How to Send an SMS to a Japanese Phone

1. Verify with your cell phone service provider that your phone can send and receive SMS from the only Japanese carrier, 'Soft Bank.' Each service provider will have a list of available countries and any applicable fees with international data messaging. Type 'international text, picture and video messaging' into the search bar of your wireless service provider website to find the list and rates.
2. Find out the Japan country code, city code and the recipient's phone number. The country code can be found on the Country Code website (see Resources). Click on the 'Japan' link on the Country Code website to locate the city code.
3. Compose your SMS message and enter the phone number as follows: country code + city code + 8-digit phone number.
4. Press 'Send' to deliver the SMS message.