[2026 Latest] Thorough Explanation of HIS Mobile's Real Reputation and Rates! Recommended People and Precautions

Verification Status: This article is an explanation based on publicly available information (no actual usage or transactions by the editorial team).

Mayumi Sato (32, working in Tokyo) sighs every time she sees her monthly smartphone bill. It's about 6,000 yen per month. Even though she doesn't watch many videos, why does it cost so much? Then, a friend from her student days told her, "I pay less than 2,000 yen a month," and she first learned the name HIS Mobile.

HIS Mobile is a service that allows you to "keep your Docomo line and have a smartphone starting from 280 yen per month." If you use a low data volume with more calls, you may be able to significantly reduce your fixed costs.

What is HIS Mobile? A Low-Cost SIM from Travel Company HIS

What Sato first looked into was, "Which network do low-cost SIMs actually use?" If they borrow the same radio waves as the major carriers, call quality and coverage areas can be maintained as before. HIS Mobile is an MVNO that provides services by borrowing NTT Docomo's network. In other words, if a Docomo smartphone can connect there, you can basically use it in the same way.

Furthermore, as of 2026, HIS Mobile supports 5G communication for free. Without any optional fees, you can use high-speed communication if you have a compatible device. In addition to physical SIM cards, it also supports eSIM, allowing you to apply online and activate it on the spot. Tethering is also free, and there are no contract periods or cancellation fees. Leveraging its strength as a travel company, it also offers benefits that are appealing to frequent travelers, such as bundle discounts with overseas Wi-Fi rental.

"I want to change, but I'm scared"—Mayumi Sato's honest feelings

Ms. Sato hesitated to switch to a low-cost SIM not because of the cheaper rates, but due to concerns about "communication quality" and "support."

"At work, I make calls to clients, so I can't afford dropped calls." "If something goes wrong, I'd worry if I can't ask directly at a store."

This isn't unique to Ms. Sato. It's a common psychological hurdle for low-cost SIMs in general. Unlike major carriers, they don't have specialized stores nationwide, and for those unfamiliar with online procedures, there's a big question: "Can I set it up myself?" Additionally, comparing rate plans is complicated, making it hard to know which option is right. For now, Ms. Sato decided to read through HIS Mobile's rate table from cover to cover.

Pricing Plans and Cost Perception – The True Value of "Jiyujizai 2.0"

HIS Mobile's main plan, "Jiyujizai 2.0," operates on a tiered monthly fee system based on actual data usage. As of July 2026, the rates are as follows:

In Sato's case, he primarily uses social media and web searches, watching videos only on Wi-Fi. His monthly data usage is at most around 3GB. This means his monthly fee would be 1,265 yen. Even this alone represents a significant reduction from 6,000 yen.

Furthermore, for those who make frequent calls, the call rate of 9 yen per 30 seconds is also noteworthy. This is significantly cheaper than traditional plans from major carriers, making it especially beneficial for those with many work-related calls. Even for users who rarely use voice calls, there is flexibility to add 1GB of data for 200 yen if needed. On the other hand, it's important to note that an initial administrative fee of 3,300 yen applies. While this is slightly higher than some competitors, it is a level that can be easily recouped through the low monthly fees.

Realizing the potential to reduce his monthly payment to less than one-third, Sato began to think, "This is worth a try." However, he was still curious about real user reviews. So next, he thoroughly investigated the reputation of actual users.

Light and Shadow Seen from Real Reviews

Looking at multiple reviews of HIS Mobile, positive comments are concentrated on "low prices" and "the stability of the Docomo network." On the other hand, opinions are divided on "daytime communication speeds" and "the online-centered support system." As an example, let's look at some comments published on budget SIM comparison sites.

"This was my first time using a budget SIM, and I found HIS Mobile's low prices very appealing." (From a review on a budget SIM comparison site)

"Since it uses the Docomo network, it was easy to connect even on business trips to rural areas, and I never had any issues with coverage." (From a review on a budget SIM comparison site)

Alongside these positive comments, there are also negative points.

"I feel that communication speeds become a bit unstable during peak times, such as in the evening." (From a review on a budget SIM comparison site)

"There were some parts I didn't quite understand during setup and application, and I was sometimes confused by the online-centered support." (From a review on a budget SIM comparison site)

Overall, while many users express satisfaction with the pricing, some comments point out issues with speed and support. These are points that, if understood in advance, allow for countermeasures and preparation.

Differences from Rakuten Mobile and Japan Communications SIM – Which One Should You Choose?

As he continued his research, Sato found other options besides HIS Mobile that caught his interest: Rakuten Mobile and Japan Communications SIM. Their respective pricing is as follows (based on publicly available information as of July 2026).

First, Rakuten Mobile costs 1,081 yen per month for up to 1GB. This is more expensive than HIS Mobile's 1GB plan at 935 yen, but it offers advantages for those who value compatibility with the Rakuten ecosystem. On the other hand, Japan Communications SIM uses the Docomo network and stands out with its large-capacity pricing of 1,390 yen for 20GB.

For users like Sato, who use "about 3GB per month and make a fair number of calls," HIS Mobile's low call charge of 9 yen per 30 seconds and the balanced pricing of 1,265 yen for 3GB fit perfectly. For heavy data users, Japan Communications SIM is the choice, while those who want to leverage Rakuten services should go with Rakuten Mobile – this segmentation becomes clear.

"With my usage, HIS Mobile might be enough." Convinced of this, Sato began looking into the actual application process.

Check the latest pricing plans on the official website to quickly find the optimal capacity for your usage.

From Application to Activation – Simpler Than You Think in 4 Steps

Starting with HIS Mobile involves four main steps. Sato's concern that "the procedures seem troublesome" is greatly alleviated once you see the actual flow.

1. Apply on the official website Prepare your identification documents (such as a driver's license or My Number card) and apply via the web form. It takes about 15 minutes.
2. Receive your SIM card or eSIM A physical SIM can be received by mail or at HIS stores nationwide. With an eSIM, you can download the profile on the spot.
3. Perform initial settings Insert the SIM into your smartphone and configure the APN (access point). Following the official website's manual, this can be completed in about 5 minutes.
4. Start using the service Once the settings are done, you can immediately make calls and use data communication.

If you have an eSIM-compatible device, activation may be possible as early as the same day from application. Additionally, if you choose in-store pickup, staff can assist you with the initial settings on the spot, so even those unfamiliar with online procedures can feel at ease.

Resolving Common Concerns—The Realities of "Signal," "Support," and "Cancellation"

As Sato-san was about to apply, the initial doubts resurfaced in his mind. "Is the signal really okay?" "What about support?" "What if it doesn't suit me?"—These are questions many people have. HIS Mobile has answers prepared for each of them.

"Isn't the signal poor?" The network used is Docomo. As long as you are in an area where a Docomo smartphone can connect, there should generally be no issues with calls or data. Multiple review sites also report comments like, "I live in the countryside, but the signal has never dropped in two years." However, due to the nature of MVNOs, it is important to understand in advance that communication speeds may drop during peak times, such as weekday lunch breaks or evenings.

"I'm worried about support." While online support is the main channel, in-person consultations are available at HIS stores nationwide. Phone inquiries require a paid option, but chat and email support are available free of charge.

"Is it difficult to cancel?" There are no contract periods or cancellation fees. Cancellation can be completed smoothly through an online procedure, making the barrier to "trying it out" low.

"Since there's no lock-in, I can just go back if it doesn't work out." With that thought, Sato-san finally resolved to take action.

Summary — Who HIS Mobile Is Really For

After thorough research, Sato-san reached a clear conclusion: HIS Mobile is best suited for people who "use little data but make many calls." There are two reasons for this. First, the overwhelming affordability starting at 280 yen per month allows users with low data consumption to minimize fixed costs. Second, the call rate of 9 yen per 30 seconds significantly reduces the burden for those who frequently make calls for work or with family.

• Suitable for: Monthly data usage of 5GB or less / Frequent callers / Those who value the area stability of the Docomo network / Those who want to take advantage of travel discounts / Those using it as a sub-line or for number retention
• Those who need caution: Daily heavy data users for video streaming or gaming / Those who require high-speed communication during the day / Those who only want to use bank transfer for payment

In the end, Sato-san's action was to gather information and apply for free. Registration is free. In-store consultations are also free. While there are initial costs, even those can be fully offset within a few months by the difference in monthly fees. Above all, since there is no contract term commitment, you can return anytime if it doesn't suit you. This "reversible first step" is the greatest source of reassurance when switching to a low-cost SIM.

The rates and service details introduced in this article are based on publicly available information as of July 2026. Actual contract conditions and eligibility may change, so please check the latest details on the official website. Communication quality and rate plans may vary depending on the usage environment and time period.

Methodology and Disclosure

Verification Method: This article is based on publicly available information confirmed as of 2026-07-23. The editorial team has not actually contracted or used the target service. This is an explanation based on publicly available information (official websites, third-party reviews, user testimonials). Service details, fees, and campaigns are subject to change, so please check the official information before applying.

Operator Information: The editorial policy and evaluation criteria of this article are described in the Editorial Policy, and the verification procedures are described in the Evaluation Method. If there are any errors, please report them to the contact desk.

Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, and our site may receive compensation without additional cost to the reader. Compensation does not affect the evaluation content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HIS Mobile's communication speed slow?

It uses the Docomo network and is generally stable, but speeds may decrease during peak times such as daytime and evening. Those who frequently watch videos or use large amounts of data should be cautious.

Are there cancellation fees?

There are no contract periods or cancellation fees whatsoever. You can cancel freely at any time, and no additional costs such as penalty fees will be incurred.

How can I receive support?

Online support is the standard, but in-person assistance is also available at HIS stores nationwide. Phone support can be used as a paid option (with conditions).

Is the Docomo network really reliable for connections?

Since it uses NTT Docomo's network directly, stable communication is possible within Docomo's coverage area. There are reviews stating that it connects well even during business trips to rural areas.

Which plan do you recommend?

For those using 3GB or less of data per month, the monthly plan at 1,265 yen is recommended. For those who make many calls, the benefit of 9 yen per 30 seconds for call charges is significant, and additional data can be purchased at 200 yen per 1GB.

What happens if I exceed my data capacity?

If you exceed your data capacity, the communication speed will be restricted, but you can purchase additional data at 200 yen per 1GB. Data cannot be carried over.

Can I use eSIM?

Yes, eSIM is supported. After applying online, you can activate it immediately. A physical SIM card can also be selected.

References / Sources

This article is based on publicly available information as of 2026-07-23.

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