If you’re wondering “how to get a Japanese phone number” as a foreigner, tourist, or expat, you’re in the right place. Getting a Japanese phone number is essential for daily life in Japan—from signing up for apps and online services to staying connected with friends, employers, and service providers. Whether you’re moving to Japan for work, studying abroad, planning an extended stay, or just visiting for a few weeks, having a local phone number makes everything easier. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all the methods to get a Japanese phone number, what documents you need, costs involved, and the best options for your specific situation.
Why You Need a Japanese Phone Number
Before we dive into how to get one, let’s understand why a Japanese phone number is so important:
Essential Services: Many Japanese services require a local phone number for registration. This includes banking apps, delivery services, restaurant reservations, and popular apps like LINE (Japan’s most-used messaging app).
Job Hunting: If you’re working in Japan, employers need a Japanese contact number. Many job applications won’t accept foreign numbers.
Verification: Two-factor authentication and SMS verification often don’t work with foreign numbers on Japanese websites and apps.
Emergency Services: Having a local number makes it easier to contact emergency services (110 for police, 119 for ambulance/fire).
Cost Savings: Using a Japanese number is much cheaper than international roaming charges from your home country.
Social Integration: Japanese people primarily use LINE, and most social and business connections happen through local phone numbers.
Understanding the Japanese Phone System
Japan has a unique phone system that might be different from what you’re used to:
Three Major Carriers: The big three are NTT Docomo, au (KDDI), and SoftBank. These are like AT&T or Verizon in the US.
MVNO Services: Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) rent network space from the big carriers and offer cheaper plans. Popular ones include IIJmio, Mobal, GTN Mobile, and LINE Mobile.
Phone Number Format: Japanese mobile numbers start with 070, 080, or 090, followed by 8 more digits. The full format looks like: 090-1234-5678.
Registration Requirements: Japan takes phone registration seriously. You’ll need proper identification and sometimes proof of residence.
Requirements for Getting a Japanese Phone Number
What you need depends on your residency status:
For Long-Term Residents (Visa Holders)
If you’re living in Japan on a work visa, student visa, or other long-term visa, you’ll need:
- Residence Card (Zairyu Card): This is your official ID in Japan, issued at the airport or immigration office when you enter on a long-term visa.
- Valid Passport: Your original passport with a valid visa.
- Registered Address: You must complete your resident registration (juminhyo) at your local ward office first. Some carriers require a certificate of residence (juminhyo).
- Japanese Bank Account or Credit Card: Most major carriers require a Japanese bank account for monthly bill payments. Some accept credit cards.
- Personal Seal (Inkan): Some traditional carriers still require a registered seal, though this is becoming less common.
For Short-Term Visitors (Tourists)
If you’re visiting Japan for less than 90 days on a tourist visa, your options are more limited, but you can still get a number:
- Valid Passport: Your tourist passport is your main ID.
- Credit Card: Usually an international credit card for payment.
- Hotel Address: Some services accept your hotel or accommodation address.
Note: Major carriers (Docomo, au, SoftBank) generally don’t offer contracts to tourists. You’ll need to use tourist-specific services or prepaid options.
Method 1: Major Carrier Contracts (For Residents)
The traditional way to get a Japanese phone number is through one of the three major carriers.
How It Works:
Visit a Store: Go to a physical store of Docomo, au, or SoftBank. Bring all required documents.
Choose a Plan: Select from their monthly plans. Basic plans start around ¥3,000-¥7,000 ($20-$50) per month depending on data allowance.
Buy or Bring a Phone: You can buy a phone from them (often with installment plans) or bring your own unlocked device.
Setup Time: The process takes 1-3 hours, especially if you need a translator. Some stores have English-speaking staff.
Contract Length: Most contracts are monthly, but buying a phone might lock you in for 2 years.
Pros:
- Best network coverage across Japan
- Fastest data speeds
- Priority customer service
- Physical stores for support
- Reliable service
Cons:
- Expensive monthly fees
- Requires residence card and bank account
- Contract can be complicated in Japanese
- Long setup process
- Not available for tourists
Cost:
- Monthly: ¥3,000-¥7,000+ depending on data
- Initial fee: ¥3,000-¥5,000
- Phone cost: ¥50,000-¥150,000 if buying new (or installments)
Method 2: MVNO Services (Budget Option for Residents)
MVNOs are cheaper alternatives that use the major carriers’ networks.
Popular MVNO Options:
IIJmio: One of the most popular, offers plans from ¥850/month. Works on Docomo and au networks.
Mobal: Designed for foreigners, has English support, no residence card needed for some plans.
GTN Mobile: Popular with foreign residents, easier signup process, English support.
LINE Mobile: Integrated with LINE app, cheap data plans, good for young people.
Sakura Mobile: Specializes in serving foreigners, English customer service.
How to Sign Up:
Online Application: Most MVNOs let you apply online. Visit their website and fill out the application form.
Choose Your Plan: Pick data amount and call minutes. Plans start as low as ¥500-¥1,000/month for basic service.
Verify Identity: Upload photos of your residence card and passport.
Receive SIM Card: They’ll mail a SIM card to your registered address within 3-7 days.
Activate: Insert the SIM card and follow activation instructions (usually online).
Pros:
- Much cheaper than major carriers
- Often have English support
- Easy online signup
- Flexible monthly contracts
- Good for budget-conscious users
Cons:
- Slower data speeds during peak hours
- Limited customer service locations
- Still need residence card for most
- Setup can be confusing for beginners
Cost:
- Monthly: ¥500-¥3,000 depending on plan
- Initial fee: ¥3,000-¥3,500
- SIM card: Usually free or ¥400-¥500
Method 3: Prepaid SIM Cards (For Tourists and Short Stays)
If you’re visiting Japan temporarily, prepaid SIM cards are your best option.
Where to Buy:
Airport Kiosks: Available at Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and other major airports immediately upon arrival.
Electronics Stores: Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera, and Yamada Denki sell prepaid SIM cards.
Convenience Stores: Some 7-Eleven and FamilyMart locations carry prepaid SIMs.
Online Before Arrival: Websites like Klook, Mobal, and Japan Wireless let you order and pick up at the airport.
Popular Prepaid Options:
Mobal Visitor SIM: Data + voice calls, available for tourists, around ¥4,000-¥6,000 for 7-30 days.
IIJmio Prepaid SIM: Data-only, 2GB for ¥3,000 (1 month validity).
Sakura Mobile Tourist SIM: From ¥2,500, data plans up to 30 days.
Japan Welcome SIM: Free for first 15 days (500MB), can be upgraded.
How It Works:
Purchase: Buy at airport counter or electronics store, or order online.
Activate: Insert SIM into your unlocked phone. Some activate immediately, others need online registration.
Usage Period: Most last 7-30 days from activation.
Top-Up: Some allow you to add more data or extend the period.
Pros:
- No residence card needed
- Perfect for tourists
- Quick setup (minutes)
- Available immediately at airports
- No contract or commitment
Cons:
- More expensive per day than monthly plans
- Limited validity period
- Often data-only (no voice calls)
- Can’t be used for SMS verification on some services
Cost:
- 7 days: ¥2,000-¥3,500
- 15 days: ¥3,500-¥5,000
- 30 days: ¥4,500-¥7,000
Method 4: Pocket WiFi with Phone Service (Tourists)
Some rental WiFi services now offer phone numbers alongside internet access.
How It Works:
Rent a Device: Rent a pocket WiFi device that includes a phone number.
Pick Up: Collect at airport or have it delivered to your hotel.
Make Calls: Use the provided number to make and receive calls.
Return: Return the device at the airport or mail it back.
Popular Services:
- Japan Wireless
- Global Advanced Communications
- Ninja WiFi (select plans)
Pros:
- No need to swap SIM cards
- Share WiFi with multiple devices
- Includes phone number for verification
- Easy for groups
Cons:
- Must carry extra device
- Daily rental fees add up
- Need to return the device
- More expensive for long stays
Cost:
- ¥800-¥1,500 per day
- Weekly: ¥5,000-¥10,000
- Monthly: ¥15,000-¥30,000
Method 5: Virtual Phone Numbers (For Verification)
If you only need a Japanese number for app verification or occasional use, virtual numbers are an option.
Services That Offer Japanese Virtual Numbers:
Skype: Can purchase a Japanese phone number that forwards to your Skype account. Around $9/month.
Twilio: Offers Japanese virtual numbers for developers and businesses, starting at $1-$3/month.
MySudo: Virtual phone number app, may offer Japanese numbers depending on availability.
Hushed: Provides temporary phone numbers, including Japanese numbers.
How It Works:
Sign Up: Create an account on the service.
Purchase Number: Select a Japanese area code and buy the number.
Receive Calls/SMS: Use the app to manage calls and messages.
Forward or Use App: Some let you forward to another number, others require using their app.
Pros:
- Very cheap
- No physical SIM needed
- Can use from anywhere in the world
- Good for online verification
Cons:
- May not work for all Japanese services
- Some apps don’t accept virtual numbers
- Requires internet connection
- Not reliable for important communications
- Can’t be used as main number
Cost:
- $1-$15 per month depending on service
Method 6: Mobal Long-Term Rental (For Foreigners)
Mobal offers special phone services designed specifically for foreigners in Japan.
Mobal Features:
No Residence Card Required: You can sign up with just a passport for some plans.
Month-to-Month: No long-term contract required.
English Support: Full English customer service.
Keep Your Number: Can keep the number even if you leave Japan temporarily.
How to Get It:
Order Online: Visit Mobal’s website and choose a plan.
Receive SIM/Phone: They ship to your address in Japan or you can pick up at airports.
Activate: Simple activation process with English instructions.
Pay Monthly: Usually by credit card.
Pros:
- Easiest for foreigners
- English support
- Flexible contracts
- Can be set up before arriving in Japan
- No bank account required
Cons:
- More expensive than MVNOs
- Not the cheapest option
- Limited plan choices
Cost:
- From ¥2,800-¥6,000 per month
- Setup fee: ¥3,500-¥6,000
Method 7: eSIM (Digital SIM Cards)
eSIM technology is becoming more popular in Japan for both tourists and residents.
What is eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded in your phone. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you download the carrier profile to your phone.
Compatible Phones:
- iPhone XS and newer
- Google Pixel 3 and newer
- Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer
- Other modern smartphones (check compatibility)
Japanese eSIM Providers:
IIJmio: Offers eSIM plans for data, starting at ¥400-¥1,500/month.
Sakura Mobile: Tourist eSIM plans from ¥2,000 for short stays.
Ubigi: International eSIM with Japan coverage, from ¥1,000 for 3GB.
Airalo: Popular travel eSIM, Japan plans from $4.50 for 1GB.
How to Get eSIM:
Check Phone Compatibility: Ensure your phone supports eSIM.
Purchase Online: Buy an eSIM plan from a provider.
Scan QR Code: Receive a QR code via email.
Install: Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Data Plan, scan the code.
Activate: The eSIM activates within minutes.
Pros:
- Instant activation
- No physical SIM card needed
- Can keep your home SIM card active simultaneously
- Perfect for tourists
- Easy to purchase before arrival
Cons:
- Data-only plans mostly (no voice calls)
- Requires eSIM-compatible phone
- May not work for SMS verification
- Technical setup might confuse some users
Cost:
- Tourist plans: $5-$30 for 1-30 days
- Resident plans: ¥400-¥2,000/month
Step-by-Step: Getting a Number as a New Resident
If you just arrived in Japan on a work or student visa, follow these steps:
Step 1: Register Your Address
Go to your local ward office (kuyakusho) within 14 days of arrival. Bring your passport and residence card. Register your address.
Step 2: Open a Bank Account
Visit a major bank like Japan Post Bank, SMBC, or MUFG. Bring your residence card, passport, and inkan (seal) if you have one. Some banks require 6 months of residence.
Step 3: Choose Your Provider
Decide between major carrier (expensive, best service) or MVNO (cheap, good enough).
Step 4: Visit Store or Apply Online
For major carriers, visit a physical store with all documents. For MVNOs, you can usually apply online.
Step 5: Bring Required Documents
- Residence card
- Passport
- Bank account info or credit card
- Certificate of residence (juminhyo) if required
- Inkan (for traditional carriers)
Step 6: Select Plan and Phone
Choose your monthly plan based on data needs. Bring your own unlocked phone or buy one from the carrier.
Step 7: Complete Application
Fill out forms (bring a Japanese-speaking friend if needed) and wait for approval.
Step 8: Receive SIM/Phone
Either receive immediately in-store or wait 3-7 days for mail delivery.
Step 9: Set Up and Test
Insert SIM card, configure APN settings if needed, test calls and data.
Best Options for Different Situations
You’re a Tourist (1-4 weeks):
Best Choice: Prepaid SIM card or eSIM Recommendation: Buy at airport upon arrival (Mobal Visitor SIM or Sakura Mobile) Cost: ¥2,000-¥6,000 total
You’re a Student (1-4 years):
Best Choice: MVNO service Recommendation: IIJmio, GTN Mobile, or LINE Mobile Cost: ¥1,000-¥2,500/month
You’re Working in Japan (1+ years):
Best Choice: Major carrier or premium MVNO Recommendation: Docomo, au, SoftBank, or Mobal Cost: ¥3,000-¥7,000/month
You’re Working Holiday (6-12 months):
Best Choice: MVNO with no contract Recommendation: Sakura Mobile or GTN Mobile Cost: ¥1,500-¥3,500/month
You Need It Just for Verification:
Best Choice: Virtual phone number Recommendation: Skype number or Mobal pay-as-you-go Cost: $5-$15/month
You Travel to Japan Frequently:
Best Choice: Mobal keep-your-number plan Recommendation: Mobal rental with number retention Cost: ¥500/month to keep number + usage fees
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: “I don’t have a bank account yet”
Solution:
- Use Mobal or Sakura Mobile which accept credit cards
- Some MVNOs accept international credit cards
- Get a prepaid SIM until you open a bank account
- Japan Post Bank is easiest for opening accounts
Challenge 2: “I can’t speak Japanese”
Solution:
- Use Mobal or GTN Mobile with English support
- Bring a Japanese-speaking friend to carrier stores
- Apply online through English websites
- Use services designed for foreigners
Challenge 3: “I don’t have a residence card yet”
Solution:
- Use tourist prepaid SIM temporarily
- Mobal offers some plans without residence card
- Wait until you receive residence card (issued at airport for most)
- Use virtual numbers for immediate verification needs
Challenge 4: “Services won’t accept my foreign phone”
Solution:
- Get a Japanese number immediately upon arrival
- Many services specifically require 070/080/090 numbers
- Virtual numbers may not work for all verifications
- This is why local numbers are essential in Japan
Challenge 5: “It’s too expensive”
Solution:
- Choose MVNO over major carriers (save 50-70%)
- Select data-only plans if you use LINE for calls
- Look for campaign deals (new student discounts)
- Consider used/refurbished phones instead of new
Tips for Using Your Japanese Phone Number
Save Important Numbers: Emergency (110 police, 119 fire/ambulance), your embassy, your employer.
Get LINE Immediately: Download LINE app and register with your Japanese number. This is essential for social life in Japan.
Enable International Calls: If you need to call home, check if your plan includes international calling or use apps like Skype/WhatsApp.
Understand Your Bill: Japanese phone bills can be confusing. Ask for explanation of charges if anything seems wrong.
Keep Your Documents: Save copies of your contract and payment information. Some places might ask to see your phone contract.
Use Free WiFi: To save data, use free WiFi at stations, cafes, and convenience stores. Register for “Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi” app.
Port Your Number: If you switch carriers, you can usually keep your number through MNP (Mobile Number Portability) for a small fee (¥3,000-¥5,000).
What Happens When You Leave Japan?
If you’re leaving Japan temporarily or permanently:
Temporary Leave (Coming Back):
- Some carriers let you suspend service (¥400-¥500/month to keep number)
- Mobal offers number retention for international users
- Pay suspension fee monthly while away
Permanent Leave:
- Cancel your contract at least 1 month before leaving
- Some carriers charge cancellation fees
- Return rented phones/WiFi devices
- You’ll lose the phone number
Cancellation Process:
- Visit carrier store with ID and phone
- Or call customer service (some MVNOs allow online cancellation)
- Settle final bill
- Get confirmation of cancellation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get a Japanese phone number without living in Japan?
Yes, but with limitations. Virtual phone number services like Skype or Twilio offer Japanese numbers you can use from anywhere. However, these may not work for all Japanese service verifications. If you’re visiting, you can get tourist prepaid SIM cards without residency. For full service, you typically need to be in Japan.
2. How long does it take to get a Japanese phone number?
It depends on the method: In-store activation with major carriers takes 1-3 hours same day. MVNO online orders take 3-7 days for SIM delivery. Prepaid SIMs at airports are instant (5-10 minutes). eSIM activation is immediate once purchased (minutes). Virtual numbers activate within hours.
3. Do I need to speak Japanese to get a phone number?
Not necessarily. Services like Mobal, GTN Mobile, and Sakura Mobile offer full English support. Some major carrier stores in big cities have English-speaking staff. You can apply for most MVNOs online with English interfaces. However, having a Japanese-speaking friend helps with traditional carriers.
4. Can tourists get a Japanese phone number?
Yes, but not through regular carrier contracts. Tourists can use prepaid SIM cards (available at airports), eSIM services, pocket WiFi rentals with phone numbers, or virtual phone numbers. Major carriers (Docomo, au, SoftBank) require residence cards, so they’re not available for short-term tourists.
5. What’s the cheapest way to get a Japanese phone number?
The cheapest option is MVNO services, which start from ¥500-¥850 per month for basic plans. IIJmio offers plans from ¥850/month. Data-only eSIMs can be even cheaper at ¥400/month. For tourists, buying a prepaid SIM for your exact stay length (¥2,000-¥4,000) is most economical compared to daily rentals.
6. Can I use my foreign phone in Japan?
Yes, if it’s unlocked and compatible with Japanese frequencies (most modern smartphones are). However, you’ll need a Japanese SIM card to get a local number and avoid expensive roaming charges. Check that your phone supports Japan’s LTE bands (1, 3, 8, 19, 21) for best coverage.
7. What documents do I need to get a Japanese phone number?
For residents: Residence card (zairyu card), valid passport, proof of address (juminhyo), and Japanese bank account or credit card. For tourists: Valid passport and international credit card. Some services also require a personal seal (inkan), though this is becoming less common.
8. Can I keep my Japanese phone number if I change carriers?
Yes, through MNP (Mobile Number Portability). You can transfer your number to a new carrier for a fee of ¥3,000-¥5,000. The process takes 1-3 days. Contact your new carrier first, and they’ll handle the transfer. Your old contract will automatically cancel when the transfer completes.
9. Do Japanese phone numbers work for LINE and other apps?
Yes, Japanese phone numbers (070/080/090) work perfectly with LINE, Mercari, Rakuten, PayPay, and all Japanese apps. In fact, many Japanese services specifically require a local number for registration. Foreign numbers often don’t work for SMS verification on Japanese platforms, making a local number essential.
10. How much does a Japanese phone number cost per month?
Major carriers (Docomo, au, SoftBank): ¥3,000-¥7,000/month. MVNO budget services: ¥500-¥3,000/month. Mobal (foreigner-friendly): ¥2,800-¥6,000/month. Virtual numbers: $1-$15/month. Prepaid SIMs for tourists: ¥2,000-¥7,000 total for 7-30 days. The exact cost depends on data allowance and voice minutes.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Japanese phone number doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re moving to Japan long-term, studying for a semester, or just visiting for a vacation, there’s an option that fits your needs and budget.
For Long-Term Residents: Invest in a proper MVNO or major carrier plan. The monthly cost is worth the convenience and reliability for daily life in Japan.
For Short-Term Visitors: Grab a prepaid SIM at the airport or set up an eSIM before you arrive. It’s quick, easy, and saves you from expensive roaming charges.
For Anyone: Don’t wait until you desperately need a number. Set this up early so you can register for LINE, make reservations, and handle emergencies without stress.
Having a Japanese phone number makes your life in Japan significantly easier. From ordering food delivery to making doctor appointments, from job hunting to making friends on LINE, this simple tool opens doors that would otherwise be closed to foreigners.
