New residents in Japan often face a "phone number paradox." You need a Japanese phone number to open a bank account or rent an apartment, but many major carriers require a bank account to issue one.
Tourist SIMs and data-only eSIMs don't solve this because they lack a real Japanese phone number and SMS support.
A Voice + Data SIM with a 070, 080, or 090 number solves this problem by enabling calls, SMS verification, and access to essential services. This guide explains how Sakura Mobile's Voice + Data plans help you get set up in Japan from day one.
TL;DR: Is the Sakura Mobile Monthly Voice + Data Plan Right for You?
This plan is best for long-term residents in Japan who need a real Japanese phone number (070/080/090) with voice, SMS, and data.
| User Profile | Is It a Fit? | Why It Works? |
|---|---|---|
| International Students | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Required for school registration, housing, and opening a bank account |
| Expats, JET Programme & ALT Teachers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Reliable nationwide coverage, including rural areas |
| Digital Nomads (3+ Months) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | High data + hotspot tethering for remote work |
| Short-Term Tourists (<90 Days) | ❌ No | Tourist eSIM or Pocket WiFi is easier and more cost-effective |
- TL;DR: Is the Sakura Mobile Monthly Voice + Data Plan Right for You?
- Sakura Mobile Voice + Data SIM/eSIM: Full Product Overview
- What is a Japanese Voice + Data SIM/eSIM?
- Why Long-Term Residents Need a Japanese Voice Number
- How a Japanese Phone Number is Used in Daily Life (4 Key Use Cases)
- Choosing The Right Data Tier
- Step-by-Step Setup & Document Requirements
- Why Sakura Mobile Works for Foreign Residents
- Secure Your Digital Setup in Japan
- Voice + Data FAQ
Sakura Mobile Voice + Data SIM/eSIM: Full Product Overview
This monthly plan gives you a real Japanese phone number with voice, SMS, and data on a reliable nationwide network.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Network | NTT docomo (nationwide 4G LTE / 5G coverage) |
| Phone Number | Japanese number (070, 080, or 090) |
| Plan Type | Monthly plan (no long-term contract, 1-month minimum) |
| Data Options | 5 GB, 15 GB, 30 GB, 40 GB, 60 GB, 80 GB, 100 GB |
| SIM Type | Physical SIM or eSIM |
| Payment | International credit/debit card or cash (Smart Pit) |
| Support | Full English support (7 days a week) via chat, email, phone, or in person |
What is a Japanese Voice + Data SIM/eSIM?
A Japanese voice + data SIM is a mobile plan that includes calls, SMS, and internet data with a real local phone number.
This number starts with 070, 080, or 090, which are the standard mobile prefixes in Japan. These numbers are required for things like bank accounts, apps, and contracts.
070 / 080 / 090 vs 050 Numbers
- 070 / 080 / 090 (Mobile Numbers)Real Japanese mobile numbers linked to a SIM or eSIM. Works for calls, SMS, identity checks, and emergency numbers (110/119).
- 050 (VoIP Numbers)Internet-based numbers. Often blocked for banking, apps, and official use in Japan.
Voice SIM vs Data SIM vs VoIP
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Network | NTT docomo (nationwide 4G LTE / 5G coverage) |
| Phone Number | Japanese number (070, 080, or 090) |
| Plan Type | Monthly plan (no long-term contract, 1-month minimum) |
| Data Options | 5 GB, 15 GB, 30 GB, 40 GB, 60 GB, 80 GB, 100 GB |
| SIM Type | Physical SIM or eSIM |
| Payment | International credit/debit card or cash (Smart Pit) |
| Support | Full English support (7 days a week) via chat, email, phone, or in person |
Why Long-Term Residents Need a Japanese Voice Number
Using data-only SIM or roaming plans can cause problems when living in Japan. Many services require a real Japanese phone number with voice and SMS.
- SMS Verification for Apps and ServicesMost services in Japan require SMS verification tied to a local mobile number. Data-only SIMs, VoIP numbers, and international numbers often fail these checks.
- Access to Essential ServicesWithout a voice-enabled line, you cannot reliability call businesses, utilities, or government offices. A local number is often required for housing, setup, and daily life.
How a Japanese Phone Number is Used in Daily Life (4 Key Use Cases)
Banking & Financial Setup
Major banks like Japan Post Bank, Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation require a real Japanese mobile number for identity checks.
You must be able to receive SMS and phone calls. VoIP numbers (050) or borrowed numbers are often rejected.
Apartment Leasing & Housing
Real estate agencies and guarantor companies need a working Japanese phone number to confirm your identity.
If you don't have a valid 070/080/090 number, your rental application may be delayed or denied.
Essential Daily Apps
Many everyday apps in Japan require SMS verification with a local number:
- PayPay for cashless payments
- LINE for communication
- Uber Eats for deliveries
Without a voice-enabled SIM, account setup or verification may fail.
Work & School Registration
Employers and schools require a valid phone number for official records, contact, and onboarding.
Your number is often tied to your residence registration (住民票), making it essential for daily life in Japan.
Choosing The Right Data Tier
Sakura Mobile uses a flexible monthly plan. You can increase or decrease your data reach month based on your needs, using your online account.
Data Plan Tiers and Typical Usage
- 5 GB – 30 GB (Everyday Use)Best for daily tasks like train travel, Google Maps, translation apps, messaging, and light browsing.
- 40 GB – 80 GB (Work & Streaming)Good for remote work, video calls, streaming, and using your phone as a hotspot.
- 100 GB (Heavy Use)Best for high data use, including gaming, large downloads, and full-time hotspot use before setting up home internet.
Key Features
- Data Rollover: Unused Data moves to the next month, so you don't lose it.
- Free Tethering: Share your connection with laptops, tablets, or other devices at no extra cost.
- Flexible Plans: Change your data amount each month without changing your contract.
💡 Loyalty Benefit
If you need home internet, current Sakura Mobile users can get a discount on setup fees for services like home internet or a Pocket WiFi device.
Step-by-Step Setup & Document Requirements
Required Documents for Verification
To activate a Voice + Data SIM in Japan, identity verification is required under Japanese telecom regulations. The required documents vary depending on how you receive your SIM or eSIM.
If you pick up your SIM in person (airport or Shinjuku office)
You must present:
- Passport
If you receive your SIM by delivery or eSIM via email
You must present one of the following valid IDs:
- Residence Card (Zairyu Card): Must be registered with your current address.
- Japanese Driver's License: Must show your current address.
- My Number Card
Application Flow Based on Your Situation
Applying Outside Japan
- Apply online before arrival using your passport
- Your Japanese phone number is prepared in advance
- Pick up at the airport or office
- Show your ID in person
- Activate and start using right away
Applying in Japan (With Registered Address)
- Apply online using your Residence Card
- Complete online ID verification
- Receive your eSIM QR code by email or SIM by delivery (1-3 days)
Applying in Japan (Without Registered Address)
- Applying online using your passport
- Complete ID check in person (airport or office)
- Pick up your SIM or activation materials
Delivery & Activation Timing
- Standard Orders: Ready in about 1-3 days after approval
- Number Transfer (MNP): Takes about 5-7 days
This setup process ensures your eSIM or SIM is fully verified and ready for use in Japan.
Why Sakura Mobile Works for Foreign Residents
Easy Payment Options
Most providers in Japan require a local bank account or Japanese credit card. Sakura Mobile accepts international credit and debit cards. You can also pay in cash at convenience stores like Lawson, FamilyMart, or MiniStop using Smart Pit.
No Long-Term Contracts
Many Japanese plans require 2-year contracts with cancellation fees. Sakura Mobile uses a simple monthly plan. The minimum use is just one month. You can cancel anytime by submitting a request before the 25th.
Reliable Nationwide Coverage
Sakura Mobile runs on the NTT docomo network. This means strong coverage in cities, trains, and even rural areas across Japan.
Full English Support
All services are in English, including signup, billing and customer support. You can get help anytime via chat, email, phone, or in person at the Shinjuku Office and airport counters in Kansai and Fukuoka.
Trusted by the Expat Community
Sakura Mobile is highly rated by international users:
- Trustpilot: ⭐4.8/5
- Google Reviews: ⭐4.6/5
What our clients have to say
These ratings reflect real experiences from foreign residents living in Japan.
Secure Your Digital Setup in Japan
Don't wait until you're at a bank or city office without a working phone number. By setting up a relaible voice + data plan on the NTT docomo network, you remove a major barrier to living in Japan and can focus on settling into your new life.
Voice + Data FAQ
- Q: Can I get my phone number before arriving in Japan?
A: No, you cannot obtain a Japanese phone number before arriving in Japan.
However, if you order in advance, your SIM or eSIM will be ready for immediate pickup or activation as soon as you arrive. For example, airport pickup allows you to receive your SIM and start using your Japanese number right away after landing.- Q: What documents do I need to apply?
A: You only need your international passport or your offical Japanese Residence Card (Zairyu Card). You do not need a Japanese bank account or a local credit card to pass our system's document review.
- Q: Does this plan allow me to use a mobile hotspot (tethering)?
A: Yes. Mobile hotspot tethering is included on all Voice + Data plans. You can connect your laptop, tablet, or other devices to your phone's data at any time for no extra monthly fee.
- Q: Do I need a Japanese bank account to pay?
A: No. You can pay with:
- International credit or debit card, or
- Cash at convenience stores (Lawson, FamilyMart, MiniMart) using Smart Pit
This makes it easy to start service from day one in Japan without local banking.
- Q: Can I keep my current phone number when switching to Sakura Mobile?
A: Yes. Use Japan's MNP (Mobile Number Portability) system to bring your existing 070/080/090 number to Sakura Mobile.
- Request an MNP number from your current provider
- Apply to Sakura Mobile and enter your MNP number during setup.
- Your SIM arrives 5-7 days after approval, with your transfer schedule sent by email.
Important: Your MNP number must have at least 8 days of validity remaining when you apply. Since MNP numbers expire in 14 days, apply to Sakura Mobile immediately after getting it.
- Q: Can I change my Sakura Mobile data plan?
A: Yes. You can change your data plan once per month through your My Page. Submit your request by the 25th of the month for the change to take effect that month. Note that after submitting a plan change, you cannot request a cancellation or MNP number until the change takes effect.
- Q: How do I cancel my Sakura Mobile Plan?
A: Log in to My Page and submit a termination request. All contracts end on the last day of the month. Submit by the 25th to cancel that month. Submit on the 26th or later and your contract runs one more month.
- March 15 request → ends March 31
- March 27 request → ends April 30
Your final bill comes one month after your end date due to post-paid billing. After cancelling, you can no longer request a plan change or MNP number, so port your number first if you need to.
- Q: Can I keep my phone number if I switch from Sakura Mobile to another carrier in Japan?
A: Yes. Sakura Mobile supports MNP, so you can take your 070/080/090 number to another Japanese carrier. The fee is 1,100 JPY.
Go to My Page → Terminate Contract → Request MNP, confirm the fee, and enter your name exactly as it appears on your ID. You'll receive your MNP number by email within 2-3 business days. Your Sakura Mobile contract closes automatically once the port is complete.
Note: MNP numbers expire in 15 days, so switch quickly after receiving it.
