A Comprehensive Guide to Phone Numbers and SIM Cards

Japan is a country known for its technological prowess, and having a local phone number is essential for anyone looking to fully immerse themselves in Japanese society. Whether you’re a tourist planning an extended stay or an expatriate settling into your new life, obtaining a Japanese phone number is a key step. This guide will walk you through the process and answer some commonly asked questions.

A Quick Jump To…

• Residency Status
• Choose a Carrier
• Visit a Store or Apply Online
• Documents Required
• Choose a Plan/Phone Number
• Wait for Approval
• Receive and Activate SIM Card
• FAQ

How to Get a Phone Number in Japan:

1. Residency Status

Before getting a Japanese phone number, you need to have a legal residency status in the country. This could be a student visa, work visa, or any other appropriate status. Tourists generally cannot get a standard Japanese phone number, but they can opt for short-term options like SIM cards or rental phones. Check this Coto Academy blog: Stay Connected in Japan: Sim card, Pocket Wif, and more for more information.

2. Choose a Carrier

There are three primary avenues for obtaining a Japanese phone number and SIM card:

Major Network Operators: Japan’s three dominant telecommunications providers are NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank. They offer a wide range of plans and services, catering to both short-term and long-term needs.

Sub-Brand Services: These major network operators’ subsidiaries offer more affordable plans and simplified services. They often target specific demographics or usage patterns.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs): These providers lease network capacity from major operators, offering competitive rates and flexible plans. They are particularly attractive for budget-conscious users.

Recommended Telecom Providers

Here are some of the most popular and well-regarded telecom providers in Japan:

NTT Docomo

Known for its extensive network coverage and reliable service, NTT Docomo is the largest provider in Japan.

Some Plans They Provide

Eximo

• Unlimited: ¥7,315 yen per month
• 1GB ~ 3GB: ¥5,665 yen per month
• ~ 1GB: ¥4,565 yen per month

Ahamo

• 20GB: ¥2,970 yen per month
• 100GB: ¥4590 yen per month

Irumo

• 3GB: ¥2,167 per month
• 6GB: ¥2,827 per month
• 9GB: ¥3,377 per month

au

Offering a balance of affordability and performance, au is particularly popular among young adults and tech-savvy individuals.

Some Plans They Provide

au

• 4GB: ¥980 per month
• 20GB: ¥2480 per month

UQ Mobile

• 4GB: ¥2,365 per month
• 15GB: ¥3,465 per month
• 20GB: ¥3,278 per month

Povo

• Price can be negotiated

SoftBank

Renowned for its innovative initiatives and cutting-edge technology, SoftBank attracts users seeking the latest advancements in mobile services.

Some Plans They Provide

Softbank

• The price depends on the phone you choose to purchase

Y Mobile

• 4GB: ¥2,365 per month
• 20GB: ¥4,015 per month
• 30GB: ¥5,115 per month

Line Mobile

• 3GB: ¥990 per month
• 20GB: ¥2,728 per month

3. Visit a Store or Apply Online

Once you’ve selected a carrier, you can either visit one of their physical stores or apply online through their website. Visiting a store or applying online allows you to get English assistance, if possible, and ensures you have all the necessary documents. However, it is important to note that sometimes, when applying online, there is no processing fee!

Here are some useful phrases you can use!

• SIMカードが欲しいんですが。Shimu kādo ga hoshīdesu. I would like to get a SIM card.
• 新規契約をしたいんですが。Shinki keiyaku o shitaidesu. I would like to sign up for a new contract.
• 電話番号を変えたいんですが。Tenwabangō o kaetaidesu. I would like to change my phone number.

4. Documents Required

When applying for a phone number, you’ll need to provide certain documents, which may include:

• Identification documents: Residence Card, My Number Card, Driving License, or Passport
• Proof of address (rental agreement or utility bill)
• Credit Card Information

5. Choose a Plan/Phone Number

Japanese phone plans often include data, calling minutes, and text messages. Choose a plan based on your usage and preferences. It’s advisable to ask the carrier for a breakdown of any additional fees. If you are getting a new number, you can also choose it during the application process.

Here are some useful phrases you can use

When Choosing a Plan

• おすすめのプランはありますか。Osusume no puran wa arimasu ka. Do you have any recommended plans?
• 私はデータを[monthly data usage] GB使います。Watashi wa dēta o [monthly data usage] GB tsukaimasu. I use about [monthly data usage] GB of data per month.
• 私は[voice call usage]時間くらい通話をします。Watashi wa [voice call usage]-jikan kurai tsūwa o shimasu. I make about [voice call usage] hours of voice calls per month.

When Requesting For A Specific Number

• [Desired phone number]という番号に、してもらえませんか。[Desired phone number] to iu bangō ni, shite moraemasen ka. Can I get the phone number [Desired phone number]?
• [Desired phone number]という番号はあいてませんか。[Desired phone number] to iu bangō wa aitemasen ka. Do you have the phone number [Desired phone number]?

When Completing The Contract

• 開始日をを教えてください。Kaishi-bi o o oshietekudasai. Please tell me the start date of the contract.
• 支払いは[payment method]でお願いします。Shiharai wa [payment mesoddo] de onegaishimasu. I would like to pay by [payment method].

6. Wait for Approval

After submitting your application, you may need to wait for approval. This process usually takes a few days, during which the carrier will review your documents.

7. Receive and Activate SIM Card

Once approved, you’ll receive a SIM card. Follow the instructions provided to insert the SIM card into your phone and activate your new Japanese phone number.

Getting a phone number in Japan is straightforward if you have the right documentation and follow the steps provided by your chosen carrier. Having a local phone number facilitates communication and opens up a world of convenience for navigating daily life in Japan.

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