Setup
Going with the Big Three
For the Big Three (SoftBank, AU, and NTT Docomo), the process of setting up a device and service is fairly standard; you choose your device, choose your service options, have your information entered into the system, and have your phone set up by a staff member. However, high Japanese language ability is a must, but don’t worry, as your supervisor will accompany you to the store. It’s very important to understand what services you are paying for and the terms of your contract. Moving to Japan and (finally!) settling in to your new home can be quite exhausting mentally, so it is recommended to go with your supervisor even if you speak a fair amount of Japanese yourself.
If you decide to go with one of the Big Three, be prepared to bring the following items:
If you decide to go with one of the Big Three, be prepared to bring the following items:
- Your passport and residence card (for identification),
- Payment information for the method you will use to pay your monthly statement:
- A credit card (this is necessary if you wish to use an installment plan for your device however sometimes a debit card can work too), or
- The bank card and/or passbook for your Japanese bank account and the inkan/hanko used to open it (for using automatic withdrawal as your payment method)
- Your inkan/hanko (you may be able to conclude the contract with just your signature, but it wouldn’t hurt to have your inkan/hanko).
Using an MVNO
1. Make sure the phone you want to use is unlocked and you can insert a SIM card into it (you generally get to choose the SIM size you’ll need when you sign up).
2. Check that your phone will work on a Japanese network (use www.willmyphonework.net)
3. OPTIONAL: Get a tourist SIM delivered to Keio plaza (where Tokyo Ori is) to cover you for the first month or so until your MVNO SIM card arrives and starts working (try eConnect Japan or a similar service).
4. Choose an MVNO network. Make sure the plan gives you the ability to call and text as you need a Japanese phone number to sign up for most things in Japan. Most plans range from about ¥1500/2GB to ¥6000/10GB.
5. You will need these to sign up:
6. Sign up online and the SIM card will be delivered to your home (generally within 2-4 weeks)!
2. Check that your phone will work on a Japanese network (use www.willmyphonework.net)
3. OPTIONAL: Get a tourist SIM delivered to Keio plaza (where Tokyo Ori is) to cover you for the first month or so until your MVNO SIM card arrives and starts working (try eConnect Japan or a similar service).
4. Choose an MVNO network. Make sure the plan gives you the ability to call and text as you need a Japanese phone number to sign up for most things in Japan. Most plans range from about ¥1500/2GB to ¥6000/10GB.
- Sakura Mobile (has English support and you can pay via debit card or a combini payment!)
- Asahi Net
- IIJmio
- bMobile
5. You will need these to sign up:
- A credit card (or maybe a debit card if you’re lucky). This can be changed to a Japanese credit card after you get one here.
- Your passport and residence card (you should get this on your first or second day with your supervisor).
6. Sign up online and the SIM card will be delivered to your home (generally within 2-4 weeks)!