About .jp domain
The .jp domain is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Japan. It is managed by Japan Registry Services Co., Ltd. (JPRS), which assumed operational duties in 2003 after the domain was originally delegated in 1986. As a ccTLD, it is a well-established and actively used domain extension. Registration is conducted through accredited commercial registrars.
Who can register .jp domain
Registration for a standard second-level .jp domain (e.g., example.jp) requires the registrant to have a permanent postal address within Japan. This local presence rule applies to individuals, groups, and organizations. There are also several restricted second-level domains with specific eligibility criteria, such as .co.jp for registered companies, .ac.jp for academic institutions, and .go.jp for government entities.
How to register .jp domain
- Search for your desired .jp domain name's availability using the search tool at an accredited registrar, ensuring the name meets character length rules (3-63 characters for ASCII, 1-15 for Japanese script).
- Compare pricing, registration terms (typically one year minimum), and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from different accredited registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant information, including your Japanese mailing address, which will be verified.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .jp domain
The .jp extension is very popular within Japan and is widely used by entities connected to the country. Businesses, from large corporations to small local shops, often use .co.jp or the general .jp to establish a clear local identity and trust with Japanese customers. Educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations also heavily utilize their respective restricted second-level domains (.ac.jp, .go.jp, .or.jp) for official communications, making .jp the definitive online namespace for Japan.
Tips for registering .jp domain
- A local Japanese mailing address is a mandatory requirement for all .jp domain registrations.
- Registrations are available at both the second level (example.jp) and third level beneath categorized second-level labels like .co.jp or .ac.jp.
- Domain names can be registered using Japanese characters (Kanji, Hiragana, Katakana) at the second level, with specific character count rules.
- The number of registrations per entity varies; general .jp domains have no limit, but organizational/geographic type domains are typically limited to one per registrant.
Frequently asked questions about .jp domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .jp domain?
As of today, .jp domains start from $29.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $208.61/yr across 18 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .jp domains?
NameBeta tracks 18 registrars that support .jp domain registration, with the cheapest option at $29.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .jp domain?
The registry for .jp domains is JPRS, administered by Japan Registry Services Co., Ltd..
Who can register a .jp domain?
Registration is open to any individual, group, or organization that can provide a verifiable permanent postal address within Japan. For the general-use .jp domain, there is no limit on the number of domains one entity can hold. Specific second-level domains like .co.jp or .ac.jp have additional eligibility requirements, such as being a formally registered company or academic institution in Japan.
Can I transfer a .jp domain between registrars?
.jp domains can be transferred between accredited registrars. The process typically requires obtaining an authorization code from your current registrar and initiating the transfer with the gaining registrar. Ensure your domain is not within a transfer lock period (often 60 days after registration or a previous transfer) and that your registrant contact information, especially the Japanese address, is up-to-date to avoid verification delays.
Can I register a .jp domain using Japanese characters?
Yes, Japan Registry Services allows the registration of domain names using Japanese script (Kanji, Hiragana, or Katakana) at the second level. For a general-use .jp domain containing these characters, the label must consist of one to fifteen characters, excluding the .jp suffix. A mix of ASCII and Japanese characters in a single label is also permitted, with each character counted individually.
What is the difference between a .co.jp and a general .jp domain?
The .co.jp second-level domain is restricted to companies officially registered in Japan, including foreign companies registered with Japanese authorities. It signals a formal business entity. The general .jp domain (e.g., example.jp) is available to any eligible registrant with a Japanese address, including individuals, freelancers, and unincorporated groups, offering more flexibility without signifying a specific corporate status.
Are there any content or usage policies for .jp domains?
The registry primarily focuses on eligibility requirements tied to local presence and organizational type for restricted second-level domains. While there are no broadly published general content policies for .jp domains, registrants must comply with Japanese law. The registry maintains the right to suspend a domain if the registrant's eligibility, such as a valid Japanese address, cannot be verified or is found to be fraudulent.
What happens if I lose my Japanese mailing address?
Maintaining a valid Japanese mailing address is a continuous requirement for holding a .jp domain name. If you lose your eligibility, you are obligated to update your registrant information or transfer the domain to an eligible party. Failure to maintain accurate information can lead to the domain being suspended or deleted by the registry, as the local presence rule is strictly enforced.
