How to obtain a mobile SIM card or sign a mobile contract in Japan? What are the major telecommunications operators?

Hello! Getting a phone plan sorted is definitely a top priority when you've just arrived in Japan or are preparing to come. Being without internet makes everything difficult. Don't worry, it's not complicated. Let me break it down for you clearly and simply.

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First, Understand the Two Main Types of Mobile Plans in Japan

Think of getting a Japanese phone plan like choosing a meal at a restaurant: you have two main options:

1. The Full-Course Meal (大手キャリア - Major Carriers): These are the biggest telecom companies. Great service, stable network, but also expensive.
2. The Budget Meal / Value Combo (格安SIM - Budget SIMs/MVNOs): These are smaller companies that rent network access from the major carriers and sell it to you cheaper. The "taste" (network speed) is usually good, but it might slow down during peak times, and service is mostly self-serve online.

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Option 1: The Full-Course Meal - The Three Major Carriers

These three are Japan's equivalents of "China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom." They're huge, with stores nationwide. You'll see their signs on any city's main street.

Pros:

• Top-Tier Network Quality: Fast speeds, wide coverage, very stable.
• Excellent Service: Physical stores nationwide. Staff can help with problems and guide you through setup.
• Phone Installment Plans: Want the latest iPhone? You can get a contract phone, spreading the cost over your monthly bills.

Cons:

• Expensive! Monthly fees easily reach ¥7,000 - ¥10,000 (approx. $50-$70 USD / £35-£50 GBP / €45-€65 EUR).
• Contract Lock-ins: While more flexible now, many plans still have contract commitments (historically strict 2-year terms).
• More Complex Process: Stricter checks on Residence Card validity, bank accounts, etc.

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Option 2: The Value Choice - Budget SIMs (MVNOs)

"格安" (Gaku-an) means "cheap" in Japanese. These companies don't have their own towers; they rent network access from the big three.

Major Budget SIM Brands:

• Rakuten Mobile: Unique - aiming to become the 4th major carrier. Has its own network where available, uses au's elsewhere. Known for disruptive pricing (can be very cheap or even free for low usage).
• UQ mobile: au's "child company." Uses au's network, offering top-tier speed and stability among budget SIMs.
• Y!mobile: SoftBank's "child company." Uses SoftBank network, also known for stability and speed. Has physical stores.
• IIJmio, mineo, OCN Mobile ONE: Independent MVNOs. Highly flexible plans, often letting you choose Docomo, au, or SoftBank networks. Very competitive pricing.

Pros:

• Cheap! The biggest advantage. Depending on data, plans can be as low as ¥1,000 - ¥3,000/month (approx. $7-$20 USD / £5-£15 GBP / €6-€18 EUR).
• No Contract or Short Contracts: Most have no long-term contracts. Switch easily and freely.
• Super Convenient Online Signup: Apply online, SIM card mailed directly to you.

Cons:

• Potential Slowdown During Peak Times: Speeds might dip compared to major carriers during busy hours (e.g., lunchtime 12-1 PM, evenings 6-8 PM).
• Mostly Self-Service: Fewer physical stores. Troubleshooting usually means checking the website or contacting online support.
• Usually Need Your Own Phone: Requires an unlocked (SIM-Free) phone. They sell phones too, but selection is limited.

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How to Apply? Step-by-Step Guide

The process and required documents are similar regardless of which type you choose.

Step 1: Gather Documents (Pay Attention - This is Crucial!)

1. ID:

   • Residence Card (在留カード): Most important! Mandatory. Many companies require it to have at least 3 months validity remaining.
   • Passport: As a secondary ID.

2. Payment Method:

   • Japanese Bank Account or Credit Card: Essential for almost all carriers to deduct monthly fees. A major hurdle if you've just arrived.
   • Tip: Some MVNOs (like IIJmio) might accept certain overseas credit cards (e.g., VISA, Mastercard). Try if possible, but a Japanese account is safest.

3. Japanese Address & Phone Number:

   • You need a confirmed Japanese address for SIM card delivery.
   • The phone number is a "chicken-and-egg problem." You usually need a contact number for the application (use a friend's or school's number initially).

4. Personal Seal (Hanko / 判子): Sometimes needed for in-store signups (less common now, but good to have one ready).

Step 2: Choose How to Apply

• Apply In-Store (Major Carriers / UQ / Y!mobile)

  • Process: Bring all documents -> Go to store, take a number -> Tell staff you want a new contract ("新規契約をしたいです" - shinki keiyaku o shitai desu) -> Staff explains plans, checks docs, guides you through setup.
  • Pros: Get SIM card immediately. Ask questions face-to-face.
  • Cons: Can involve long waits. Requires some Japanese ability (though stores in big cities may have Chinese-speaking staff).

• Apply Online (Standard for MVNOs)

  • Process: Go to the MVNO's website -> Choose plan -> Enter personal info & address -> Upload Residence Card/Passport photos -> Enter credit card/bank details -> Wait for approval.
  • Pros: Apply anytime, anywhere. No queues.
  • Cons: Takes a few days for SIM delivery. Requires navigating the website yourself (browser translation helps).

Tips for Newcomers

1. What to Do Right After Arrival?

   • If you need internet immediately, buy a Prepaid SIM at the airport. These usually last 7-30 days. This gives you time to get your Residence Card, bank account, and then choose a long-term plan.

2. I'm a Student/Worker on a Budget

   • Strongly recommend an MVNO. Rakuten Mobile (as low as ¥1078/month for <3GB), UQ mobile, or Y!mobile offer great value and good network quality.

3. My Japanese Isn't Good, Worried About the Process

   • Go to large electronics stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera. They have dedicated mobile counters with staff from various carriers/MVNOs. Some stores have Chinese-speaking staff to help compare and apply.

4. I'm Not Sure How Much Data I Need

   • Start with a lower-data MVNO plan. Most let you easily change your plan online after a few months once you know your usage.

Hope this super detailed guide helps! Starting your new life in Japan begins with the right phone plan. Good luck!