If you’re planning to live in Japan or are already residing here as a international resident, choosing the right mobile carrier in Japan is crucial. Japan has four major cell phone carriers: NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au (KDDI), and Rakuten Mobile. Each offers different SIM card options in Japan, so let’s break them down to help you make the best choice!
Best Mobile Carriers in Japan π―π΅
Among the four, NTT Docomo and SoftBank are the most recommended due to their extensive network coverage in Japan and reliable service.
Rakuten Mobile: The New Challenger π‘
Rakuten Mobile is known as the “fourth carrier” in Japan and has been actively expanding its Japan SIM network. Starting from June 27, 2024, it launched its 700MHz platinum band service, improving connectivity. However, compared to the other three major carriers, its mobile coverage in Japan still lags behind.
Online-Exclusive Plans π»
Major carriers offer cheap SIM plans in Japan that are more affordable and simpler than their regular plans. These plans include:
- Ahamo (NTT Docomo)
- LINEMO (SoftBank)
- povo (au)
Differences Between Regular and Online Plans
- Application Support: Online plans can only be applied for online.
- Pricing & Simplicity: Regular Japan mobile plans are often expensive and complex, whereas online-exclusive plans in Japan are more affordable and straightforward.
For example:
- NTT Docomoβs eximo: Β₯7,315 ($50) for unlimited data.
- Ahamo: Β₯2,970 ($20) for 30GB with 5-minute free calls per session.
- LINEMO: 3GB for Β₯990 ($7), 10GB for Β₯2,090 ($14), or 30GB for Β₯2,970 ($20).
- povo: No base fee; users pay only for the data or call options they add. (Example: 30GB for Β₯2,780 ($19)).
All online-exclusive plans use the main carrierβs network, so thereβs no difference in Japan mobile data quality. For most people, choosing one of these affordable SIM card plans in Japan is the best option.
MVNO (Budget-Friendly Carriers) π°
Apart from major carriers, there are MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators in Japan) that lease networks from major carriers and offer cheaper rates. However, their network quality can be lower.
Popular MVNOs in Japan include:
- UQ Mobile (KDDI)
- Y!Mobile (SoftBank)
- mineo, IIJmio, OCN Mobile, Japan Communications, nuro Mobile, Aeon Mobile, BIGLOBE Mobile, HIS Mobile, horie Mobile, etc.
MVNOs are ideal for those prioritizing cheap SIM card plans in Japan over speed and coverage. However, in the 5G SIM card era, MVNOs may feel significantly slower than major carriers.
Why I Recommend Ahamo π
Since I personally use Ahamo, let me highlight its benefits:
- 30GB for Β₯2,970 ($20) per month
- 5-minute free calls per session
- Free international data roaming in 91 countries π (Best Japan SIM for travelers!)
- Uses NTT Docomoβs high-quality network
When traveling abroad, your remaining data is usable without additional fees. For example, if you have 28GB left, you can use it freely overseas. (Note: If you exceed 15 consecutive days abroad, speed restrictions may apply.)
Other International Options π
- Rakuten Mobile: 2GB free in 78 countries, but less international coverage than Ahamo.
What International residents Need to Sign Up π
To sign up for a Japan mobile SIM plan, international residents typically need:
- Resident Card (Zairyu Card)
- Japanese Bank Account or Credit Card
- Passport
Short-term visitors cannot sign up for regular mobile contracts in Japan. Instead, they should use prepaid SIM cards for tourists in Japan, like Japan Travel SIM for temporary stays. I plan to write a detailed guide on this topic soon! βοΈ
Conclusion π―
For long-term international residents, online-exclusive plans like Ahamo, LINEMO, or povo are the best choices for affordability and high-quality service. If you’re on a tight budget, MVNOs in Japan may be an option, but they come with slower internet speeds.
I hope this guide helps you choose the best SIM card in Japan! πΆ If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. π