ISPs in Japan for Speed and English Assistance 

Japan ranks among the top countries for internet speed, with average fixed broadband speeds crossing 210 Mbps in recent global reports. Still, many users complain about slow connections, confusing contracts, and poor customer service. 

I spent hours comparing speed tests, provider policies, and customer experiences before creating this guide on the ISPs in Japan. Here, you will learn which providers offer the fastest fiber internet, which ISPs give the best value for money, and which companies support foreigners with easy setup and English assistance. 

Before you choose a provider, take a look at the best ISPs currently available in Japan. 

List of ISPs in Japan

Japan is home to several internet service providers, ranging from nationwide fiber companies to smaller regional ISPs. Some of them offer high-speed internet, and others provide budget-friendly plans, English support, or flexible contracts for foreigners. 

Below, I have listed internet providers in Japan, divided into major providers and other internet service companies. 

1. Major ISPs in Japan

These internet providers offer wide coverage, fast fiber internet, and reliable services for most residential and business users. 

• NTT Docomo Hikari
• SoftBank Hikari
• au Hikari
• Nuro Hikari
• Rakuten Hikari
• Asahi Net
• BIGLOBE Hikari
• OCN Internet
• So-net
• @nifty Hikari
• IIJmio Hikari
• GMO Tokutoku BB
• J:COM
• Yahoo! BB
• Plala

2. Other Popular ISPs in Japan

These other internet providers include regional, budget-friendly, and niche companies that serve different internet needs in the country. 

• Excite MEC Hikari
• DTI Hikari
• BB.excite
• Commufa Hikari
• eo Hikari
• Pikara Hikari
• BBIQ
• MEGA EGG
• UQ WiMAX
• Broad WiMAX
• Sakura Fiber Internet
• GTN Hikari
• Mobal Fiber
• hi-ho
• TikiTiki Internet
• WAKWAK
• Interlink
• Dream.jp
• TNC Hikari
• Marubeni Hikari
• en Hikari
• IC-Net
• SpinNet
• ANDLINE
• Chukai TV Internet
• Edion Net
• Fiimo
• KCN
• LIBMO
• SANNET
• SAKURA Internet
• TCOM Hikari
• TOPPA!
• USEN NET
• JANIS

Let’s discuss the details of each of these internet companies.

Major ISPs in Japan

Several internet providers hold a strong position in the market because of their speed, service quality, and nationwide availability. The following main providers offer different pricing, connection types, and internet speeds, giving users more options. 

1. NTT Docomo Hikari

NTT Docomo Hikari is a Japanese fiber internet service delivered over NTT optical lines. It provides internet services in many regions. 

Key Features

• Internet Speed: Provides 1 Gbps and 10 Gbps fiber plans in selected areas.
• Mobile Discounts: Combines Docomo phone and internet services to reduce monthly bills.
• IPv6 Access: Improves browsing quality during crowded evening hours.
• Router Rental: Includes optional WiFi devices for home internet setup.
• Installation Process: Requires technician visits for line activation in most locations.

2. SoftBank Hikari

SoftBank Hikari is a fiber broadband provider in Japan that delivers internet services through NTT fiber networks. It provides fiber internet services through NTT lines in many urban areas. 

Key Features

• Gaming Performance: Handles online multiplayer sessions with stable latency.
• Yahoo! Integration: Connects internet accounts with Yahoo! Japan services.
• Wireless Coverage: Offers WiFi equipment for larger indoor spaces.
• Contract Terms: Includes fixed-period agreements with cancellation charges.
• Signup Methods: Accepts applications through websites and retail stores.

3. au Hikari

au Hikari is a high-speed fiber internet provider operated by KDDI in Japan. It delivers high-speed fiber internet through KDDI-operated networks in many service areas. 

Key Features

• Fiber Network: Uses dedicated fiber lines in many service areas.
• Streaming Quality: Runs 4K videos and live streams with fewer interruptions.
• Cashback Deals: Gives promotional rewards to new subscribers.
• Apartment Access: Includes ready-to-use lines in selected buildings.
• Customer Assistance: Provides help through stores, chat services, and phone lines.

4. Nuro Hikari

Nuro Hikari is a Japanese fiber internet provider operated by Sony Network Communications. The company offers fiber internet service in select regions, including multi-gigabit speed plans. 

Key Features

• Download Speed: Offers internet plans with speeds up to 2 Gbps, with 10 Gbps available in select regions. 
• Low Ping Rates: Maintains stable response times for competitive online gaming.
• Security Tools: Includes antivirus and internet protection features with selected packages.
• Streaming Experience: Handles high-resolution video playback without long loading delays.
• Service Areas: Available in restricted regions compared to larger nationwide providers. 

5. Rakuten Hikari

Rakuten Hikari is a fiber broadband service offered by Rakuten in Japan. It delivers fiber broadband services through optical internet lines. 

Key Features

• Reward Points: Gives Rakuten points for eligible internet payments and campaigns.
• Monthly Pricing: Includes lower-cost internet packages compared to several premium providers.
• Online Applications: Users can apply for services online through the company’s official website.
• WiFi Compatibility: Works with many third-party wireless routers and networking devices.
• Bundle Services: Connects internet subscriptions with Rakuten mobile services and online platforms.

6. Asahi Net

Asahi Net is one of Japan’s long-running internet providers, delivering fiber broadband and communication services. It offers broadband and communication services across different sectors. 

Key Features

• English Assistance: Provides English-language help for foreign residents in Japan.
• Education Services: Offers internet access to universities and academic institutions.
• Email Accounts: Includes dedicated email services with selected subscriptions.
• Connection Stability: Maintains reliable internet performance for remote work and video meetings.
• Set up Guidance: Shares installation instructions and account information through online resources.

7. BIGLOBE Hikari

BIGLOBE Hikari is a Japanese fiber internet provider that uses NTT optical lines for broadband services. It combines internet access with digital features, campaign offers, and account management tools.

Key Features

• Router Campaigns: Includes discounted WiFi devices with selected subscriptions.
• Payment Options: Accepts bank transfers and credit card payments for monthly billing.
• Member Benefits: Gives access to bonus campaigns and limited-time internet discounts.
• Web Account Panel: Allows users to check bills and service details online.
• Optional Add-ons: Offers additional internet tools with specific packages. 

8. OCN Internet

OCN Internet is a broadband brand operated by NTT Communications in Japan. It offers broadband internet, mobile SIM services, and digital communication products. 

Key Features

• Mobile SIM Plans: Offers internet SIM packages with voice and data services.
• Business Products: Supplies communication services for office environments.
• Cloud Services: Includes online storage features with selected accounts.
• Security Tools: Provides internet protection services for connected devices.
• Long Market Presence: Operates as one of Japan’s established internet brands.

9. So-net

So-net is a Japanese internet provider owned by Sony Group. It combines fiber broadband with account management and digital service features. 

Key Features

• Cashback Campaigns: Offers cashback rewards for new internet applications. 
• Online Account Access: Lets users manage subscriptions through web portals.
• Fiber Packages: Includes multiple internet speed options for different service areas.
• Wireless Services: Provides home WiFi products in selected regions.
• Sony Connection: Operates under Sony Network Communications.

10. @nifty Hikari

@nifty Hikari is a broadband provider in Japan that operates through NTT fiber networks. It offers internet services with web features, account tools, and optional protection services.

Key Features

• Email Services: Includes dedicated email accounts with selected subscriptions.
• Installation Tracking: Shows application and setup progress through online systems.
• Security Options: Offers internet protection features for connected devices.
• Discount Campaigns: Provides price reductions for eligible subscribers.
• Service Management: Allows users to update account settings online.

11. IIJmio Hikari

IIJmio Hikari is a Japanese fiber internet provider operated by Internet Initiative Japan. It offers broadband services through NTT fiber lines and connects internet packages with mobile communication products.

Key Features

• SIM Integration: Combines fiber internet with IIJmio mobile SIM services.
• Data Packages: Includes mobile data options with selected subscriptions.
• Online Registration: Accepts internet applications through online signup systems.
• Contract Details: Shares billing and agreement information through user dashboards.
• Network Technology: Uses IPv6 internet access in many service areas.

12. GMO Tokutoku BB

GMO Tokutoku BB is a broadband brand in Japan that provides fiber internet and wireless communication services. It provides broadband packages through fiber and wireless internet services. 

Key Features

• Cashback Rewards: Gives high-value cashback campaigns for new customers.
• WiMAX Services: Provides portable internet devices and home wireless routers.
• Short Promotions: Includes limited-time discount offers during signup periods.
• Shipping Services: Delivers internet devices directly to customer addresses.
• Application Status: Displays order progress via online account pages.

13. J:COM

J:COM is a Japanese cable internet provider that also delivers television and phone services. It delivers internet services through cable networks in many Japanese cities. 

Key Features

• Cable Television: Combines internet subscriptions with TV channel packages.
• Phone Services: Includes landline communication options with selected contracts.
• Regional Coverage: Serves many apartment complexes and urban neighborhoods.
• Home Visits: Sends technicians for cable setup and activation procedures.
• Bundle Discounts: Combines internet, television, and phone services under one subscription. 

14. Yahoo! BB

Yahoo! BB is a Japanese internet brand associated with SoftBank. It provides broadband services and online account features for internet subscribers in Japan.

Key Features

• Yahoo! Services: Connects accounts with Yahoo! Japan digital platforms.
• Wireless Equipment: Supplies modem and router devices for internet connectivity. 
• Online Billing: Lets users manage payments through web-based systems.
• Email Features: Includes Yahoo! email services with selected accounts.
• Signup Campaigns: Provides promotional offers for new internet applications.

15. Plala

Plala is a Japanese internet provider operated under NTT Docomo. It delivers broadband services along with online communication and account management features.

Key Features

• Content Filtering: Includes parental control options for internet browsing.
• Security Services: Provides antivirus and internet protection tools.
• Account Settings: Allows users to manage subscriptions through member pages.
• Optional Services: Adds web-related features with selected internet packages.
• NTT Connection: Operates under the NTT Docomo business group.

Other Popular ISPs in Japan

Apart from major internet brands, Japan includes several other ISPs that serve different cities and customer groups. They attract users with lower pricing, regional coverage, multilingual services, or wireless internet options. 

1. Excite MEC Hikari: Uses IPv6 technology for smoother browsing and faster page loading during busy internet hours.
2. DTI Hikari: Delivers broadband internet through NTT fiber lines with multiple subscription options.
3. BB.excite: Provides lower-cost fiber broadband packages in selected service regions.
4. Commufa Hikari: Offers optical fiber internet services in central Japan.
5. eo Hikari: Covers the Kansai region through optical broadband internet networks. 
6. Pikara Hikari: Delivers regional internet services in Shikoku through fiber communication networks.
7. BBIQ: Uses optical fiber networks for internet services across the Kyushu region. 
8. MEGA EGG: Covers the Chugoku region with optical broadband internet access. 
9. UQ WiMAX: Uses portable WiFi devices and home routers to provide wireless internet access.
10. Broad WiMAX: Provides wireless broadband through indoor routers and portable internet devices.
11. Sakura Fiber Internet: Includes fiber broadband services with English-language assistance for foreign residents in Japan.
12. GTN Hikari: Serves international residents through multilingual internet communication services.
13. Mobal Fiber: Connects foreign visitors and long-term residents with broadband internet packages.
14. hi-ho: Includes fiber broadband and mobile internet services through subscription packages. 
15. TikiTiki Internet: Provides broadband internet connectivity in certain regions of Japan. 
16. WAKWAK: Uses optical communication networks for broadband internet services.
17. Interlink: Features IPv6 internet access with web-based account management tools.
18. Dream.jp: Includes internet communication features with web-related service options.
19. TNC Hikari: Extends fiber broadband services to regional areas in Japan. 
20. Marubeni Hikari: Uses optical fiber lines for broadband internet and communication services.
21. en Hikari: Runs on NTT fiber lines for broadband internet services in different Japanese regions. 
22. IC-Net: Provides internet communication services through broadband networks. 
23. SpinNet: Delivers fiber broadband and online communication features in Japan.
24. ANDLINE: Uses optical fiber lines for broadband internet subscriptions. 
25. Chukai TV Internet: Uses cable television networks for internet and communication services.
26. Edion Net: Offers broadband internet, electronics, and home technology services. 
27. Fiimo: Offers mobile communication and broadband internet services in regional areas.
28. KCN: Covers selected communities with cable broadband and internet communication networks.
29. LIBMO: Combines mobile SIM packages with internet communication services. 
30. SANNET: Uses broadband networks with online communication features for subscribers. 
31. SAKURA Internet: Operates internet and cloud services through digital communication networks.
32. TCOM Hikari: Uses fiber-optic lines to provide broadband internet in different regions.
33. TOPPA!: Includes broadband internet packages with communication service features. 
34. USEN NET: Connects fiber broadband with business and commercial internet services.
35. JANIS: Covers regional areas with broadband internet and communication network services.

ISP Pricing in Japan 

The comparison table below displays the pricing, installation charges, and internet speeds of some leading internet companies in Japan:

Major ISP Coverage Areas in Japan

The list below highlights the main service areas of major broadband providers in Japan:

1. NTT Docomo Hikari: Covers Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Sendai, and many other regions.
2. SoftBank Hikari: Operates in Yokohama, Kobe, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Kawasaki.
3. au Hikari: Serves Tokyo, Chiba, Saitama, Osaka, and Aichi.
4. Nuro Hikari: Covers selected areas in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Osaka, Hyogo, and Fukuoka.
5. Rakuten Hikari: Covers Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Yokohama, Sapporo, Sendai, Nagoya, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka.
6. Asahi Net: Operates in Tokyo, Chiba, Saitama, Kanagawa, Osaka, and Kyoto. 
7. BIGLOBE Hikari: Covers Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and many cities in eastern and western Japan. 
8. OCN Internet: Serves Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Kansai, and Kyushu.
9. So-net: Reaches Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Sapporo, and Sendai.
10. @nifty Hikari: Connects Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Chiba, and Saitama.
11. IIJmio Hikari: Includes Hokkaido, Kanto, Kansai, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu.
12. GMO Tokutoku BB: Serves Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, Nagoya, and Fukuoka.
13. J:COM: Serves Tokyo, Kanagawa, Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, and nearby areas.
14. Yahoo! BB: Covers Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, Nagoya, Sapporo, Fukuoka, and Kobe.
15. Plala: Operates in Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Kansai, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu.

Best Japan ISPs for Different Needs 

Here are the internet services in Japan that fit specific internet needs and user preferences:

1. Good for online gaming: Nuro Hikari
2. Good for foreign residents: Asahi Net
3. Good for lower monthly pricing: Rakuten Hikari
4. Good for SoftBank mobile users: SoftBank Hikari
5. Good for 4K streaming and large downloads: au Hikari
6. Good for portable wireless internet: UQ WiMAX
7. Good for TV and internet bundles: J:COM
8. Good for cashback campaigns: GMO Tokutoku BB
9. Good for business internet services: OCN Internet
10. Good for internet and mobile SIM packages: IIJmio Hikari
11. Good for multilingual communication services: GTN Hikari
12. Good for parental control and internet filtering tools: Plala

ISPs in Japan With English Support 

Finding internet services in Japan with English support can be challenging for many foreign residents. While many providers use Japanese for contracts and customer communication, a few companies offer English-language help. 

The following companies help users in English:

• Asahi Net: Offers English-language customer support and website access for foreign residents. 
• Sakura Fiber Internet: Handles applications, installation, and customer communication in English.
• GTN Hikari: Uses multilingual communication services in English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and other languages.
• SpinNet: Offers partial English assistance.
• Mobal Fiber: Connects foreign residents with English-language broadband services.
• SoftBank Hikari: Provides English-language website information for internet services and applications. 
• NTT Docomo Hikari: Features English-language online information for broadband services and setup guidance.

ISPs’ Internet Speeds in Japan 

Internet speeds in Japan rank among the fastest in the world due to the country’s advanced fiber-optic broadband networks. The following internet providers offer these maximum speed ranges: 

• NTT Docomo Hikari: Up to 1 Gbps and 10 Gbps
• SoftBank Hikari: Up to 1 Gbps
• au Hikari: Up to 1 Gbps
• Nuro Hikari: Up to 2 Gbps and 10 Gbps
• Rakuten Hikari: Up to 1 Gbps
• Asahi Net: Up to 1 Gbps
• BIGLOBE Hikari: Up to 1 Gbps
• OCN Internet: Up to 1 Gbps
• So-net: Up to 2 Gbps
• @nifty Hikari: Up to 1 Gbps
• IIJmio Hikari: Up to 1 Gbps
• GMO Tokutoku BB: Up to 1 Gbps
• J:COM: Up to 1 Gbps
• Yahoo! BB: Up to 1 Gbps
• Plala: Up to 1 Gbps

How Internet Service Providers in Japan Work 

Japan internet providers use fiber cables, wireless systems, and cable networks to deliver internet access. Different companies use different connection methods. 

• Fiber Networks: Many ISPs use optical fiber cables to deliver high-speed internet connections.
• NTT Lines: Many providers operate using NTT communication lines instead of building separate networks. 
• Wireless Internet: Some companies use portable WiFi devices and home routers for internet access.
• Cable Connections: Cable internet providers use television network infrastructure to deliver broadband services. 
• Installation Visits: Technicians visit homes or buildings to activate internet lines and set up equipment.
• Router Setup: Users connect routers and modems to create wireless internet access.
• Monthly Contracts: Most providers use monthly billing systems with fixed-term agreements.
• Service Areas: Internet availability changes between cities, regions, apartment buildings, and rural areas.

How to Apply for Internet in Japan 

Applying for internet services in Japan requires a few important steps before the connection becomes active. Most companies accept online applications, whereas others handle registrations through physical stores.

1. Choose an ISP: Select an internet provider based on speed, pricing, contract terms, and coverage area.
2. Check Availability: Confirm whether fiber internet or wireless service works at your address.
3. Submit Application: Complete the registration form through the provider’s website or store.
4. Provide Documents: Share identification documents such as a residence card, passport, or phone number.
5. Schedule Installation: Pick a date for the internet line setup.
6. Receive Equipment: Get the modem, router, or wireless device from the internet provider.
7. Set up Internet: Connect the equipment and activate the internet connection.
8. Review Contract: Read the cancellation fees, monthly charges, and agreement period before final approval.

Conclusion 

In this guide, we explored the best ISPs in Japan, internet speeds, pricing plans, installation fees, service coverage, English assistance, broadband connection types, the process of applying for internet services, and which providers work well for foreign residents.

Some groups of ISPs offer lower pricing, and others provide faster internet or wider service areas. Comparing monthly costs, contract periods, and internet availability can help you manage these differences and avoid service-related issues.

Before closing this page, take a quick look at the FAQs.

Frequently Asked Questions 

These questions explain ISPs in Japan from different angles.

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