CELL PHONES

There are several different cell phone companies in Japan.  Docomo isn't shown here, but you can get a cell phone contract for a year.  However, you have to pay the $180 or so cancellation fee.  Bummer.  If you chose this option, you can find places on Blue street that speak English, but you still get that, "with this option for X amount per month, you save X amount, but you can cancel after one month and save X amount, and of course, there's taxes..."  So, you go away just like you do in America.  That cell phone program they advertise isn't what you're sold in the store, if you know what I mean!

However, there is a pre-paid cell phone option on base, I believe through Softbank. Go to the main NEX and the kiosk is by the DVDs. I can't find my notes on it, but you pay for a phone, and put $50 on it (about a buck a minute), so for around $80 or less (depending on the program/sale/etc.) you can have a phone for emergencies and to find each other when out and about.  

In Japan, the cell phone caller pays all fees.  Receiving a call is free.  If your spouse has a company cell phone, then have them call you!  :)

I am also told you can purchase at the NEX an international pre-paid phone card.  You dial the number, and then you can call the US for about 10-15 cents per minute.  You can call from your cell phone, and it doesn't charge you cell phone minutes, just the minutes to the states.  This is cool, because at 10 in the morning (until daylight savings kicks in again back home), it is 5 p.m. back home, and you can talk to friends who are making dinner, and keep in touch.  So, if you need that time frame, those cards are perfect for it.

I like having a cell phone.  I have dialed a number and handed it to a policeman at a koban (little Police boxes everywhere) to get myself somewhere I needed to be.  It is also good to have the ability to call base or the base accident or emergency number if you're ever in trouble.  

They also give out blue 'I'm lost' cards the size of business cards.  It is written in Japanese, and asks that you be directed back to Yokosuka base.  Haven't had to use it yet, but it is a lifeline.

The fun thing in Japan, is getting cell phone 'bling.'  Some people have many little chachkies dangling off their phones.  100Yen shops have some.  So do many of the 'cute' stores.  It is fun finding something that means 'you.'