Multimedia

For foreigners living in Japan, keeping up with what’s going on in here, and keeping in touch with things back home, can be key. Luckily, Japanese technology is top notch and can provide you with many, if not more, of the multi-media comforts that you are used to.

Cellular phones

The primary tool for communication in Japan is the cellular phone, often called keitai for short. It is good to know ahead of time that a cell phone from your home country probably will not work in Japan, as Japan operates on a different network (Personal Digital Cellular) than other countries. GSM phones do not work in Japan.

Cell phones in Japan have all but replaced landlines and are slowly chipping away at the need for a home computer. Today’s phones have everything from GPS navigation to Internet access to video games. Some phones are even replacing credit cards and debit cards as a way of paying for things.

People staying in Japan for a short period (such as three months on a tourist visa) will probably want to rent a phone at the airport in which they land. There are numerous counters where you can do so with a credit card and passport. This can be quite expensive, but unfortunately the option to buy a prepaid phone is no longer available to people who do not have proof of residence in Japan or an Alien Registration Card (gaikokujin torokusho). You can also arrange beforehand to rent a phone that will work in Japan through a service such as Cellular Abroad or major carriers like Sprint and Verizon Wireless.

For those who will stay in Japan for close to a year or more, purchasing a cell phone with a monthly plan is a good idea. You will need your Alien Registration Card and passport. Your visa should also be valid for at least three months from the time when you purchase the phone. Some retailers will not request these materials if you attach monthly payment to a credit card, but have these items ready just in case. If you plan to place international calls from your cell phone, you will want to select a monthly plan that includes international calling services. Otherwise, you can purchase a prepaid international calling card (kokusai terehon kado) at a convenience store.

The three main cell phone carriers in Japan are NTTDoCoMo, au by KDDI, and SoftBank. DoCoMo has the largest amount of subscribers and is reputed to have the most consistent service. They have a number of different discount deals, so it is important to choose the right one that will make the most of your service. These phones tend to be more expensive. Browse the discount services offered on DoCoMo’s website.

Au is another cell phone company worth considering, especially for students. They offer a 50% student discount, but only on non-WIN (CDMA) phones. Review plans and discounts on the au website. SoftBank (formerly Vodafone Japan) is another option for service, featuring a wide variety of phones and plans detailed on the SoftBank Mobile website.

Weigh your options carefully when selecting a phone. The cheaper phones are usually an incredible bargain and offer more features than anyone can use. It is easy to get tempted into buying a phone that will make all your remote controls, MP3 player, TV, home computer, and wallet obsolete, but, as amazing as those features may be, you should stick to a phone that simply meets your needs. Phones on the cutting edge are the first to become obsolete and they can be frustratingly complicated to use on a regular basis.

The Internet

The Internet is available through Internet service providers across the country. You can choose from a dial-up or high-speed connection. Before choosing a provider, ask your landlord for guidance on which service and company to use. Many modern buildings will already be set up for Internet, but you will want to double check your building’s situation before contacting a company. For more information on the services and options available, visit Housing Japan’s Lifestyle web page.

Having the Internet is a huge benefit if you plan to make lots of long-distance calls. Services like Skype allow you to place calls from your computer, requiring only a headset or microphone. Calls are free when calling another Skype user, and cost less than 2.5 Yen per minute to non-Skype users. The only downside is that you will have to be online and near your computer when someone calls. Voicemail and other options to minimize this inconvenience are available.

Television

Public television in Tokyo consists of 12 channels which are, predictably, mostly Japanese programming. Watching Japanese TV may be a great way to learn more about the language and culture. If you are interested in international and English programming, there are several cable and satellite TV providers to chose from. Housing Japan’s Lifestyle – TV section reviews the different options available and the steps to take before ordering service.