Internet and SIM Cards
Let's understand the Internet situation in Japan.
Many companies in Japan sell wi-fi and SIM cards, but services for foreigners are limited. Here we provide information on the types of internet, how to get a contract, and the best deals.
Mobile Phone Companies (Carriers) in Japan
There are four main companies (We call them “carriers”) that provide cell phone services in Japan.
In addition to the services provided by these four companies, there are many companies that use the lines of one of these four companies to provide other services.
*Example: UQ mobile, mineo, Aeon Mobile, etc.
Types of Internet
There are four types of Internet in Japan: "Data plan contract with the carrier," SIM Cards," "pocket Wi-fi," and "Home Internet (optical fiber connection for Wi-Fi).
The type of Internet plan you should sign up for depends on where you use the Internet most often.
Let's take a look at each plan below.
Carrier Data Plans
This is a method of signing up for a cellular phone plan with one of the four major carriers. In addition to being a contract with a major telecommunications service provider, the advantage is that the internet speed is stable, but it is more expensive than a cheap SIM cards.
”Carrier's Data Plan”
Recommended for people who...
”Carrier's Data Plan”
Recommended for people who...
- Want to sign up with a major manufacturer's brand
- Is not good at researching and want to discuss directly with staff at the store
SIM Cards
You can use a cell phone at a lower cost with affordable SIM cards. Compared to carrier data plan subscriptions, the internet speed is a little slower, but not inconveniently slow and can be used normally.
”SIM Card” Recommended for people who...
- Want to save money on cell phone bills
- Make many phone calls on LINE, Messenger, etc.
- Do not use tethering
Pocket Wi-Fi
Pocket Wi-Fi is convenient because it is portable, but it requires charging, so care should be taken when using it outside for long periods of time.
”Pocket wi-fi” is recommended for people who
- Move frequently
- Live alone
- Are not home much
- Use computers at cafes and other places
Home Internet (Optical fiber line installation for Wi-fi)
Optical fiber line installation requires construction to pull Wi-fi to the house. To request installation, you need to make a phone reservation and need Japanese language skills, so many foreigners use cheap SIMs or pocket Wi-fi until they become to get used to Japan.
”Home Internet”
Recommended for people who...
”Home Internet”
Recommended for people who...
- Can Speak Japanese
- Do not move often
- Often use the Internet at home
How to sign up for the Internet
This section introduces the methods and precautions for foreigners to sign up for the Internet.
You will need to confirm what is required when signing up and understand the screening criteria, as some plans are subject to screening.
Recommended SIM Cards
KAGEMUSHA recommends this affordable SIM Cards.
This affordable SIM Card is popular among foreigners and has a maximum of 125GB per month.