US-based computer giant Apple has launched its popular iTunes Music Store in Japan.

Apple, which has sold more than 500 million songs worldwide, said it is offering around 1 million tracks to Japanese users of its iPod.

The service will charge users 150 yen ($1.35) each for 90 per cent of its songs and 200 yen for the remaining 10 per cent.

"iTunes and iPod are leading the digital music revolution," said Steve Jobs, Apple’s chief executive.

"We are thrilled to be bringing the iTunes Music Store to Japan, and hope music fans here love it as much as others around the world do."

The iTunes Music Store in Japan debuts with local favorites including iTunes Originals from globe and Ulfuls, exclusives from Def Tech, Crazy Ken Band, Chara, Little Creatures, Chie Ayado and The Complete B’z digital box set.

Other iTunes exclusives released on Thursday include music from international artists such as U2, Jack Johnson and Björk.

The Japanese launch comes over two years since Apple started offering the service in the US.

Apple has sold 21 million iPods since their introduction in October 2001, making it the most widely used digital music player on the market.

Apple is set to face competition from rival computer company Napster, who are expected to launch their very own music download service in Japan later this year.