In modern society, the internet is an essential element of daily life. When you move to another country, it’s necessary to purchase a SIM card to ensure access to the internet. This article covers topics such as how to obtain a SIM card in Japan, recommended mobile network operators, key points about contracts, and writer’s experiences to help foreigners staying long-term in Japan smoothly connect their mobile devices to the internet.
What is a SIM card?
A SIM card is a small IC card used in mobile communication devices such as smartphones. By inserting a SIM card purchased from a network operator into a mobile device, users can make phone calls, send text messages, and use data. SIM cards are also used when changing operators or devices, allowing for the easy migration of user phone numbers and contract information.
Typically, simply inserting the contracted SIM card into the mobile device enables phone calls and internet usage. However, if your device is locked to a SIM card, you’ll need to unlock it. Unlocking methods and conditions vary depending on the device, so it’s advisable to check with the company from which you purchased your device.
Types of SIM cards
SIM cards come in various types, each with different purposes and characteristics. Below are the main types of SIM cards:
Classification by contract system
SIM cards sold in Japan are mainly categorised into three contract systems. When living in Japan, having a Japanese number is necessary in various situations such as home contracts and work. Therefore, even for those who don’t often make calls, we strongly recommend subscribing to the Data + Voice plan among the options below.
- Data-only plan: A plan designed solely for internet connectivity. You cannot make voice calls or send messages.
- Data + SMS plan: In addition to internet connectivity, SMS messaging is also available.
- Data + voice plan: A plan that includes both internet connectivity and voice calling.
Classification by SIM form
SIM cards come in various sizes. Although many smartphones support multiple card types, you need to choose a SIM card compatible with your device. Additionally, dual SIM capabilities, allowing for the insertion of two or more SIM cards, and e-SIM, which eliminates the need for physical cards, have also become popular. This allows for the use of both your home country’s SIM card and a Japanese SIM card simultaneously, providing great convenience.
- Nano SIM: The smallest size of SIM card, primarily used in the latest smartphones and tablets.
- Micro SIM: Slightly larger than Nano SIM, used in older smartphone models and some tablets.
- Standard SIM: The largest size of SIM card, used in older mobile phones and some devices.
- e-SIM: An electronically embedded SIM card, providing no need for physical SIM card insertion.
How to get a SIM card in Japan
The methods to purchase a SIM card mainly include the following:
Purchase at a shop
There are many mobile shops scattered around city, making it very easy to find them. Especially in shopping malls or department stores, it’s common to find 4-5 shops lined up. It’s recommended for those who want to purchase a mobile device together or for those who want to inquire about various options while contracting. In areas where many foreigners live or in big cities, there are several shops that provide English support. Conversely, small companies may not have physical stores.
Purchase online
Recently, purchasing online and receiving the SIM card via mail has become more common. The benefits include avoiding the hassle of going to a physical store and being able to easily compare various options online. Additionally, online purchases often come with more favorable promotions compared to in-store purchases. Recently, support systems have been improved, and if you have any questions, you can ask via phone or chat.
Purchase at airports or tourist destinations
Airports and tourist destinations with many visitors are well-equipped for foreigners to purchase SIM cards with peace of mind. Many shops sell SIM cards suitable for short-term travelers, and they usually provide English support. Pocket WiFi rental is also available as an alternative to purchasing SIM cards.
Mobile Network Operators in Japan
The Big Three Operators
In the Japanese mobile communication market, there are multiple operators, but the “Big Three” known as NTT Docomo, KDDI (au), and SoftBank are particularly prominent. They offer the greatest advantages in terms of customer service and internet stability.
In recent years, due to legislative changes, practices such as contract duration restrictions and penalty charges, which were once common among major network providers, have been abolished. However, they are still comparatively expensive compared to other smaller companies.
MVNO – Budget SIMs
In addition to the Big Three mobile network operators, there are many MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) that provide services by leasing major telecommunications infrastructure. Generally, these offer lower prices. While they used to lag behind in terms of quality and service compared to bigger companies, many MVNOs now offer support and quality comparable to them. Below are some recommended operators.
※ Prices are as of June 2024. For the latest information, please check each operator’s official website.
Mobal
| Initial cost | ¥2,970 |
| Data + voice plan | 1GB: ¥1,650 5GB: ¥3,190 10GB: ¥3,630 30GB: ¥4,378 |
| Call rates | Incoming calls within Japan: Free Outgoing calls within Japan: ¥44/min Incoming international calls: Free Outgoing international calls: ¥65-400/min |
| Unlimited call plan | Not available |
| English support | Full support |
| Features | A product tailored for non-Japanese speakers |
Mobal is a MVNO under the SoftBank umbrella, which is one of the Big Three operators, providing full English support. Its biggest feature is that you can purchase it even without an address in Japan, positioning itself as a SIM card for foreigners. Although their monthly plans are more expensive compared to other MVNOs, it is the most recommended operator for those who are not confident in Japanese.
Rakuten Mobile
| Initial cost | ¥0 |
| Data + voice plan | 3GB: ¥1,078 20GB: ¥2,178 Unlimited: ¥3,278 *Overseas roaming up to 2GB included in plan fee. |
| Call rates | (With Rakuten link app) Incoming calls within Japan: Free Outgoing calls within Japan: Free#1 Incoming international calls: Free Outgoing international calls: ¥34-180/30 sec #1 Without Rakuten link app, it costs ¥22/30 sec |
| Unlimited call plan | 15-minute unlimited call: ¥1,100/month |
| English support | English customer service and app localisation |
| Features | Free unlimited domestic calls |
Strictly speaking, Rakuten mobile is not an MVNO, but it provides services at MVNO-level prices. It offers English customer service and app localisation. The fact that domestic calls are free and international calls from overseas to Japan are also free when using the Rakuten link app is a significant advantage. This is particularly recommended for those who travel frequently between Japan and other countries or make frequent phone calls. Collaboration and strong bundle with other Rakuten services such as Rakuten Shopping and Rakuten Travel are also strengths.
Povo
| Initial cost | ¥0 |
| Data + voice plan | 1GB: ¥390 (7 days) 3GB: ¥990 (30 days) 20GB: ¥2,700 (30 days) 60GB: ¥6,490 (90 days) |
| Call rates | Incoming calls within Japan: Free Outgoing calls within Japan: ¥22/30 sec Incoming international calls: Free Outgoing international calls: ¥20-95/30 sec |
| Unlimited call plan | 5-minute unlimited: ¥550/month 15-minute unlimited: ¥1,650/month |
| English support | None |
| Features | Being able to keep phone number for free |
Its biggest advantage of choosing Povo is that you can buy data packages or call packages only when needed and keep a phone number for free when not in use. For example, if you spend half a year in Japan and the other half in your home country, you can purchase data packs only during your stay in Japan and continue using the same number without contracting with them when you are in your country. Additionally, although the price is high, you can also buy an overseas data roaming package. The only drawback is that they do not provide English support or an English website.
IIJmio
| Initial cost | ¥3,300 |
| Data + voice plan | 2GB: ¥850 5GB: ¥990 10GB: ¥1,500 20GB: ¥2,000 |
| Call rates | Incoming calls within Japan: Free Outgoing calls within Japan: ¥11/30 sec Incoming international calls: ? Outgoing international calls: ¥10-120/30 sec |
| Unlimited call plan | 5-minute unlimited: ¥500/month 10-minute unlimited: ¥700/month Unlimited: ¥1,400/month |
| English support | Only website |
| Features | Fast and stable line with affordable price |
IIJmio is one of the most highly reputed budget SIM card operators in Japan in terms of quality and price. The website is available in English, but the application page is only in Japanese. If you don’t have a friend who can help you in Japanese, the easiest method is to purchase a SIM at a convenience store and activate it on the English website.
Ahamo
| Initial cost | ¥0 |
| Data + voice plan | 20GB: ¥2,970 100GB: ¥4,950 |
| Call rates | Incoming calls within Japan: Free Outgoing calls within Japan: ¥22/30 sec Incoming international calls: ? Outgoing international calls: ¥31-180/30 sec |
| Unlimited call plan | 5-minute unlimited: Included in the base fee Unlimited: ¥1,100/month |
| English support | None |
| Features | 20GB of free overseas roaming |
Ahamo is a MVNO operated by NTT Docomo, a major operator, offering the fast and stable internet connection. The fact that up to 5 minutes of unlimited calls are included in the monthly fee and that up to 20GB of international roaming is free are their attractive points. Contracts only start from the 20GB plan, but if you know you need a lot of data, it can be relatively inexpensive. The website is only available in Japanese.
Writer’s personal experience
I will introduce the companies I actually contracted with and my experiences. Please refer this when choosing a mobile network operator.
I contracted with Rakuten Mobile until 2022. At that time, Rakuten Mobile offered free data usage up to 1GB per month. Additionally, by using the Rakuten link app available only to Rakuten Mobile users, domestic calls were unlimited and free. In other words, I could use 1GB of data and make unlimited domestic calls for truly zero yen. Although the internet connection was somewhat unstable, considering it was free, I had no complaints. However, the condition of the plan suddenly changed, and it became a flat rate of 990 yen for up to 3GB. At that point, since the cost was comparable to other MVNOs and for more stable connections, I decided to switch to another company.
Currently living outside Japan, I am still contracted with Povo. The main reason is that I wanted to maintain the phone number I had been using in Japan. It’s cumbersome to change your phone number every time you change the place to live. However, I also wanted to avoid paying a monthly fee just for keeping my number, so I chose Povo, where I can maintain my contract for free. In fact, you need to purchase a product every six months, but it is not a big deal since the cheapest product costs only 220 yen. I’m satisfied with the internet speed and reasonable price.
Contract considerations
The Japanese telecommunications industry has relatively complex contract structures. Here we explain the unique rules and points to be aware of when you purchase a SIM card in Japan.
“Free” isn’t always free
Japanese sim card sellers often use the marketing phrase “Jisshitsu muryo (実質無料)”, which means “virtually free.” While costs may seem free or cheap at first glance, there may be strict conditions, such as having to use curtain plans for a long period or adding expensive options.
Applying campaigns
You may be able to contract at a cheap or free rate with special campaigns. However, when the campaign ends, you may be returned to the regular rate, or your contract may be changed without your consent. It’s essential to consider campaigns as a lucky bonus and choose a company that best suits your needs based on the regular price.
Unlimited data usage
Even with unlimited data plans, speed limits may be imposed if you use a vast amount of data in a short period. For example, even sending emails may become difficult the day after watching high-quality videos for a long time.
We have provided information to help you smoothly connect to the internet with your mobile device in Japan. To enjoy a worry-free life in Japan, please also explore other articles on our website, “Let’s DANGO.
