Area Code 8546 – Kakeya, Shimane

Overview of Area Code 8546

Area code 8546 is a geographic numbering plan area within the Japanese telephone numbering system, specifically allocated to the Kakeya region in Shimane Prefecture. This area code corresponds to the town of Kakeya, which is now part of the city of Unnan, located in the eastern part of Shimane Prefecture on Honshu Island. The region is characterized by its mountainous terrain and rural landscape, with a population that relies on both agriculture and tourism.

Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction

The 8546 area code serves the former town of Kakeya and its surrounding communities, which are now administered under the larger Unnan city jurisdiction. Unnan was formed in 2004 through the merger of several towns, including Kakeya. The area is known for its scenic beauty, including the Hiba-Dogo-Taishaku Quasi-National Park, and historical sites such as the Kakeya Castle ruins. The primary exchange centers within this code are located in the central districts of Kakeya, with coverage extending to nearby rural settlements.

Dialing Formats and Procedures

For local callers within the Kakeya area, the area code is typically omitted, and only the subscriber number is dialed. However, for calls originating from outside the 8546 area code but within Japan, the full national format is used: 0-8546-XXXXXX. The subscriber number is six digits long, making the total national significant number length 10 digits (0 + area code + subscriber number).

For international callers, the dialing format is +81 8546 XXXXXX, where the leading zero of the area code is dropped. For example, to call a number in Kakeya from abroad, one would dial +81 8546 123456 (replace with actual subscriber number).

Overlay and Numbering Considerations

As of the latest ITU-T E.164 guidelines, there is no overlay plan for the 8546 area code, meaning it is the sole area code for this geographic region. Number portability is available for fixed-line services in Japan, allowing subscribers to retain their numbers when switching carriers, but the geographic significance of the area code remains tied to the physical location of the exchange.

Caller Instructions

Local callers within the 8546 area should dial the six-digit subscriber number directly. Domestic callers outside the area must include the trunk prefix 0 and the area code 8546. International callers must use Japan's country code +81, followed by the area code without the leading zero, and then the subscriber number. It is important to note that calls to this area are subject to standard domestic and international tariffs, depending on the caller's location and service provider.