Japan – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Japan, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Japan’s country dialling code is +81. To reach a Japanese number from overseas, you enter your country’s international exit code, followed by 81, then the local area code and subscriber number. The leading zero of the area code is dropped after the +81 prefix. For instance, Tokyo’s domestic area code (03) becomes 3 in international format — written as +81 3 XXXX-XXXX.

When placing calls from within Japan, you dial the full number including the area code, whether calling from a landline or a mobile. The only situation where you might skip the area code is when dialling between landlines sharing the same code, though including it is always the safer and more reliable approach.

The table below lists the area codes for the cities most frequently chosen by expats settling in Japan:

Japanese mobile numbers begin with 070, 080, or 090. IP-based telephone services use the 050 prefix. Numbers starting with 0120 are toll-free lines, commonly referred to as “free dial” (フリーダイヤル) or “free call” (フリーコール). Numbers beginning with 0570 are national call centre rate lines, meaning calls are charged at a standard rate regardless of distance.

To call overseas from Japan, dial 010, then the destination country code, followed by the local number. Many residents prefer VoIP and messaging applications such as LINE, WhatsApp, and Skype as a far more economical route for international calls, and these tools are widely relied upon across Japan.

Who are the major landline providers in Japan, and how can you contact them?

NTT is Japan’s foremost landline provider, operating through two regional subsidiaries: NTT East, which covers the Kanto area (including Tokyo) and territories to the north and east, and NTT West, which serves the Kansai area (including Osaka and Kyoto) and regions to the west and south.

NTT’s flagship residential landline product is called Hikari Denwa, a fibre-optic telephone service that delivers clear call quality and flat-rate pricing. This is the service most commonly adopted by newly arrived residents setting up a home in Japan, and it can often be bundled with fibre internet for added convenience.

NTT holds the dominant position in Japan’s landline market and is the default choice for most households. Although NTT has been publicly listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange since 1987, the Japanese government retains ownership of roughly one-third of the company’s shares. This semi-public structure means NTT East and NTT West are obligated to provide service across the entire country, including sparsely populated rural and remote regions.

Landline pricing depends on the plan chosen, equipment rental, and whether services are bundled with broadband or mobile. As tariffs and promotional offers change regularly, check the official websites of NTT East, NTT West, SoftBank, and au for the most up-to-date pricing as of 2025. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC), Japan’s national telecoms regulator, publishes guidance on consumer rights and oversees pricing standards in the sector.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Japan, and how can you contact them?

Japan’s mobile industry is shaped primarily by three long-established carriers — NTT Docomo, au (KDDI), and SoftBank — alongside the newer disruptor Rakuten Mobile. Together, the three legacy operators account for more than 90% of all mobile subscriptions in Japan. As of 2025, NTT Docomo leads the market with approximately 91.91 million subscribers, followed by KDDI with 71.46 million, SoftBank with around 56.38 million, and Rakuten Mobile with 9.33 million.

Alongside the four main carriers, there is an expanding range of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). These companies lease network capacity from the major operators rather than running their own infrastructure, which allows them to offer more targeted and often more flexible data plans. Well-known MVNOs include IIJmio (running on Docomo’s network), UQ Mobile (KDDI), Y!mobile (SoftBank), and LINEMO (SoftBank).

NTT Docomo holds the distinction of being the sole winner for both Coverage Experience and 5G Coverage Experience, maintaining the broadest geographic footprint of any Japanese mobile operator. Its network delivers reliable connectivity not just in major urban centres but also in rural districts and mountainous terrain. For anyone settling outside a large city, Docomo’s coverage remains the most dependable.

SoftBank delivers strong network performance in cities and is steadily expanding its 5G footprint through shared infrastructure arrangements with KDDI. It is worth noting that MVNO networks can be slower and offer less rural coverage than the main carriers — an important consideration for those planning to live away from urban areas. Always verify current plan pricing on each provider’s website directly, as rates change frequently. For consumer regulatory guidance, consult the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC).

How do I get a landline connected in Japan?

Arranging a residential landline in Japan is a manageable process, though it does involve some documentation, and timelines can vary based on your location and the type of property. For most new connections, NTT East or NTT West will be your primary point of contact, depending on which region you live in. Both offer a degree of English-language assistance through their websites and telephone lines.

Whether you are renting or own your home can influence the steps involved. Renters should first check with their landlord, as some apartments already have phone line infrastructure in place, while others may need a brand-new line installed. Fresh installations tend to involve a longer wait and will usually require a technician to visit your property.

1. Choose your provider and plan. Decide whether you want a traditional telephone line, a fibre-optic Hikari Denwa service, or a bundled home internet and phone package. NTT East or NTT West are the most common starting points. Visit ntt-east.co.jp/english or ntt-west.co.jp/english to explore options.
2. Get in touch with the provider. Call NTT’s general enquiries line (116 from a landline) or submit an application via the NTT website. Contacting NTT East or West directly is advisable, especially if you need to navigate the sign-up process in a language other than Japanese.
3. Gather your documents. You will need to show identification — your passport or Residence Card (Zairyu Card) — along with proof of your registered address. The Zairyu Card is particularly useful as it confirms both your identity and your address in Japan.
4. Confirm what installation work is needed. If new cabling or a connection point needs to be fitted in your building, a technician visit will be arranged. Plan for a lead time of at least one to two weeks from application, and potentially longer in rural areas or newly constructed properties.
5. Arrange payment. Providers will ask you to provide a Japanese bank account for direct debit, or to set up another accepted payment method. Opening a bank account before applying will simplify this step considerably.
6. Receive and test your line. After installation is finished, confirm your assigned number and run a test call. From this point, you can choose from a range of calling plans to match your usage patterns and communication needs.

Some older apartment buildings in Japan operate with shared line infrastructure, which may mean your number comes from a shared pool rather than being a newly issued line. Clarify this with both your landlord and the provider before completing your application. Always verify current document requirements and applicable fees with your chosen provider or through the MIC’s official guidance pages.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Japan?

For people newly arrived in Japan, the mobile market offers two primary routes: prepaid SIM cards (often marketed as tourist or data SIMs) and postpaid contracts. The requirements and features of each differ considerably, so knowing the key distinctions from the outset will spare you unnecessary complications.

Prepaid SIMs represent the most accessible entry point, particularly for those who have just landed and do not yet hold a Residence Card. SIMs can be bought or rented at airport kiosks — including those at Narita and Haneda, where Docomo, au, and SoftBank all operate counters. Electronics chains such as Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera also stock SIM cards. In most cases, a passport alone is all the identification you need. However, some prepaid products provide data connectivity only, with no voice-calling feature — confirm this before purchasing if you need to make phone calls.

Postpaid (contract) plans offer greater functionality, better long-term value, and give you a permanent Japanese phone number. Because Japanese carriers follow strict Know Your Customer (KYC) rules, postpaid contracts are not generally available to visitors without residency documentation. Expats holding a valid Residence Card (Zairyu Card) can apply for a postpaid plan. The documents you will typically need are:

• Passport
• Residence Card (Zairyu Card) — confirms your registered address and residency category
• A Japanese credit card or bank account for billing (some operators accept foreign credit cards, but this varies by provider)

Major carrier stores are often busy, so coming prepared with your passport, bank card, and Residence Card will help the registration move swiftly. Many plans — including popular budget sub-brands such as ahamo (Docomo), povo2.0 (au), and LINEMO (SoftBank) — can also be applied for entirely online.

Compared with some countries where a contract can be opened on the spot with little more than a national ID, Japan’s system places significant weight on residency verification under the Telecommunications Business Act. This means newly arrived expats who have not yet completed address registration at their local municipal office (a process tied to the jūminhyō residency record system) may encounter difficulty opening a postpaid account. Completing this municipal registration promptly after arrival will make the mobile sign-up process considerably more straightforward.

All four of Japan’s major mobile networks support eSIM for contract customers. Setting up a carrier eSIM from Docomo, au, SoftBank, or Rakuten requires identity verification and involves Japanese-language apps and forms, which puts this option effectively out of reach for tourists and very recent arrivals. Once you have established residency status, eSIM activation is generally carried out through each carrier’s dedicated app or online account portal.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Japan?

Japanese telephone providers offer several ways to settle your monthly bill. The most widespread method is automatic bank transfer, where the amount due is deducted directly from your bank account each billing cycle. This is the standard approach for postpaid mobile and landline plans alike, and providers will typically encourage you to set it up when you first sign your contract.

Many operators also allow payment by credit or debit card through their online portals. Alternatively, bills can be settled in person at convenience stores including 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart. This route is particularly handy in the early period after arrival, before you have a Japanese bank account established. You simply bring the payment slip included with your paper bill to the store counter, and the transaction is processed on the spot.

Billing in Japan follows a monthly cycle. Mobile operators send itemised statements either by post or, increasingly, through their apps and online account pages. Most providers now actively promote paperless billing and may offer a modest monthly discount to customers who opt out of receiving printed statements.

Missed payments are taken seriously in Japan. If an outstanding balance is not cleared within the grace period — which typically falls between two and four weeks after the due date, depending on the provider — service may be suspended until the debt is settled. This differs from practices in some other countries, where extended warning periods are standard before any disconnection occurs. Setting up automatic bank transfer (口座振替, koza furikae) from the start is the most reliable safeguard against accidentally missing a payment, particularly if your schedule involves frequent travel.

For prepaid mobile users, credit is topped up by purchasing voucher cards at convenience stores, using the provider’s app, or paying online. These top-up cards are sold widely and are easy to use even without Japanese language proficiency. Always check directly with your provider for the latest payment options, as digital payment methods are expanding rapidly across all major operators.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Japan as a newcomer?

Etiquette and social norms: Phone etiquette in Japan carries considerably more weight than in many other countries. Talking on the phone while travelling on trains or in quiet public spaces is widely regarded as inconsiderate and is explicitly discouraged on most rail networks. Signs reminding passengers to switch phones to silent mode and avoid calls are displayed throughout train carriages. Quietly using your phone for messaging, browsing, or apps is entirely acceptable.

Coverage quality and rural access: Mobile coverage across Japan’s urban areas is strong with all four major operators. Outside major cities, however, the picture varies. Docomo generally delivers the most dependable nationwide coverage, including in remote rural areas and mountainous regions. If you are moving to a non-urban prefecture, it is advisable to check each operator’s coverage map for your specific location before committing to a plan.

International roaming: All four major carriers offer roaming packages for use abroad, though costs can add up quickly for extended trips. Calling internationally through conventional mobile channels or landlines can be expensive. Most expats in Japan opt for VoIP applications such as LINE, WhatsApp, or FaceTime as a far more cost-effective solution for keeping in touch with friends and family overseas.

Number porting (MNP): If you wish to switch carriers while keeping your existing Japanese mobile number, Japan operates a Mobile Number Portability (MNP) system. You first obtain an MNP reservation number (MNP予約番号) from your current operator, then present it when registering with the new carrier. Unlike some countries where porting is completed within hours, the Japanese MNP process generally takes one to several business days, and a brief interruption to service during the changeover is normal. It is not possible to port a foreign number to a Japanese carrier — a new Japanese number must be obtained.

eSIM availability: eSIM adoption is growing in Japan and is actively supported across the four major networks. KDDI (au) introduced eSIM support in 2020 for compatible iPhone and Android models, with activation handled through the au online portal. Docomo, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile similarly offer eSIM to eligible contract holders. For those who have yet to receive residency documentation upon arrival, international eSIM providers such as Airalo or Saily offer data-only plans covering Japan’s networks without requiring local paperwork.

Device compatibility: Japanese SIM cards work with any fully unlocked handset. iPhones are sold unlocked as standard; Android devices may need to be unlocked before accepting a SIM from a different carrier. Confirm that your handset supports the frequency bands used by your chosen Japanese operator, especially if you are using an older or entry-level Android model. 3G services have already been wound down by KDDI (March 2022) and SoftBank (April 2024), and NTT Docomo is scheduled to shut down its 3G network in March 2026. Ensure your phone supports 4G LTE or 5G to guarantee uninterrupted service.

The LINE app: LINE is Japan’s dominant messaging and voice call platform, used by the overwhelming majority of residents for everyday communication. It runs over Wi-Fi and mobile data, is free to use, and is relied upon not only for personal conversations but also by businesses, community groups, and service providers. Setting up LINE shortly after arriving in Japan is strongly recommended as one of your first steps in establishing digital connectivity.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Japan?

No. Japanese mobile carriers are unable to transfer foreign numbers into their systems. When you register for a prepaid SIM or a postpaid contract, you will be given a new Japanese number. Many expats keep access to their overseas number by using a VoIP service such as Google Voice or a home-country app, while running a separate Japanese number for local calls and services.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Japan?

For a prepaid SIM, a passport is generally all you need — no local address is required, making this the simplest option immediately after arrival. For a postpaid contract, you will need a Residence Card (Zairyu Card), which is issued once you have registered your address at your local municipal office. Completing this registration as soon as possible after arriving is strongly advisable.

Can I get a postpaid mobile contract without permanent residency?

Yes. Permanent residency (永住権) is not a prerequisite for taking out a postpaid contract. All major operators accept a valid Residence Card under any long-term residency category — including work, student, and spousal visas. The essential requirements are that your Residence Card is current and reflects a registered address in Japan.

Which mobile network is best for rural areas of Japan?

NTT Docomo remains the sole winner for both Coverage Experience and 5G Coverage Experience, maintaining the most extensive geographic footprint of any mobile operator in Japan. For those living beyond major cities or travelling frequently to rural or mountainous areas, a Docomo plan — or an MVNO operating on Docomo’s network, such as IIJmio — is likely to offer the most consistent and reliable service.

Are there English-language support options from Japanese mobile operators?

All four major operators — Docomo, au, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile — provide a degree of English-language support through their websites, and some assistance is available in English at select retail stores. Rakuten Mobile is generally considered to offer comparatively accessible multilingual support. MVNOs targeting foreign residents, including Sakura Mobile and GTN Mobile, are specifically set up to assist customers in English, which can make both the sign-up process and ongoing support considerably easier to navigate.

How long does it take to get a landline connected in Japan?

Connection timelines for a new NTT landline depend on your area and the state of existing infrastructure in your property. In cities where cabling is already in place, the process can sometimes be completed within one to two weeks. In rural areas, or where new wiring needs to be installed, the wait may be longer. Contact NTT East or NTT West directly to get a realistic estimate for your specific address.

Can I pay my mobile bill in cash at a convenience store?

Yes. Bills can be paid in person at convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart. Your provider will issue a payment slip — either in printed form or digitally — which you present at the counter for immediate processing. This is a particularly practical option for those who have not yet set up a Japanese bank account, though automatic bank transfer is the most common long-term arrangement.

What is the cheapest way to make international calls from Japan?

VoIP and messaging apps — such as LINE, WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Skype — are by far the most affordable way to call internationally from Japan, enabling calls via Wi-Fi or mobile data at minimal or zero cost. Standard mobile roaming charges and international landline rates are significantly more expensive by comparison. For those who regularly call a particular country, international calling cards sold at convenience stores and electronics retailers can also provide competitive rates.