How to: Get a Mobile Phone in Japan
📱 How to Use Your Mobile Phone in Japan Update ver
If you are living in Japan, here is a complete guide to help you use your mobile phone smoothly and efficiently.
1️⃣ Choosing a Mobile Carrier
Japan has four major mobile carriers.
🟡 NTT Docomo
TEL (Toll-free from landline): 0120-005-250
Available Languages: English, Portuguese, Chinese, Spanish
Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
⚠ May not be accessible from some IP phones.
🟠 au (by KDDI)
TEL (Toll-free): 0120-959-472
Available Languages: English, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese, Korean, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Spanish, Japanese.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
⚪ SoftBank
From SoftBank handset: 157 → Press “8”
For English support from landline (Toll-free): 0800-919-0157
Available Language: English, Chinese, Spanish, Korean, Vietnamese, Portuguese.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (general information)
🔴 Rakuten Mobile
TEL (Toll-free): 0800-805-0090
Available Language: English, Chinese, Indonesian, Korean, Vietnamese, Portuguese.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💡 Tip:
Most foreigners choose a carrier based on monthly cost, data amount, contract flexibility, and English support availability. Coverage and pricing vary, so comparing plans is recommended.
2️⃣ Buying a SIM Card or Renting a Phone
✅ Buying a SIM Card
If you already have an unlocked phone, purchasing a Japanese SIM card is usually the cheapest option for long-term residents.
You can buy SIM cards at:
- Carrier shops
- Electronics stores
- Online
✅ Renting a Phone
If you do not want a long-term contract, you can rent a phone:
- At the airport
- From online rental companies
✅ Contracting with a Carrier
If you plan to stay long-term, signing a contract may be the best option.
📄 Required Documents (Please check before visiting the store):
- Residence Card (在留カード)
- Passport
- Japanese bank card or bank passbook
Some carriers may also request proof of address.
3️⃣ Getting a Mobile Plan
🔹 Prepaid Plans
- Pay in advance
- No contract required
- Available at convenience stores and electronics shops
- Activate online and insert the SIM
✔ Good for short-term stay
✔ Flexible
🔹 Postpaid Plans
- Monthly billing
- Includes data and calls
- Requires residence card and bank information
- Apply at carrier shops or electronics stores
✔ Suitable for long-term residents
✔ Often better value for regular use
4️⃣ Setting Up Your Phone
After receiving your SIM card:
- Insert the SIM card
- Restart your phone
- Confirm the network is recognized
- Turn on mobile data
- Adjust language and region settings if needed
5️⃣ Using Mobile Data & Wi-Fi
📶 Mobile Data
Most plans include data. Check your data limit carefully to avoid extra charges.
📡 Public Wi-Fi
Available at:
- Cafes
- Train stations
- Shopping malls
Many Wi-Fi networks require a password.
🌍 Roaming
If using an overseas phone, roaming charges can be high.
Consider:
- Purchasing a local SIM card
- Renting pocket Wi-Fi
6️⃣ Useful Apps in Japan
It is recommended to download:
- LINE – Most popular messaging app in Japan
- Google Maps – Navigation and train routes
- PayPay – Mobile payment app
- Rakuten – Online shopping
7️⃣ Emergency Numbers in Japan
🚓 Police: 110
🚑 Ambulance / Fire: 119
Save these numbers in your phone in case of emergency.
8️⃣ Important Things to Keep in Mind
🌐 Language
Not all shops provide English support. Having a translation app can be helpful.
💳 Billing
Bills are often in Japanese. If unsure, ask at the support desk or check the carrier’s website.
