PR This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Quick Answer: LINEMO offers one of the cheapest entry points to a quality network: 3GB at ¥990/month on SoftBank's full infrastructure. Its key feature — LINE data usage doesn't count toward your cap — is extremely valuable in Japan where LINE is the default messaging app. Best for light-to-moderate users who primarily communicate via LINE.
Plan Overview
| Plan | Data | Monthly Price | After Cap Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Plan | 3GB | ¥990 | 300 kbps |
| Smartphone Plan | 20GB | ¥2,728 | 1 Mbps |
Additional data: ¥550 per 1GB. Both plans include 5G access at no extra cost when available.
The LINE Giga-Free Feature (LINE ギガフリー)
This is LINEMO's defining feature. The following LINE functions do not count toward your data cap:
- Text chat (messages, stickers, emojis)
- Voice calls and video calls
- Image and video sending/receiving in chat
- Timeline browsing
In Japan, LINE is the dominant communication app — used by coworkers, schools, government offices, landlords, and friends. Having LINE data excluded from your cap effectively means the 3GB Mini Plan goes much further than 3GB on other carriers.
Note: LINE News, LINE Manga, LINE Pay, LINE Games, and other LINE-branded services are NOT included in Giga-Free.
What We Like
- Cheapest quality plan — ¥990/month for 3GB on SoftBank's full network is hard to beat. MVNOs offer lower prices but with slower speeds during congestion.
- LINE Giga-Free — For heavy LINE users (most people living in Japan), this effectively adds significant value to the 3GB cap.
- SoftBank's network — Strong coverage in urban and suburban areas. 5G access included.
- eSIM support — Quick activation without waiting for physical delivery.
- No contract period — Cancel or switch freely at any time.
What Needs Improvement
- No physical store support — Like other sub-brands, LINEMO is online-only. SoftBank stores cannot assist LINEMO customers.
- Limited plan options — Only 3GB and 20GB. No middle ground (e.g., 10GB). If you need 5-15GB, you may overpay for the 20GB plan or struggle with 3GB.
- No family plans — Each line is independent. Families cannot share data or get group discounts.
- Limited English support — Website and support are primarily in Japanese.
- Rural coverage weaker than docomo — SoftBank's network is not as strong in rural and mountainous areas compared to docomo.
Foreign Resident Experience
Sign-up: Online only, primarily in Japanese. Residence Card + Japanese payment method required. Browser translation tools can help navigate the application process. eSIM activation is typically completed within an hour.
Day-to-day: Once activated, the My Menu web portal shows usage and billing. LINE Giga-Free applies automatically — no activation needed.
Who Should Consider LINEMO
- Light data users who communicate heavily via LINE
- Budget-conscious users who want a reliable network
- People living primarily in urban or suburban areas
- Users who want a simple, low-cost plan as a starting point in Japan
Q: Does LINE Giga-Free work for LINE video calls?
Yes. LINE voice calls and video calls are included in Giga-Free. This is particularly useful for staying in touch with family abroad using LINE's video call feature without worrying about data usage.
Q: Can I switch between the Mini Plan and Smartphone Plan?
Yes. You can change plans through the My Menu portal at any time. The change typically takes effect at the start of the next billing cycle.
Q: How does LINEMO compare to ahamo for international roaming?
LINEMO does not include international roaming data in its base plans, unlike ahamo. For international travelers, ahamo's included 20GB roaming is a notable advantage. LINEMO users can purchase roaming separately, but it is typically more expensive.
Disclaimer: Pricing and LINE Giga-Free details based on publicly available information as of early 2026. LINE Giga-Free scope may change. Please confirm current details on LINEMO's official website.
