Updated on January 30, 2025
Staying connected is important, especially when you’re a student living in another country like Japan. Whether you’re trying to find your way through streets covered in kanji, setting up a meet-up with friends at an izakaya, or sharing your Mount Fuji selfies with family, having a reliable phone plan makes life so much easier.
Luckily, Japan has plenty of options for both short-term and long-term students. Let’s break it all down so you can find the right one for your stay in Japan.
Japanese Cell Phone Plans for Short and Long-term Students
Table of Contents
Options Based on Your Stay Duration
Cell Phone Plans for Short Term Students (less than 3 months)
Cell Phone Plans for Long Term Students (more than 3 months)
Why Sakura Mobile Stands Out
Additional Connectivity Options
Options Based on Your Stay Duration
Cell Phone Plans for Short Term Students (less than 3 months)
Phone Rental
Need a phone just for a short stay? Renting a phone is a pretty straightforward option. There are plenty of rental services available online and in physical stores around Japan. But before you go for it, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You’ll need to provide a shipping address or know a pickup location in Japan.
- Most companies require a deposit.
- The phones they offer are usually older models with basic features.
- Watch out for hidden charges—they can add up quickly.
If you’re okay with these limitations, phone rentals might work for you. But there’s another option that could save you time and money…
SIM Cards
Instead of renting a phone, why not use your own? By getting a Japanese SIM card or eSIM, you can connect to Japan’s super-fast mobile internet while keeping your current device.
It’s pretty simple—just make sure your phone is unlocked before you fly to Japan. Once you have a SIM card, you can use apps like Skype or LINE to make calls.
While you won’t automatically receive a local Japanese telephone number, you can purchase a temporary number through apps like LINE or Skype. These numbers are valid for up to a year, giving you an easy solution for calls or registrations during your stay.
Insider Tip: Having an Unlocked Phone is Not the Only Requirement🔓
While having an unlocked phone is crucial for using a Japanese SIM, it’s also important to check for compatibility with local networks. Japan’s mobile networks operate on specific frequencies, so make sure your device supports them.
- Some phones are not compatible with eSIM, so double-check if you plan to use one.📋✅
- Certain plans are limited to 4G or 5G, so ensure your phone supports these network types.📋✅
For peace of mind, Sakura Mobile offers a compatibility list where you can confirm whether your phone will work with their SIMs. This can save you from unexpected issues after arriving in Japan!🛬🗾
What’s LINE? ✉️📲
If you’re not familiar, LINE is one of Japan’s most popular messaging apps. Think of it as a combination of WhatsApp, Messenger, and Skype—it’s used for texting, voice calls, video calls, and even making purchases. Almost everyone in Japan uses LINE, so having the app is a great way to stay in touch with friends, classmates, and even teachers during your stay.
If you want a local Japanese phone number, you can buy a temporary number through apps like LINE or Skype, which lasts up to a year.
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Cell Phone Plans for Long Term Students (more than 3 months)
Prepaid Phones
If you’re staying in Japan for a while, prepaid phones are another option. Although prepaid phones are less common nowadays, these phones come with a local Japanese number and some credit preloaded. But honestly? They’re not the best choice for most students. Here’s why:
- The phones are usually older models designed for basic use (think calls and texts only).
- Data, voice calls, and texts can get pricey, especially if you use your phone a lot.
- You’ll need to top up your credit in person at a store—kind of inconvenient.
- The application, instructions, bills, and customer support will probably be in Japanese.
On top of all that, if you want to browse the internet, you might end up carrying two devices—one for calls and one for internet access. Unless you’re really set on getting a prepaid phone, there are better, more affordable options out there.
5 Best SIM Cards for Long-Term Stays in Japan
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Recent Changes in Contract Requirements
Good news! The days of being stuck in a two-year phone contract in Japan are mostly over. Before 2022, companies like docomo and SoftBank required long-term contracts that came with hefty cancellation fees. Not ideal if you’re a student who might only need a plan for a year or so.
Now, thanks to government regulations, most carriers no longer require these long-term contracts. But here’s the catch:
- Some plans still have a minimum contract period, so double-check before signing up.
- If you’re paying for a phone in installments, you’ll need to pay off the remaining balance if you want to cancel early.
- Switching carriers is easier than before, but it’s always a good idea to read the fine print.
In short, things are much more flexible than they used to be, but it’s still worth doing a little homework before you commit to a plan.
💳Insider Tip: Be aware that some providers do not accept foreign credit cards for payments. Some companies also have strict requirements for account setup, such as needing a Japanese bank account.
If you’re unsure about payment options, consider alternative providers that offer flexible plans for international students, like Sakura Mobile.
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Modern SIM Solutions
SIM Cards and eSIM Technology
If you want an option that’s simple, flexible, and doesn’t lock you into a contract, SIM cards are the way to go. With a SIM card, you can use your current phone (as long as it’s unlocked) and only pay for what you need, month by month. Some plans even give you a local Japanese number, which can make things like signing up for services or shopping online much easier.
Looking for something even easier? Check out eSIMs. Don’t know what an eSIM is? They are like regular SIM cards, but instead of inserting a physical card, everything is handled digitally. Here’s why eSIMs are super convenient:
- You can set everything up online—no need to pick up a physical SIM card.
- Activation is instant. Just scan a QR code, and you’re good to go.
- Switching between carriers is much easier.
If you’re planning to use a Japanese phone or a Japanese SIM card, you should know about the camera shutter sound. In Japan, phones are designed so that the shutter sound cannot be muted. This rule exists to protect privacy and prevent inappropriate photos from being taken without someone noticing.
Even if you’re using your own phone with a Japanese SIM card, the shutter sound might turn on and stay active while you’re using the SIM.
If taking quiet photos is important to you—like in a museum or during a class—you might want to check your phone settings or stick with your original SIM card for taking pictures.
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Why Sakura Mobile Stands Out
Sakura Mobile has become a go-to choice for many students in Japan, and for good reason. Here’s why people love it:
- Easy Online Ordering: Order your SIM card before you even arrive in Japan.
- Convenient Pickup Options: Grab your SIM card at the airport or Sakura Mobile’s Shinjuku office.
- No Hassle Registration: All you need is your passport—no Japanese address required!*
- Flexible Payment Options: Pay online or at convenience stores.
- Exclusive Student Discounts: Sakura Mobile offers a 1,000 yen discount just for students (just indicate you’re a student in the application!)
*SIM cards can also be delivered straight to your residence in Japan!
Airport Pickup Locations:
- Narita International Airport: Same-day pickup available.
- Haneda and Kansai International Airports: Book at least 3 days in advance.
Not all phone plans in Japan allow for in-store applications or in-person support. Ex. Providers like ahamo and povo require online applications and online-only support, which can be challenging if you need assistance.
However, Sakura Mobile offers in-store support at our Shinjuku office, making the process much smoother, especially for first-time visitors to Japan.
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Additional Connectivity Options
If your phone isn’t compatible with a SIM card, or if you need internet for multiple devices (like laptops or tablets), Pocket WiFi is a great option. Think of it as a portable hotspot that you can take anywhere.
Here’s why Pocket WiFi might be a good choice:
- No need to tether your phone, so you can save battery life.
- You can connect multiple devices at the same time.
For details about Pocket WiFi options, check out:
Best Long-Term Pocket WiFi in Japan 2024
Getting a phone plan in Japan doesn’t have to be complicated. Think about how long you’ll be staying, how much data you’ll need, and what’s most convenient for you.
If you’re here for just a few months, consider getting a short-term SIM card like the Sakura Mobile Data SIM Card. If you’re staying longer, Sakura Mobile’s Voice + Data SIM Card or Pocket WiFi plan is a flexible, student-friendly option.
Don’t wait until you arrive in Japan—plan ahead and get connected right away.
Explore Sakura Mobile Plans
CUSTOMER’S VOICE
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