5G Phone Plans in Japan – Carrier Options, eSIM Support & Monthly Data Plans for 2025
5G phone plans in Japan are available from major carriers with a variety of postpaid and prepaid options. Residents and long-term visitors can choose from SIM-only plans, eSIM-ready subscriptions, and 5G-compatible data contracts with national coverage. Many providers offer English-language support and flexible terms for both unlocked and contract phones. Whether you're in Tokyo or elsewhere, monthly data plans with high-speed access continue to expand in 2025. Voice + data bundles, unlimited-speed options, and expat-friendly features are also available.
What Major Carriers Offer 5G Plans in Japan?
Japan’s primary mobile network operators—NTT Docomo, au by KDDI, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile—all provide comprehensive 5G coverage across the country. NTT Docomo, the largest carrier, offers extensive nationwide coverage with particularly strong service in urban centers and transportation corridors. KDDI (au) provides reliable coverage with competitive pricing structures tailored to different usage patterns. SoftBank continues expanding its 5G infrastructure with a focus on high-capacity networks in metropolitan areas. Rakuten Mobile, the newest major carrier, has aggressively built out its 5G network while maintaining competitive pricing to attract customers.
Each carrier offers distinct advantages: Docomo excels in coverage breadth, KDDI in balance between coverage and value, SoftBank in urban performance, and Rakuten in disruptive pricing models. For residents planning to stay long-term, these major carriers typically provide the most robust service options, though they generally require more paperwork during signup compared to alternative providers.
How Do SIM-Only and eSIM Plans Work for 5G in Japan?
SIM-only plans have become increasingly popular in Japan, offering flexibility for those who already own unlocked, 5G-compatible devices. These plans typically require less documentation than traditional phone+plan bundles and often come with no minimum contract period. For 5G access, ensure your device supports Japan’s specific 5G bands (n77, n78, n79 for Sub-6 and n257 for mmWave).
eSIM technology is gaining significant traction in Japan for 2025, allowing users to activate mobile service without a physical SIM card. Major carriers now support eSIM activation for 5G plans, with Docomo, au, and SoftBank all offering eSIM options for postpaid subscribers. This technology is particularly valuable for dual-SIM users who want to maintain their home country number while adding Japanese service. The activation process has been streamlined, often allowing setup directly through carrier apps with English language support.
What Monthly Data Plans Are Available with 5G Speed?
Japanese carriers structure their 5G data plans primarily around data allowances rather than speed tiers. Most carriers offer graduated data buckets ranging from 1GB to unlimited data. Light users can find economical small-data packages (3-5GB) while heavy users can opt for large data allowances (20-30GB) or unlimited plans.
A notable trend for 2025 is the introduction of more granular data options with 5G speeds. Rather than just small, medium, and large buckets, carriers now offer more specific increments, giving customers better control over their spending. Many plans also include “zero-rating” for specific applications (where data usage doesn’t count toward monthly caps) and data rollover features that allow unused data to carry forward to the next billing cycle.
For unlimited plans, be aware that most carriers implement “fair usage policies” that may throttle speeds after exceptionally heavy usage, typically around 50-100GB per month depending on the carrier and specific plan.
Which Carriers Provide English Support for 5G Subscriptions?
Finding English-language support for mobile services has historically been challenging in Japan, but the situation has improved significantly for 2025. All major carriers now offer some level of English support, though the quality and accessibility vary considerably.
Docomo provides the most comprehensive English-language services, with dedicated English-speaking staff at major urban stores, English documentation, and full English functionality in their customer apps and websites. SoftBank follows closely with strong English support in major metropolitan areas. Rakuten Mobile has made English service a key differentiator, offering complete end-to-end English support for all customer interactions.
Beyond the major carriers, several MVNOs specifically target the foreign resident market with fully English operations. IIJmio, Mobal, and Sakura Mobile have positioned themselves as particularly foreigner-friendly with English contracts, support staff, and billing. These providers typically offer 5G service by utilizing the networks of major carriers, though sometimes with speed limitations or coverage restrictions.
What Special Features Are Available with Japanese 5G Plans?
Japanese 5G plans in 2025 offer several unique features worth considering. Many carriers now include complimentary access to entertainment platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, or local streaming services such as dTV or U-NEXT with premium 5G plans. Family discounts have become more generous, with substantial savings for households adding multiple lines.
Data sharing capabilities have evolved, allowing primary accounts to distribute data to secondary devices or family members with greater flexibility. This feature is particularly useful for those who use multiple devices or have family members with varying data needs.
For travelers and frequent overseas visitors, international roaming options have improved significantly. Premium 5G plans now commonly include data allowances for use abroad without prohibitive roaming charges, particularly throughout Asia. Additionally, Wi-Fi connectivity through carrier-operated hotspots remains a valuable supplementary service bundled with many 5G plans, helping users conserve mobile data when in range of participating locations.
How Do Pricing and Features Compare Across Major Carriers?
When comparing 5G phone plans across Japanese carriers, pricing structure and included features vary significantly based on data allowances and contract terms.
| Carrier | Standard 5G Plan (20GB) | Unlimited 5G Plan | Key Features | eSIM Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NTT Docomo | ¥3,700/month | ¥7,315/month | Extensive coverage, d POINT rewards, free Wi-Fi spots | Yes |
| au by KDDI | ¥3,465/month | ¥6,650/month | Povo app-based customization, au PAY rewards | Yes |
| SoftBank | ¥3,700/month | ¥7,238/month | PayPay integration, free LINE usage | Yes |
| Rakuten Mobile | ¥2,178/month | ¥3,278/month | Rakuten Points, unlimited calling | Yes |
| IIJmio (MVNO) | ¥2,200/month | N/A (30GB max) | English support, multi-carrier network | Limited |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Budget-conscious users should consider Rakuten Mobile, which continues to offer the most aggressive pricing in the market. Those prioritizing network reliability and coverage breadth may find better value with NTT Docomo or au, despite higher monthly fees. For foreign residents, the total cost should factor in English support availability, which might justify selecting a slightly more expensive provider with better language services over the absolute cheapest option.
The Japanese mobile market continues to evolve rapidly, with carriers regularly adjusting their offerings to remain competitive. As 5G technology matures in Japan, subscribers can expect continued improvements in both coverage and value propositions across all major providers throughout 2025 and beyond.
