Where to buy Japanese cell phones?

How to Buy Japanese Cell Phones

• Answer:

  Many people are searching for information on how to buy Japanese cell phones. For those planning on using a Japanese cell phone with a US phone service it is not possible. The technology is completely different. However it is possible to buy Japanese Cell Phones for use within Japan. Difficulty: Moderately Easy Instructions Examine your current cell phone carrier. Some large companies such as Verizon have in the past sold Japanese cell phones to their customers who travel to Japan. The Japanese cell phone is tightly bundled with a subscription to a Japanese cell phone carrier and these phones usually require a 1 year contract. If your cell phone provider is unable to let you buy Japanese cell phones through them then you will need to purchase from an outside provider or consider an international roaming plan with your current cell phone provider. This is an acceptable option price wise and is competitive with the rates you encounter when you go to buy Japanese cell phones. Buy a prepaid Japanese cell phone at the hotel when you arrive. The prices of these Japanese cell phones start at about 5000 yen, to buy any of the prepaid Japanese cell phones will require showing some identification such as an alien registration card or Japanese driver's license. Rent any style of Japanese cell phones when you arrive. This solution is more economical than going out to buy Japanese cell phones and suits the casual visitor and tourist's needs perfectly. The rates though considered high are not unreasonable and many have free incoming calls. For short visits and infrequent travelers to Japan this is possibly one of the better options. You can have a Japanese friend buy your choice of Japanese cell phones for you. The problem here is that the friend as owner of the phone would be financially responsible for any charges you might make. Due to the way Japanese cell phones are made and the technology that is used with them, most are not compatible with any foreign service. They are also very difficult to 'hack'. Due to abuse and crime the Japanese government as of August 2006 has made it a requirement to show official Japanese identification before being allowed to buy Japanese cell phones. Tips & Warnings Tip: If you want to use Japanese cell phones with a US provider it's probably not possible. If you want a good phone to use when you travel to Japan then you can buy the newest and most modern Japanese cell phones at a remarkably reasonable price.