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Getting a Mobile Phone and Internet in Japan

Getting a Mobile Phone and Internet in Japan (2025) — Complete Guide for Foreigners

Setting up your phone and internet in Japan can feel unnecessarily complicated, especially if you don’t read Japanese. Between visa requirements, carrier contracts, and confusing pricing plans, it’s easy to overpay or get stuck in a two-year plan you didn’t intend to sign. This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from the main carriers to foreigner-friendly eSIM and internet options — based on the latest data for 2025.

1) Overview of Japan’s Mobile Market

Japan’s mobile market is dominated by three major carriers — Docomo, SoftBank, and au by KDDI — alongside a growing number of affordable MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) like Rakuten Mobile, Y!mobile, and UQ Mobile. Each has different requirements and contract flexibility, especially for non-Japanese residents.

As of 2025, Rakuten Mobile and Y!mobile continue to rank highly in satisfaction surveys among foreign residents due to English-language support and simplified sign-up processes. Traditional carriers still dominate in coverage, but smaller MVNOs and eSIM providers now offer legitimate alternatives for long- and short-term stays alike.

2) What You Need to Apply

  • Residence card (在留カード) – proof of legal stay in Japan.
  • Passport – for identity and nationality verification.
  • Japanese address – required for billing and service installation.
  • Phone number or email address – needed to verify your account.
  • Payment method – most carriers require a Japanese bank account or credit card, though some accept foreign cards or prepaid options.

Some online carriers and eSIM providers, such as Mobal or Airalo, allow sign-up using only a passport and credit card, which can be a major advantage for newcomers still waiting on their residence card or local bank account.

3) Major Mobile Carriers — Pros and Cons

Carrier English Support Contract Flexibility Best For
Rakuten Mobile Good (English app + site) No fixed contract New arrivals, freelancers
SoftBank Partial (English support at select stores) 1–2 year contracts common Stable coverage, long-term residents
Docomo Limited English support Mostly fixed contracts Reliable signal nationwide
au by KDDI Limited Contracts with penalty clauses Long-term users seeking stability
Y!mobile / UQ Mobile Some English materials Shorter contract terms available Budget users, students

4) Setting Up Home Internet in Japan

For apartments, you’ll typically choose between fiber (光回線) or wireless internet like SoftBank Air. Fiber offers faster, more stable connections but may take 2–4 weeks for installation, depending on your building’s wiring and management company approval.

Most large ISPs (NTT FLET’S, SoftBank Hikari, au Hikari) require a fixed address and bank account for billing. If you’re in a rental apartment, ask your landlord or agent whether the building is already wired for fiber before applying — it can save you weeks of waiting.

5) eSIM and Short-Term Options

For short-term stays or those waiting for paperwork, eSIM providers have made connectivity far easier in 2025. Options like Mobal, Airalo, and Ubigi allow instant activation through an app, valid from one week to several months, and can be topped up online without Japanese documentation.

These are ideal if you’re still settling housing or waiting for your residence card — just note that eSIM plans may not include a Japanese phone number, which some services (banks, utilities) still require.

6) Tips and Best Practices

  • Avoid two-year lock-ins – choose plans labeled “no contract” (keiyakukei nai).
  • Confirm cancellation fees – some carriers charge prorated exit penalties.
  • Bring your own phone (unlocked) – Japan supports most modern GSM/LTE devices.
  • Watch for hidden fees – activation, SIM, and router fees can add ¥3,000–¥10,000 upfront.
  • Bundle wisely – pairing mobile + home internet with the same provider can lower monthly costs.

7) Customer Satisfaction (2025 Data)

According to a 2025 Rakuten Mobile survey, users cited price transparency and English-language support as top factors in satisfaction. Among foreigners, Rakuten Mobile and Y!mobile rank highest for ease of use, while Docomo remains the leader for network reliability.

Smaller eSIM and MVNO providers continue to improve coverage through partnerships with major carriers, making them a viable choice even for long-term residents.

Related Reading

If you’re opening a Japanese bank account to set up phone payments, read our detailed guide: How to Open a Bank Account in Japan (2025 Guide).

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with any telecom provider. Terms and offers change frequently — always confirm with your carrier or ISP before signing a contract.

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