Docomo Mobile Plans | Types, Fees, Advantages & Disadvantages Comparison, and How to Choose the Best Plan

Overview of Docomo Mobile Plans

NTT Docomo is Japan's largest mobile phone company, boasting an extensive network that covers 99% of the national population.

Docomo's mobile plans are fundamentally composed of a "monthly basic fee," "call charges," and "SMS charges," allowing customers to choose the most suitable plan based on their data usage and call frequency.

Docomo's plans primarily include the following costs:

Initial Costs

Contract fee: ¥3,850 (applicable for in-store contracts; not required for online shop purchases)

Monthly Fees

• Basic fee (charges based on data usage)
• Call charges (22 yen/30 seconds; some plans offer benefits such as free calls within 5 minutes)
• SMS charges (vary depending on the number of characters sent)

Additionally, depending on the plan, various discount services can be applied to further reduce the monthly fee.

Introduction to the Latest 2025 Plans

Docomo has introduced a new pricing plan structure starting from June 5, 2025.

These new plans are designed not only with differences in data capacity but also to be selectable based on users' lifestyles and benefits offered.

docomo MAX

docomo MAX is docomo’s flagship plan that combines all of docomo’s benefits with unlimited data communication.

Monthly Fees (Tax Included)

• Up to 1GB: ¥5,698 (After discounts: ¥2,398)
• Over 1GB to 3GB: ¥6,798 (After discounts: ¥3,498)
• Over 3GB to unlimited: ¥8,448 (After discounts: ¥5,148)

Features

• Unlimited data usage (with some restrictions during network congestion)
• Up to a 6-month discount of ¥600 per month, equivalent to the Amazon Prime monthly membership fee
• Unlimited access to the sports live streaming service “DAZN for docomo”
• Free international roaming up to 30GB (effective from September 2025)
• “Long-term Use Discount” offering up to ¥220 off per month (scheduled to start from October 2025)

After applying discounts: You can effectively use the over 3GB to unlimited plan for ¥5,148/month after various discounts (such as the “Minna docomo Discount,” “d Card Payment Discount,” and “docomo Hikari Set Discount”).

Docomo Poi-katsu MAX

In addition to the benefits of "Docomo MAX," this is a points-focused plan that allows you to earn d POINTs by using eligible payment methods.

Features

• Unlimited data usage (some restrictions apply during network congestion, etc.)
• Up to 10% d POINT cashback when using eligible payments (such as d CARD or d Payment)
• Maximum cashback limit of 5,000 points per month
• Various benefits identical to Docomo MAX (Amazon Prime discount, unlimited DAZN streaming, etc.)

Docomo Poi-katsu 20

This is a two-tiered plan designed for users who do not consume a large amount of data but want to take advantage of point rewards.

Features

• Up to 5% d point cashback on eligible payments (maximum 2,500 points per month)
• 6-month discount on Amazon Prime
• Compared to Poi-Katsu MAX, data allowance and cashback rate are modest, but the monthly fee is also kept affordable

Docomo mini

A simple plan designed for users with low data usage who want to keep their monthly communication costs down.

Features

• Low price with the minimum necessary data allowance
• 3-month Amazon Prime discount
• Compatible with "d Card Payment Discount," "Docomo Hikari/home 5G Set Discount," and "Docomo Electricity Set Discount"

This plan is ideal for those who use little data or prioritize cost efficiency.

Popular Conventional Plans

We also introduce the traditional plans that are accepting new applications until June 4, 2025.

These plans remain popular among foreigners staying long-term.

ahamo

A simple plan characterized by entirely online procedures.

Features

• Free domestic calls up to 5 minutes
• Data usage available in 91 countries overseas (up to 15 days)
• Completely online process (Japanese only)
• Affordable pricing due to simplicity and lack of unnecessary features

Note：Foreign nationals can also subscribe; however, there have been reported cases where online identity verification did not pass. In such cases, one option is to first join a different plan at a DOCOMO shop and then switch to ahamo.

irumo

This plan is designed for users who want to keep their monthly fees low with a small amount of data usage.

Features

• Free domestic calls up to 5 minutes
• Economical even with low data usage
• Data communication available overseas with the optional "Sekai Sono Mama Giga" add-on

irumo is suitable for those who want to use Docomo’s high-quality network with minimal communication charges.

Docomo Contract Guide for Foreigners

Here are the key points for foreigners to proceed smoothly with a Docomo contract in Japan.

Required Documents and Preparation

The following documents are required when contracting a DOCOMO plan:

Identity Verification Documents (one of the following):

• Residence rification Documents (one of the following):Card (must be within the validity period)
• Passport
• Information for a payment card or bank account

Preparation for Payment Methods

Credit Card (must be in the name of the contract holder)

For bank transfer, a Japanese bank account is required

Important Points

• If the remaining validity period on the Residence Card is less than 3 months, payment can only be made using a credit card in the name of the contract holder.
• The same applies if the My Number Card or Basic Resident Register Card has less than 3 months remaining before expiration.

Contract Application Process

There are two main ways for foreigners to enter into a contract with Docomo:

Applying In-Store

• Apply at Docomo shops, electronics retailers, or general sales stores
• Bring the required documents
• It is advisable to confirm in advance whether interpretation services or English support are available at the store
• Estimated time required: approximately 1 to 3 hours

Applying Online

• Apply through the Docomo Online Shop
• The website is available in Japanese only
• Identity verification is completed entirely online
• Estimated time required: approximately 30 minutes (for those proficient in Japanese)

Recommendation

If you are not confident in your Japanese language skills, we recommend either visiting the store with a Japanese-fluent acquaintance or choosing a store that offers English support. Particularly in-store, since explanations and contract document verifications can take considerable time, having language assistance provides peace of mind.

About the Screening Process

At Docomo, even after completing the application, there is a screening process before the service can actually be used.

Key Points

• Foreign nationals may fail the screening review in some cases.
• Especially for ahamo (the fully online plan), identity verification is strict, and many applicants fail the screening.
• As a countermeasure if you fail the screening, you can first contract with a different plan at a Docomo shop and then switch plans afterward.

Services and Options Available for Overseas Use

Docomo's services are designed with international use in mind and offer a variety of options tailored for overseas customers.

International Roaming Service

This service allows you to use your Docomo mobile phone overseas.

"Sekai Sono Mama Giga" (World As Is Giga):

• Enables the use of data capacity contracted in Japan while abroad
• With the new 2025 plans, "Docomo MAX" and "Docomo Poikatsu MAX," you can use up to 30GB overseas without additional charges (from September 2025 onward)
• The ahamo plan offers up to 15 days of overseas data communication in 91 countries without extra charges

Available Countries by Region: Service is available in over 200 countries and regions worldwide; however, fees and restrictions vary depending on the country.

For more details, please refer to Docomo’s official website.

International Calls and SMS

This service covers calls and SMS sending from Japan to overseas destinations.

Examples of International Call Rates (per 30 seconds, in Japanese yen):

• United States/Canada: 34 yen during weekdays daytime, 31 yen during nights and holidays
• United Kingdom/France/Germany: 108 yen during weekdays daytime, 78 yen during nights and holidays
• Australia: 68 yen during weekdays daytime, 63 yen during nights and holidays
• Taiwan: 57 yen during weekdays daytime, 49 yen during nights and holidays

Examples of International SMS Rates:

• Between 50 yen and 500 yen, depending on the number of characters in the message

Detailed country-specific rates can be confirmed on NTT Docomo’s official website.

Payment Methods

Docomo offers the following main options for fee payments:

Credit Card Payment:

• The most convenient and common payment method.
• Especially recommended for foreigners, particularly short-term visitors.
• Using the d-card applies the d-card payment discount, reducing the monthly fee.

Bank Account Transfer:

• Requires a Japanese bank account.
• Opening an account can be challenging for foreigners visiting Japan for the first time.

Invoice Payment:

• Payment can be made at convenience stores and other locations.
• May not be available for certain plans.

Recommendation: For foreign customers, credit card payment is the simplest and most reliable option. In particular, obtaining Docomo’s d-card offers the added benefit of a monthly fee discount.

Short-Term Plans for Foreign Visitors

Prepaid plans are convenient for short-term visitors staying for a few days to a few weeks.

Prepaid SIM for Foreign Visitors Provided by Docomo

Data-only SIM cards are available for purchase at airports and electronics stores. No contract procedures are required, and you can start using them immediately.

How to Use English Support

Docomo also provides support services in English.

Options for English Support

English-speaking phone support: 

• Telephone countern: 0120-005-250
• Hours of operation: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (open daily)

In-store support:

• Docomo Shops offer telephone interpretation services
• Advance reservation required; supported languages
• reservation methods vary by store)

English Website:

• Basic information is available on Docomo’s English website 
• URL: https://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/english/

Note: ahamo provides support exclusively online and only in Japanese, which may not be suitable for non-Japanese speakers who are uncomfortable with the language.

Key Points and Recommendations for Choosing a Plan

This section introduces key points and recommended plans for foreigners when selecting a DOCOMO plan.

Recommended Plans by Length of Stay

Short-term (less than 90 days):

• Prepaid SIMs provided by MVNOs such as Sakura Mobile

Especially suitable for short-term visitors with tourism purposes

Medium-term (90 days to 1 year):

• irumo (for low data usage)
• ahamo (if Japanese language proficiency is not an issue)
• Docomo mini (available from June 2025 onward)

Long-term (more than 1 year):

• Docomo MAX (for heavy data users)
• Docomo Poikatsu MAX/20 (for those who want to utilize point rewards)
• irumo (for low data usage)

Recommendations by Usage Style

Light Users (Low data usage):

• irumo (3GB–9GB)
• docomo mini (4GB/10GB)

Heavy Users (High data usage):

• ahamo (30GB/110GB)
• docomo MAX (unlimited)

Frequent International Callers:

• Consider additional international calling options
• Also consider using IP phone apps (LINE, WhatsApp, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Can Foreign Nationals Apply for DOCOMO Plans?

Yes, foreign nationals can apply for DOCOMO plans. However, identification documents such as a residence card or passport are required. If the period of stay is less than three months, payment must be made using a credit card under the applicant's name.

Can I sign a contract even if I don’t understand Japanese?

At docomo shops, contracts can be made using a telephone interpretation service. However, advance reservation is required. Additionally, some stores offer support in English, so it is recommended to confirm this beforehand. Online applications are basically only available in Japanese.

Can I Use Docomo’s Plans for Short-Term Tourist Trips?

Docomo’s standard contract plans are primarily designed for medium- to long-term residents. For short-term tourists, prepaid SIM cards offered by MVNO providers are recommended. These can be picked up at the airport and come with plans tailored to the length of your stay.

Can I use my Docomo mobile phone overseas?

Yes, with most of Docomo’s plans, you can use data roaming overseas by subscribing to the optional “Sekai Sono Mama Giga” (World As Is Giga) service. Additionally, with ahamo, data roaming is available free of charge for up to 15 days in 91 countries. The new plans, “Docomo MAX” and “Docomo Poikatsu MAX,” offer free international roaming up to 30GB (starting from September 2025).

What Should I Do If I Don't Have a Credit Card?

If your period of stay is more than three months, payment via direct debit is also possible. However, a Japanese bank account is required. If you do not have either a credit card or a bank account, we recommend that you first consider opening a bank account.

Summary

Docomo’s mobile plans offer a wide range of options that cater to diverse needs, making them an attractive choice for foreigners as well.

Starting from June 2025, a new pricing system will be introduced, making the service even more user-friendly.

Key points to consider when choosing a plan include length of stay, data usage, frequency of international calls, and available support languages.

Additionally, proper identification documents and payment methods are required for the contract process.

For foreigners staying in Japan long-term, Docomo’s service—with its stable network—is highly convenient.

Short-term visitors may also want to consider prepaid SIM cards from MVNOs.

Whichever plan you choose, it is important to gather thorough information beforehand and select a plan that best fits your lifestyle.

We hope this article serves as a helpful guide in choosing your communication environment in Japan.