Tokyo

๐Ÿ“ฑ

Mobile Phones

Options for acquiring mobile services, including SIM cards, prepaid plans, and contracts for staying connected in Tokyo.

Sections

1. Understanding the Mobile Phone Market in Tokyo

Japan has a highly advanced mobile phone market with excellent network coverage, fast internet speeds, and a variety of service providers. However, the system can be slightly different from what you may be used to in other countries. Here are the key points to know:

  • Frequency Bands: Japan uses specific frequency bands (e.g., 4G LTE bands like Band 1, 3, 19, 21, and 28). Ensure your phone is compatible with these bands if youโ€™re bringing your own device.
  • SIM Locking: Many Japanese phones are locked to specific carriers, though unlocked phones are becoming more common.
  • Language Barrier: While many service providers offer English support, some smaller stores or providers may only operate in Japanese.

2. Major Mobile Service Providers in Tokyo

There are three major carriers and several MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) that offer more affordable options. Hereโ€™s an overview:

Major Carriers

  1. NTT Docomo

    • Japanโ€™s largest carrier with excellent nationwide coverage.
    • Offers both prepaid and postpaid plans.
    • English support available at select stores and online.
    • Known for reliability but tends to be more expensive.

  2. SoftBank

    • Strong coverage in urban areas like Tokyo.
    • Offers prepaid SIM cards and postpaid plans.
    • English-speaking staff available at flagship stores.
    • Popular among expatriates for its international roaming options.

  3. au by KDDI

    • Competitive pricing and good coverage.
    • Offers prepaid and postpaid plans.
    • English support is available but less extensive than Docomo or SoftBank.

MVNOs (Budget-Friendly Options)

MVNOs use the networks of the major carriers but offer cheaper plans. These are ideal for budget-conscious users or those who donโ€™t need unlimited data.

  • Rakuten Mobile: Affordable plans with unlimited data in Rakuten network areas.
  • IIJmio: Flexible data plans and good for short-term use.
  • Y! Mobile: A subsidiary of SoftBank, offering affordable plans with decent coverage.
  • UQ Mobile: A subsidiary of au, known for competitive pricing.

3. Costs for Contracts and Prepaid Plans

The cost of mobile services in Tokyo depends on the type of plan you choose:

Postpaid Contracts

  • Monthly Fees: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ8,000 ($20โ€“$55 USD) depending on data usage and carrier.
  • Contract Length: Typically 2 years, though some carriers now offer no-contract options.
  • Setup Fees: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 ($20โ€“$35 USD) for activation.
  • Cancellation Fees: Older contracts may have penalties for early termination, but newer plans often donโ€™t.

Prepaid Plans

  • SIM Cards: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 ($15โ€“$35 USD) for the SIM card.
  • Data Packages: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ3,000 ($7โ€“$20 USD) for 1โ€“5 GB of data.
  • Validity: Typically 7โ€“30 days for prepaid SIMs.

4. Where to Buy Mobile Phones and SIM Cards

You can purchase mobile phones and SIM cards at various locations in Tokyo:

For Visitors

  • Airport Counters: Narita and Haneda airports have counters for prepaid SIM cards and rental phones.
  • Electronics Stores: Big retailers like Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera, and Don Quijote sell prepaid SIMs and unlocked phones.
  • Convenience Stores: Some convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven, Lawson) sell prepaid SIM cards for tourists.

For Long-Term Residents

  • Carrier Stores: Visit official stores of Docomo, SoftBank, or au for contracts and phones.
  • Electronics Stores: Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera also offer contract services and unlocked phones.
  • Online: Rakuten Mobile and Amazon Japan are good options for purchasing SIM cards and unlocked phones.

5. Considerations for Visitors and Expatriates

Visitors

  • Prepaid SIMs: Ideal for short stays. Look for tourist SIMs with data-only options.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi: An alternative to SIM cards, offering unlimited data for multiple devices.
  • Data Roaming: Check with your home carrier for international roaming packages, but this is often more expensive than local options.

Expatriates

  • Unlocking Phones: Ensure your phone is unlocked before arriving in Japan. Locked phones may not work with Japanese SIM cards.
  • Residence Card: Required for signing up for postpaid contracts. Bring your passport and residence card to the store.
  • Credit Card: Some carriers require a Japanese credit card for postpaid plans, though others accept cash or foreign cards.

6. Setting Up Mobile Service

The process for setting up mobile service in Tokyo is straightforward but may vary depending on the provider:

  1. Choose a Provider: Decide between a major carrier or an MVNO based on your budget and data needs.
  2. Visit a Store or Order Online:
    • For in-store purchases, bring your passport (for visitors) or residence card (for residents).
    • For online orders, you may need a Japanese address for delivery.
  3. Select a Plan: Choose between prepaid or postpaid, and decide on your data allowance.
  4. Activate the SIM: Follow the instructions provided by the carrier to activate your SIM card. This may involve inserting the SIM and entering an activation code.
  5. Set Up APN Settings: Some MVNOs require manual configuration of APN (Access Point Name) settings. Instructions are usually provided in English.

7. Language Support

  • English-Speaking Stores: Flagship stores of major carriers in areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Roppongi often have English-speaking staff.
  • Online Support: Many carriers have English websites or customer service hotlines.
  • Translation Apps: If you visit a store without English support, apps like Google Translate can help bridge the language gap.

8. Cultural Tips for Communication in Tokyo

  • Phone Etiquette: Avoid talking on the phone in public transport or crowded areas. Texting or using messaging apps is preferred.
  • Popular Messaging Apps: LINE is the most widely used app in Japan for communication. Download it to stay connected with locals.
  • Privacy: Japanese people value privacy, so avoid loud or intrusive phone conversations in public spaces.

9. Additional Tips

  • Wi-Fi Availability: Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places, but itโ€™s not as widespread as in some other countries. Having mobile data is essential for navigation and communication.
  • Emergency Numbers: Dial 110 for police and 119 for fire/ambulance. These services have English-speaking operators.

By understanding the options and procedures outlined above, youโ€™ll be well-equipped to set up and use a mobile phone in Tokyo, whether youโ€™re staying for a few days or moving there long-term.