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Japan – Postal Service

Japan’s postal service is one of the largest in the world, handling millions of letters and parcels every day. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the postal service in Japan, including its major service providers, speed, reliability, additional services, delivery coverage, address formatting, and postcode lookup.

Major Service Providers

The postal service in Japan is operated by Japan Post, which is a government-owned corporation. Japan Post provides a wide range of postal services, including standard mail, express mail, registered mail, and international mail. In addition to postal services, Japan Post also provides banking and insurance services.

Speed and Reliability

Japan’s postal service is known for its speed and reliability. Standard mail is typically delivered within one to three days, and express mail is delivered on the next day. Registered mail and international mail may take longer, depending on the destination.

Additional Services

Japan Post offers a variety of additional services at post offices, including:

  • Postal savings accounts
  • Insurance services
  • Bill payment services
  • Money order services
  • Gift delivery services
  • Passport application and renewal services

Delivery Coverage

Japan’s postal service delivers to almost every home and business in the country, including remote areas. However, there are some areas that are not covered by the postal service, such as small islands and mountainous regions. In these cases, residents may have to pick up their mail at a nearby post office.

Address Formatting

Addresses in Japan are written in a specific format, with the recipient’s name and address written in the center of the envelope. The postal code is written in the upper right-hand corner, and the sender’s address is written in the upper left-hand corner.


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Here’s an example of how to write an address in Japan:

Japan Post Co., Ltd.
1-3-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku,
Tokyo 100-8994
Japan

Postcode Lookup

In Japan, postcodes are called “yubinbango.” You can look up postcodes on the Japan Post website or by using a postcode directory.

To use the Japan Post website, go to https://www.post.japanpost.jp/index.html and click on “English” in the top right-hand corner. Then click on “Postal Code Search” and enter the address you’re looking for. The website will provide you with the correct postcode.

Alternatively, you can use a postcode directory, which is available at most convenience stores and post offices in Japan. The directory lists all the postcodes in Japan and can be used to look up the postcode for a specific address.

Japan’s postal service is fast, reliable, and offers a wide range of services. With its extensive coverage and efficient delivery system, it is an essential part of the country’s infrastructure. By understanding the various aspects of Japan’s postal service, you can ensure that your mail is delivered quickly and efficiently.