Staying connected to the internet in Japan is critical for obvious reasons, such as navigating the complicated train systems and translating menus. Purchasing a Japan tourist SIM is one of the best ways to access the internet while you explore the amazing country. Before you rush off and order a Japan travel SIM card for your next exciting adventure, let us go through what you need to know about a Japan SIM card. As you read on, you will also find information about the best data SIM card for Japan for both short and long-term stays.
Table of Contents
- Japan SIM Card vs Japan Pocket WiFi
- Why Choose a Japan Pocket WiFi Over a Japan Travel SIM Card
- How Do I Get a Japan SIM Card
- Can I Purchase a Japan SIM Card at the Airport
- Configuring Your Phone for Japan’s Data or Data + Text + Call SIM Card
- Can I complete the APN Configuration Before Departing for Japan?
- When Does the Active Number of Days for a Japan Tourist SIM Start Counting
- The Best SIM Card Providers for Tourists in Japan
- The Best Japan SIM Card for Tourist
- The Best Japan SIM Card Providers for Long-Term Travelers
- Purchasing a Japan SIM Card for Tourists from Amazon
- The Best Japan Voice + Data SIM Card (Japan SIM Card With a Japanese Phone Number)
Tips:
☛ Sakura Mobile and Japan Wireless Japan SIM card with unlimited data.
☛ Mobal can ship your Japan SIM card to you for free and offers Japan tourist SIM cards and Japan eSIM with a Japanese phone number!
Japan SIM Card vs Japan Pocket WiFi
Your device must be unlocked for the Japan SIM 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 Japan pocket WiFi, a Japan SIM card is a cheaper option to connect your phone to Japan’s internet network if you travel alone or with one or two companions. But the price isn’t the only factor to consider when deciding. Below is a list of reasons for choosing a SIM card over a Japan Pocket WiFi.
- You need a Japanese phone number.
- Refer to the Japan Voice + Data + Text SIM section
- You will travel alone or with one or two people.
- You will travel with a group of people, but you also want to explore attractions separately.
- You don’t need an extra charger for the pocket WiFi.
- You tend to forget or lose things, so leaving the pocket WiFi behind or even losing it worries you.
- You are a heavy data user.
- You can also purchase a Japan eSIM if your phone is compatible.
Important: Incoming calls may be charged on your roaming. Messaging apps such as WhatsApp are the best option for communication between your family and friends.
Why Choose a Japan Pocket WiFi Over a Japan Travel SIM Card
You might think once you have a Japan tourist SIM card, your phone can start receiving the local signal. That is NOT the case.
For a Japan SIM card to work on your unlocked phone, prior APN configuration is required. While most people can follow the user manual that comes with the SIM card, some might encounter issues during this process. If what we have listed below sounds like you, a Pocket WiFi may be a better option for your next trip to Japan.
- You aren’t confident about completing the APN configuration.
- You will travel with a group of people, and the occasional separation doesn’t worry you.
- You have multiple devices that need to be connected to the internet.
- You need to work remotely.
- You have a locked phone.
Tip: If you are not confident about completing the APN configuration yourself, consider picking up your SIM card at an airport counter. The staff there will be able to assist you. Most big companies, such as Sakura Mobile, also have customer support who can help you out.
How Do I Get a Japan SIM Card
Once you have decided which company to go for, the next question is how to receive the SIM card. Depending on the SIM card provider, you may have the option of getting your SIM card delivered to your home address. If you prefer this option, purchase from the providers below.
You can also pick up your Japan SIM card from the main airports such as Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, and Kansai Airport. At the counter, the staff is there if you need any assistance to set up your phone. Refer to the below for the top Japan SIM card providers. They can also ship your Japan tourist SIM card to your hotel concierge.
- Sakura Mobile: Best customer service
- Japan Wireless
- Mobal
Can I Purchase a Japan SIM Card at the Airport
Of course, you can also purchase a Japan SIM card upon arrival. But this isn’t recommended for the following reasons:
- Purchasing your Japan SIM card online is usually cheaper.
- SIM cards from the big players, such as DoCoMo, are generally more expensive. Smaller players, such as Sakura Mobile, usually provide the best value.
- Depending on the company you choose, you have the option to receive your SIM card before landing. No time is wasted on deciding which company to purchase from or which plan to choose.
- Purchase your Japan SIM card from Mobal if you want to receive your SIM card for FREE before you depart for Japan!
- During the peak season, there can be a long queue at the Japan SIM card airport counters. This potentially means the company can run out of the Japan SIM card that suits you best.
- By getting your Japan tourist SIM posted to your hotel/accommodation or your home overseas, you avoid the long queue at the airport counter!
Configuring Your Phone for Japan’s Data SIM or Data + Text + Call SIM Card
After inserting the SIM card you purchased into your phone, the first step is to configure the APN (Access Point Name) on your phone to enable it to connect to the internet. The SIM card package includes a user manual that provides clear instructions on how to set up the device. However, if you are not confident, consider choosing a service provider with a counter at the airport so that the staff can assist you.
Sakura Mobile, Japan Wireless, and Mobal all have counters at the airports in Tokyo and Osaka. If you plan to fly to other airports in Japan, such as New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido, Sakura Mobile is your best option for airport counters.
Can I complete the APN Configuration Before Departing for Japan?
Depending on the SIM card provider, you may be able to complete all required APN configurations before you reach Japan. This means you can start surfing the internet as soon as your flight lands at a Japanese airport!
If that isn’t an option for you, you can always utilize the internet at the airport, on bullet trains, limited express trains, or limousine buses to complete the setup process.
Important: Make sure your SIM card is activated as soon as you arrive, ideally before leaving the airport. Leaving the activation till you reach the first attraction can mean you are unable to use the internet when you need it.
When Does the Active Number of Days for a Japan Tourist SIM Start Counting
When you receive your Japan SIM card, it is pre-activated. The active number of days only starts counting after your device is connected to a Japanese network. Completing the APN configuration beforehand doesn’t mean you lose the SIM card’s valid number of days.
The Best SIM Card Providers for Tourists in Japan
Important: Cheaper SIM cards often mean slower speeds and/or weaker internet connections, especially outside major cities. If the SIM card’s APN is jpmob.jp, mobile, or via, it is best to avoid them, even if it is cheap!
Sakura Mobile
In addition to pocket WiFi, Sakura Mobile also has various Japan SIM cards you can purchase. As Sakura Mobile uses NTT DoCoMo’s network, the reception is exceptional.
Although most tourists won’t need a Japanese phone number while travelling in Japan, having a Japanese number can be convenient when making reservations at restaurants or purchasing tickets to live concerts.
If you need a Japanese phone number, Sakura Mobile also sells SIM cards with a phone number.
Important: Orders must be put through at least 3 days in advance.
Refer to Sakura Mobile’s website HERE for more information and to order your SIM card.
Mobal
Mobal is another company that offers a SIM card with data and a phone number, allowing you to make/receive calls without a residency card. In addition to making phone calls, you can also use the SIM card to send and receive text messages.
Mobal SIM cards utilize both Softbank and DoCoMo’s networks, providing you with excellent call quality, ultra-fast internet speeds, and comprehensive coverage.
In addition, no contract is required to sign up for Mobal’s data + voice + text SIM card. You can terminate the service at any time after 30 days by clicking the “Cancel service” button on the portal.
The great news is Mobal can send SIM cards to most countries FOR FREE! This allows you to be as prepared as possible. As soon as you land in Japan, you can start using the internet without waiting in line at the service counter.
- Refer to HERE for more information and order Mobal’s short-term SIM card.
- Refer to HERE for more information and order Mobal’s long-term SIM card.
Important: Additional charges apply for making phone calls and sending text messages. These charges will be billed when Mobal receives your usage information. Incoming phone calls and text messages are free of charge.
Refer to HERE for our experience.
Japan Wireless
Besides the data-only SIM cards, Japan Wireless also offers SIM cards with a Japanese phone number. Japan Wireless’s Voice and Data SIM Cards include phone calls and text messaging.
The company uses NTT DoCoMo’s infrastructure, which is the best in Japan. The SIM Card that will be delivered to you is issued directly by NTT DoCoMo, guaranteeing quality and user experience.
Refer to Japan Wireless’s website HERE for more information and to purchase your Japan SIM Card.
The Best Japan SIM Card for Tourists
Similar to Japan pocket WiFi, you can purchase a Japan SIM Card for tourists with limited or unlimited data. However, please note that unlimited data is subject to the Fair Usage Policy (FUP). If the service provider determines that your usage is excessive on a particular day, your internet speed will be downgraded for a few days.
The best Japan SIM card for tourists is Japan Wireless SIM card (assuming you aren’t a data-heavy user). The company’s product has the best CP value. But if you plan to head into the wild, it is worthwhile to purchase Sakura Moile‘s SIM card to access DoCoMo’s network. It is the best network in Japan. This means the greatest coverage and the fastest speed. Additionally, Sakura Mobile’s customer service is exceptional. You will usually receive a response within 10 to 20 minutes, even on a weekend.
| Japan Short-Term SIM Card Provider | Network Used | Daily Cost for 7/8 Days | Daily Cost for 15/16-Days | Daily Cost for 30/31 Days | Data Quota | Shipping Overseas? |
| Sakura Mobile (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo | 4,950 yen | 7,150 yen | 9,900 yen | Unlimited | No |
| Japan Wireless (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo | 3,400 yen | 5,800 yen | 10,600 yen | Unlimited | No |
| Mobal (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo and Softbank | 4,730 yen for 25GB | 6,490 yen for 50GB | 7,920 yen for 50GB | N/A | Yes, free shipping |
The Best Japan SIM Card Providers for Long-Term Travelers
You will receive a long-term discount if you plan to stay in Japan for more than a month.
| Japan Long-Term SIM Card Provider | Network Used | Long-Term Japan SIM Card Cost | Minimum Contractual Period |
| Sakura Mobile (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo | ☛ 4GB Plan: 2,728 Yen/Month ☛ 25GB Plan: 3,828 Yen | No minimum contracts |
| Mobal (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo and Softbank | ☛ 1GB Plan: 1,650 Yen/Month ☛ 5GB Plan: 3,190 Yen ☛ 10GB Plan: 3,630 Yen ☛ 30GB Plan: 4,378 Yen The SIM card comes with a Japanese phone number. | No minimum contracts |
Purchasing a Japan SIM Card for Tourists From Amazon
The links above are affiliate links that give me a small commission for purchases made through them.
The Best Japan Voice + Data SIM Card (Japan SIM Card With a Japanese Phone Number)
While a Japanese phone number is usually not necessary, if you need one to contact your accommodation providers or make a concert/event booking, overseas travelers can now obtain a Japanese phone number.
Please note that the price stated below does not include charges for SMS and phone calls.
| Japan Voice + Text + Data SIM Card Provider | Network Used | Monthly Cost | Minimum Contract Period | Shipping Overseas? |
| Sakura Mobile (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo | ☛ 5GB Plan: 3,278 Yen/Month ☛ 25GB Plan: 4,378 Yen ☛ 40GB Plan: 4,980 Yen | No minimum contracts | No |
| Mobal (click for more info) | NTT DoCoMo and Softbank | ☛ 1GB Plan: 1,650 Yen/Month ☛ 5GB Plan: 3,190 Yen ☛ 10GB Plan: 3,630 Yen ☛ 30GB Plan: 4,378 Yen The SIM card comes with a Japanese phone number. | No minimum contracts | Yes |
Tips for a Better Experience of Using a Japan SIM Card
- Charge your device(s) fully each night. This includes any power banks you may have.
- Download offline maps and language packs.
- Google Maps allows you to download an area’s map when you are connected to a WiFi hotspot. Utilize this feature to save valuable data.
- Translation apps, such as Papago, also have a similar feature. Download your native language pack and the Japanese language pack beforehand to ensure the translator can still function without an internet connection.
- Enable auto-sync selectively to conserve data.
- Reach out to your service provider for help when needed. Many offer customer support through online chat, email, or phone.
Buying a SIM Card in Japan
If you have forgotten to purchase a Japan SIM card or have used up all the data, the fastest way to get a Japan SIM card is by visiting a BIC Camera Store or Yodobashi Camera Store. These electronics retailer chain stores are found across the country. Simply search the nearest BIC Camera or Yodobashi Camera store on Google Maps, and your SIM card is sorted!
Is a Pocket WiFi or an eSIM Card a Better Option for Your Next Japan Trip?
If a Japan SIM card doesn’t sound like the best internet solution for your next Japan trip, consider purchasing an eSIM 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!
