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If you are moving to Japan, your first phone plan decision is not simply “the cheapest SIM.” You need to decide whether you need a Japanese phone number, English support, eSIM support, airport pickup, home delivery, or a temporary data-only setup while you arrange long-term internet.
Official provider pages
Quick answer
| Situation | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Just arrived, need English support | Sakura Mobile or Mobal | Both focus on Japan connectivity for international users and provide English-friendly onboarding. |
| Need a Japanese phone number | Mobal or GTN Mobile | Check voice/SMS support and identity verification requirements before ordering. |
| Need home internet too | Sakura Mobile or GTN | Both publish resident-oriented mobile/internet options. |
| Only need data for a short stay | Travel eSIM / pocket Wi-Fi | Usually faster to set up than a long-term voice plan. |
What to decide before ordering
- Phone number: Some bank, delivery, school and work flows may expect a Japanese phone number.
- eSIM compatibility: Your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-capable if you choose eSIM.
- Identity verification: Voice-capable SIM/eSIM products may require ID verification and address checks.
- Contract length: Check cancellation terms, initial fees and shipping/collection options.
- Support language: English or multilingual support can be worth paying more for during your first month.
Sakura Mobile
Sakura Mobile offers travel SIM/eSIM/pocket Wi-Fi as well as resident-oriented monthly mobile and internet plans. Its official site highlights English support, airport/hotel/residence delivery or pickup options, and payment with cards issued outside Japan.
Mobal
Mobal offers long-term SIMs/eSIMs with a real Japanese phone number, tourist SIM/eSIM options, and Wi-Fi products. Its official site states that long-term products are aimed at people living, working or studying in Japan, with English support and no long-term contracts for relevant products.
GTN Mobile
GTN Mobile is built for foreign residents in Japan and publishes mobile, Wi-Fi and internet services. It is worth checking if you want multilingual support or are already using GTN-related housing/living services.
Useful accessories before your SIM arrives
Amazon Japan searches
First-week setup order
- Confirm whether your current phone is unlocked.
- Check whether your phone supports eSIM.
- Decide whether you need a Japanese phone number immediately.
- Choose temporary data, long-term mobile, or home internet depending on your stay length.
- Read the provider’s latest plan page before ordering.
What this guide does not cover
This guide does not provide immigration, visa, tax, medical, legal or housing contract advice. For identity verification and contract requirements, follow the provider’s official instructions.
Related guides
- First Apartment Tech Setup in Japan for Foreign Residents
- Amazon Japan Tech Shopping Guide for Foreign Residents
Next: Home Internet in Japan for Foreign Residents explains fiber, Home WiFi and Pocket WiFi choices for apartments.
Related: Pocket WiFi vs eSIM in Japan helps choose between phone eSIM, resident SIM and shared Wi-Fi.
Start here: Japan Living Tech Starter Kit gives the fastest setup order for mobile data, home internet and apartment tech.
