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Mobile Phone Contract
Procedures for activating a mobile phone in Japan and information on major carriers
Procedure Steps
1
Choose carrier (Docomo, Softbank, au, etc.)
2
Visit store and fill out application
3
Submit identification
4
Submit address verification
5
Sign contract
6
Choose device and plan
7
Pay initial fees
Required Documents
- ✓Residence card
- ✓Resident certificate (issued within 3 months)
- ✓Credit card or bank account
- ✓Seal or signature
Important Notes
- •⚠️ Contract terms may vary by region and carrier
- •⚠️ Contracts may be denied based on visa type (short-term stay, etc.)
- •Foreigners recommended to contract directly with carriers (safer than agents)
- •May be difficult to contract if residing in Japan less than 6 months
- •Credit card or bank account required (some carriers accept cash)
- •Affordable MVNOs (budget SIM): Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio, mineo, etc.
📱 Carrier Comparison
| Carrier | Pros | Cons | Foreigner Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Docomo | Widest coverage, stable | Expensive | ★★★☆☆ |
| Softbank | Foreigner-friendly, English support | Weak signal in some areas | ★★★★★ |
| au | Good quality, works underground | Limited English support | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Rakuten Mobile | Affordable, unlimited data | Limited coverage | ★★★★☆ |
| MVNO (IIJmio, mineo) | Very cheap, flexible | Limited store support, slower | ★★★☆☆ |
📚 Official Sources & References
- •Telecommunications Carriers Association: www.tca.or.jp
- •Last updated: September 2025