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Mobile Telephones in Japan
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Find out how to get yourself a mobile cellular phone in Japan...
All of the latest telephones, handsets and smart phones are readily available. Japan has a 3G mobile network. The major mobile telephone providers in Japan are SoftBank, au by KDDI and NTT DoCoMo. They all offer a range of call packages and payment options.
To arrange a mobile service, visit a provider's shop with proof of identification and residency in the country.
To get a SoftBank or an au mobile telephone, applicants need a passport and a resident card/alien registration card. Individuals in the country on a short-term visa are not eligible for a SoftBank mobile telephone.
Both providers offer both monthly billing and fixed pre-paid plans, as well as a number of long-distance and international calling services. They have packages aimed at people visiting the country short term or for longer than two years.
SoftBank
- SoftBank
Tel: 0800 919 0157 (Press "8" for English support) - To find a SoftBank shop or service counter: Click here
- For advice on what to do if a telephone is lost or stolen: Click here
au
- au
Tel: 0077 7111
DoCoMo
To get a DoCoMo mobile telephone, applicants must provide identification which includes date of birth and proof of a permanent address in Japan. They must also provide a bank or credit card in their name.
- DoCoMo
Tel: 0120 005 250 - To find a DoCoMo shop or service counter: Click here
- For advice on what to do if a telephone is lost or stolen: Click here
Paying bills
Bills can be paid by direct debit, at a customer service centre or in cash at a convenience store or bank.