Mobile Phone Plans in Japan: The Complete Guide for Foreigners
April 20, 2025Technology
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Expand Table of Contents
- Understanding the Japanese Mobile Landscape
- Major Carriers vs. MVNOs: What's the Difference?
- A Newcomer Shaking Things Up: Rakuten Mobile
- The Foreign Resident Challenge: Unique Hurdles
- Documentation Requirements
- language-barriers
- Banking Complications
- Breaking Down the Major Carriers
- NTT Docomo (ドコモ)
- au by KDDI
- SoftBank
- Budget Options: MVNOs Explained
- Y!mobile (Subsidiary of SoftBank)
- UQ mobile (Subsidiary of au)
- IIJmio
- Rakuten Mobile: The Hybrid Option
- Mobile Plan Options for Different Types of Residents
- For tourists and short-term Visitors (Up to 3 months)
- For Exchange Students and Interns (6 months to 1 year)
- For long-term Residents (1+ years)
- Understanding the "Hidden Costs" in Japanese Phone Contracts
- Initial Costs
- Recurring Fees to Watch For
- Contract-Related Costs
- Unique Japanese Mobile Features to Know About
- Phone Number Portability (MNP)
- Separate Voice and Data Plans
- Device Purchasing Options
- Step-by-Step: Getting a Phone Plan as a Foreigner
- Option 1: Major Carrier In-Store Process
- Option 2: MVNO Online Application
- Option 3: English-Friendly Options
- Comparing Costs: What to Expect
- Cultural Insight: Understanding Japanese Mobile Phone Customs
- Public Phone Etiquette
- Camera Shutter Sounds
- Business Card Exchange via App
- FAQs from Foreign Residents
- "Can I get a phone plan as a tourist?"
- "What happens to my phone plan if I leave Japan?"
- "Can I use my foreign smartphone in Japan?"
- Conclusion: Making Your Best Choice
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