For foreigners in Japan, a smartphone is essential. Major carriers cost about eight to ten thousand yen per month. Many cheap SIMs accept a Residence Card, have multilingual support, and cost much less. This article compares 5 SIMs we have recommended to foreign friends and family.
Top 5 SIMs for Foreigners in Japan
Rank 1: Rakuten Mobile – Best Value for Everyone
Best for people who want unlimited data, free calls via Rakuten Link, and visits to home country.
- Free domestic calls via Rakuten Link app
- Overseas use in over sixty countries free per month
- English and Chinese support
- Apply with Residence Card
- No lock-in, no cancellation fee
For heavy data, calling, or returning home, choose this.
Rank 2: LP Mobile – Cheapest in the Industry
Best for maximum savings and point site users. Apply with Residence Card.
Rank 3: Nihon Tsushin SIM
Simple, cheap plans. Need own credit card.
Rank 4: GTN MOBILE – For Foreigners
For people not confident in Japanese. Six languages including English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Nepali, Korean, Japanese. Residence Card only, no credit card needed.
Rank 5: mineo
Data sharing among family members.
Choose by Lifestyle
- Just arrived, weak Japanese: GTN MOBILE
- Heavy video and SNS: Rakuten Mobile
- Want cheapest: LP Mobile
- Plan to visit home country: Rakuten Mobile
Get Ready Before Applying
- Residence Card
- Credit card or bank account
- Email address
- SIM-unlocked smartphone
Summary
- Best value: Rakuten Mobile
- Cheapest: LP Mobile
- For new arrivals: GTN MOBILE
Save big compared to major carriers.
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As of April 2026.
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