Why You Need a Communication Environment Right After Arriving in Japan
When you move to Japan, the first challenge is being "without internet and mobile phone." You need to check maps, contact family, receive SMS authentication for opening a bank account — all of these require a communication environment.
Communication contracts in Japan can feel difficult for foreigners, but if you know the correct procedure, there is no problem. This article explains mobile phone (SIM) contracts and home internet contracts separately. Starting with a mobile phone first will help you get your life set up smoothly.
Types of Mobile Phones — Major Carriers and MVNOs
Japan's mobile phone services are broadly divided into two types.
**Major carriers (MNOs)** are the four companies: NTT Docomo, au (KDDI), SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile. They are characterized by high communication quality and reliable coverage nationwide. However, monthly rates are somewhat high, and support for foreigners is more comprehensive at some stores than others.
**Budget SIMs (MVNOs)** are companies that borrow lines from major carriers and provide services. These include IIJmio, Rakuten Mobile (positioned as a sub-brand), OCN Mobile ONE, and mineo. Monthly rates are often less than half of the major carriers, making them suitable for those who want to keep costs down. Communication speeds may be slightly slower during congested times.
For those newly arrived who need Japanese language support, choosing a budget SIM company with multilingual support in English and Chinese is reassuring. IIJmio and Rakuten Mobile have relatively comprehensive English support.
Documents Required for Mobile Phone Contracts
To contract a mobile phone, you need the following documents.
**A Residence Card** is essential. It is issued after you complete resident registration within 14 days of arrival. Confirm that the address on your Residence Card matches the address on your application.
**A passport** may also be required for identification purposes.
**Payment method**: A credit card or bank account (direct bank transfer) is required. Some companies do not accept foreign-issued credit cards, so if possible, open a Japanese bank account first or prepare a credit card that can be used in Japan.
**An email address** (for application and contact) is also necessary. Free options like Gmail or Yahoo Mail are fine.
If you have not registered your address on your Residence Card immediately after arrival, you may not be able to contract with some services. First complete your resident registration at your municipal office, then proceed with the contract.
Convenient Prepaid SIMs and eSIMs Right After Arrival
Until you complete resident registration and bank account opening, being without internet is very inconvenient. Therefore, immediately after arrival, we recommend using a **prepaid SIM** or **eSIM**.
Prepaid SIMs can be purchased at convenience stores and airports. "B-Mobile Tourist SIM" and "IIJmio Tourist SIM" are typical examples, and you can start using them without a contract. The amount of data and usage period are predetermined; when the period expires, you can buy a new one or switch to a regular contract.
eSIM does not require a physical card and can be installed directly from your smartphone settings. If you purchase an international eSIM service like Airalo or Holafly before departure, you can use it immediately after arriving in Japan. However, compatibility is limited to certain models, so advance confirmation is necessary.
Home Internet Lines — Fiber-Optic and Home Routers
After moving into a rental property, you will need to contract a home internet service. There are mainly two types: "fiber-optic lines" and "home routers (stationary Wi-Fi)."
**Fiber-optic lines** are typically represented by NTT Flets Hikari, au Hikari, and SoftBank Hikari. Communication speeds are fast and stable, allowing you to enjoy remote work and video streaming comfortably. However, installation work is required, and it may take 2 to 4 weeks from application to start of use. Additionally, some rental properties do not allow work, so confirmation with the landlord or management company is necessary.
Many plans have contract periods (2 or 3 years), and early termination incurs fees. This is suitable for those planning to stay in Japan for a long time.
**Home routers** are typically represented by SoftBank Air, docomo home 5G, and au HOME 5G. They can be used simply by plugging them into an outlet, so they are available immediately without installation work. Communication speeds may be inferior to fiber-optic lines, but they are often sufficient for everyday use. This option is also suitable for those who move frequently or have short-term stays.
Common Troubles and Precautions When Contracting
Here are common challenges foreigners face when contracting communication services.
**Contracts in Japanese only** is one issue. Some major carrier stores have English-speaking staff, but not all do. With online applications, you can proceed at your own pace while translating, making budget SIM online contracts convenient.
**Timing of address verification** also requires attention. If the address on your Residence Card differs from the address on your application, the application may not be approved. After moving, change your resident registration and Residence Card address as soon as possible.
**Credit card screening** can result in rejection. Since you have no credit history in Japan immediately after arrival, screening may be stricter. Choose a service that accepts debit cards or direct bank transfers, or use a prepaid SIM while preparing a Japanese bank account and credit card.
**Cancellation procedures** should also be confirmed in advance. Procedures can be complicated when returning home or moving. Always confirm the cancellation method and whether fees apply before signing the contract.
Summary — Steps to Set Up Communication Environment
After arriving in Japan, you can proceed without confusion by following these steps.
**Step 1**: Right after arrival, purchase a prepaid SIM or eSIM to immediately start using mobile phone internet.
**Step 2**: Complete resident registration at your municipal office and have your address registered on your Residence Card.
**Step 3**: Open a Japanese bank account (resident registration is required).
**Step 4**: Conclude a formal mobile phone contract with a budget SIM or major carrier.
**Step 5**: Apply for a fiber-optic line or home router depending on your property situation.
Once your communication environment is set up, you can handle most life procedures from your smartphone or computer. It may feel overwhelming at first, but you can solve it step by step. If you have questions, actively use foreigner support consultation services (such as international exchange associations in each municipality).