Mobile Phones
Source: https://sup.bureau.tohoku.ac.jp/en/after-arrival-e/mobilephone-e/ Parent: https://sup.bureau.tohoku.ac.jp/en/
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Mobile Phones
Nowadays, there are various options to have a mobile phone in Japan, such as signing a new contract with a major cell phone carrier, buying a low-cost SIM, or renting a mobile Wi-Fi.
This page introduces some service providers as examples. Of course, you can use another service as well.
Mobile Service Providers for Non-Japanese Residents
Low-Cost Mobile Service Providers
Major Mobile Phone Carriers in Japan
You can find instructions on how to sign up for a cell phone in English language in the webpages below.
- New Subscription | NTT docomo
- Items to prepare for a new contract | au
- How to purchase or reserve | SoftBank
Travel SIM Card
Please be advised that those with stay period of less than 3 months will not be able to sign a contract with Japanese mobile service provider and get a local SIM Card.\ \ For that reason, this group may consider getting a travel SIM card from providers such as below:
Technical Conformity Mark
In Japan, all wireless devices, such as smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, and Bluetooth accessories, must have the Technical Conformity Mark (Giteki Mark 技適マーク) to show that they comply with Japan’s technical standards for radio and telecommunications.
If you bring a smartphone from abroad that does not have the Technical Conformity Mark, it is technically illegal to use its wireless functions (mobile network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.) in Japan, as the device may interfere with local communication systems.
Therefore, please make sure to use a phone that has the Technical Conformity Mark. Some models sold overseas are identical to Japanese versions and already include this certification; you can usually check this in your phone’s settings or documentation.
For more details, please refer to the link below:
FAQ on Technical Conformity Mark
Support with Japanese Mobile Service Provider Contracts
Having a Japanese number could be a necessity if you stay in Sendai long-term. \ \ Getting a Japanese SIM Card can be difficult if you are not familiar with the contract registration process. \ \ The International Support Center offers support to international students, researchers and faculty members in getting a SIM card, choosing a suitable mobile plan and also getting Wi-Fi for their home.
Please be advised that, as Residence Card is required to sign a contract with Japanese mobile service providers, this service is only available those who will be staying in Japan for more than 3 months.**