Area Code 70 – Mobile Network
The phone area code for Mobile Network is 70 (international format +8170). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
Overview of Japan's Mobile Prefix 070
In Japan, the prefix 070 is a non-geographic mobile number prefix assigned to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). Unlike geographic area codes (e.g., 03 for Tokyo), 070 numbers are not tied to any physical location, allowing subscribers to retain their numbers when moving across the country. The Japanese numbering plan, governed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) and aligned with ITU-T E.164, designates 070 for mobile services, alongside 080 and 090. The 070 range was introduced to supplement the growing demand for mobile numbers, particularly for services like PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) and later for LTE/5G data-centric plans.
Dialing Format and Number Structure
Japanese mobile numbers using the 070 prefix follow a standard 11-digit national significant number (NSN) format: 070-XXXX-XXXX. When dialed internationally, the country code +81 replaces the leading zero, resulting in +81 70 XXXX XXXX. For example, a typical number would be +81 70 1234 5678. It is crucial to omit the leading zero when dialing from abroad. Within Japan, callers must dial the full 11-digit number, including the prefix, even for local calls, as mobile numbers are not area-code dependent.
Number Portability and Routing
Japan implemented Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in 2006, allowing users to switch carriers while retaining their 070 number. As a result, the prefix does not indicate a specific operator; it merely signifies that the number is mobile. Routing is handled via a centralized database, ensuring calls and SMS are delivered correctly regardless of the underlying network. For international SMS and voice calls, the +81 country code and the 070 prefix are used, and the call is routed to the appropriate mobile network based on the ported number's current carrier.
Usage and Considerations
070 numbers are widely used for personal mobile communications, as well as for IoT devices and data-centric services. When contacting a Japanese mobile user from abroad, ensure you have the correct full number, including the 070 prefix. Be aware that some online services may not accept 070 numbers for verification due to their association with prepaid or data-only plans, but this is not a universal restriction. For businesses, using 070 numbers for customer contact is common, but for official hotlines, toll-free numbers (0120) or geographic numbers are often preferred.