Buying a SIM Card in Japan
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If you plan to move to or visit Japan, or if you are already a resident of Japan, mobile phones with local SIM cards are a must-have. They are necessary in both your personal and professional lives. Because there are so many different SIM card possibilities in Japan, deciding which plan is ideal for you may appear to be tough. This guide will assist you in determining which SIM card is suitable for you.
What is a SIM Card?
A SIM card is a small chip that can be inserted into your mobile phone which stores information about your network. It is a quick way for a network to identify your device and ensures that the customer can connect to services they pay for, without a lengthy setup.
No personal information is stored on SIM cards, although you can store contact information and numbers for contacts. This has become less common since the introduction of smartphones.
Are There Different Types of SIM Cards?
All SIM cards allow users a certain amount of data depending on the plan they have. However, there are SIM cards with voice capability (Data+Voice) and SIM cards without voice capability (Data-Only). Having voice capability simply means that you have a Japanese phone number and that you are able to make traditional phone calls and send SMS.
Even with a data-only SIM card without voice capability, you can use what’s called VOIP, or Voice Over Internet Protocol, which is just another fancy way of saying that you can make calls through various internet applications rather than through a traditional phone line. Be aware that phones without voice capability are unable to either make or receive traditional calls.
Want to Use an Oversea Phone in Japan?
To begin, make sure your phone is SIM-unlocked. Secondly, your phone must be capable of receiving Japanese frequencies. To see if your phone will operate in Japan, visit WillMyPhoneWork.net.
Purchasing a Japanese SIM Card
If you're looking to buy a long-term SIM card in Japan, you'll typically need to provide an ID (a residence card or Japanese driver's license) and proof of your current address in Japan. However, Mobal offers a unique solution by selling SIM cards that do not require a Japanese address. All you need is your passport and SIM or eSIM order email and you can collect your SIM or eSIM from over 20 locations across Japan including airports and city centre pick-up points.
We have an exclusive offer for you! Click here to get your SIM card at a discounted price. The SIM card, usually priced at 2,970 yen, is available for just 1,485yen – our way of saying thank you for reading this article.
Mobal’s customer service is fully in English, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for international users. Additionally, Mobal offers buy Data-Only SIM cards for short-term use. Simply click “Short Term” on the website to explore this option.
There are also other SIM card providers in Japan catering to both long-term and short-term users. Continue reading for more details to find the best option for your needs.
Sakura Mobile and GTN offer SIM cards as well as the option to rent a pocket WiFi. Rakuten Mobile offers SIM cards as well and offers English-speaking services. Please visit their website for more information.
Buying a SIM Card from English-Speaking Retailers
Mobal
Sakura Mobile
GTN Mobile
Rakuten Mobile
Renting a Pocket WiFi Router![]()
In stead of SIM cards, a few companies sell pre-configured mobile WiFi routers. You can switch them on, connect to the hotspot with the specified information, and surf on any WiFi-enabled device. A hotspot ensures a rapid and easy connection to the internet, whether you're using a tablet, laptop, or phone. Below are English-Speaking retailers for Pocket WiFi routers. Click the image to see details.
Mobal
Sakura Mobile
NINJA WIFI
Other MVNOs (Japanese websites)
OCN Mobile ONE
https://www.ntt.com/personal/services/mobile/one/charge.html
UQ Mobile
LINE Mobile
U Mobile
Japan Courier Services Combine Convenience, Efficiency and Innovation
Getting items of any kind delivered in Japan can be an eye-opening experience for foreigners, thanks to the speed and efficiency with which the whole process is carried out. Almost anything can be sent with the right service, including perishables. If you need a courier service in Japan, these four major companies offer a breath of fresh air in terms of convenience and ease of use.
Japan Post Office Services
Need to mail something or pick up a package while living in Japan? Japan has a highly efficient postal system with 24,000 post offices scattered all over the country. The Japanese Postal System also offers a number of financial services, some of which are exceedingly convenient to visitors from abroad.
Japanese Mobile Phones: Plans, Coverage, and Services
Do you simply need a SIM card or are you considering buying a phone with a contract? In Japan, you have a wide array of mobile phone providers and plans to choose from, making it easy for expats or travelers to stay connected. Discover all you need to know about Japanese mobile options in this user-friendly guide.
International Parcel Services In Japan: The Expat’s Guide
If you're exporting parcels from Japan there are a few things you need to know—what company to use and the rules you need to follow. Check out our comprehensive guide here!
Where to Buy SIM Free Phones in Japan and SIM Unlocking Procedures
Find out where to buy unlocked SIM phones in Japan. You can also learn the methods to unlock SIM-locked smartphones from NTT Docomo, AU, and SoftBank.
Mail Forwarding in Japan: Domestic and International Options
Need to mail something or pick up a package while living in Japan? Japan has a highly efficient postal system with 24,000 post offices scattered all over the country. The Japanese Postal System also offers a number of financial services, some of which are exceedingly convenient to visitors from abroad.
