SoftBank Mobile Plans: The Complete Guide | Comparing Plan Types, Prices, Pros & Cons, and How to Choose the Best One

SoftBank Mobile Plan Overview

SoftBank is a major telecommunications carrier that forms one of Japan's big three (along with NTT Docomo and au).

While low-cost SIMs have become more prominent in recent years, SoftBank continues to attract many customers with its stable communication quality and comprehensive services.

SoftBank's mobile plans are fundamentally structured as follows:

SoftBank's plans can be broadly categorized into the following four types:

Unlimited & High-Volume Data Plans: For heavy users who consume a lot of data.

Low-Data Plans: For those with low data usage.

Beginner-Friendly Plans: For those getting their first smartphone.

Plans for Visitors & Short-Term Stays: For foreign visitors and those returning to Japan temporarily.

Let's take a closer look at the details of each plan.

Main Plans: Unlimited & High-Volume Data

Paytoku Unlimited

This plan is promoted as "a plan that gives you great value with PayPay."

Basic Information

• Monthly Fee: ¥9,625 (tax incl.)
• Data Allowance: Unlimited (*conditions apply)
• Call Charges: ¥22/30 seconds

Features and Limitations

• Earn an incredible amount of PayPay Points when shopping with PayPay (up to 10% back).
• Speeds may be restricted during certain time periods.
• Speed is throttled to a maximum of 4.5 Mbps if monthly usage, including tethering, exceeds 200GB.
• Data sharing is limited to 50GB.
• PayPay Points cannot be withdrawn or transferred.

Pros

• Use data without worrying about the amount.
• Great value for PayPay users due to point rewards.
• Ideal for high-volume data users.

Cons

• The basic fee is relatively high.
• Feels expensive if you don't use PayPay.
• Speed is restricted after exceeding 200GB.

Merihari Unlimited+

The concept of this plan is "Automatic discounts! No waste, whether you use a lot of data or a little." The fee is automatically adjusted based on data usage.

Basic Information

• Monthly Fee: ¥7,425 (tax incl.)
• An automatic discount of ¥1,650 is applied in months when data usage is 2GB or less.
• Data Allowance: Unlimited (*conditions apply)
• Call Charges: ¥22/30 seconds

Features and Limitations

• If usage exceeds 200GB/month, speed is controlled to a level that does not affect normal use (max 4.5 Mbps).
• Tethering and data sharing are limited to a total of 50GB.
• Speed may be controlled during times of heavy traffic, such as from videos and games.
• The monthly fee can potentially be significantly reduced by applying various discounts.

Discount Example

For a family of three, with a SoftBank Hikari/Air subscription, and paying with a PayPay Card:

• Normal month: ¥4,928/month (tax incl.)
• Month with 2GB or less usage: ¥3,278/month (tax incl.)

Pros

• No waste, as the fee varies with monthly data usage.
• The fee becomes significantly cheaper with family and home internet bundle discounts.
• A discount is automatically applied in months with low data usage.

Cons

• The fee is high for a single contract.
• Tethering is limited to 50GB.
• Speed is restricted after exceeding 200GB.

Low-Data & Beginner Plans

Mini Fit Plan+

Offered as "an affordable plan where you only pay for the data you use," this plan is for those with low data usage.

Basic Information

• Monthly Fee: Varies based on usage
• 0GB: ¥2,178/month (tax incl.) *With home internet bundle discount
• ~1GB: ¥3,278/month (tax incl.)
• ~2GB: ¥4,378/month (tax incl.)
• ~3GB: ¥5,478/month (tax incl.)
• Data Allowance: Up to 3GB
• Call Charges: ¥22/30 seconds

Features and Limitations

• If monthly data usage exceeds 3GB, speed is restricted to a maximum of 128kbps until the end of the month.
• Unused data cannot be carried over to the next month.
• Cannot be used with Family Data Share or Corporate Data Share.

Calling Options

• Semi-Flat-Rate Option+: ¥880/month (tax incl.), unlimited domestic calls up to 5 minutes each.
• Flat-Rate Option+: ¥1,980/month (tax incl.), unlimited domestic calls 24/7.

Pros

• Ideal for low-data users as you only pay for what you use.
• Simple to use in combination with calling options.
• The fee can be further reduced with the home internet bundle discount.

Cons

• The speed becomes extremely slow if you use more than 3GB.
• Can become expensive in months with high data usage.

Smartphone Debut Plan+

This plan is designed for those getting their first smartphone, switching from a feature phone, and for young people aged 5 to 22.

Basic Information

• Eligibility:
  • New contract (ages 5-22)
  • Changing from a feature phone to a smartphone
  • Switching from another carrier's feature phone
• Monthly Fee and Data:
  • Lite (4GB):
    • For 1 year: ¥1,078/month (tax incl.)
    • From the 14th month: ¥2,266/month (tax incl.)
  • Basic (20GB):
    • For 1 year: ¥2,728/month (tax incl.)
    • From the 14th month: ¥3,916/month (tax incl.)
• Call Charges: ¥22/30 seconds

Features and Support

• Users 60 and over can get the "60+ Call Discount," reducing the flat-rate calling option to ¥880/month.
• Free consultation service with a Smartphone Advisor®.
• Enhanced support with "Mobile Anything Support" (¥550/month, first month free).

Limitations

• Cannot be combined with some discounts like the Ouchi-wari Hikari Set and Long-Term User Benefits.
• The New Everyone Family Discount is not applied (but the line counts towards the family member total).
• Speed is restricted to a maximum of 128kbps until the end of the month after exceeding 4GB/20GB.

Pros

• Extremely reasonable price for the first year.
• Comprehensive support for beginners.
• Calling discount available for seniors.

Cons

• The price increases after the first year.
• Cannot be combined with some discount services.
• Speed is restricted even on the 20GB plan after exceeding the limit.

Plans for Visitors & Short-Term Stays

Prepaid SIM for Travel

This is a data-only prepaid SIM service for foreign visitors and those on short-term stays.

Basic Information

• Price: Open price
• Data Allowance: 3GB (during campaign, normally 1GB)
• Validity Period: 31 days
• Calling Function: None (data only)
• Additional Plan: 500MB/31-day plan for ¥1,650 (tax incl.) *No longer available for purchase as of February 18, 2025.

Usage Conditions and Requirements

• A SIM-unlocked device is required.
• Only individuals 18 years or older can sign up.
• Original passport is required.
• A device with a camera function is needed for the contract procedure.

Purchase Locations

• SoftBank shops
• Electronics retail stores
• SoftBank rental counters at airports, etc.

Pros

• Ideal for short-term stays.
• Relatively easy contract procedure.
• Can use SoftBank's stable network.

Cons

• Does not support voice calls.
• Data allowance is small.
• A credit card is required for additional data top-ups.

Other Options

For foreign visitors and short-term residents, there are other options besides the official Prepaid SIM for Travel:

• Temporary Rental Wi-Fi at the Airport
  • Pros: Easy procedure, can be used immediately.
  • Cons: Must be returned, daily rental fees apply.
• Prepaid SIMs from other MVNOs
  • Pros: Many options available, some are relatively inexpensive.
  • Cons: Communication quality may be inferior to major carriers.
• eSIM
  • Pros: No physical SIM card needed, can be issued instantly online.
  • Cons: Compatible devices are limited.

Discount Services to Lower Plan Costs

SoftBank offers various discount services, and by using them wisely, you can significantly reduce your monthly fees.

Family Discount

The New Everyone Family Discount is applied when family members use SoftBank.

• Discount Amount:
  • For 2 people: ¥660 (tax incl.)
  • For 3 or more people: ¥1,210 (tax incl.)
• Conditions: Subscribing to an eligible data plan within the same family discount group.
• Exclusions: The "Smartphone Debut Plan+" is not eligible for the discount but is counted as a family line.

Home Bundle Discount

The Ouchi-wari Hikari Set is a discount for using SoftBank Hikari or SoftBank Air in a bundle.

• Discount Amount: ¥1,100 (tax incl.)
• Conditions: Subscribing to an eligible fixed-line communication service and using an eligible mobile plan.
• Note: Not applicable to some plans (e.g., "Smartphone Debut Plan+").

Other Discounts

• PayPay Card Discount: A ¥187 (tax incl.) discount for paying with a PayPay Card.
• Long-Term User Benefits: Perks for long-term users (not applicable to some plans).
• Student Discount: Campaigns for students (limited time).

By combining multiple discounts, significant savings are possible. For example, the "Merihari Unlimited+" plan, normally ¥7,425 (tax incl.), can be reduced to ¥4,928 (tax incl.) for a family of three with the home bundle discount and paying by PayPay Card.

Calling Options

SoftBank's basic call charge is ¥22/30 seconds, but calling options are recommended for those who make frequent calls.

Semi-Flat-Rate Option+

• Monthly Fee: ¥880 (tax incl.)
• Details: Unlimited domestic calls, each up to 5 minutes long.
• After Exceeding: Calls longer than 5 minutes are charged at ¥22 per 30 seconds.

Flat-Rate Option+

• Monthly Fee: ¥1,980 (tax incl.)
• Details: Unlimited domestic calls, 24/7.
• Benefit for 60+: For users 60 and over on the "Smartphone Debut Plan+," the fee is discounted to ¥880 (tax incl.).

Common Benefits

Both options include the following services:

• Voicemail Plus
• Call Waiting
• Group Call
• Fixed Amount Stop Service

Important Notes

• International roaming calls, international calls, calls to satellite phones, etc., are not covered by the free calling.
• Some numbers, such as Navi Dial (numbers starting with 0570), are excluded.
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SoftBank's Network Quality and Coverage Area

SoftBank operates an extensive network throughout Japan, providing fast and stable communication services.

Communication Speed

• Actual measured speeds on iOS devices:
  • Download speed: 90Mbps–163Mbps
  • Upload speed: 13Mbps–24Mbps

Area Coverage

• Population coverage rate in Japan is approximately 99%.
• Stable communication is possible in urban areas.
• Major areas in mountainous regions and remote islands are also covered.

5G Compatibility

• The 5G area is expanding, mainly in large cities.
• Available with a 5G-compatible device and plan.
• Area expansion is planned to continue.

Overseas Use

• "America Hodai" (America Unlimited) service is available for use in major countries.
• The "Kaigai Anshin Teigaku" (Overseas Peace of Mind Flat-Rate) service is also available for use in the US.

SoftBank's area coverage is relatively stable not only in urban areas but also in rural regions, making it a reliable choice for travel and business trips.

How Foreigners Can Sign Up for SoftBank

Required Documents and Procedures

Foreign residents in Japan need the following documents to sign a contract with SoftBank:

• Identification Document (one of the following):
  • Residence Card (Zairyu Card)
  • Special Permanent Resident Certificate
  • Alien Registration Certificate (if considered equivalent to a Residence Card)
• Registration of Payment Method
  • Credit card (recommended)
  • Bank account information
• Application Location
  • Application at a SoftBank shop (physical store) is mandatory.
  • Online contracts are often not possible.

English Support

SoftBank provides English support for foreign customers.

• Phone Support: 0800-919-0157 (press 8 for English)
  • Hours: 10:00–19:00
• In-Store Support: Interpretation services available by prior reservation.
  • Service provided via a telephone interpreter.
  • Hours: 10:00–19:00 (varies by store)
• Website: An English version of the official website is available.
  • SoftBank English Official Website

About the Screening Process

For foreigners, the credit screening process may be stricter. If you are concerned about failing the screening, consider the following alternatives:

• Using a prepaid SIM
• Using an MVNO (which may have a more lenient screening process)
• Entering into a family contract with a Japanese family member or friend

Tips for Choosing a Plan and How to Select the Best One

Here are some tips for choosing the best SoftBank plan for you.

Recommended Plans by Usage Type

Steps for Choosing a Plan

1. Understand Your Monthly Data Usage
   • Check your current usage.
   • Consider how often you watch videos or stream music.
2. Check Your Calling Frequency
   • How many minutes do you talk on the phone per month?
   • Do you mostly call family, or do you call external contacts often?
3. Check Your Family's Contract Status
   • Does your family use SoftBank?
   • Consider the possibility of applying for a family discount.
4. Check Your Home Internet Environment
   • Possibility of a bundle discount with SoftBank Hikari or Air.
   • Your contract status with other internet service providers.
5. Consider Your Payment Method
   • Further discounts are possible by paying with a PayPay Card.
   • Also, consider point rewards.

Make a comprehensive judgment based on these factors to choose the best plan for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can foreigners sign a contract with SoftBank?

A: Yes, it's possible. Please apply at a SoftBank shop with your identification documents, such as a Residence Card or Special Permanent Resident Certificate. However, you must meet the screening criteria.

Q2: Are there plans available for tourists visiting Japan?

A: Yes, there is a data-only prepaid SIM called "Prepaid SIM for Travel." It is valid for 31 days and comes with 3GB of data (during a campaign). You can sign up with your passport.

Q3: I've heard SoftBank plans are expensive. Is there a way to use them more cheaply?

A: You can significantly lower your fees by combining discount services like the Family Discount, Home Bundle Discount, and PayPay Card Discount. A key feature of the "Merihari Unlimited+" plan is that you get an automatic discount in months with low data usage.

Q4: If I make a lot of calls, which option is recommended?

A: The following options are available depending on your call frequency:

• For frequent calls under 5 minutes: "Semi-Flat-Rate Option+" (¥880/month)
• For frequent long calls: "Flat-Rate Option+" (¥1,980/month)
• If you are 60 or older, the "60+ Call Discount" reduces the "Flat-Rate Option+" to ¥880/month.

Q5: Can I use my SoftBank smartphone overseas?

A: Yes, you can use data and make calls overseas by using the "Kaigai Anshin Teigaku" service. For those who travel to the US frequently, "America Hodai" is also available. However, additional charges apply.

Q6: Are there contract periods or cancellation fees?

A: For new contracts, there is no minimum usage period or contract cancellation fee. However, if you are applying for the Home Bundle Discount, the home internet service may have its own contract period and cancellation fees.

Q7: Is English support available?

A: Yes, English support is available via phone (0800-919-0157, press 8). Also, some stores offer interpretation services by reservation. The official website also has an English version.

Q8: Is eSIM supported?

A: Some SoftBank plans and services support eSIM. For details, please check at a SoftBank shop or on the official website.

Q9: What happens if I use up my data allowance?

A: It depends on the plan:

• Unlimited plans: Speed is restricted to a maximum of 4.5 Mbps after exceeding 200GB.
• Limited data plans: Speed is restricted to a maximum of 128kbps upon reaching the limit.

It is also possible to purchase additional data (varies by plan).

Q10: How do I earn PayPay Points?

A: With the "Paytoku Unlimited"; plan, you can earn up to 10% in PayPay Points on your PayPay purchases. Additionally, you can earn points by paying your SoftBank bill with a PayPay Card, and the PayPay Card Discount will also be applied.

Conclusion

SoftBank offers a diverse range of mobile plans, allowing you to choose one that fits your lifestyle.

Consider your data usage, calling frequency, family contract status, and payment methods comprehensively to select the optimal plan.

Furthermore, with extensive English support available for foreigners, you can use their services with peace of mind.

We hope this article serves as a helpful reference in your search for a SoftBank mobile plan.

As the latest information is subject to change, please check the official SoftBank website or visit a store for details.