Just another data point - US iPhone 6 Plus + Japan Apple Watch 2 + Chase credit card works. Chase codes "SUICA MOBILE PAYMENT" reloads as travel. I also don't have auto-top up setup and periodically add funds via Apple Pay. I did add a little balance before I left Tokyo in case I need some balance on arrival, forget to do so before departing for Japan, and can't get internet on arrival.

I registered MySuica via a combination of screenshots, Google Translate app (now can use "photos" as images for OCR), and guesswork. After registration - just be sure that you understand unlock (via touch id or otherwise) vs reset password, which is green text on the bottom of the initial screen. I used SmarTalk app to get a 050 phone number for free.

jamar - I also managed to register my osaifu ponta JCB prepaid online to check balance. I think it might take a few days after registration to be able to link the web account via recruit jp to the Ponta number printed on the JCB card so I'll try again in a while. Thanks! I had to ask for the card as they were kept in a small basket by the register, out of easy sight.

Softbank at Haneda had both the Blade Q+ and the 3G 301Z in stock when I was there. They require the purchase price of the phone AND a top up (3,000 yen?). I thought the phone came with some included credit as listed on the website and there is probably a ~3,000 yen activation fee hidden somewhere in the fine print?