The Japanese Phone Number and why you might need one!
Are you dreaming of slurping your first bowl of ramen in Tokyo or walking the grounds of Odawa Castle with matcha in hand? Japan’s known for its umami-rich food, breathtaking architecture, and technological advances that set them apart from the rest of the world – But there’s always one thing that tourists, expats, and or even those on a business trip don’t expect: The need for a Japanese phone number.
If you’re planning your trip to Japan, you might think a local eSIM provider and 5GB of data a day will be enough; in the end, why would you need a Japanese phone number? From calling emergency services and receiving SMS verification to enter Tokyo Disneyland, to being reachable for important meetings, this article will show you why having a +81 number can make your trip to Japan much easier.
Contents:
Why does a tourist need a Japanese Phone Number?
Why does an expat need a Japanese Phone Number?
How to get a Japanese Phone Number like a local?
Enter Mobal: The Easy, Foreigner-Friendly Solution!
How to get a Japanese Phone Number before moving to Japan?
How to get a Japanese Phone Number after moving to Japan?
Who is Mobal for?
Mobal eSIM Plans.
What does a Japanese Phone Number look like?
Conclusion.
Why do tourists need a Japanese Phone Number?
Suppose you plan to visit Japan as a tourist. In that case, you will hugely benefit from having a Japanese phone number, not for obvious reasons like needing to contact emergency services or ordering your favourite late-night snack to your hotel room. But also to experience Japan. Most, if not all, tourist attractions require SMS verification codes to allow you to purchase a ticket, gain entry to the theme park or concert, or for overall ID verification.
What is SMS Verification, and why is it so heavily relied on for confirmation? In short, it’s a digital method of confirming your identity after you’ve provided your details to an organisation. It’s essential for protecting both your information and the company’s. Okta helps break down the importance of using SMS verification clearly in the following article, helping us non-techie individuals. What Is SMS Authentication and Is It Secure? | Okta
Here’s a list of common reasons you might need SMS verification in Japan, especially as a tourist or short-term visitor:
✅ App and Service Registration
- Food Delivery Apps (e.g., Uber Eats Japan, Demae-can, menu)
- Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services
- Bike & Scooter Rentals (e.g.,Docomo Bike Share)
- Online Shopping (e.g., Amazon Japan)
- Mobile Payment Apps (e.g., PayPay, LINE Pay)
- Event and Ticket Platforms (e.g., Ticket Pia, e+, Lawson Ticket)
✅ Communication and Social Apps
- LINE Account Setup (Japan’s most widely used messaging app)
- Dating Apps (e.g., Tinder, Pairs, Omiai)
✅ Accommodation and Travel
- Hotel or Hostel Reservations via Local Platforms
- Domestic Flight or Train Bookings
- Airbnb or Vacation Rental Host Contact
✅ Authentication & Security
- 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) for Japanese services
- Bank Account Setup (for long-term residents)
✅ Customer Support and Contact Verification
- Restaurant Reservation Confirmations
- Clinic or Medical Appointment Reminders
- Parcel Delivery Notifications & Redelivery Requests (e.g., Yamato, Sagawa)
Having a Japanese phone number with SMS capability can unlock smoother access to everyday services, avoid frustrating roadblocks, and help you blend in like a local.
Why do expats need a Japanese Phone Number?
Being an expat in Japan will bring a whole new meaning to having a Japanese phone number; an online and government identification is needed when moving to Japan to live and work. You don’t want to miss out on a job interview because you have a data-only Japan eSIM/SIM.
Here are some key reasons why having a Japanese phone number is beneficial:
✅ 1. Access to Essential Services
Many online platforms and services in Japan require SMS verification with a local number, including:
- Banking apps
- Delivery services
- Utility accounts
- Government portals (like My Number registration)
✅ 2. Making Appointments & Reservations
A Japanese phone number is often required to:
- Book medical, dental, or visa-related appointments
- Reserve restaurants, hotels, or salons
- Receive confirmation calls or texts
✅ 3. Local Job Applications
Many Japanese employers expect:
- A local number on your resume
- Reliable, reachable contact info for interview scheduling and follow-ups
✅ 4. Better Customer Support
Having a Japanese number makes it easier to:
- Call or be called by local companies
- Get callbacks from landlords, delivery services, and support hotlines
- Communicate with local businesses who may avoid international number
✅ 5. Access to Local Apps
Some apps and services won’t function at all without a Japanese number, such as:
- Mobile payment services (PayPay, LINE Pay)
- Local messaging (LINE)
- Online ticket purchases (e+, Ticket Pia)
✅ 6. Convenience for Deliveries
Couriers in Japan often:
- Call or text to confirm delivery times
- Ask for redelivery preferences via SMS or automated systems
✅ 7. Lower Calling Costs
Using a local number:
- Avoids expensive international rates
- Makes it cheaper to call Japanese businesses, landlords, or government offices
✅ 8. Social Integration
It helps with:
- Creating a LINE account (essential for social and work life)
- Joining local clubs, gyms, or community groups
- Making and keeping local friends who may be hesitant to text a foreign number.
How to get a Japanese Phone Number like a local?
Obtaining a phone number in Japan can be challenging for foreigners. There is a lot of paperwork to fill out if you want to go through the traditional route of using one of Japan’s main telephone providers; the process can take a while. Mainstream providers in Japan, such as Docomo, Softbank, and AU, typically require the following documents:
- A long-term visa (often over 90 days)
- A registered home address in Japan
- Japanese-language documentation
- Proof of residency and identity
Opting for these carriers means you will most likely be tied into a lengthy contract, this could be a minimum of 12 months or more with cancellation fee’s. This could be great for those long-term residents however if you’re a digital Nomad, or student who plans to leave Japan for a short or long period of time, you will be charged to cancel or pause your data plan.
This process is geared towards residents, not visitors. If you’re only in the country for a few days or weeks, the system isn’t built for you – but don’t worry, there’s a workaround for us Japan fiends.
Enter Mobal: The Easy, Foreigner-Friendly Solution!
To skip the paperwork, endless questions, and ID Checks, we decided there was a need for a foreigner-friendly service that allows non-natives to access what they really need.
Offering Data-only eSIMs and Voice + Data eSIMs, Mobal allows its customers to access data easily, even before they arrive in Japan. Order online, have your eSIM delivered or pick up the same day, this process is geared towards foreigners and residents.
What Mobal Offers:
✅ Same-Day Pickup Across Japan: Whether you’re landing in Tokyo, Osaka, or another major city, you can pick up your SIM or eSIM on the same day you arrive. No need to wait or deal with a complicated application.
✅Delivery to your doorstep; As mentioned if you want to buy your SIM or Esim prior to leaving for Japan, you can get your sim delivered to your home dress! One less thing to worry about when you’re here.
✅ Unlimited Incoming SMS: Mobal SIMs and eSIMs come with unlimited incoming text messages, perfect for those crucial verification codes from apps, booking sites, and ticket vendors.
✅ No Minimum Contracts or Hidden Fees : There’s no long-term commitment required. You can cancel anytime, with no termination fees. This makes Mobal ideal for short-term tourists, digital nomads, and even new residents waiting for their long-term phone setup.
✅ Affordable First Month : Mobal offers the lowest price in your first month, making it cost-effective even if you’re only in Japan for a short stay.
✅ Real Japanese Phone Number: Mobal is one the leading telecommunication companies that offers this service, at multiple different prices and plans.
How to get a Japanese Phone Number before moving to Japan?
Prior to leaving for Japan, you can get your hands on an eSIM or SIM Card whilst in your home country or pick it up at your chosen location. With Mobal, it’s straightforward; you just purchase your eSIM online, select your delivery destination and then follow the instructions to activate your eSIM. Once your Esim has been activated your Japanese phone number will be allocated to you through email.
How to get a Japanese Phone Number in Japan?
The process for obtaining a phone number once you have landed in Japan is again seamless with Mobal. Still offering a delivery or pick-up service, you can choose to land and collect your SIM at the airport/ nearest train station, or hotel. Or you have it delivered to your accommodation, if airports aren’t your favourite place!
The only difference being that when you pick up your SIM, remember to bring ID and have confirmation of your purchase (email confirmation). This it to ensure the correct eSIM is being allocated to you.
Who is Mobal for?
Mobal was built by expats for expats. Recognising the challenges that foreigners encounter when starting a new life in Japan, Mobal was inspired to develop tourist-friendly products that are easy to purchase and use. Skipping out on the paperwork, the need to be a Japanese resident, and offering delivery worldwide. Mobal’s mission is to make anyone’s time in Japan seamless, whether that’s:
- A tourist wanting to book that Michelin-starred restaurant
- A concertgoer needing digital tickets
- A remote worker staying a few months in Tokyo
- Or a new resident trying to get by before setting up long-term utilities
- A JETs needing access to online Japanese courses.
Whatever it is, Mobal has you covered!
Mobal SIM cards are praised for their reliability, convenience, and strong coverage throughout Japan, including remote areas. Users find them especially useful for longer stays, recommending the eSIM options for their flexibility and suitability for various activities like buying tickets and using delivery services. Overall, Mobal is viewed as a dependable and practical solution for mobile connectivity in Japan.
Mobal’s eSIM & SIM Plans
Voice + Data may be a term you’re used to seeing when looking for an international eSIM, the term simply meaning you can make and receive phone calls and send/receive SMS text messages using a real phone number. And have access to the internet using mobile networks (e.g., 4G or 5G), all with one eSIM.
With flexible plans, no fixed contracts, Mobal makes choosing your next eSIM easy! The newest Esim to Mobal is their Voice Lite eSIM is great for those already in Japan with access to data, but no phone number! The Voice Lite eSIM, which includes incoming calls and SMS, costs less than your average continental hotel breakfast in Japan.
Let's break down Mobal's eSIM plans visually:
It is to be noted that all products are available to purchase as a SIM Card or Esim.
|
|
Long-term eSIMs & SIMs
|
Voice Lite Esim & SIM
|
Voice Lite Esim & SIM
|
|---|---|---|---|
What does a Japanese Phone number look like?
If you’re researching getting a local phone number, you may have no idea what it looks like or why. This is a crucial element of becoming an expat or digital nomad. Japanese phone numbers have a specific structure that reveals a great deal about the type and origin of the number. If you’re dialling from outside Japan, the number will start with +81, Japan’s international dialling code. Within Japan, that same number would begin with a zero (0) instead.
After that, the format differs slightly depending on whether it’s a landline or mobile number. Landline numbers include an area code that indicates the region (like Tokyo or Osaka), while mobile numbers begin with a mobile prefix, typically starting with 070, 080, or 090. Understanding these components can help you recognize where a call is coming from—and having a genuine Japanese number is crucial for accessing many local services. To learn more about how to navigate Japan’s telephone system, be sure to check out this helpful article:
Japan Phone Number: How to call, get one & understand the codes
Conclusion.
In a country as connected and efficient as Japan, having a local phone number isn’t just a convenience—it’s a gateway to fully experiencing life here. From booking restaurants and getting delivery, to registering for apps and receiving necessary SMS verifications, a Japanese phone number keeps you in the loop and eliminates unnecessary hassle. Whether you’re visiting for a few weeks or settling in for the long haul, staying connected the local way makes everything smoother, simpler, and more seamless. Don’t miss out—get yourself a Japanese number and explore with confidence!
FAQs:
Can I make international calls with my home carrier?
Making international calls with your overseas phone number is possible, but the reason this is so heavily advised against is due to the hefty cost attached to it.
Can I use my Mobal eSIM in other countries?
The simple answer is, No. Mobal’s eSIMs & SIMs do not support international roaming; their products are made for use in Japan only.
Can I use my Mobal eSIM in other countries?
If you are to leave the country for any reason, you can pay a small monthly fee to suspend your data plan. This will allow you to keep the same Japanese Phone Number whilst you are outside of Japan.
However if you are watching to switch from a SIM Card to an Esim, or vice versa, it isn’t possible to keep the same Japanese Phone Number. Unfortunately you will have to de activate your current plan and purchase a new one.
