To obtain a Japanese phone number, a credit card with a 'credit BIN' is often required by providers like Mobal
To obtain a Japanese phone number, a credit card with a 'credit BIN' is often required by providers like Mobal.com. If you only have debit cards (e.g., from Kyrgyzstan or Georgia), verify if they meet the credit card requirement. Use a 'BIN checker' tool online by entering the first six digits of your card number to determine its type (credit vs. debit) and potential eligibility.
Registering for local Japanese services like Ticket Pia or Mercari often requires a Japanese phone number
Registering for local Japanese services like Ticket Pia or Mercari often requires a Japanese phone number. Major providers like Mobal and Sakura Mobile are options, but they typically require a residence card (Zairyu card). Prepaid options with local numbers are limited for tourists without residency status.
Most tourist eSIMs in Japan are data-only and do not support SMS/calls
Most tourist eSIMs in Japan are data-only and do not support SMS/calls. Travelers requiring a local phone number for SMS must opt for specific providers like Mobal or Sakura Mobile, which usually require in-person pickup and a valid credit card for registration.
To obtain a Japanese SIM card, a credit card is typically required
To obtain a Japanese SIM card, a credit card is typically required. Users with foreign debit cards (e.g., from Georgia or Kyrgyzstan, Mastercard/Visa) may face issues as these can be debit-based. Research services like mobal.com and verify their acceptance of debit cards or explore alternative providers or methods for obtaining a local Japanese phone number.