Kobe

1. Mobile Services in Kobe

Mobile services in Kobe are provided by several major carriers and smaller Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). Here's what you need to know:

Main Mobile Service Providers

1. Major Carriers (MNOs):

   • NTT Docomo: Known for its extensive coverage and reliability.
   • SoftBank: Offers competitive plans and good coverage, especially in urban areas like Kobe.
   • au by KDDI: Another major provider with excellent coverage and a variety of plans.

2. MVNOs (Budget-Friendly Options):

   • Rakuten Mobile: Affordable plans with unlimited data in Rakuten network areas (coverage in Kobe is good but may vary in rural areas).
   • IIJmio: Offers flexible data plans at lower prices.
   • Y!Mobile: A subsidiary of SoftBank, providing budget-friendly options with good coverage.
   • UQ Mobile: A subsidiary of au, offering affordable plans with decent speeds.

Mobile Plans

• Postpaid Plans: Offered by major carriers, these plans typically include unlimited calls and data options. Prices range from ¥5,000 to ¥8,000 per month, depending on the data allowance and features.
• Prepaid SIM Cards: Ideal for short-term visitors. Prices start at around ¥2,000 for 1GB of data valid for 7–30 days.
• MVNO Plans: Budget-friendly options with prices starting at ¥1,500–¥3,000 per month for 3–10GB of data.

How to Obtain a Mobile SIM Card

• For Visitors:
  • Purchase prepaid SIM cards at Kansai International Airport (KIX), convenience stores, or electronics retailers like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera in Kobe.
  • Bring your passport for identification.
• For Residents:
  • Visit a carrier's store or authorized retailer with your Residence Card (在留カード, Zairyū Card) and passport.
  • Some carriers may require a Japanese bank account or credit card for postpaid plans.

Tips:

• If you don’t speak Japanese, visit stores in larger shopping areas like Sannomiya, where staff are more likely to speak English.
• MVNOs often require online registration, so having a basic understanding of Japanese or using translation tools can be helpful.

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2. Home Internet Services in Kobe

Kobe has excellent home internet options, including fiber-optic, cable, and mobile broadband. Fiber-optic (光回線, hikari kaisen) is the most common and reliable choice.

Main Internet Providers

1. NTT Flets Hikari: The most widely used fiber-optic service in Japan, offering speeds up to 1Gbps.
2. au Hikari: Another popular fiber-optic provider with similar speeds and competitive pricing.
3. SoftBank Hikari: Offers bundled discounts if you use SoftBank for mobile services.
4. Asahi Net: A reliable and affordable ISP that partners with NTT for fiber-optic services.
5. J:COM: Provides cable internet and TV services, often bundled together.

Internet Plans and Costs

• Fiber-Optic Plans:
  • Speeds: 100Mbps to 1Gbps.
  • Monthly Cost: ¥4,000–¥6,000 (including ISP fees).
• Cable Internet:
  • Speeds: 30Mbps to 320Mbps.
  • Monthly Cost: ¥3,000–¥5,000.
• Mobile Broadband:
  • Portable Wi-Fi routers (pocket Wi-Fi) are available for ¥3,000–¥5,000 per month, ideal for those who move frequently or don’t want a fixed contract.

How to Set Up Home Internet

1. Choose a Provider:
   • Compare plans online or visit electronics stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera in Kobe.
2. Sign Up:
   • Provide your Residence Card, passport, and address.
   • Some providers may require a Japanese bank account or credit card for payment.
3. Installation:
   • Fiber-optic services often require installation, which can take 1–2 weeks. Installation fees range from ¥10,000–¥20,000, though promotions may waive this fee.
   • Cable internet may have quicker setup times.
4. Contract Length:
   • Most contracts are for 2 years. Early termination fees may apply if you cancel before the contract ends.

Tips:

• Look for bundle discounts if you use the same provider for mobile and home internet.
• If you’re renting an apartment, check with your landlord or real estate agent to see if the building already has internet infrastructure.

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3. Public Wi-Fi in Kobe

• Availability: Public Wi-Fi is available in many areas, including train stations, shopping malls, cafes, and tourist attractions.
• How to Access:
  • Look for networks like “Kobe Free Wi-Fi” or “Japan Free Wi-Fi.”
  • Registration may be required, often by providing an email address or social media login.
• Limitations: Speeds may be slower, and connections may not be secure. Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi.

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4. Local Considerations and Tips

1. Language Barrier:

   • Most service providers have limited English support. Use translation apps like Google Translate or bring a Japanese-speaking friend when visiting stores.
   • Some providers, like SoftBank and Rakuten Mobile, have English websites and customer support.

2. SIM Card Compatibility:

   • Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports Japanese network frequencies (Band 1, 3, 19, 28 for LTE).

3. Short-Term Visitors:

   • Consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi device for unlimited data during your stay. These can be rented at Kansai International Airport or online for delivery to your hotel or residence.

4. Payment Methods:

   • Many providers require a Japanese bank account or credit card for recurring payments. Prepaid options are available for those without these.

5. Emergency Numbers:

   • In case of issues with your mobile or internet service, contact your provider’s customer support. Major providers have 24/7 hotlines.

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5. Summary of Costs

| Service | Approximate Cost | |-------------------------|---------------------------------------| | Prepaid SIM Card | ¥2,000–¥5,000 (short-term) | | Postpaid Mobile Plan | ¥5,000–¥8,000/month | | MVNO Mobile Plan | ¥1,500–¥3,000/month | | Fiber-Optic Internet | ¥4,000–¥6,000/month | | Pocket Wi-Fi Rental | ¥3,000–¥5,000/month | | Installation Fee | ¥10,000–¥20,000 (may be waived) |

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to set up your mobile and internet services in Kobe, ensuring you stay connected while enjoying life in this vibrant city. Let me know if you need further assistance!