NTT Docomo, one of the leading telecom operator across the globe will launch a new prepaid SIM service called 'Japan Welcome SIM' that will allow foreign travellers to access the Internet through the Docomo network during their stay in Japan, starting July 1st, 2017.
Travellers can apply for the service online via a dedicated website before leaving their home country and retrieve the SIM card from a location such as Narita, Haneda or Kansai International Airport upon arrival in Japan. The SIM card, available in regular, micro and nano formats, provides users with access to Docomo's network for 15 days and is compatible with smartphones and tablets without the need for APN settings.
Docomo will be offering three 15-day plans as part of this service, including Plan Zero, Plan 1000 and Plan 1700. The Plan Zero (available from October 2017) will allow users to access the Internet for free at 128 Kbps in exchange for viewing a certain number of video advertisements and filling out a survey prior to arriving in Japan.
At 1000 Yuan, the Plan 1000 will give users ad-free access at 128 Kbps, while paying a further 700 Yuan for Plan 1700 will provide increased download speeds (up to 682 Mbps) for the first 500 MB used.
Users can continue to enjoy high-speed internet access by recharging their SIMs for an extra 200 Yuan for 100MB or 700 Yuan for 500MB (prices excluding tax). Alternatively, users can recharge their SIMs for free through a variety of methods such as watching video advertisements and filling in surveys.
Users can apply for the 'Japan Welcome SIM' by visiting the official website: https://docomo.prepaid-sim.jp/lp/index.html. Also, do make a note that the website is currently available only in the Japanese language. However, the website is available in English and Chinese via translation engine.
"As part of Docomo's '+d' initiative to create new value through collaboration, DOCOMO partners will be able to sell the 'Japan Welcome SIM' to foreign travellers visiting Japan in conjunction with their services. This B2B2C service will initially be offered in partnership with Tokyu Hotels and Booking.com, with DOCOMO looking to gradually expand its partner base moving forward. Partners will have the choice of a 'set offer' or 'count free' service," states the company.
