Internet costs

[kinyobi]

Wasn't sure where to put this question. But it is regarding internet costs in Japan.

I would like some information as to what it would cost for DSL or Cable internet service in Japan, namely Kyushu area. I have family there, but when I ask why they don't have internet access at the home - they say it's too expensive. One of the family members uses a work laptop and connects via modem but can not receive photos or video because it takes too long download.

Just wondering if they are making excuses or just don't know who to contact for the setup. I was thinking of contributing in the setup for them to use at home if it's fairly reasonable, but I've notice it seems more people use their Cell Phones to email versus using their PC - but I could be wrong.

What are people using these days? Thanks for any information.

[untmdsprt]

I'm paying 4000 yen/month for DSL. Flet's claims 100Mbps download speed, but I'm getting around half that. FYI, I'm using a Macbook connected to an AirMac Extreme wirelessly on the "n" band. Fiber optic service, is about 6000 yen/month. Of course a wired connection will always be faster than a wireless.

Keep in mind, that I'm in Tokyo, and there are more people per sq km. This would also keep prices down.

I believe the only difference is the DSL uses fiber optic until they get to your home, and the other is fiber optic straight to the modem. More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL#Japan

[jclemons]

I'm using Biglobe's 100mbit Fiber connection in West Shinjuku and loving it. Downloads of 8-10MB/second on average are one of the reasons I love living in the city
4000yen a month, got first 2 months free and a 20,000 yen gift card at Yodobashi Camera.

Picture very related:

[Jessi]

What providers and plans are you guys using?! I just moved and signed up for internet so it'd be a hassle to change anytime soon, but I didn't see any deals like that when I was looking Right now I pay about 5000 yen a month but I'm sure it's not at fast as those~

[untmdsprt]

I went through the Flet's website since they were listed on my apartment building. They were offering two months free for each of the providers they are partnered with. I had to take the VDSL because of the pre-existing wiring in the apartment complex. The modem had to be located in the kitchen because of the jack, but I had bought an AirMac Extreme and easily solved that problem of getting the internet to my room and the bf's room.

Yodobashi and Bic Camera both have areas where you can sign up for internet. The type of internet though depends on where you live and what the owner/landlord will allow.