EN
Japan · Telecom, Internet & Apps
LINE
Message and call friends and family for free, and access news, shopping and games from one app used by more than 80% of Japan's population.
What it helps with
- Messaging with people in JapanLINE is the main messenger in Japan; landlords, schools, shops and friends usually contact you there.
- Free voice and video callsCalls over data are free between LINE users, in Japan and abroad.
- Shop and restaurant accountsMany businesses use LINE official accounts for reservations, coupons and notices.
About LINE
LINE was launched in June 2011 by NHN Japan, a subsidiary of Korean company Naver, developed in the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake as a way to keep people connected when conventional phone networks were overwhelmed. It quickly became Japan's dominant messaging platform, and is now operated by LY Corporation, jointly owned by SoftBank Group and Naver, with more than 100 million monthly active users in Japan alone - covering roughly 80% of the country's total population across every age group.
Key Features
- Free Messaging & Calls: Send texts, stickers, photos and make voice or video calls over an internet connection at no cost between LINE users.
- LINE NEWS: Read curated news and current-affairs content directly within the app.
- LINE VOOM: Share and browse short-form video and social content, similar to a dedicated social feed built into the messaging app.
- Official Accounts: Follow businesses, brands and public services that use LINE Official Accounts to share updates, promotions or support directly with users.
How to Get Started
- Download the LINE app and register with a mobile phone number.
- Add friends by phone number, QR code, or by searching their LINE ID.
- Start a chat, make a call, or explore LINE NEWS and VOOM from the app's home screen.
- Follow Official Accounts for services, stores or brands you want updates from.
Before you use it
- Sign-up: Registration needs a phone number for SMS; foreign numbers work, but one number can hold only one account.
- Limits: LINE Pay ended in Japan on 30 April 2025; payments inside LINE now point to PayPay.
52
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does LINE work with a foreign bank card in Japan?
- Not reliably - a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
- Is LINE available in English?
- Not officially - the interface is mainly in the local language.
- Do I need a local phone number to use LINE?
- No, an international phone number generally works for LINE.
- Do I need local ID or residency for LINE?
- No, LINE doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.
- Where can I use LINE?
- iOS · Android · Web
- How much does LINE cost?
- Free messaging and calls; stickers and some features paid
