Helpful Tips: Japan’s telecommunication System: Mobile phones and the Internet.

When it comes to travel, mobile phones and the internet are essential tools to find up to date local information these days. Today I’ll give you some information on Japan’s telecommunication system.

Japan has its own mobile network, so that mobile phones from abroad do not always work within Japan’s network. Would you like to have mobile internet in Japan? You have a few options. It is a good idea to rent a Japanese mobile phones or SIM card. Please note that mobiles stores in cities don’t offer these services.

Kansai International Airport offers rental services

http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/service/rental/rental_list.html　

 You can book online in advance from home, and then pick your phone up at the airport counters when you arrive in Japan.

　Softbank　 http://www.softbank-rental.jp/en/　　

Pupuru　　http://www.pupuru.com/en/　

JAL ABC     http://www.jalabc.com/rental/domestic_eng/index.html

How do I connect to the internet in Japan?

Public Wi-Fi or wireless LAN hot spots are available at major airports, stations, hotels and so on. Your phone or device may or may not be able to access the internet at some restaurants and facilities because a lot of Wi-Fi hotspots run on personal cellular networks. Although it depends on the carrier, a lot of popular shopping centers and cafes work as Wi-Fi hotspots.

Major carrier's personal  Wi-Fi Hotspots across Japan

DoCoMo

au (KDDI)

Softbank

If you don’t have a mobile phone or other device to access the internet in Japan, internet cafés are the place to be. There are quite a few internet cafes in Kobe, especially around stations. Affordably priced, they definitely come in handy.   *ID may be required.

Next time, we’ll introduce Himeji Central Park where you can enjoy both safari and a theme park. Don’t miss it!

Hana（The Hyogo Tourism Association)