Larry Fitzsimmons <larry_fitzsimmons@hotmail.com> wrote:

> I am also looking for information on ISPs-- I would love to hear from
> anyone who uses "gol" for broadband internet access.  I am strongly
> considering using them, and could use any information on pricing or
> services that anyone can offer.

If you are a cheapsake like me then you'll use Yahoo BB.  But no English
support at all.  GOL now offers IP phone service which IMNSHO is the
best reason to go with broadband services.
 
> Also, I am leaning toward getting a "J-phone" after receiving numerous
> recommendations.  Does anyone have any experience with using them?  I
> am looking to get good-to-adequate service, for prices comparable to
> the U.S.

Yes, J-Phone has a web page in English.  The best phone in the lineup is
the SH-053.  Very cool.

http://www.j-phone.com/scripts/english/top.jsp

Good to adequate service is easily obtainable from any of the carriers,
DoCoMo, J-Phone, au, and Tu-ka, in that order.  Prices correspond to the
coverage and service area.  Guess which one I have...

> Finally, I have heard that opening a bank account in Japan is very
> difficult.  Does anyone have any information regarding the documents
> or fees that are needed to open a bank account in Japan?

You need your gaijin card, I mean, gaikokujin tourokushoumeisho, some
cash, and a valid address because they'll send the ATM card via
registered mail to you.  It is not difficult, just a pain and time
consuming.
 
> Thanks, I'm sorry if you have heard these questions a million times
> before, but they are important to me and would make my passage to
> Japan a lot easier.

Read the FAQ, wherever that may be now...

-- 
Matt
matt@gol.com