SIMs and phone plans
SIM card in Japan for foreigners: 10 resident plans compared
Best SIM card in Japan for foreigners without a Japanese credit card: Sakura Mobile, Mobal and GTN take foreign cards or cash. Prices, ID rules and scores.
Getting a SIM or phone contract with a foreign credit card or none at all, keeping your number when you switch (MNP), and home fibre with English support and fair cancellation terms.
4 guides, last updated Oct 20, 2026
SIMs and phone plans
Best SIM card in Japan for foreigners without a Japanese credit card: Sakura Mobile, Mobal and GTN take foreign cards or cash. Prices, ID rules and scores.
Home internet
Home internet in Japan with English support: Sakura Fiber, GTN and Asahi Net vs SoftBank Hikari, NURO and 5G routers. Prices, install waits, cancel fees.
SIMs and phone plans
MNP in Japan lets you switch carrier and keep your number for free online. One-stop switching, reservation numbers, fees and keeping your number when you leave.
SIMs and phone plans
A phone contract in Japan as a foreigner needs a residence card, usually a passport and enough time left on your stay. Payment and installment rules by carrier.