Sendai
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Mobile Networks
Understanding how to set up and access mobile phone networks, including SIM cards and data plans, in Sendai.
Sections
1. Overview of Mobile Networks in Japan
Japan has three major mobile network operators (MNOs) and several Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that use the infrastructure of the major carriers. The major carriers are:
- NTT Docomo
- au by KDDI
- SoftBank
MVNOs, such as Rakuten Mobile, Y!Mobile, UQ Mobile, and IIJmio, offer more affordable plans but may have slightly reduced network speeds during peak hours.
All major carriers and most MVNOs provide excellent coverage in Sendai, including urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, and even rural parts of Miyagi Prefecture.
2. Types of Mobile Plans
Mobile plans in Japan are generally divided into two categories: postpaid (contract-based) and prepaid. Hereโs a breakdown:
Postpaid Plans (Contract-Based)
- Best for: Long-term residents or immigrants.
- Features:
- Monthly billing.
- Options for unlimited data, calls, and SMS.
- Discounts for bundling with home internet or family plans.
- Requires a Japanese bank account or credit card for payment.
- Costs:
- Unlimited data plans: ยฅ5,000โยฅ7,000/month.
- Limited data plans (e.g., 5GBโ20GB): ยฅ2,000โยฅ4,000/month.
- Voice calls: ยฅ20โยฅ30 per minute (unless you have an unlimited calling add-on, which costs around ยฅ1,000/month).
- Popular Providers in Sendai:
- NTT Docomo: Known for its extensive coverage and reliability.
- au by KDDI: Offers competitive family discounts.
- SoftBank: Provides good international roaming options.
Prepaid Plans
- Best for: Tourists or short-term visitors.
- Features:
- No long-term commitment.
- Pay upfront for a set amount of data and call time.
- No need for a Japanese bank account.
- Costs:
- SIM cards with 1GBโ5GB of data: ยฅ2,000โยฅ5,000 (valid for 7โ30 days).
- Unlimited data SIMs for tourists: ยฅ3,000โยฅ6,000 (valid for 7โ30 days).
- Popular Providers in Sendai:
- Mobal: Offers tourist-friendly SIMs with English support.
- Sakura Mobile: Prepaid SIMs with data-only or data + voice options.
- Japan Wireless: Pocket Wi-Fi rentals and prepaid SIMs.
3. How to Sign Up for a Mobile Plan
The process for signing up depends on whether youโre opting for a postpaid or prepaid plan.
Postpaid Plan Sign-Up Procedure
- Visit a Store: Go to a carrierโs store (e.g., Docomo, au, or SoftBank) or an electronics retailer like Yodobashi Camera in Sendai.
- Required Documents:
- Residence Card (ๅจ็ใซใผใ, Zairyลซ Kฤdo) for proof of address and visa status.
- Passport.
- Japanese bank account details or a credit card.
- Choose a Plan: Staff will help you select a plan based on your needs (data, calls, etc.).
- Contract Length: Most contracts are for 1โ2 years, but some carriers now offer no-contract options.
- SIM Card Activation: The SIM card is usually activated on the same day.
Prepaid Plan Sign-Up Procedure
- Purchase a SIM Card:
- Available at major electronics stores (e.g., Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera) or online.
- Some convenience stores in Sendai also sell prepaid SIMs for tourists.
- Provide Identification:
- Passport (required for tourist SIMs).
- Activate the SIM:
- Follow the instructions provided with the SIM card (usually involves scanning a QR code or visiting a website).
- Top-Up Options:
- Recharge online or at convenience stores.
4. Tourist-Specific Options
If youโre visiting Sendai as a tourist, you have several convenient options for staying connected:
Prepaid SIM Cards for Tourists
- Sakura Mobile: Offers data-only or data + voice SIMs with English support. Plans start at ยฅ2,980 for 7 days (3GB).
- Mobal: Provides SIMs with unlimited data and English-speaking customer service. Prices start at ยฅ3,500 for 8 days.
- Japan Travel SIM: Available at Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera in Sendai. Prices start at ยฅ2,000 for 1GB (valid for 30 days).
Pocket Wi-Fi Rentals
- Japan Wireless and Global Advanced Communications offer pocket Wi-Fi devices that can connect multiple devices. Prices range from ยฅ500โยฅ1,000/day, depending on the data allowance.
5. Localized Considerations for Sendai
- Network Coverage: All major carriers provide excellent coverage in Sendai, including underground areas like Sendai Station and the subway system.
- Language Support: Major carriers like Docomo, au, and SoftBank have English-speaking staff at their flagship stores in Sendai. MVNOs like Rakuten Mobile and Sakura Mobile also offer English support online.
- Convenience Stores: Prepaid SIMs and top-up cards are widely available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart in Sendai.
- Wi-Fi Availability: Free public Wi-Fi is available in many parts of Sendai, including Sendai Station, shopping malls, and tourist attractions. However, having a mobile plan is more reliable for consistent connectivity.
6. Tips for Choosing the Right Plan
- For Long-Term Residents: Opt for a postpaid plan with a major carrier or MVNO. MVNOs like Rakuten Mobile offer affordable plans starting at ยฅ1,078/month for 3GB.
- For Short-Term Visitors: A prepaid SIM or pocket Wi-Fi is the most convenient option. Choose based on your data needs and the number of devices youโll connect.
- For Heavy Data Users: Consider unlimited data plans from SoftBank or Rakuten Mobile.
- For Budget-Conscious Users: MVNOs like IIJmio or UQ Mobile provide affordable plans with sufficient data for everyday use.
7. Additional Resources
- Yodobashi Camera Sendai: A one-stop shop for SIM cards, phones, and accessories. Staff can assist with activation.
- Rakuten Mobile Store in Sendai: Offers affordable plans and English support.
- Sendai Tourist Information Center: Located in Sendai Station, they can guide you to stores selling tourist SIMs or pocket Wi-Fi rentals.
By following this guide, youโll be able to choose the best mobile network option for your needs in Sendai, whether youโre staying for a few days or planning to live there long-term. Let me know if you need further assistance!