Hello! This is Willow Inc., here to support every aspect of your new life in Japan.
When searching for an apartment in Japan, you’ll often see attractive descriptions like “Free Internet” or “Wi-Fi Included.” These are properties where the monthly internet fee is included in your rent, allowing you to use Wi-Fi from the day you move in.
But you might be wondering, “Is it really a good deal?” or “Is the connection speed slow?”
The short answer is: for foreigners who have just arrived in Japan, **this type of property is one of the best options available.** This time, we’ll explain the three biggest reasons why, in a way that’s easy to understand even if you’re not familiar with the Japanese telecommunications scene!
Reason 1: Absolutely No Troublesome or Complex Contracts!
Signing up for internet on your own in Japan can be a surprisingly difficult task. In many cases, you’ll face the following hurdles:
- Complicated Contracts in Japanese: The documents are filled with technical jargon, making them hard to fully understand.
- Long-Term Contracts: Most plans require a two-year contract, often called a “ni-nen shibari” (2年縛り). If you cancel mid-term, you will be charged a hefty cancellation fee.
- Payment Method Restrictions: Most providers require a Japanese bank account or credit card to sign up.
With a “Free Internet” apartment, you can skip all of these complicated procedures. You can start using the internet stress-free, without worrying about language barriers or being locked into a long-term contract.
Reason 2: Use It From Day One! No Waiting for Installation Work
Normally, when you sign up for internet yourself, you often need to wait for “installation work” (開通工事) to be completed before you can get connected. This involves scheduling a day for a technician to come to your room and being there for the appointment. It’s not uncommon to wait a month or more before your service is active.
However, in a “Free Internet” apartment, all the equipment is already set up. All you need to do is enter the Wi-Fi password, and you can be connected to the internet from the very moment you open your suitcase. This is an invaluable benefit when you’ve just arrived and need to gather information and contact your family back home.
Reason 3: It Saves You Money in Total Costs
You might think the rent seems a little higher, but when you consider the total cost, it’s often the more economical choice.
- Zero Initial Fees: When you sign up for a plan yourself, you often have to pay an “installation fee” and a “contract事務手数料” that can cost tens of thousands of yen. With these apartments, that cost is zero.
- Simplified Monthly Expenses: You don’t have to pay a separate utility bill for internet, which makes managing your monthly budget much easier.
Even if the rent is a few thousand yen higher, when you factor in these savings, it often works out to be cheaper in the long run.
[A Quick Note] Just a Couple of Things to Check Before You Sign
While “Free Internet” apartments are very appealing, there are a couple of points you may want to confirm just in case.
- Connection Speed: If you are a serious online gamer or frequently upload very large, high-resolution videos, the speed might feel a bit slow. For standard video streaming, social media, and online classes, it is almost always perfectly fine.
- Security: In some cases, the internet connection is shared throughout the entire building. When handling sensitive data, it’s always a good idea to use a VPN for added security.
Conclusion: Highly Recommended for Short-Term Stays and Those Who Value Simplicity!
With no tedious paperwork, no waiting time, and lower costs, “Free Internet” apartments are ideal for the following people:
- International students or those on a working holiday planning a short-term stay (1-2 years).
- Professionals who want to avoid difficult contracts and start their new life simply.
- Anyone who wants to get an internet connection quickly and easily.
At Willow, we handle a large number of “Free Internet” properties. We can also help you compare them with standard apartments to propose the best option for your lifestyle. Please feel free to consult with us.
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