How to Get a Japanese Phone Number | A Complete Guide to Application Methods and Why You Need One

Why You Need a Japanese Phone Number

When living in or traveling to Japan, having a phone number offers numerous benefits.

Especially for foreigners, a Japanese phone number is not just a means of communication but is also directly linked to the ease of daily life, making it extremely important.

Necessity in Daily Life

Having a Japanese phone number is incredibly convenient in the following everyday situations:

Registering and Using LINE

In Japan, LINE is the primary communication tool.

Approximately 84.9% of Japanese people use it, and a phone number is required to create an account.

E-payment Services

E-payment services like PayPay require Japanese phone number verification during registration.

Food Delivery

A phone number is also necessary when using delivery services such as Uber Eats and Wolt.

Online Shopping

Online shops like Mercari and Amazon.jp require a phone number for account registration and identity verification.

Necessity for Public and Administrative Procedures

For long-term residents, a phone number is essential for the following public procedures:

Resident Registration (Juminhyo)

When registering as a resident at a municipal office, you will be asked to provide a phone number as a contact method.

Opening a Bank Account

When opening a bank account in Japan, registering a phone number is mandatory.

My Number Card Application

A phone number is required when applying for Japan's individual number card (My Number Card).

Enrolling in Health Insurance

A phone number is requested for procedures to enroll in National Health Insurance and other plans.

Residence Card-Related Procedures

A phone number is needed as a contact method when renewing your period of stay or changing your status of residence.

Emergency Response

Japan is a country prone to natural disasters.

Having a phone number allows you to take the following emergency actions:

• You can immediately contact emergency services (119 for ambulance/fire) or the police (110).
• You can use the "171 Disaster Message Dial" service to record and check safety information during a disaster.
• It facilitates smooth communication with hospitals, accommodations, and other facilities.

Role as a Form of Identification

In Japan, a phone number is often used as part of identity verification and is utilized in the following situations:

Two-Factor Authentication for Online Services

Many websites and apps require SMS authentication to enhance security.

Ticket Reservations

Registering a phone number is required when purchasing tickets for concerts and events.

Rental Services

A phone number is necessary as a contact method when using rental services for bicycles, cars, and other items.

As shown above, having a Japanese phone number is crucial for making your stay in Japan more convenient and safe.

Especially for those planning a long-term stay, we recommend obtaining a Japanese phone number as early as possible.

Types of Japanese Phone Numbers and Their Features

There are several types of phone numbers in Japan, each used for different purposes.

When foreigners obtain a Japanese phone number, it's important to understand which type of number is needed.

Mobile Phone Numbers (070/080/090)

Features

• 11-digit phone number (the first three digits start with 070, 080, or 090)
• Capable of voice calls and sending/receiving SMS
• Can be used for official identity verification and various applications
• Recognized by most banks and government services

Benefits

• Can be used for all public and private services in Japan
• Can be used for official procedures like opening a bank account and resident registration
• Highly reliable as a means of contact in emergencies

Points to Note

• Usually requires a contract with a mobile phone company
• A Residence Card and other identification are mandatory for the contract
• Incurs a monthly fee

IP Phone Numbers (050)

Features

• 11-digit phone number (the first three digits start with 050)
• A phone service that uses an internet connection
• Voice calls are possible, but many do not support sending/receiving SMS

Benefits

• The barrier to entry for a contract may be lower than for regular mobile phone numbers
• Relatively inexpensive
• Some services can be used even from overseas

Points to Note

• Not accepted for many official procedures or for opening a bank account
• Cannot be used for SMS authentication on some online services
• May not support emergency calls (110/119)

Toll-Free (0120) & Navi Dial (0570)

Features

• Toll-Free: The caller's call is free of charge
• Navi Dial: The caller bears the cost of the call
• Mainly services provided by companies and organizations

Important Points

• These are not numbers assigned to individuals
• Foreigners cannot obtain them for personal use
• Often cannot be connected to when calling from overseas

Landline Numbers (Area Code + Local Number)

Features

• The number of digits varies by region (9-10 digits)
• Starts with an area code that identifies the region
• Tied to a fixed location (address)

Points to Note

• Requires the installation of a fixed line at home or in an office
• Aimed at long-term residents and not practical for short-term visitors
• Contracts are commonly bundled with internet service

For most procedures and services needed in Japan, a mobile phone number (070/080/090) is the most suitable.

While a 050 number can be used for some purposes, it is often not accepted for important procedures. Therefore, if you are planning a long-term stay, we recommend obtaining a mobile phone number starting with 070, 080, or 090.

The next section will explain the specific methods for obtaining these phone numbers.

4 Main Ways to Get a Phone Number

There are several ways to get a Japanese phone number.

Each method has its pros and cons, so choose the best one for your length of stay and purpose.

Below, we explain the four main methods in detail.

Contracting with Major Mobile Carriers

Providers: NTT Docomo, au (KDDI), SoftBank

Benefits

• Stable communication quality and wide area coverage nationwide
• Support for the latest 5G communication
• In-store support available
• Possible to purchase a device and plan as a set

Drawbacks

• Relatively high fees
• Strict screening process for contracts
• Often have minimum usage periods and cancellation fees
• Interactions are primarily in Japanese (some stores offer English support)

What You Need

• Passport
• Residence Card (difficult for short-term visitors to obtain)
• Credit card or bank account
• An address in Japan

Contracting with an MVNO

Providers: Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio, OCN Mobile, LINE MOBILE, etc.

Benefits

• Cheaper than major carriers
• May offer short-term contract plans
• Often possible to sign up online
• Screening may be less strict than with major carriers

Drawbacks

• Communication speed can be slower than major carriers
• Coverage area may be limited
• Limited in-store support
• Multilingual support may be limited

What You Need

• Passport
• Residence Card (some MVNOs also cater to short-term visitors)
• Credit card
• An address in Japan (required by some providers)

Specialized SIM Services for Foreigners

Providers: GTN Mobile, etc.

Benefits

• Support available in English and other languages
• Screening criteria are adjusted for foreigners
• Often available for pickup at the airport
• Can be reserved online before arriving in Japan

Drawbacks

• Can be more expensive than general MVNOs
• May have limitations on data capacity and communication speed
• Not all services are optimized for foreigners

What You Need

• Passport
• Credit card (in many cases, foreign-issued cards are accepted)

Purchasing a Prepaid SIM/eSIM

Providers: GTN Prepaid SIM, etc.

Benefits

• No contract required, can be used immediately
• A wide variety of limited-time plans
• Can be obtained without a screening process

Drawbacks

• Many are data-only (no phone number)
• Even if a phone number is included, it is often a 050 number
• Often for a limited period
• Fees increase with data capacity

What You Need

• Passport
• Payment method (cash, credit card, etc.)

How to Choose a Method

If you are planning a long-term stay, we recommend choosing a service that allows you to obtain a mobile phone number starting with 070/080/090, which is widely accepted for official procedures.

For short-term stays, if your main purpose is data communication, a prepaid SIM or eSIM is also a convenient option.

The next section will detail how to get a phone number before you arrive in Japan.

How to Get a Phone Number Before Arriving in Japan

By securing a phone number before you arrive in Japan, you can use internet and call services immediately upon arrival.

Especially for first-time visitors to Japan, having a means of communication right after landing provides great peace of mind.

How to Reserve and Purchase Online

Utilizing Specialized SIM Services for Foreigners

GTN Prepaid SIM

Overview in 30 seconds

GTN Prepaid SIM is a prepaid SIM for short to medium-term visitors, offering data-only plans for a minimum of 7 days to a maximum of 90 days, and voice + data plans that allow immediate acquisition of a Japanese phone number.

Not sold at convenience stores

Available for purchase at:

• Web application (home delivery / eSIM)
• GTN directly managed stores (Tokyo - Shin-Okubo / Osaka)
• Chubu Centrair International Airport Station Meitetsu Travel Plaza
• GTN Korea Seoul Branch

Application possible with passport only

• No residency period conditions, available for foreign visitors to Japan

Customer support in 13 languages

• Including Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Nepali, Mongolian, etc.

*Data-only eSIM also supports online applications before arriving in Japan.

運営会社	Global Trust Networks Co., Ltd.
料金	Pricing & Plans Data-Only SIM / eSIM For those prioritizing internet connectivity for streaming, navigation, and social media. Data Capacity Duration Price (Tax Incl.) 30 GB 7 Days ¥3,000 10 GB 30 Days ¥3,000 50 GB 30 Days ¥5,000 135 GB 90 Days ¥10,000 Voice + Data SIM Ideal for those who need a local phone number for calls and SMS authentication. Data Capacity 30-Day Plan 90-Day Plan 5 GB ¥6,500 ¥15,980 15 GB ¥9,500 ¥22,980 25 GB ¥12,500 ¥28,980 Note on Voice Plans: > * Domestic Calls: ¥22 per 30 seconds. SMS (Domestic): ¥3.3 to ¥33 per message. Additional charges apply for these services. Information as of February 2026.
公式HP	https://www.gtn-mobile.com/

Four Features

Flexible Plan Structure Supporting Short to Medium Term Stays 

Data-only plans are available for 7 to 90 days, and Voice + Data plans for 30 to 90 days. You can choose a plan that matches your stay duration, from a one-week business trip to a three-month medium-term stay.

Application Possible with Just One Passport 

No credit card, bank account, or residence card is required. There are no restrictions based on the period of stay, so it can be used by foreign visitors to Japan, short-term visitors, and foreign residents in Japan.

Multilingual Customer Support 

Supports languages including Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Nepali, and Mongolian. Even those who are not confident in Japanese can consult in their native language.

Supports Online Application Before Arriving in Japan (Data-only eSIM) 

Data-only eSIM plans allow online application and activation preparation before arriving in Japan. You can secure communication from the moment you arrive at the airport.

Recommended Plans by Use Case

Where to Purchase

How to Get a Phone Number After Arriving in Japan

There are also several ways to get a phone number after you arrive in Japan.

This is useful if you want to compare your options after arrival or if you suddenly find yourself in need of a phone number.

Purchasing at an Electronics Store

Major Electronics Stores

• Bic Camera
• Yodobashi Camera
• Edion
• Yamada Denki

How to Purchase

1. Go to the mobile phone/SIM card section in the store.
2. Consult with staff who can speak foreign languages (large stores often have English-speaking staff).
3. Present the necessary documents and fill out the application form.
4. Receive the SIM card on the spot and complete the activation process.

Benefits

• You can choose while getting advice on the spot.
• You can check the actual devices.
• You can receive staff support.
• Same-day activation is possible.

Points to Note

• It can be time-consuming during busy periods.
• Not all stores offer foreign language support.
• Options are limited if you do not have a Residence Card.

Contracting at a Mobile Phone Shop

Major Carrier Shops

• NTT Docomo Shop
• au Shop
• SoftBank Shop
• Rakuten Mobile Shop

How to Contract

1. Making a reservation in advance can shorten your waiting time (reservations can be made on each company's official website).
2. Visit the store with the necessary documents.
3. Discuss plans with the staff.
4. Fill out the contract documents and undergo a screening.
5. Receive the SIM card after passing the screening.

Benefits

• You can receive detailed explanations from specialized staff.
• Contracts bundled with a device are also possible.
• Stable communication quality.

Drawbacks

• The contract process can take 2-3 hours.
• Screening is strict, and short-term visitors often cannot get a contract.
• Stores with English support are limited.

Purchasing at a Specialized Shop for Foreigners

Major Specialized Shops

• GTN Mobile (at various GTN offices)

How to Purchase

1. Visit the store (reservations are recommended).
2. Present the necessary documents.
3. Choose the optimal plan while consulting with the staff.
4. Receive the SIM card on the spot and complete the activation process.

Benefits

• Comprehensive support in English and other languages.
• Understanding of the unique circumstances of foreigners.
• Screening criteria are often relaxed.

Necessary Documents

• Passport
• Residence Card (for long-term residents)
• Credit card or cash

If you need a phone number immediately after arriving in Japan, using a SIM counter at the airport or a specialized shop for foreigners is the easiest way.

On the other hand, if you want to take your time choosing or have no concerns about Japanese, consulting at an electronics store or a mobile phone shop will give you more options to choose from.

What is an MVNO? How to Get a Phone Number for Cheap

By using an MVNO, you can often get a Japanese phone number more cheaply than with major carriers.

Here, we explain what an MVNO is, its benefits and drawbacks, and recommend some MVNO services.

MVNO Basics

MVNO stands for ";Mobile Virtual Network Operator."

These are businesses that do not own their own communication networks (like base stations) but instead lease them from major carriers (NTT Docomo, au, SoftBank, etc.) to provide low-cost SIMs and communication services.

Key Points

• They lease their communication infrastructure.
• Their main feature is offering cheap rate plans.
• Examples: Rakuten Mobile (in its early days), IIJmio, mineo, OCN Mobile ONE, etc.

Simply put, they are "companies that sell communication services cheaply using the networks of major carriers."

Differences Between MVNOs and Major Carriers

Source/Reference: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications reports on mobile phone contracts, MVNO guidelines, and initiatives for facilitating mobile phone use by foreigners.

Points to Note and Required Documents When Getting a Number

When getting a phone number in Japan, it's important to understand a few key points and the necessary documents in advance.

Here, we provide detailed information you should know for a smooth process.

Differences Based on Residence Status

The difficulty of obtaining a phone number and the required documents vary depending on your residence status in Japan.

For Tourist Visas (Short-Term Stay)

Available Services

• Prepaid SIMs (often data-only)
• Specialized services for foreigners (e.g., Sakura Mobile, Mobal)
• Some MVNOs (providers with lenient screening)

Required Documents

• Passport
• Credit card or cash
• Information about your accommodation (if required)

Points to Note

• Contracts with major carriers are generally not possible.
• Obtaining a voice-enabled number (070/080/090) is only possible through limited services.
• Choose a contract period that matches your length of stay.

For Work/Student Visas (Mid- to Long-Term Stay)

Available Services

• Major carriers (requires passing a screening)
• Various MVNOs
• Specialized services for foreigners

Required Documents

• Passport
• Residence Card
• Credit card or bank account information
• Proof of address (the address on your Residence Card)

Points to Note

• You may not pass the screening if your period of stay is short.
• Major carriers usually require a period of stay of at least 6 months to sign a contract.
• A Japanese credit card or bank account is often required for payment.

For Permanent Residents, Spouses of Japanese Nationals, etc.

Available Services

• All services (on almost the same terms as Japanese citizens)

Required Documents

• Residence Card
• Credit card or bank account information
• Proof of address (if required)

Points to Note

• There are basically no restrictions.
• Your credit history may affect the screening process.

Details of Required Documents

Passport

• Must be valid.
• The photo page and the page with your residence status are required.
• The original is often required, not a copy.

Residence Card

• Both the front and back are required.
• Your current address must be accurately written on it.
• Must be valid.

Credit Card

• Must be in your name.
• International brands like Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express.
• Debit cards may be accepted in some cases.

Proof of Address

• Must match the address on your Residence Card.
• A utility bill (electricity, gas, water).
• A copy of your resident certificate (juminhyo) issued within the last 3 months.

Common Problems During Contracts and How to Solve Them

If You Don't Pass the Screening

Possible Reasons

• Your period of stay is too short.
• You have a history of unpaid bills.
• There are issues with your identification documents.
• Your payment method is not established.

Solutions

• Try an MVNO or a service for foreigners with more lenient screening.
• Ask a Japanese acquaintance to sign the contract for you and use it as a family line (family discounts may apply).
• Use a prepaid SIM temporarily and apply again after your period of stay is extended.

If You Don't Understand Japanese

Solutions

• Look for stores with English support (check official websites).
• Use a service for foreigners (e.g., GTN Mobile, Sakura Mobile).
• Ask a friend or acquaintance who speaks Japanese to accompany you.
• Prepare a translation app.

If You Don't Have a Japanese Bank Account or Credit Card

Solutions

• Choose a service that supports cash or convenience store payments.
• Choose an MVNO that accepts international credit cards.
• Use a prepaid service.
• Many services for foreigners accept foreign-issued credit cards.

If the Process Takes a Long Time

Solutions

• Choose a service that allows online applications.
• Make a store reservation in advance.
• Prepare all necessary documents beforehand.
• Avoid busy times like weekends and evenings.

What to Prepare in Advance

Check and Prepare Necessary Documents

• Prepare copies of your passport and Residence Card in advance.
• Confirm and prepare your payment method.

Research the Company You Want to Contract With

• Check the official website for rate plans and required documents.
• Check for foreign language support.
• Check if a store reservation is necessary.

Check Your Device

• Check if your phone needs to be SIM-unlocked.
• Check if it supports Japanese communication bands.
• If using an eSIM, be ready to scan a QR code.

Preparation for a Store Visit

• Don't forget to bring the necessary documents.
• Allow plenty of time for your visit (the process can take 1-2 hours).
• Bring your mobile phone (so you can set it up immediately).

With advance preparation and the right information, even foreigners can get a Japanese phone number smoothly.

Especially if there is a language barrier, choosing a service specifically for foreigners will allow you to get a Japanese phone number without stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to frequently asked questions from foreigners about getting a Japanese phone number.

Q: Can I get a Japanese phone number on a tourist visa (short-term stay)?

A: Yes, it's possible. For short-term visitors, the following options are available:

• Specialized services for foreigners
• Prepaid SIM cards
• eSIMs

Q: What is the difference between phone number types (070/080/090 and 050)?

A: The main differences are as follows:

• 070/080/090 numbers: Standard mobile phone numbers that support voice calls and SMS. They are widely accepted for official procedures.
• 050 numbers: IP phone numbers used mainly for calls over the internet. They are often not usable for official procedures and frequently do not support SMS.

For official procedures and opening a bank account, a phone number starting with 070/080/090 is recommended.

Q: What documents are required for a contract?

A: It depends on your residence status.

• Tourist visa (short-term stay): Passport only (for some services).
• Mid- to long-term residents: Passport, Residence Card, and proof of payment method.
• Common to all cases: A credit card or payment method in your name.

Q: What should I do if I don't have a credit card?

A: You have the following options:

• Choose a service that supports convenience store payments (like GTN Mobile).
• Use a service that accepts debit cards.
• Choose a prepaid service.
• Sign a contract at a store that accepts cash payments.

Q: How can I get a contract if I don't speak Japanese?

A: The following methods are recommended:

• Use a service for foreigners with English support.
• Look for major carrier stores with English support (check their official websites).
• Ask an acquaintance who speaks Japanese to accompany you.
• Choose a service with an English-supported online contract process.

Q: Which service is suitable if my period of stay is only 3 months?

A: The following services are recommended:

• Specialized services for foreigners
• Some MVNOs
• Prepaid SIMs

It's important to choose a service with no long-term contract lock-in.

Q: How can I make international calls with a Japanese phone number?

A: You can use the following methods:

• Dial the international access code (010) + country code + the other party's phone number (starting from the area code).
• On a mobile phone, press and hold the "0" key to get a "+" sign, then dial + country code + the other party's phone number.
• Using an international calling app (like Skype, LINE, etc.) is cheaper.

Q: Are there contract lock-in periods?

A: It varies by service.

• Major carriers: Often have 1-2 year contract periods, and early termination may incur a penalty fee.
• MVNOs: An increasing number of plans have no lock-in period.
• Services for foreigners: Most do not have contract lock-in periods.

Q: How do I cancel my contract when I leave Japan?

A: It varies by service.

• Major carriers: Cancellation is usually done in-store (identity verification is required).
• MVNOs: Online cancellation is often possible.
• Prepaid SIMs: In most cases, no procedure is necessary.

When canceling, you will need to settle any outstanding charges. Before canceling, be sure to check the following:

• Potential cancellation fees if you are terminating within the contract period.
• Whether your final bill will be prorated.
• Whether you need MNP (Mobile Number Portability).

Q: Do I need a Japanese phone number even for a short trip (about 1 week)?

A: It's not essential, but it is convenient in the following cases:

• If you need to make reservations or inquiries within Japan.
• If you will be in frequent contact with Japanese friends or business partners.
• If you want to use Japanese domestic services or apps.
• As a means of contact in an emergency.

For short-term travelers, a data-only prepaid SIM or a rental WiFi are also good options.

Q: What's a convenient option if I'm coming to Japan with my family?

A: You have the following options:

• Choose a service with a family discount (major carriers or MVNOs).
• Utilize a data-sharing plan (use multiple SIMs under one contract).
• Choose services according to each family member's usage needs.
• Consider services with parental controls for children.

Q: Can I use a foreign-made smartphone without the Technical Conformity Mark (Giteki Mark) on Japanese networks?

A: Using a device without the Giteki Mark on Japanese networks is legally restricted, but an exception is made for short-term visitors (within 90 days) for tourism purposes.

However, please note the following:

• The device must support Japanese communication bands.
• Some functions may be restricted.
• Long-term residents are recommended to use a device with the Giteki Mark.

Please use this information to choose the best method for getting a Japanese phone number for your situation.

If you have any questions, we recommend contacting the customer support of each service provider.

Summary

Getting a Japanese phone number is a very important step to make your stay in Japan smoother.

From short-term travelers to long-term residents, there are methods to suit everyone's needs.

By making the right choice based on your length of stay, you can ensure a comfortable internet environment during your trip to Japan.

We hope you get a Japanese phone num