4th district) → Block 2 → Building 8
Want to understand the differences between dialects? Read our guide on Kansai-ben vs. Standard Japanese.
For multi-unit buildings, the building name and room number come last.
Example:
サンシャインマンション 302号室 (Sunshine Mansion, Room 302)
The final line contains the recipient's name.
For formal letters, include:
Example:
田中 太郎様 (Tanaka Tarou-sama)
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For formal mail, addresses are written vertically, from top to bottom, right to left:
〒105-0011
東京都港区芝公園4-2-8
東京タワー
田中太郎様
For casual use and online forms, Japanese addresses are written horizontally:
〒105-0011 東京都港区芝公園4-2-8 東京タワー 田中太郎様
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To read Japanese addresses, start from the rightmost part and move left:
Example: 〒160-0023 東京都 新宿区 西新宿 1-5-3
1. Why are Japanese addresses written in reverse order?
Japanese addresses follow a hierarchical structure, ensuring clarity in identifying locations without street names.
2. What does "Chome" mean in a Japanese address?
"Chome" (丁目) refers to a subdivision of a city ward, similar to a neighborhood.
3. Can I write a Japanese address in English?
Yes, but keep the Japanese order. Many online forms require Romanized versions.
4. Do Japanese addresses use street names?
No, Japan primarily uses block numbers instead of street names for navigation.
Mastering Japanese addresses is essential for sending mail, filling out forms, and navigating Japan. By understanding the structure and practicing how to write and read them, you’ll become more confident in using Japanese addresses correctly.
Mastering the Japanese addresses format guide empowers you to confidently handle mail, complete forms, and navigate Japan without stress. By learning how to read and write addresses step by step, you’ll avoid confusion and demonstrate respect for local conventions. Whether you’re living in Japan or planning a short visit, understanding address structures is a practical skill that will make your daily life much smoother.
