Phone Services

## Key Info

There are many options for phones in Tokyo.

Depending on your phone, you may be able to bring it to Japan.

## Other Info

Some companies will have English support.

## Introduction

Many people want to know if it is required to have a Japanese number. Some international carriers offer plans which claim to support international data roaming and calls. While others wonder if Skype numbers will suffice.

**FYI: It IS required that you have a Japanese phone number and is HIGHLY recommended that you have a Japanese service plan.**
In the end, having a Japanese plan will be easier and potentially cheaper.

Whether you decide to bring your own unlocked phone or buy a new one here in Japan, it's a good idea to be aware of the available options so that you can make an informed decision.

Check out this great information compiled by a fellow TokyoJET

## Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)

MVNOs are operators who buy network capacity from existing networks, such as **DoCoMo** and **Softbank**, and resell it.If you have an unlocked smart phone, getting a sim card from an MNVO is a great option. They give great, flexible deals compared to traditional networks and offer data rollovers. If you use more than your allotted data, your data will only be throttled. Data plans range from 3gbs up to 50gbs of data and are paid on a monthly basis. Typically, you will need a credit, pre-paid or debit card to purchase an MNVO sim card and service. Depending on the MNVO, you may be able to bundle internet services for your home with your phone contract (If there is any contract at all).

**Types of SIM Cards Available:**

* Data Only

* Data + SMS

* Data + Voice (Recommended)

* Pocket WiFi

**JET Affiliated/ Promoted MNVO's**

The following are MNVO's which offer special plans or discounts to JET participants. These MNVO companies may be present at the CLAIR JET orientation and information on their services may be sent directly to you via mail and email by the Tokyo Help Desk. Signing up for these services is simple and easy, and can ensure that you have a working Japanese number prior to arrival in Japan or within your first couple days in Japan while at the CLAIR Orientation.

- Sakura Mobile  - Long term Voice, Text, Data and Pocket WiFi plans

- Mobal Japan SIM - Long term Voice, Text and Data plans

- Link Mobile - Voice, Text, Data and WiFi plans Available

**Be sure to check your phone's compatibility**. In general, get your phone unlocked before coming to Japan or buy a 'SIM-Free' phone online which can be used anywhere in the world. Refer to this guide for further information.

## Traditional Phone Service Networks

The process of getting a permanent Japanese phone number, if you choose to do so, can be one of the most difficult tasks you will face when moving to Japan. If you are not so good at Japanese, it is highly recommended that you bring your supervisor with you, or someone who can interpret for you when you are ready to get a new phone number. Current JET volunteers and Local Area Coordinators will also be available around arrival time to help you. It may be a good idea to get an MNVO to tide you over until you can set up service with a traditional Japanese network provider.

Before obtaining a permanent phone number, you will need a few things first:

* Your registered Zairyu (resident) Card with your updated address on the back
* Your passport
* A Japanese bank account
* A credit card in YOUR name

**DoCoMo, Softbank, AU**

These companies are the three largest cell phone providers in Japan. You can visit either their local branches or Yodobashi Camera to discuss options. They tend to be the most expensive options but their companies will have **English support** available and they offer internet services that can be bundled with your cell phone bill.

**Transferring Contracts**

Some departing JETs may have contracts with DoCoMo, Softbank, or au that they can transfer to you. You will both have to visit the phone shop together in order to sign over the contract, so this must be done before the first JET departs and after the next JET arrives in Japan. Contact your predecessor well in advance to determine whether this is a possibility.

**Common Issues**

While this situation does not happen to everyone, you may be turned down from buying a sim card, or opening up an account with a traditional phone provider because you do not own a credit card. Most companies do not accept debit cards and require a credit card. Some companies do not accept credit cards from other countries, though this situation is becoming less common.

If you are trying to open an account with one of the three major phone providers (DoCoMo, Softbank, au) and you are denied for not having a credit card, try going to another branch location of the same phone provider, or go to a different phone provider and try again. It is best to open up a phone plan with someone who can interpret Japanese phone contracts for you if you are not able to do so yourself.

**Compatibility of Your Phone**

Some traditional network providers now allow you to purchase services or SIM Cards to use in unlocked/ SIM Free phones. You can use http://willmyphonework.net/ or https://www.frequencycheck.com to check if your phone is compatible with a certain network

## Carrier Rate Comparison

Here is a very brief overview of basic plans and costs you can expect from various types of carriers. Information is translated from Kakaku.com. Those with Japanese ability can search their website for the most recent prices and deals.

## Advantages of Mainline Operators vs. MNVOs

Some pros of mainline operators:

1. Discounted or unlimited calling plans. Free calls to users on the same operator
2. Priority on the network when there is congestion
3. docomo/au/SoftBank login IDs for age verification (LINE) or payment
4. International roaming support
5. Minor discounts are available while bundling with landline or student plans but these are usually well exceeded by MVNO savings

Some pros of MVNOs"

1. Inexpensive monthly contract and ability to use unlocked or SIM Free phones
2. Payment via: Domestic or foreign debit/credit card or Convenience stores
3. Mobile WiFi routers
4. Rollover data
5. English Support

**DISCLAIMER**

This wiki is not affiliated with the JET Program or any contracting organization. None of the information herein should be considered as official government/ CLAIR/ CO/ JET Programme recommendations or endorsements in any way.