Can I send and receive SMS (Short Message Service) messages?

SoftBank 3G SIM Cards can send and receive SMS messages to SoftBank handsets and to mobile phones overseas (International SMS). Please see the Overseas carriers' list (PDF) for available messaging service providers and their services.

Do I have to return the SoftBank 3G SIM Card?

Yes. If the card is not returned your credit card will be billed a replacement fee of 3,150 yen.

Can I receive my telephone number in advance?

Yes. If you book by 11:00am at least 3 days prior to the rental start date we can inform you of the phone number 2 days prior to pick-up.

Is it possible to make free-dial calls?

Communication charges will apply when calls are made from SoftBank Global Rnetal mobile phone to toll-free numbers.

What number I'll have with your SIM card?

With our SIM cards you'll have Japan based number.

What type of iPhone does the rental SIM card take?

The rental iPhone SIM card can be used in iPhone 3G, and iPhone 3GS. It is not compatible with iPhone 4.

How much does it cost to use 3G data?

Data communication charges such as web browsing, web based email, packet communication etc. are calculated at 0.32Yen/packet(128byte) based on the data volume until it reaches 40,000Yen and once it reaches 40,000Yen, the data access is unmetered until the 30th day and no additional charge will be billed for further data access. The same calculational method applies to the ensuing 30 days when the rental period exceeds 30 days. The regular rate applies to voice calls, SMS, Global SMS, and MMS(S!Mail) and the charge for these services is ineligible for the 40,000Yen limit mentioned above.

Where can I use your SIM cards?

3G Coverage in Japan

If I turn on Wi-Fi and join Wi-Fi networks, can I use the Internet free?

Wi-Fi networks can be used free of charge(some Wi-Fi networks require a fee). If no Wi-Fi networks are available or you choose not to join any, iPhone connects to the Internet over a cellular data network and that requires a fee (0.32Yen/128Byte). Note that free Wi-Fi network is not widely available in Japan.

Can I use the web services with the SoftBank 3G SIM Card?

Yes. Web services are available under the following circumstances.
・Your device needs to configure Internet settings with SoftBank Mobile Corp. automatically.
・Data communication is metered and customers pay for the amount of data used. Please be aware that large volume data may result in higher usage charges.
・We highly recommend that you take precautions against unnecessary access to the Internet by your smartphone in advance. Please note that the data access is unlimited with the 3G rental SIM Card and you will be billed 0.32Yen/128byte each time the phone connects to the Internet, i.e. Internet sync, GPS functions, downloading messages from mail server, and etc. You will be responsible for all Internet connections made from your device. Regarding any questions about your phone settings, please check with the manufacturer or your retail store.

Can I send and receive MMS?

MMS is available under the following circumstances.
・You are using a 3G phone from SoftBank Mobile Corp.
・If you are using a non-SoftBank phone, the phone needs to establish the connection to the MMS access point automatically. *SoftBank Mobile Corp. does not disclose their MMS access point to the public.

Is the SoftBank 3G SIM Card compatible with my mobile phone?

Please ensure that your phone is a 3G handset (W-CDMA/UMTS compatible only).
GSM phones will NOT work in Japan.Also, please note that we cannot rent the 3G SIM card to users of certain handset models or certain smartphones. A Smartphone is a mobile phone offering advanced capabilities, often with PC-like functionality such as e-mail, Internet, e-book reader capabilities and etc