The technology has advanced rapidly in the last few decades. In this day and age, a physical SIM card isn’t required to connect your cell phones to the local telecommunication networks (if the phone is one of the newer models). This makes traveling abroad much easier because you don’t need to switch physical SIM cards to stay connected to the internet. So, next time you travel to Japan, consider getting a Japan eSIM. It is the cheapest way to stay connected while you are in Japan, and it can cost as low as USD 4.5!
But before you rush off and order a Japan eSIM card for your next exciting adventure, let us go through what you need to know about a Japan eSIM card. As you read on, you will also find information about the top Japan eSIM card providers for both short and long-term stays.
Table of Contents
- What Is an eSIM Card?
- Should I Get a Japan eSIM Card?
- Why Getting a Japan eSIM Is Better Than Getting a Pocket WiFi or a Physical SIM Card
- How to Use and Activate an eSIM
- How Can I Scan the QR Code Sent to My Smartphone?
- When Should I Activate my Japan eSIM?
- What Is Required to Activate My Japan eSIM?
- Within the eSIM’s Valid Period, Can I Delete and Reinstall the eSIM I Purchased from My Phone?
- How Much Data Do I Need in Japan?
- Recommended Japan eSIM Card Providers
- The Best Japan eSIM Plan for Your Next Japan Trip
- A Summary of Each Japan eSIM Provider’s Service and Pricing
A Quick Summary of Our Recommendations
Refer to the below if you are after a quick tip on which Japan eSIM provider to go for.
- Sakura Mobile
- Provides the best customer service.
- The company that we recommend if this is your first Japan trip.
- Japan Wireless
- Ubigi
- Convenient for multi-country travel.
- One of the cheapest options.
- Uses DoCoMo’s network. The internet speed is good and consistent.
- klook
What Is an eSIM Card?
An eSIM is short for embedded SIM. It is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile data plan from your service provider without using a physical SIM. You can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone or other compatible devices and use two phone numbers at the same time!
The best thing about an eSIM Card is that your SIM Card won’t get lost in the mail, and you don’t need to wait for it to be delivered. If you run out of data, you can simply purchase another eSIM in Japan!
Should I Get a Japan eSIM Card?
Like a physical SIM card, your device must be unlocked for the eSIM card to work on your phone. If you are unsure whether your telecom supplier locks your phone, enquire beforehand. Even if your phone is currently locked, the company may be able to unlock it! If your device cannot be unlocked by the time you depart for Japan, pre-book a Pocket WiFi.
Compared to a Pocket WiFi or a physical SIM card, an eSIM is definitely a better option in most cases. But there are reasons why an eSIM card won’t be the best option for your next Japan trip.
If your situation fits into one of the below categories, consider getting a physical SIM card or a Pocket WiFi instead.
- You have an older model cell phone that don’t support eSIM cards.
- You can refer to HERE to check if your phone is compatible with/supported by an eSIM. Note the eSIM compatibility differs slightly between the suppliers.
- You will travel with a group of people and are on a budget. In this case, a Pocket WiFi may be cheaper.
- You don’t have an unlocked cell phone.
- Rent a Pocket WiFi in this case.
- You need a Japanese phone number.
- Get a physical SIM card in this case.
Why Getting a Japan eSIM Is Better Than Getting a Pocket WiFi or a Physical SIM Card
- An eSIM card is a cheaper way to be connected to the local internet network.
- By keeping your SIM card from your home country in your phone, you can still pick up phone calls and receive text messages to your usual phone number (international roaming required).
- Using an eSIM card means you don’t need to switch SIM cards in your phone.
- The setup process for an eSIM card is a lot easier compared to a physical SIM card. No prior APN configuration is required.
- You don’t need to carry an extra charger for the Pocket WiFi.
- You don’t need to worry about losing the Pocket WiFi or forgetting to return it at the end of your trip.
- An eSIM card is a better option for data-heavy users. The usage of a Pocket WiFi is subject to FUP (Fair Usage Policy), usually between 1GB to 3GB. Once you go beyond the threshold, the internet speed is downgraded.
- Another reason that an eSIM is preferred is if you plan on travelling to multiple countries. International eSIM service providers such as Airalo and Ubigi give you the convenience of staying connected without needing to purchase another eSIM. All you need to do is purchase another data plan, and off you go!
How to Use and Activate an eSIM
Getting an eSIM and setting it up on your cell phone is easy. Once you have decided which eSIM provider to use, you are only 3 steps away from connecting your phone to the local network!
- Order: Purchase the eSIM plan online when you are ready.
- Scan and Activate: After you have successfully made an eSIM purchase online, a QR code will be sent to you, either via email or through the provider’s phone app (Ubigi & Airalo). Once you have the QR code, you can activate your eSIM plan anytime you wish.
- You can refer to Sakura Mobile’s website for a visual idea of how to activate your Japan eSIM if the provider you chose sends a QR code to you.
- Change your network selection setting on your phone
How Can I Scan the QR Code Sent to My Smartphone?
If the QR code you receive can’t be processed by your phone without scanning, try the below methods.
- You will either need another device that shows the QR code or print the code out beforehand.
- Phone apps such as Google Lens or LINE can also do the job for you.
When Should I Activate My Japan eSIM?
Please only activate your Japan eSIM after you arrive. Activating your Japan eSIM early means the validity period starts early, resulting in days wasted.
What Is Required to Activate My Japan eSIM?
A stable internet/WiFi connection is required to activate your Japan eSIM. In most cases, the free WiFi in the airport is sufficient to complete this process.
If you purchase a Japan eSIM plan from Sakura Mobile, they have staff at the airport to help you install the eSIM to your phone.
Within the eSIM’s Valid Period, Can I Delete and Reinstall the eSIM I Purchased from My Phone?
Unfortunately, the eSIM QR code you receive can only be used once. Please DO NOT delete/remove your eSIM from your device after it is successfully installed.
Deleting the eSIM profile from your phone means the eSIM becomes invalid, regardless if there is any data left.
How Much Data Do I Need in Japan?
In general, if you don’t use your data to watch videos, upload photos, and use phone apps that have many video apps included (such as Facebook), 1GB is usually enough for a 7-day trip.
However, if you prefer to use social media, YouTube and/or TikTok using your data, you will need at least 500MB per day.
Recommended Japan eSIM Card Providers
- Sakura Mobile
- Provides the best customer service.
- The company has a branch in Shinjuku.
- Jetpac
- Reliable customer service.
- Offers travel perks such as free lounge access
- Japan Wireless
- Slightly more expensive than Ubiki and Airalo
- Mobal
- Reliable customer service.
- The company has branches in Tokyo, including Shinjuku and Shibuya.
- Accept PayPal
- Donate a part of the profit to charity
- Airalo
- Convenient for multi-country travel.
- The cheapest provider but still one of the top options.
- Ubigi
- Convenient for multi-country travel.
- Uses DoCoMo’s network. The internet speed is good and consistent.
- SimsDirect
- Australian-based SIM and eSIM card provider.
- klook
Sakura Mobile
In addition to Pocket WiFi, Sakura Mobile also has various Japan eSIM cards you can purchase. As Sakura Mobile uses NTT DoCoMo’s network, the reception is exceptional. While Sakura Mobile seems expensive compared to other providers, their customer service is top-notch. You will usually receive a response within 10 to 20 minutes, even on a weekend!
So, if this is your first trip to Japan, Sakura Mobile is highly recommended.
Refer to Sakura Mobile’s website HERE for more information and to order your eSIM card.
Jetpac
Jetpac is a newcomer to the eSIM market based in Singapore. Like Airalo and Ubigi, it offers eSIM that covers over 100 countries in the world. This means if you plan to travel to more than one country, you don’t need to shift between different eSIM companies. Moreover, Jetpac partners with the top telecommunication company in each country. In Japan, its partner is KDDI, which owns au, one of the three main telecom companies in the country. So, your internet connection in Japan will be stable and covers most places you visit.
What set Jetpac aside from its competitors is the travel perks that come with your purchase. It offers complimentary airport lounge access if your flight is delayed for more than 60 minutes.
Other reasons for chasing Jetpac includes:
- High data for your money
- Hotspot to other devices with your eSIM
- You can buy now and use the eSIM later, enable you to capture any campaigns the company runs.
Refer to Jetpact’s Website for more details!
Mobal
Mobal is a service provided by Mobell Communications Limited, a British company established in 1989. It is another company where you can purchase an eSIM card that uses NTT DoCoMo’s network, giving you great call quality, ultra-fast internet speed, and excellent coverage. Unlike Sakura Mobile and Japan Wireless, Mobal accept payments using PayPal in addition to debit/credit card!
The company provides English customer support. They also donate a part of their proceeds to charities supporting people experiencing poverty in Africa.
Refer to Mobal’s website HERE for more information and to order your eSIM card.
Japan Wireless
Japan Wireless also uses NTT DoCoMo’s infrastructure. Their customer service isn’t as good as Sakura Mobile regarding response speed and usually isn’t as detailed and caring. But overall, the product is great, and you rarely need to contact the customer service team anyway!
Refer to Japan Wireless’s website HERE for more information and to purchase your Japan SIM Card.
SimsDirect – Australian-Based
SimsDirect is an Australian-based SIM card company that sells reliable but inexpensive SIM cards and eSIMs. As one of the world’s top destinations, Japan is one of the many countries the company covers. And if you plan to travel around Asia, they also have products allowing you to connect to the internet in most Asian countries!
So if you plan to travel soon, consider purchasing an eSIM card from SimsDirect!
For more information and to get your SIM or eSIM, refer to their official website HERE!
klook eSIM
The eSIM cards sold by klook are provided by Softbank. It is one of Japan’s top three telecommunication companies. It covers 99% of the country, and the internet speed is almost always satisfactory.
In terms of troubleshooting, klook’s customer support is available via LINE, a messaging app similar to WhatsApp. Live customer service is also available on their website once you log into your account and select the item you have purchased.
For more information and to get your eSIM, refer to their official website HERE!
Airalo
Airalo is a popular eSIM provider that provides eSIM across multiple countries. This means you can stay connected with Airalo no matter which country you visit. All you need to do is download Airalo’s app, choose your destination and package, install your eSIM and activate it!
The company offers flexible usage options to suit your usage pattern and travel period.
Refer to Airalo’s website HERE for more information and to purchase your Japan eSIM!
Ubigi
Ubigi is very similar to Airalo. In fact, from all the forum comments and reviews we read, it seems like the company provides a better service than Airalo. And there is a reason for this.
Ubigi is currently a subsidiary of NTT, a major telecommunications company in Japan, which means it also focuses on providing services in Japan.
So while Airalo is cheaper, use Ubigi if you plan to visit regional Japan. Moreover, if you plan to visit multiple Asian countries, choose their Asia plan!
Refer to Ubigi’s website HERE for more information and to purchase your Japan eSIM!
The Best Japan eSIM Plan for Your Next Japan Trip
The Japan eSIM plan that suits you the most depends on a couple of factors. After answering the questions below, you can refer to our summary in the next section to determine which eSIM provider you should go for.
- How long will you be in Japan?
- Is this your first time traveling to Japan?
- If the answer is yes, we recommend Sakura Mobile. They have the best customer service to help you troubleshoot any issues you might encounter during your trip.
- What is your data usage pattern when you are overseas?
- Do you want to use your data to stream?
- If the answer is yes, we recommend Japan Wireless.
- Is Japan the only country you will visit during the trip?
- If the answer is no, we recommend Ubigi.
A Summary of Each Japan eSIM Provider’s Service and Pricing
- Note that the summary below only captures the popular eSIM plans.
| Japan Short-Term SIM Card Provider | Network Used | Cost for a 7/8-Day Plan | Cost for a 30/31-Day Plan | Delivery Method |
| Jetpac (click for more info) | KDDI/au | ☛ 1GB for USD $1 (150 yen) ☛ 3GB for USD $6 (900 yen) ☛ 50GB for USD $20 (3,000 yen) *based on 1:150 exchange rate | ☛ 5GB for USD $9 (1,350 yen) ☛ 10GB for USD $16 (2,400 yen) ☛ 15GB or 30 GB for USD $21 (2,250 yen) ☛ 20GB for USD $18 (2,700 yen) ☛ 40GB for USD $25 (3,750 yen) *based on 1:150 exchange rate | Instant emailed activation page |
| Sakura Mobile (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo | ☛ 3GB for 2,700 yen ☛ 5GB for 3,200 yen ☛ 10GB for 4,500 yen ☛ Unlimited data with a FUP for 4,620 yen | ☛ 20GB for 8,950 yen ☛ 30GB for 9,650 yen ☛ 50GB for 14,650 yen ☛ Unlimited data with a FUP for 9,250 yen | Instant emailed activation page |
| Airalo (click for more info) | KDDI/au and Softbank | ☛ 1GB for USD$4.5 (675 yen) ☛ 2B for 15 Days for USD$6.5 (975 yen) *based on 1:150 exchange rate | ☛ 3GB for USD$8.5 (1,275 yen) ☛ 5GB for USD$11.5 (1,725 yen) ☛ 10GB for USD$18 (2,700 yen) *based on 1:150 exchange rate | Straight link through to QR code after ordering |
| Japan Wireless (click for more info) | ☛ High-Speed Plans: All local networks ☛ Basic Plans: CMHK | ☛ 3GB per day for 1,103 yen ☛ 5GB per day for 1,476 yen ☛ 10GB per day for 1,817 yen ☛ 20GB for 3,144 yen ☛ 30GB for 3,316 yen ☛ Unlimited data with a FUP for 4,172 yen | ☛ 3GB per day for 1,461 yen ☛ 5GB per day for 1,669 yen ☛ 10GB per day for 2,340 yen ☛ 20GB for 4,247 yen ☛ 30GB for 5,469 yen ☛ 50GB for 8,330 yen | Instant emailed activation page |
| Mobal (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo | ☛ 3GB for 2,340 yen ☛ 10GB for 2,750 yen ☛ 30GB for 3,200 yen | ☛ 10GB for 3,850 yen ☛ 50GB for 4,900 yen ☛ 100GB for 8,000 yen | Emailed activation page |
| SimsDirect (click for more info) | Softbank | ☛ 3GB per day for 15 days for AUD$15 ☛ 5GB per day for 15 days for AUD$1 | ☛ 20GB for AUD$49 ☛ 30GB for AUD$59 ☛ 50GB for AUD$89 | Emailed activation page |
| Ubigi (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo | ☛ 10GB for 2,000 yen | ☛ 1GB for 570 yen ☛ 3GB for 1,200 yen ☛ 10GB for 2,400 yen ☛ 50GB for 9,700 yen | Instant mailed QR code |
Is Pocket WiFi or an eSIM Card a Better Option for Your Next Japan Trip?
If a Japan eSIM card doesn’t sound like the best internet solution for your next Japan trip, consider purchasing a SIM or renting a Pocket WiFi.
Refer to our SIM Card, eSIM, or Pocket WiFi: Which One to Use in Japan article that answers all your questions about how to stay connected to the internet when you are in Japan!
