On August 1, Monster Hunter 3 goes on sale in Japan. From 10am on that same day, Monster Hunter 3's network service becomes active.
There are a couple free deals that let players test out the online feature for either 20 or 90 days, but beyond that, players will need to pony up cash for "Hunting Tickets." A 30 day ticket costs 800 Wii Points, a 60 day ticket for 1,500 Wii Points and a 90 day ticket for 2,000 Wii Points.