In this modern age of technology, traversing Japan without a phone is the modern day equivalent of sailing the seven seas without a compass. But unlike compasses, phones require contracts, start up fees and monthly payments. For those bold (and broke) individuals looking to save some cash, here is our how to guild on going phoneless in this technology driven country.

Wi-Fi is free and it’s everywhere

Just because you haven’t hired a service provider doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take full advantage of your phone or tablet’s Wi-Fi capabilities. Out here, Wi-Fi floats in the air like an ever present airborne disease and can keep you connected while on the go. Utilizing Facebook Messenger or Line is the way to go, all you need is some of that sweet, sweet Wi-Fi. So where can you get some?

City free Wi-Fi – All the major cities in Japan provide free Wi-Fi in high traffic areas. Keep an eye out and remember where you can and can’t snag a strong signal.

Konbinis – Check out our article here on why Japanese convenient stores are awesome. Among the many notable konbini attributes is the ever existent stream of reliable Wi-Fi. 7/11s don’t even require a log in, just walk near the store and your phone will connect automatically.

Coffee shops – Any Wi-Fi pirate worth their weight in salt knows that coffee shops are the perfect place to set port. While I’m not personally a fan of overpriced, caffeinated, sugary drinks, I love the Wi-Fi.

Use your friends as hotspots – I’ve transformed multiple friends into Wi-Fi routers. Once you get the password you can build an army of mobile hotspots wandering the city. It’s great if you need to make a quick call or send a text.

Let them know

It is critical that you advertise the sad and lonely fact that you don’t own a phone. People will get it and it will save a lot of hurt feelings. Once you devote yourself as one without a phone you will achieve a sense of freedom. You become the modern day equivalent of a masterless samurai ronin; not bound by a mobile device or the samurai code.

Embrace the silence

You have freed yourself from your entertainment and attention device. Use your time away from the screen wisely. You have the opportunity to read books, study Japanese, or simply reflect.

 

 

 

   -Saving money, one missed call at a time