Hiroshima

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Comprehensive Guide to Telecommunications in Hiroshima, Japan

Hiroshima, like the rest of Japan, boasts a highly developed telecommunications infrastructure. Whether you're a visitor or a resident, staying connected in Hiroshima is straightforward, thanks to the availability of reliable cellular networks, high-speed internet services, and public Wi-Fi options. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate telecommunications in Hiroshima.

1. Cellular Network Providers in Hiroshima

Japan has several major cellular network providers, all of which operate in Hiroshima. These providers offer excellent coverage, including in rural areas and on nearby islands like Miyajima. The main providers are:

Major Providers

  1. NTT Docomo

    • Known for its extensive coverage and reliability, especially in rural and mountainous areas.
    • Offers prepaid SIM cards, postpaid plans, and eSIM options.
    • Website: www.nttdocomo.co.jp

  2. SoftBank

    • Popular among international visitors due to its English-language support and tourist-friendly plans.
    • Offers prepaid SIM cards and pocket Wi-Fi rentals.
    • Website: www.softbank.jp

  3. au by KDDI

    • Another major provider with excellent coverage and competitive pricing.
    • Offers prepaid and postpaid plans, as well as eSIM options.
    • Website: www.au.com

  4. Rakuten Mobile

    • A newer provider with competitive pricing and unlimited data plans.
    • Coverage is improving but may not be as extensive in rural areas.
    • Website: www.rakuten.co.jp

Budget MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators)

For those looking for cheaper options, MVNOs like IIJmio, Y! Mobile (SoftBank’s budget brand), and UQ Mobile (au’s budget brand) offer affordable plans. These providers use the networks of the major carriers but at lower prices. They are ideal for residents or long-term visitors.

2. Internet Services in Hiroshima

Hiroshima offers a variety of internet services, including fiber-optic broadband, mobile internet, and public Wi-Fi. Here’s what you need to know:

Home Internet Providers

  1. NTT Flets Hikari

    • The most popular fiber-optic broadband service in Japan, offering high-speed internet (up to 1 Gbps).
    • Installation may take 1-2 weeks, and contracts typically last 1-2 years.
    • Website: www.flets.com

  2. SoftBank Hikari

    • Another fiber-optic provider with competitive pricing and bundled discounts for SoftBank mobile users.
    • Website: www.softbank.jp

  3. au Hikari

    • Offers high-speed internet with discounts for au mobile users.
    • Website: www.au.com

  4. Asahi Net

    • A popular choice for English-speaking residents due to its English-language support.
    • Website: www.asahi-net.jp

Mobile Internet (Pocket Wi-Fi)

  • Pocket Wi-Fi devices are portable routers that provide internet access via cellular networks. They are ideal for visitors or those who don’t want to commit to a long-term contract.
  • Providers like Japan Wireless, Sakura Mobile, and SoftBank Global Rental offer rental services for tourists.

Costs

  • Fiber-optic broadband: ¥4,000–¥6,000/month (installation fees may apply, typically ¥10,000–¥20,000, though promotions often waive these fees).
  • Pocket Wi-Fi: ¥500–¥1,000/day for rentals.

3. Public Wi-Fi Options in Hiroshima

While public Wi-Fi is not as ubiquitous in Japan as in some other countries, Hiroshima has made efforts to provide free Wi-Fi in key areas:

Free Wi-Fi Hotspots

  1. Hiroshima Free Wi-Fi

    • Available at major tourist attractions, including Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Station, and Miyajima Ferry Terminal.
    • Look for the network name “Hiroshima_Free_Wi-Fi.”
    • Registration is required (email or social media login).

  2. Convenience Stores

    • Chains like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart offer free Wi-Fi. Look for signs indicating Wi-Fi availability.

  3. Cafes and Restaurants

    • Many cafes (e.g., Starbucks, Doutor) and fast-food chains (e.g., McDonald’s) provide free Wi-Fi.

  4. Hotels and Hostels

    • Most accommodations in Hiroshima offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Tips for Using Public Wi-Fi

  • Public Wi-Fi networks may have time limits (e.g., 30 minutes per session).
  • Use a VPN for added security when accessing sensitive information.

4. Setting Up a Mobile or Internet Connection

The process for setting up telecommunications services depends on whether you are a visitor or a resident.

For Visitors

  1. Prepaid SIM Cards

    • Available at Hiroshima Airport, major train stations, and electronics stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera.
    • Popular options include Mobal, Sakura Mobile, and Japan Travel SIM.
    • Costs: ¥2,000–¥5,000 for 7–30 days, depending on data allowance.

  2. Pocket Wi-Fi Rentals

    • Book online before arrival or rent at Hiroshima Airport.
    • Providers like Japan Wireless and Global Advanced Communications offer delivery to your hotel.

For Residents

  1. Mobile Plans

    • Visit a carrier’s store (e.g., Docomo, SoftBank, au) with your residence card, passport, and Japanese bank account or credit card.
    • Contracts typically last 2 years, but some providers offer month-to-month plans.

  2. Home Internet

    • Contact a provider (e.g., NTT Flets, SoftBank Hikari) to arrange installation.
    • Required documents: residence card, passport, and proof of address.
    • Installation may take 1-2 weeks.

5. Cultural Etiquette in Telecommunications

  • Phone Use in Public: Avoid talking on the phone in trains or buses. Use the “manner mode” (silent mode) to avoid disturbing others.
  • Wi-Fi Etiquette: If using free Wi-Fi in a café or restaurant, it’s polite to make a purchase.
  • Data Usage: Unlimited data plans are rare and expensive. Be mindful of your data usage, especially on prepaid plans.

6. Local Considerations in Hiroshima

  • Tourist-Friendly Services: Hiroshima is a major tourist destination, so many providers offer English-language support and short-term plans tailored to visitors.
  • Rural Areas: If you plan to visit rural areas or islands like Miyajima, ensure your provider has good coverage (NTT Docomo is recommended).
  • Emergency Numbers: In case of emergencies, dial 110 for police or 119 for fire/ambulance. These numbers are free to call from any phone.

7. Unique Services in Hiroshima

  • Hiroshima Free Wi-Fi: A city-specific initiative to provide free internet access at key tourist locations.
  • Local SIM Cards: Some local stores in Hiroshima Station sell SIM cards specifically for tourists, often bundled with travel guides or discounts for attractions.

Summary Table of Costs

| Service | Cost | |-------------------------|------------------------------------| | Prepaid SIM Card | ¥2,000–¥5,000 (7–30 days) | | Pocket Wi-Fi Rental | ¥500–¥1,000/day | | Fiber-Optic Internet | ¥4,000–¥6,000/month | | Mobile Postpaid Plan | ¥3,000–¥8,000/month |

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to stay connected in Hiroshima, whether you’re visiting for a few days or settling in for the long term.