Internet Installation and Providers in Japan

A Complete Guide for Foreigners Living in Japan

Staying connected in Japan is essential for work, study, entertainment, and daily life. Whether you’re a digital nomad, international student, or long-term resident, reliable internet access is one of the first utilities you’ll need. While Japan is known for its advanced technology, navigating the world of home internet—especially in a different language—can be overwhelming.

This guide will walk you through every step: choosing a provider, types of connections, installation timelines, language support, and the best options for both short- and long-term stays.

1. Overview of Internet in Japan

Japan’s internet infrastructure is among the best in the world, boasting high-speed fiber connections with excellent reliability. However, bureaucracy and language barriers can make the setup process daunting for newcomers.

Most common types:

• Fiber-optic (光回線 / hikari-kaisen): Fastest and most common

• Pocket Wi-Fi (ポケットWiFi): Portable, great for travelers

• Home Wi-Fi (WiMAX/4G routers): No installation required

• ADSL or cable: Rare and outdated, generally not recommended

2. Popular Internet Providers in Japan

Here are the main providers offering fiber-optic home internet (FTTH):

Note: Many providers resell NTT FLET’S lines with their own service bundles and prices.

3. Process of Installing Home Internet

Step-by-step installation process:

1. Check building availability

   • Not all buildings are wired for every network

   • Ask your landlord or use online tools to check fiber compatibility

2. Choose a provider

   • Compare plans, speeds, support language, and bundled mobile offers

3. Apply online or in-store

   • Some sites offer English application forms

   • Passport and residence card typically required

4. Schedule installation

   • Usually takes 1–3 weeks

   • Technician visits your apartment

5. Wait for activation

   • After wiring, you’ll get your router and login info

6. Connect and test

   • If problems arise, support may be limited in English

4. Installation Timeline: What to Expect

Tip: If you’re in a shared house or serviced apartment, internet may already be included.

5. Best Providers for English-Speaking Residents

✅ Asahi Net

• FLET’S-based

• English website and customer support

• Monthly price: ~¥4,000–¥5,000

• Highly rated for transparency

✅ Sakura Fiber Internet

• Full English service and application

• No long-term contract required

• Installation handled on your behalf

• Ideal for students and freelancers

✅ SoftBank Air

• Plug-and-play wireless router

• No need for fiber installation

• Fast in urban areas, less stable in rural zones

6. Pocket Wi-Fi and Short-Term Options

For short stays (under 3 months), consider:

Japan Wireless

• Rentable pocket Wi-Fi (unlimited data)

• Delivery to hotel or airport

• ~¥7,000/month

Sakura Mobile

• Offers SIM + pocket Wi-Fi

• English support

• Great for tourists and working holidays

SoftBank Rental

• In-store pickup at Bic Camera

• Needs a deposit or credit card

7. Data Speeds and Performance

Fiber offers the most consistent and fastest experience, but requires setup.

8. Key Contract Terms to Know

Some providers offer “zero-cost installation” if you stay over 2 years.

9. Can You Get Internet Without a Long-Term Contract?

Yes, several options are available:

• Sakura Fiber: No long-term commitment

• SoftBank Air: Month-to-month possible via reseller

• Pocket Wi-Fi: Rent monthly, no contract

10. Bundled Deals with Mobile Carriers

If you already use a Japanese mobile service, you might qualify for internet discounts:

Ask your mobile provider directly for bundling campaigns.

11. What Equipment Do You Need?

• ONU (optical network unit): Installed during fiber setup

• Router: Many providers rent it to you

• Wi-Fi extender (optional): For larger homes

If you already have a router from your home country, it might work—but voltage and plug compatibility must be checked.

12. Tips for a Smooth Setup

• Apply before you move in if possible

• Consider bridge internet with pocket Wi-Fi

• Use proxy application services if you don’t speak Japanese

• Choose providers with no cancellation penalty if unsure of your stay length

• Always check fine print for hidden fees

13. Internet for Shared Houses & Apartments

Many shared accommodations already include Wi-Fi. Check:

• Speed (may be slow if many users)

• Limits (some places throttle after 10GB/day)

• Extra fees (included or not)

Some properties block gaming ports or P2P traffic. If you work online, confirm reliability first.

14. Can You Use eSIM for Home Internet?

Some companies (e.g., Airalo, Ubigi) offer data plans usable via eSIM on mobile devices—but they are not practical for heavy home use. Ideal only as backup or for light browsing.

15. Final Thoughts

Japan offers excellent internet infrastructure, but navigating the process can be challenging without Japanese language skills or long-term plans. Fiber-optic remains the gold standard for speed and stability, but alternatives like SoftBank Air and pocket Wi-Fi serve well in transitional periods.

For long-term residents, choose providers like Asahi Net or Sakura Fiber that offer clear pricing, no hidden fees, and English support. For short-term stays, rent pocket Wi-Fi or go with no-contract routers to keep it simple.

Once your connection is set, you’ll enjoy some of the fastest, most reliable internet in the world—perfect for life, work, and staying in touch from anywhere in Japan.