How to get a mobile phone in Japan?

Hi Gary, if you're staying longer than 2 years you should probably get a 2 year plan at one of Japan's mobile phone providers. Docomo, Softbank and Au are the biggest. Before going prepare your Zairyu card (residency card), bank information (it might be helpful to get a Japanese bank account) and perhaps some documents from your school to proof that you are a student living in Japan, just to be sure. If your Japanese is not that great bring someone with you that can help you a bit or visit one of the stores in the major cities in Japan. I know the stores in Tokyo in the more touristy areas have some staff that are used to helping non-Japanese speaking customers.