Internet Access

You’re in Toyama, you have nothing to do tonight, and you really wish you could surf the Internet and find out what’s going on in the rest of the world. You’re in luck! There are many options open to you. Internet providers are plentiful these days, and there are a bunch of Internet cafes and free access points sprinkled around Toyama-ken. For more information on those, check out the Internet Cafés section of the handbook. If you’re dying for an Internet connection at home, though, this is a list of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) that have been used by JETs in Toyama. The list isn’t comprehensive – a quick Internet search for “ISP in Japan” or some variation thereof will reveal many more. Be aware, however, that prices and services differ greatly from company to company and even month to month; make sure you read all the documentation before making your selection.

It is also possible to get ADSL service in Toyama for a slightly higher price. If you are an avid surfer who likes to spend hours on the web or if you just can’t stop downloading, this is probably a good choice for you. The connection is MUCH faster (Up to 45mpbs, or about 8 times quicker than the fastest ADSL available in North America) and you avoid minute-by-minute phone charges, which can more than make up for the additional monthly fees. In addition, you can surf the web and use the phone at the same time, so you aren’t likely to miss those important party invitations. If you are interested in ADSL service, you will need to select an ISP that supports ADSL, and then contact one of the many ADSL providers. It’s probably best to choose one based on the ISP you eventually select, and most ISPs can help you with this info and with the sometimes complex setup procedures.

Over the last few years there’s been a dramatic switch among JETs to Yahoo! Broadband service. There are number of reasons for Yahoo!BB’s overwhelming popularity. First, at Tokyo Orientation, you probably received an English-language application form (BB Apply). Second, most JETs in Toyama already have it, and calling between Yahoo!BB landlines is free. Third, for American JETs, there are substantial savings for long-distance calls to the States over any other provider. JETs from other countries could also save some money, depending on the country you call. If you’re interested in Yahoo!BB, there is separate section of the handbook called Yahoo!BB that you can look at for details on how to get connected!

Notes:

• Make sure your house/apartment can support an Internet or ADSL connection first. Some people have fallen into the trap of paying for Internet only to find out that their apartment can’t support it. Either check with your landlord/lady or ring NTT.
• Some of the providers will have special connection deals from time to time, so check the websites (or ask your supervisor/teachers to help you).
• NTT also offers a service to provide an ADSL connection, but they require a separate contract for an ISP. This is an option, but it is probably the least useful and most expensive for your needs. (http://www.ntt-west.co.jp/service_guide/5great/great02.html)
• Some of you may find that you’re not able to get ADSL service and have to go with the more expensive “Hikari” option. You’ll probably need the help of your supervisor or Japanese-speaking friend to help you with this as the support in English is almost non-existent, unfortunately!

On to the Yahoo!BB page

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