Y!mobile: English Mobile Phone Service for First-Time Living in Japan

Table of Contents

A Japanese Smartphone Is Essential for Living in Japan
Contracts in English! Y!mobile Smartphones
4 Reasons to Choose Y!mobile for a Smartphone Used in Japan
3 Pricing Plans to Choose From to Match Your Style
How to Contract with Y!mobile
Frequently Asked Questions About Y!mobile

A Japanese Smartphone Is Essential for Living in Japan

If you are living in Japan, it is better to have a smartphone that can connect to the internet.

Cashless payments using smartphones are widely used in Japan. In addition to using social media, smartphones are also indispensable for keeping in touch with friends and for communication with your workplace.

To use a smartphone in Japan, you need to contract a line provided by a Japanese telecommunications company.

If you try to use a smartphone line contracted overseas in Japan, it will be treated as data roaming. While data roaming may be manageable for a short trip to Japan, it's important to be cautious, as living in Japan without contracting a Japanese line will result in high communication costs.

Contracts in English! Y!mobile Smartphones

If you want to contract a smartphone in Japan, Y!mobile is highly recommended.

Y!mobile allows you to contract their services not only in Japanese but also in English. (Additionally, contracts can also be made in Korean, Vietnamese, and Simplified Chinese.) This means that even those who are not confident in their Japanese can proceed smoothly with the process.

If you are working or studying in Japan, be sure to consider Y!mobile.

*The linked page has some conditions that differ from the Japanese version of the official online store.
*The displayed prices in the article include tax unless otherwise stated. The billed amount may differ due to consumption tax calculations.

4 Reasons to Choose Y!mobile for a Smartphone Used in Japan

For foreigners getting their first smartphone in Japan, Y!mobile is highly recommended. The reasons go beyond just being able to contract in multiple languages. Here, we will introduce the benefits of contracting with Y!mobile.

You Can Get a Smartphone for Just 1 Yen! Great Deals on Smartphone Devices

With Y!mobile, you can purchase a smartphone device at the same time as contracting for a new line.

Popular Android and Apple smartphones can potentially be acquired at attractive prices when you purchase them along with your Y!mobile contract.

Some smartphones may even be sold at a special price of 1 yen, provided you subscribe to a specific plan or meet other conditions.

*The models available at a great price may vary depending on the time.

Comfortable with SoftBank's Network!

Y!mobile is a sub-brand of Japan's major telecommunications provider, SoftBank. Y!mobile utilizes SoftBank's network, and its coverage area corresponds to that of SoftBank.

SoftBank's network supports 5G, allowing for comfortable communication. Since Y!mobile is a sub-brand of SoftBank and operates its own network rather than renting from another provider as an "MVNO," it offers stable quality signals at competitive prices, similar to major carriers.

*Communication speeds may decline or may not be available depending on network congestion. Y!mobile offers 5G only in the NSA format.
*High-capacity 5G (new frequency is only 3.7GHz) is provided in limited areas. For details, please refer to the area map. A 5G compatible device is required for 5G communication.

Complete Online Process, Available as Soon as Same Day

Y!mobile allows you to contract both a smartphone device and a line simultaneously, but it is also possible to contract just the line on its own. You can continue using your current smartphone as is and simply contract for a SIM or eSIM.

*SIM unlocking is required. Please check for compatible devices.

The SIM/eSIM contracting process with Y!mobile is quick from application to usage. You can apply online 24/7, and if you choose eSIM, you can start using it as soon as the same day, making it convenient for those who want immediate service.

*The application time and review status may delay use to the next day.
*A separate device fee applies.
*There may be restrictions on using the communication service if the mobile device was obtained through fraudulent contracts or acquisition.

Support Available at Over 2,000 Locations Nationwide

Y!mobile has over 2,000 stores across the country. At the Y!mobile Shops that handle Y!mobile services, the same level of service is provided anywhere in Japan, ensuring that you can use it with confidence whether you're in Tokyo or in rural areas.

Additionally, some Y!mobile Shops have staff members who can assist in English. You can search for stores that have English-speaking staff, so be sure to look for a location near you.

*The linked page has some conditions that differ from the Japanese version of the official online store.

Furthermore, general inquiries and technical support are also available over the phone, and English assistance is possible as well.

3 Pricing Plans to Choose From to Match Your Style

*The data amounts for Simple 2 M/L are applicable when the initial campaign is in effect.

Simple 2 M includes an increase of 10GB for a total of 30GB, while Simple 2 L includes an increase of 5GB for a total of 35GB. If you utilize the increased data (10GB/5GB for Simple 2 M/L) from the campaign, you will need to complete a process to revert to the standard speed yourself.

The fee for reverting to the standard speed for the month (550 yen/500MB) will be discounted up to a maximum of 20 times/10 times (for Simple 2 M/L). The 10GB/5GB (for Simple 2 M/L) will not carry over to the next month.

Y!mobile offers three pricing plans. Since you can choose according to your lifestyle, consider how you will live in Japan and how you will use your smartphone when deciding on a plan.

Of course, you can change your contract details after using it for a while if needed.

Simple 2 S/M/L

We offer three pricing plans: Simple 2 S, M, and L, based on data capacity.

Please check the official website for details on each plan.

*The linked page has some conditions that differ from the Japanese version of the official online store.

Please note the following regarding line usage:
*If the data usage for the current month (excluding carried-over data) exceeds the specified capacity (4GB/20GB/30GB) and the additional data capacity from the data increase option (for data increase option subscribers only: 2GB/5GB/5GB), communication speeds will be restricted until the end of the month (for sending and receiving, Simple 2 S will be limited to a maximum of 300 kbps, and Simple 2 M/L will be limited to 1 Mbps). Furthermore, if half of the specified capacity (2GB/10GB/15GB) is consumed, communication speeds will be restricted to a maximum of 128 kbps until the end of the month.

If You Want to Enjoy Videos, Games, and Music, "Simple 2 M/L" is Recommended

Among the three pricing plans from Y!mobile, the ones with larger data capacities are "Simple 2 M" and "Simple 2 L." These plans are recommended for those who want to regularly enjoy videos, games, and music.

Simple 2 M offers a monthly data capacity of 30GB, while Simple 2 L offers 35GB (when applying the initial campaign).

For those who frequently watch YouTube, use social media, play games on their smartphones, or stream music, these plans provide ample allowance for usage.

Additionally, any unused data from the month can be carried over to the next month.
*The maximum amount of data that can be carried over to the next month is limited to the data capacity of the plan subscribed to in the following month (including any additional capacity from the data increase option). Additional capacity from the initial campaign cannot be carried over.

If you exceed the monthly data capacity, your communication speed will be restricted. However, even in that case, you can still communicate at a maximum speed of 1Mbps. This means that even with restrictions, you can use regular web browsing and social media without stress, so there's no need to feel frustrated.

If your data usage for the month is 1GB or less, you will receive a discount of 1,100 yen/month for Simple 2 M and 2,200 yen/month for Simple 2 L.

Calls Cost 22 Yen per 30 Seconds for Any Plan

Y!mobile's call charges for domestic calls are billed at a rate of 22 yen per 30 seconds. This simple pricing structure means you only pay for what you use.

*International roaming, international calls (calls to overseas), calls to other companies with numbers starting with 0180 or 0570, and directory assistance (104) are excluded. Some calls may be exempt from these charges.

How to Contract with Y!mobile

Contracting with Y!mobile in multiple languages is easy. The entire process can be completed online, allowing for smooth procedures even if you have just arrived in Japan and are busy.

Next, we will introduce the method of contracting, the required information during the application, and the necessary documents.

3 Steps from Application to Contract Completion!

1. Prepare Identification and Payment Method

To apply for Y!mobile, you will need information regarding your identification and a payment method, such as a credit card or bank account. Make sure to prepare these in advance before proceeding with your application.

2. Apply

When applying, you will first select your plan and any options. Follow the instructions to enter your "Customer Information," read and confirm the agreement, and complete your application.

Once your application is successfully completed, you will receive a confirmation email.

3. Receive the Product Shipment Confirmation Email

Your application is subject to a review process. Once this review is completed, your products will be shipped. You will receive a product shipment confirmation email, so if you have also purchased a smartphone, wait for the arrival of your smartphone or SIM card.

Main Information Required for Contracting

When applying for Y!mobile as a foreigner, you will need to input the following information:

• - Name (including phonetic spelling)
• - Gender
• - Date of birth
• - Contactable email address
• - Contactable phone number
• - Address (within Japan)
• - Smartphone user (whether the contract holder or someone else)
• - 4-digit network PIN
• - Payment method (credit card or bank transfer)

Documents and Items to Prepare Before Contracting

When foreigners contract with Y!mobile, having the following items prepared in advance can help ensure a smooth application process:

• - A smartphone with the SIM lock removed (if contracting for SIM/eSIM)
• - Residence card
• - Foreign passport

Frequently Asked Questions about Y!mobile

Here are some common questions often asked when foreigners are contracting with Y!mobile.

*The linked page has some conditions that differ from the Japanese version of the official online store.

Where Can I Find Stores with English-Speaking Staff?

The following directly-operated stores have bilingual staff available to assist in English:

- SoftBank Ginza
https://www.ymobile.jp/shop/detail/TD31/

- SoftBank Roppongi
https://www.ymobile.jp/shop/detail/T248/

- SoftBank Omotesando
https://www.ymobile.jp/shop/detail/T1D3/

- SoftBank Shibuya
https://www.ymobile.jp/shop/detail/T198/

- SoftBank Nagoya
https://www.ymobile.jp/shop/detail/C300/

- SoftBank Grand Front Osaka
https://www.ymobile.jp/shop/detail/K1U6/

Is It Possible to Receive English Customer Support by Phone?

Y!mobile provides general inquiries and technical support in English. You can contact them at one of the following numbers:

- From a Y!mobile phone: 151 (charged)
- From a landline or other carrier's phone: 0570-039-151 (charged)
In either case, if you wish to receive English support, press "5".
*Chat support available on the website is not offered in English.

Can Y!mobile SIM Cards Be Used Outside of Japan?

Y!mobile SIM cards support data roaming.

If you are subscribing with just a SIM card (including eSIM), the global roaming option will be available starting from the 5th month after contracting (the day after the end of the 4th month).

To use data roaming outside of Japan, you need to apply for the global roaming option.

I Have a Smartphone Purchased Outside of Japan; Can I Use It by Inserting a SIM Card?

Generally, if your device is compatible with the following Y!mobile frequency bands and communication methods, you can use it with Y!mobile.

5G: 3.7GHz, 700MHz, 1.7GHz, 3.4GHz, 28GHz

4G: 2.5GHz, 2.1GHz, 1.7GHz, 900MHz

However, the service coverage may vary depending on the communication method and supported frequency bands of your device. It is necessary to verify compatibility in advance.

Additionally, the high-speed, large-capacity 5G (new frequency) service is currently available only in limited areas. Please be sure to check the service coverage area before applying for the 5G service.

Depending on the specifications of your device, even if it is compatible with the supported communication methods and frequencies, it may not operate correctly. For compatibility information regarding your device, please contact the manufacturer or retailer.

Furthermore, if your device is SIM-locked by the original telecommunications provider from which it was purchased, you will need to unlock it before using a Y!mobile SIM (including eSIM).

Can I Make Payments for Overdue Charges via Bank Transfer?

Yes, it is possible to pay overdue charges via bank transfer. You will need the designated bank account information from SoftBank to process the payment.

Enjoy Comfortable Communication in Japan with Y!mobile!

A smartphone is essential for life in Japan. With Y!mobile, you can contract online in Japanese, as well as in Korean, Vietnamese, English, and Simplified Chinese. Additionally, Y!mobile offers customer service in English, so those who may have language concerns can use the service with confidence.

Moreover, as a sub-brand of SoftBank, Y!mobile provides a stable communication environment, which is another attractive feature.

Get a great deal on a smartphone and enjoy a comfortable communication environment to enrich your life in Japan!

Sponsored by Y!mobile