Mobile Phones

There are 3 major mobile phone carriers in Japan: SoftBank, Docomo and au. Out of the three mentioned, SoftBank is the only one who offers a prepaid service. An ARC is required to make a contract with any of these carriers. All 3 have unlimited Internet access.



As I mentioned, SoftBank has a 3G prepaid service. There are several phones you can pick for this service which are available at SoftBank shop. The price for this plan is 3000 yen minimum for 60 days, and for an additional 300 yen, you can have an unlimited messaging for 30 days. To recharge your account, there are 3000 yen and 5000 yen cards can be purchased online or at a local SoftBank retail store. Also, you can make international calls. 


SoftBank is the only carrier to offer the iPhone and iPad.


Information on additional plans can be found here.
 



In my opinion, Docomo has strongest and most reliable service available in Japan. Their phone inventory consists of several smart phones including BlackBerry and Xperia.


Information on additional plans can be found here.






I think au offers uniquely styled phones including smart phones. Their phones are well designed and popular among young people.


Information on additional plans can be found here.