Nagoya

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Telephone Services

Basic understanding of landline services and how to make local and international calls within and from Nagoya.

Sections

1. Available Service Providers

In Nagoya, as in the rest of Japan, there are several major telecommunications providers offering both mobile and landline services. These include:

Mobile Service Providers:

  1. NTT Docomo

    • Japan's largest mobile carrier with extensive coverage, including in rural areas.
    • Offers a variety of plans, including prepaid and postpaid options.

  2. SoftBank

    • Known for competitive pricing and good urban coverage.
    • Offers bundled services (e.g., internet and mobile).

  3. au by KDDI

    • Another major provider with strong coverage and a variety of plans.
    • Popular for its family discounts and international roaming options.

  4. Rakuten Mobile

    • A newer provider with affordable plans, especially for data-heavy users.
    • Coverage is improving but may be weaker in rural areas.

  5. MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators)

    • Providers like Y!Mobile, UQ Mobile, and IIJmio offer cheaper plans by using the networks of the major carriers.
    • Ideal for budget-conscious users.

Landline Service Providers:

  1. NTT East/West

    • The primary provider of landline services in Japan, including Nagoya.
    • Offers traditional landline services and VoIP (internet-based) options.

  2. Cable TV Companies

    • Some cable TV providers, such as J:COM, offer landline services bundled with internet and TV.

2. Mobile and Landline Options

Mobile Options:

  • Prepaid SIM Cards:

    • Available for short-term visitors or those who don’t want a long-term contract.
    • Can be purchased at airports, electronics stores (e.g., Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera), or online.
    • Popular brands include Mobal, Sakura Mobile, and Japan Travel SIM.

  • Postpaid Plans:

    • Require a contract (usually 1-2 years) and are ideal for long-term residents.
    • Plans typically include voice, SMS, and data, with options for unlimited data or family sharing.

Landline Options:

  • Traditional Landlines:

    • Still used in homes and businesses, though less common due to mobile dominance.
    • Installation requires a physical line and may take a few days to set up.

  • VoIP (Internet-Based Landlines):

    • Cheaper and more flexible than traditional landlines.
    • Often bundled with home internet services.

3. Costs

Mobile Costs:

  • Prepaid SIM Cards:

    • ¥2,000–¥5,000 for a SIM card with 1–5 GB of data, valid for 30 days.
    • Additional top-ups available.

  • Postpaid Plans:

    • Basic plans start at around ¥2,000/month for low data usage.
    • Unlimited data plans range from ¥4,000–¥7,000/month.
    • Family discounts and student discounts are often available.

Landline Costs:

  • Installation Fee:

    • ¥10,000–¥20,000 for a new line.
    • Some providers waive this fee during promotions.

  • Monthly Fee:

    • ¥1,500–¥3,000 for a basic landline.
    • VoIP services are cheaper, starting at around ¥1,000/month.

4. How to Set Up a New Connection for Foreigners

Mobile Connection:

  1. Choose a Provider:

    • Visit a store or website of your chosen provider.
    • Major providers have English-speaking staff in larger cities like Nagoya.

  2. Required Documentation:

    • Passport.
    • Residence Card (在留カード, Zairyū Kādo).
    • Japanese bank account or credit card for postpaid plans.
    • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or rental agreement).

  3. Process:

    • Fill out the application form.
    • Choose a plan and SIM card type (e.g., nano, micro, or standard).
    • Wait for activation (usually immediate or within a few hours).

Landline Connection:

  1. Choose a Provider:

    • Contact NTT or a cable company offering landline services.
    • Many providers have English-speaking support.

  2. Required Documentation:

    • Passport.
    • Residence Card.
    • Proof of address.
    • Japanese bank account or credit card.

  3. Process:

    • Schedule an installation appointment.
    • A technician will visit your home to set up the line.
    • Activation may take a few days.

5. Necessary Documentation

  • Passport: Required for identification.
  • Residence Card: Proof of legal residency in Japan.
  • Proof of Address: Utility bill, rental agreement, or similar document.
  • Bank Account or Credit Card: For automatic payments (required for postpaid plans).

6. Cultural Norms Related to Phone Usage

  1. Public Spaces:

    • Talking on the phone in trains, buses, or other public transport is considered rude. Use silent mode (マナーモード, "manner mode") and avoid making calls.
    • Texting or using apps is acceptable as long as it’s discreet.

  2. Workplace Etiquette:

    • Keep your phone on silent during meetings.
    • Avoid personal calls during work hours unless necessary.

  3. Emergency Numbers:

    • Dial 110 for police and 119 for fire/ambulance services.
    • These numbers are free and can be dialed from any phone.

  4. Language Barriers:

    • Most customer service hotlines for major providers have English-speaking support.
    • However, smaller MVNOs may only offer Japanese-language support.

7. Unique Local Considerations in Nagoya

  1. Coverage:

    • Nagoya is a major city, so all providers offer excellent coverage. However, if you plan to travel to rural areas in Aichi Prefecture, NTT Docomo is recommended for its superior network.

  2. Electronics Stores:

    • Nagoya has several large electronics stores (e.g., Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera) where you can compare mobile plans and purchase SIM cards. Staff often speak basic English.

  3. Tourist SIMs:

    • If you’re a short-term visitor, consider purchasing a tourist SIM card at Chubu Centrair International Airport or major train stations in Nagoya.

  4. Wi-Fi Hotspots:

    • Free Wi-Fi is available in many public areas, including Nagoya Station, major shopping centers, and tourist attractions.
    • Consider using apps like Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi to locate hotspots.

  5. Bundled Services:

    • Many providers offer discounts if you bundle mobile, internet, and landline services. This can be a cost-effective option for long-term residents.

By following this guide, you should be able to navigate the telephone services in Nagoya with ease. Let me know if you need further assistance!