We have T-Mobile, which appears to have some coverage in Japan. Just wondering if anyone has personal experience using their phones for data/texting in Japan (specifically Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Kyoto)?

I have used T-mobile in Japan - mainly in Kyoto and Tokyo but other areas as well although not Kanazawa. No problems at all....

I use my phone mostly for texting and google maps as well as some apps like those for train and other transport schedules.

I use my tablet and laptop for internet browsing usually but have used the phone from time to time.

It roamed on Softbank almost all of the time.

I used my iPhone 6 with T-Mobile last fall. Worked just fine, no problems! Also worked perfectly in Thailand and Cambodia.

You aren't actually using T-Mobile when you travel in Asia. You are using local service providers. T-mobile has agreements with them to let you roam on their networks.

Fabulous news - thanks, everyone. We're happy to save the cost of a Mi-Fi