Tokyo

๐Ÿ“ฑ

Mobile and Internet Services

Guidelines for setting up phone and internet services, including major providers.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Mobile and Internet Services in Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, as one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world, offers a wide range of mobile and internet services. However, navigating the options can be challenging, especially for foreigners unfamiliar with the local systems. Below is a detailed guide to help you understand the process, costs, and considerations for obtaining mobile and internet services in Tokyo.

1. Mobile Services in Tokyo

Major Mobile Providers

  1. NTT Docomo

    • Japan's largest and most reliable network with extensive coverage.
    • Offers both prepaid and postpaid plans.
    • Higher costs compared to other providers but excellent service quality.

  2. SoftBank

    • Known for competitive pricing and good coverage.
    • Offers English-language support for foreigners.
    • Popular among expatriates due to its international roaming options.

  3. au by KDDI

    • Strong network coverage and competitive pricing.
    • Offers a variety of plans, including family discounts.
    • Limited English support compared to SoftBank.

  4. Rakuten Mobile

    • A newer player with affordable unlimited data plans.
    • Coverage is improving but may not be as extensive as the big three.
    • Offers English support and is foreigner-friendly.

  5. MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators)

    • Examples: IIJmio, Y! Mobile, UQ Mobile, LINE Mobile.
    • These providers lease networks from the big three and offer cheaper plans.
    • Ideal for budget-conscious users but may have slower speeds during peak hours.

Service Costs and Data Plan Options

  • Postpaid Plans:
    Monthly costs range from ยฅ3,000 to ยฅ8,000 depending on the provider and data allowance. Unlimited data plans are typically ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ7,000.
  • Prepaid SIM Cards:
    ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 for a SIM card with 1โ€“5 GB of data, valid for 30 days. Available at airports, electronics stores, and online.
  • MVNO Plans:
    ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ3,000 per month for 3โ€“10 GB of data. These are contract-free and often more flexible.

Process for Obtaining a SIM Card

  1. Required Documents:

    • Residence Card (ๅœจ็•™ใ‚ซใƒผใƒ‰, Zairyลซ Kฤdo): Proof of legal residence in Japan.
    • Passport: For identification purposes.
    • Japanese Address: Required for postpaid plans.
    • Bank Account or Credit Card: For monthly payments (some providers accept cash for prepaid plans).

  2. Steps:

    • Visit a mobile provider's store or authorized retailer.
    • Choose a plan (prepaid or postpaid).
    • Provide the required documents.
    • Complete the application form (some stores offer English assistance).
    • Receive your SIM card and activate it (staff will assist with setup).

  3. For Prepaid SIM Cards:

    • These are easier to obtain and do not require a residence card or address.
    • Available at major airports (Narita, Haneda) and electronics stores like Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera.

Considerations for Foreigners

  • Language Support: SoftBank and Rakuten Mobile are the most foreigner-friendly, offering English-language contracts and customer service.
  • Prepaid vs. Contract Plans:
    • Prepaid is ideal for short-term visitors or those without a residence card.
    • Contract plans are better for long-term residents but require a Japanese bank account or credit card.
  • Phone Compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports Japanese network frequencies (Band 1, 3, 19, 28).

2. Home Internet Services in Tokyo

Major Broadband Providers

  1. NTT Flets (ๅ…‰, Hikari)

    • The most widely used fiber-optic service in Japan.
    • Speeds up to 1 Gbps.
    • Requires a contract (usually 2 years).

  2. SoftBank Hikari

    • Bundles mobile and home internet for discounts.
    • Speeds up to 1 Gbps.
    • English support available.

  3. au Hikari

    • Offers competitive pricing and high-speed fiber-optic internet.
    • Discounts available for au mobile users.

  4. Pocket Wi-Fi Providers

    • Examples: Sakura Mobile, Japan Wireless, Ninja Wi-Fi.
    • Portable and ideal for short-term stays or those without a fixed address.

Service Costs

  • Fiber-Optic Plans:
    ยฅ4,000โ€“ยฅ6,000 per month for unlimited data.
  • Installation Fees:
    ยฅ15,000โ€“ยฅ30,000 (often waived during promotions).
  • Pocket Wi-Fi:
    ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 per month for rental, depending on data allowance.

Process for Setting Up Broadband

  1. Required Documents:

    • Residence Card.
    • Passport.
    • Japanese Address.
    • Bank Account or Credit Card.

  2. Steps:

    • Choose a provider and plan.
    • Apply online or at a store (some providers offer English-language websites).
    • Schedule an installation date (can take 1โ€“2 weeks).
    • A technician will visit your home to set up the connection.

  3. For Pocket Wi-Fi:

    • Order online or visit a rental shop.
    • No installation required; simply turn on the device.

Considerations for Foreigners

  • Language Support: SoftBank Hikari and some pocket Wi-Fi providers offer English support.
  • Contract Length: Most fiber-optic plans require a 2-year contract. Early termination fees can be high (ยฅ10,000โ€“ยฅ20,000).
  • Short-Term Options: Pocket Wi-Fi is ideal for those staying less than a year or without a fixed address.

3. Practical Advice for Selecting the Best Option

  1. Assess Your Needs:

    • For short-term stays: Prepaid SIM cards and pocket Wi-Fi are the best options.
    • For long-term residents: Postpaid mobile plans and fiber-optic broadband are more cost-effective.

  2. Compare Providers:

    • Use comparison websites like Kakaku.com (Japanese) or ask for assistance at electronics stores.

  3. Look for Promotions:

    • Providers often offer discounts for new customers or when bundling mobile and internet services.

  4. Check for English Support:

    • If youโ€™re not fluent in Japanese, prioritize providers like SoftBank, Rakuten Mobile, or pocket Wi-Fi services with English-language support.

  5. Understand Cultural Norms:

    • Japanese contracts often auto-renew, so be aware of cancellation deadlines to avoid fees.
    • Punctuality is important; be on time for installation appointments.

4. Cultural Insights on Mobile and Internet Usage in Tokyo

  • Public Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at major train stations, cafes, and convenience stores, but itโ€™s not as widespread as in some other countries. Having your own mobile data plan is highly recommended.
  • Mobile Etiquette: Talking on the phone in trains or buses is considered rude. Use your phone discreetly in public spaces.
  • High-Speed Internet: Tokyo boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and remote work.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-equipped to navigate Tokyoโ€™s mobile and internet services, ensuring a smooth and connected experience in one of the worldโ€™s most dynamic cities.