Need help buying from Softbank

[sagi446]

Hi I am new here.

I was wondering where I can buy a 3G iPad from Japan. I'll be visiting in July and I'd like to know the details of it all. It isn't very clear to me and Softbank not explaining it in English isn't helping at all.

So far what I know is:

1- In Japan, the iPad is SIM locked to Softbank (not locked for any other country)
2- Softbank forces a contract, but oddly enough they also have a prepaid plan.

Also, I was wondering if I could buy it from Narita? Are there any sales taxes in Japan

 

[sagi446]

47 views and nobody knows how it works?

 

[FrustratedDave]

47 views and nobody knows how it works?

Google is your friend

Yes there are sales tax in Japan. And if there is a softbank in Narita, then you can buy it there. I suggest looking at the above image as to if there is one at the airport. Or would you like me to google that for you too?

 

[sagi446]

Actually, I know that it's locked just in Japan..

It's just the part where they force the contract that I am not understanding. I've never heard of a prepaid cellphone contract. Is there a workaround to this issue?

 

[FrustratedDave]

Actually, I know that it's locked just in Japan..
It's just the part where they force the contract that I am not understanding. I've never heard of a prepaid cellphone contract. Is there a workaround to this issue?

If I have time I will drop by a Softbank outlet and ask them.

 

[FrustratedDave]

It seems that if you buy just the WiFi iPad, you don't have to enter into contcract. If you want the 3G/WiFi one then you have no choice but to enter into contract.

 

[sagi446]

I see, thank you for looking that up!

Well it seems I have no choice but to go with the WiFi one.

 

[epigene]

I see, thank you for looking that up!

Well it seems I have no choice but to go with the WiFi one.

I don't see why you have to buy iPad in Japan. According to what I've read, many Japanese are ranting over the SIM lock issue and some are even buying iPads from the US and other countries to get the unlocked models.
Of course, if you're satisfied with the WiFi version, that's OK.

The Softbank outlet in Narita has only limited variety--rental and prepaid cellphones for tourists to use during their stay in Japan. No iPads. Apple doesn't have outlets there.
iPads are sold only at Softbank outlets in Tokyo and other large cities, Apple Stores (in Ginza and another location I can't recall) and at large retailers like Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera.
I'm also dubious whether you can get an iPad just by dropping in at a shop, considering its popularity here. Chances are high that they are out of stock. You'll have to make sure the shop has one to sell you.

 

[sagi446]

I don't see why you have to buy iPad in Japan. According to what I've read, many Japanese are ranting over the SIM lock issue and some are even buying iPads from the US and other countries to get the unlocked models.
Of course, if you're satisfied with the WiFi version, that's OK.

Japanese iPads are locked in Japan for Softbank. It's more of a hostile competition-lock-out than anything else. So I can buy a locked iPad and use it with my own SIM back home. I don't care if I am locked for one week to Softbank.

As for buying it from Japan, the main reason is it hasn't been officially released here and the carrier that will officially recieve it make AT&T look good. It's probably going to cost somewhere around $800 for the cheapest wifi model. (they already rip us off by offering the iPhone for $700 and a 1 year contract)

The Softbank outlet in Narita has only limited variety--rental and prepaid cellphones for tourists to use during their stay in Japan. No iPads. Apple doesn't have outlets there.
iPads are sold only at Softbank outlets in Tokyo and other large cities, Apple Stores (in Ginza and another location I can't recall) and at large retailers like Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera.
I'm also dubious whether you can get an iPad just by dropping in at a shop, considering its popularity here. Chances are high that they are out of stock. You'll have to make sure the shop has one to sell you.

Thank you, this is valuable information. I didn't know iPads sold out in Japan. Didn't think they really caught on. It looks like bargain hunt