Number format
Japan's country code is +81. Mobile numbers begin with 070, 080 or 090 locally, for example 090-1234-5678. For international sending, drop the leading 0: +81 90 1234 5678 (or 819012345678).
Sender display
Do not assume that a custom alphanumeric sender name will be shown to recipients in Japan. What the recipient sees depends on the route and the network. Ask us what sender display is available for your account before you plan a campaign around a brand name.
Promotional messages
Japan regulates advertising messages sent by electronic means. In general, you need the recipient's prior consent (opt-in), you must identify the sender, and you must offer an easy way to refuse further messages. The exact rules are set by Japanese law, so confirm them with a local adviser before sending marketing.
OTP and account notifications are not advertising, but should still contain nothing promotional.
Language and length
Japanese text (Kanji, Hiragana, Katakana) uses a different encoding from plain English, so fewer characters fit in one message and long texts are split into parts. Each part is charged. Keep messages short and check the character count in the panel before sending.
Typical uses
OTP for apps and online services, reservation and appointment reminders, order notices, and opted-in announcements.
Billing
Prepaid balance, billed per message to Japan. Rates are inside your account. See pricing.