Category
SIM Cards & Mobile Plans in Japan for Foreigners
Getting a phone number is essential for banking, apps, and daily life in Japan. This page compares the major SIM providers and helps you choose the right plan.
What is here
- Comparison of SIM providers for foreigners in Japan.
- Voice SIM vs data SIM vs eSIM explained.
- Required documents and contract types.
New to Japan?
See the full setup guide before you make the next move
If you are still sorting out essentials like SIM, banking, utilities, or insurance, use the checklist page to keep the overall order clear.
Key facts
What foreigners need to know about SIM cards
1. Choose your type
Voice SIM for a phone number, data SIM for internet only, or eSIM for supported devices.
2. Prepare documents
You'll need your residence card, a Japanese bank account (for monthly plans), and sometimes a credit card.
3. Apply online or in-store
Many providers have online application. Some require an in-store visit for identity verification.
How it works
SIM provider comparison
Compare the major SIM providers by price, data, English support, and foreigner accessibility.
| Card | Monthly price | Data | eSIM | English | Foreigner friendly | Best for | Official site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ahamo (docomo) NTT docomo's online-only plan with English support and simple pricing. | ¥2,970/mo (20GB) | 20GB / 100GB | Yes | Yes | ★★★★★ | English speakers, simplicity | Official site |
LINEMO (SoftBank) SoftBank's budget online plan. LINE app data is free. Low starting price. | ¥990/mo (3GB) | 3GB / 20GB | Yes | Limited | ★★★☆☆ | Budget-conscious, LINE users | Official site |
povo 2.0 (au/KDDI) Base plan is ¥0/mo — buy data as you need it. Maximum flexibility. | ¥0 base + top-ups | Pay-as-you-go | Yes | Limited | ★★★☆☆ | Flexible usage, light users | Official site |
Rakuten Mobile Unlimited data on Rakuten's own network. Price scales with usage. Good for heavy users. | ¥1,078–3,278/mo | 3GB–Unlimited | Yes | Partial | ★★★★☆ | Heavy data users, Rakuten ecosystem | Official site |
IIJmio One of Japan's oldest MVNOs. Very low prices but Japanese-heavy interface. | ¥850/mo (2GB) | 2GB–50GB | Yes | No | ★★☆☆☆ | Budget plans, Japanese speakers | Official site |
Mobal Designed specifically for foreigners. Full English support. Easy signup before arriving in Japan. | ¥1,980/mo (3GB) | 3GB–30GB | Yes | Full | ★★★★★ | Pre-arrival, full English | Official site |
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FAQ
SIM card FAQ for foreigners
Common questions about getting a phone number and mobile plan in Japan.
Can foreigners get a SIM card in Japan?
Yes. With a residence card, most providers allow signup. Some like Mobal even let you apply before arriving in Japan.
What's the difference between voice SIM and data SIM?
Voice SIM comes with a phone number (calls and SMS). Data SIM is internet only. You need a phone number (voice SIM) for banking and many registrations.
What documents do I need for a SIM contract?
Typically: residence card, Japanese bank account (for monthly plans), and a credit card. Requirements vary by provider.
What is eSIM?
A digital SIM downloaded directly to your phone without a physical card. Supported devices can activate same-day, and it can be used alongside a physical SIM.
Which provider has the best English support?
ahamo and Mobal have the best English support. ahamo uses the docomo network with good value, while Mobal is specifically designed for foreigners.