Take our user survey and make your voice heard.
After putting out the call for questions on our social media, it became clear that when it comes to sorting out a mobile phone here, many of us don’t really know where the FAQ to begin.
So, we’ve teamed up with the knowledgeable crew at Sakura Mobile to help you navigate the confusing landscape of Japanese telecommunications. By the end of this mega FAQ, we’ll have hopefully equipped you with enough information to find the deal that’s right for you.
Whether you’re a Japan newbie still dazzled by the overwhelming choice of oversized phone cases, or a long-term resident simply looking to switch your trusty ketai to a better plan, here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions about getting a mobile phone in Japan.
Overview
- Who are the main mobile carriers in Japan right now?
- What is an MVNO?
- Which network is best?
- What are the different types of contracts you can get? Which are the most popular now?
- Why are traditional phone contracts with MNO’s so expensive?
- What’s the difference between a data and voice contract? Which option is better value for money?
- What does MNP mean?
Handsets
- What makes a device SIM Free? How do I know if my phone is SIM Free?
- Can I bring my phone handset from my home country and use it in Japan?
- I don’t have a phone handset from my home. Can I buy one in Japan?
Voice and Data Plans
- What are the different data packages and plans?
- How much data do I really need?
- Which is the best value-for-money data plan?
- Can I make calls with these plans? How much does it cost?
- How fast is the connectivity speed? Does it get slower as I use up my data?
- Can I tether another device to my phone?
- Will my Japanese phone work abroad?
Application Process
- If I want to get a contract with Sakura Mobile, how do I apply?
- I already have a phone contract here and don’t want to change my phone number. Can I use the MNP service with Sakura Mobile?
- Are there any age requirements?
- I don’t have a long-term visa with a residence card. Can I still apply?
- How do I pay for my phone contract?
- Is there a minimum contract period?
- Are there any cancellation fees? How do I cancel my contract?
- Are there any other hidden fees?
- I have questions about my contract. Who should I talk to?
Click here to read more.
- External Link
- https://gaijinpot.com/
5 Comments
Login to comment
Thunderbird2
I just get a rental sim and pop it into my UK smartphone... job's a good 'un
bosphorus
I just bought an unlocked smartphone on ebay and put my old Docomo SIM card into it. No Japanese malware inside. This is much cheaper than buying a smartphone in a Docomo shop (they are overpriced), but you must buy it for the first time to get a contract. You can even cut the borders of a SIM card in case it doesn't fit.
kurisupisu
My phone was sold locked (Au) and it is only after six months that the company will unlock it. This prevents this e that go abroad using their phone cheaply and amounts to over control as phones could be unlocked from the word go......