Graham and I got our phones about 3 weeks after we arrived in Japan. Some people have gotten by without phones until even now, but having one (particularly a smartphone) makes it so much easier to navigate around the city, meet up with your friends, and communicate with members of group projects. If you aren't confident on your ability to communicate in Japanese in the event of an accident or other trouble, a cellphone can put you in contact with someone who can help you.
The instant messaging application Line is used by most Japanese students we've met, and we use it a lot for organizing and getting details about social outings.
Read on for information on getting cell phones in Japan, and the process we went through.
The process of getting a phone can be a bit complicated depending on the type of phone and contract you are getting, so I recommend having an English-speaking Japanese friend with you when you go to the store, just to be sure you understand all the terms.
The following is just what we've observed during the process of getting our phones and watching our friends get their phones. We might be off on some points, but this can give you a general idea of what to expect.
There are two main routes you can go: contract or prepaid. Prepaid phones are more complicated in Japan than in Canada. In Canada, you can simply buy the phone from a store, buy a card and use it straight away. In Japan, the process of getting a prepaid involves the phone company more; you need to register, fill out paperwork, and add credit to your phone through the company. Depending on the availability of prepaid phones in your area, it can be really cheap. However, it seems like the companies try to steer people away from prepaid and toward contract phones.
Contract phones can be more expensive, but have advantages. There is a wider variety of phones available on contract than on prepaid plans. There are three main companies to go with; Docomo, Softbank and Au. Softbank seems to be a little bit more foreigner-friendly, having an English website, and their plans seem to be more straightforward. Our experience with them was pleasant, but shop around for what suits you.
Graham and I flip-flopped between wanting smartphones and wanting basic talk/text phones. In the end, we went with iPhones under Softbank. When we entered, we each went with Japanese friends to different windows, where the employee asked us what we were looking for. They used iPads to go through the process, showing us the plans, and various options. After making all the selections, we signed the paperwork and arranged payment. Originally, we were under the impression that we needed Japanese bank accounts, but my teller gave me the option to use either my Japanese account or my foreign credit card. Depending on your situation, either one may be more convenient. For other ID, basically bring everything you have. I brought my foreign drivers' license, Japanese "foreigner card", Japanese national health plan card and student ID. I don't remember which they looked at, but to be safe, bring it all.
I've heard that companies will be reluctant to give you a phone on a 2-year contract if you're only going to be here for a year, but we had no issues. It's near impossible to find a 1-year contract though, so you can cancel your contract before you leave, and pay cancellation fee.
It's been awhile since we got our phones, so I'm probably missing some information, but feel free to comment if you have any questions!
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