How To Buy A SIM Card For Japan

Japan, with its captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, is a dream destination for many travelers. From the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples, there's something to enchant every visitor. However, navigating Japan's unique culture and language can be challenging, especially if you're not connected. That's where having a local SIM card or eSIM becomes essential.

Fortunately, staying connected in Japan is easier than ever, with various options to suit your needs. You can choose a physical SIM card from major providers like NTT Docomo, au, SoftBank, or Rakuten Mobile, or opt for the convenience of an eSIM. If you prefer to stick with your current carrier, international roaming is also available, although it can be more expensive. For those traveling in groups or with multiple devices, pocket WiFi rental is another popular choice.

In this guide, we'll explore how to buy a SIM card for your Japan adventures, where to find the best deals, and which option is the perfect fit for your travel needs.

Overview of Japan’s mobile network

Japan boasts a robust and reliable mobile network, with four major providers offering a variety of plans and coverage options:

• NTT Docomo: Known for its extensive nationwide coverage, Docomo provides strong connections in both rural and metropolitan areas.
• SoftBank: With good coverage in urban areas and popular tourist hotspots, SoftBank is a solid choice for travelers.
• au (KDDI): Offering a reliable network and decent pricing, au is another popular option for visitors.
• Rakuten Mobile: A budget-friendly choice, Rakuten Mobile is still expanding its coverage but offers competitive rates.

Japan's impressive network infrastructure ensures 4G LTE connectivity almost nationwide. 5G networks are still being rolled out but are accessible in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Fukuoka. If you're traveling from the EU or the U.S., check if your home provider offers affordable roaming plans for Japan.

Alternatively, consider renting a pocket WiFi device, which essentially acts as a portable WiFi hotspot, allowing you to connect multiple devices simultaneously. Pocket WiFi is a great option for groups or families, while individual travelers might find SIM cards or eSIMs more convenient.

Internet access options for travelers in Japan

Buying a local prepaid SIM card

Local prepaid SIM cards are a great option for travelers staying in Japan for longer than one week, as they typically offer better value for money compared to tourist SIM cards. You can buy these SIM cards at airports, mobile carrier stores, electronics retailers, and convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart.

Keep in mind that some local SIM cards might require registration with your passport and a local address, which can be a bit of a hassle for tourists.

Buying a tourist SIM card

Prepaid SIM cards designed specifically for tourists offer short-term data and call plans, making them ideal for shorter trips. This way, you only pay for what you need, with options for data-only or call+data packages. Tourist SIM cards are readily available at airports, major train stations, and electronics stores.

While convenient, these might be more expensive than local SIM cards and have limited data allowances.

Using an eSIM (Best for Convenience)

eSIMs are arguably the most convenient option for staying connected in Japan, as they eliminate the need to swap physical SIM cards. You can buy an eSIM online and activate it instantly, making it a hassle-free choice for travelers with compatible devices.

Whether eSIM is better than a physical SIM is inconclusive, as not all devices support eSIMs, so be sure to check compatibility before making a purchase.

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International Roaming

For short trips or emergencies, activating international roaming on your current mobile plan can be a convenient option. But be aware that international roaming can be expensive and may have speed limitations, so it's generally not recommended for long-term or data-intensive use.

Pocket WiFi rental

Pocket WiFi devices are essentially portable WiFi hotspots that allow you to connect multiple devices to the internet. They are a popular choice for group travel, where you can share the connection with your companions. Though they offer shared connectivity, pocket WiFi devices can be bulky and require charging.

If you're traveling solo or prefer a more streamlined option, buying a SIM card might be a better choice.

Best SIM Cards & eSIM for tourists

Choosing the right SIM card for your Japan trip can be overwhelming, with so many options available. Here's a comparison of some of the best SIM cards and eSIMs for tourists, considering factors like data speeds, price, activation process, and validity:

As you can see, each SIM card option has its own advantages. NTT Docomo is a great choice for those who prioritize wide coverage and a reliable network, especially if you plan to travel beyond major cities.

Where you'll be traveling in Japan should definitely factor into your decision. SoftBank offers good coverage in urban areas and tourist hotspots, making it a solid option for travelers who mainly stick to Tokyo and Osaka. au (KDDI) is a good option for budget-minded travelers, while Rakuten Mobile is excellent for those who need large data bundles.

Nomad's eSIM stands out for its convenience, offering instant activation and compatibility with a wide range of devices. This is perfect for those who want to know how to buy a SIM card with minimal hassle.

Ultimately, the best SIM card for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. Consider how you plan to use your phone in Japan, where you'll be traveling, and how much data you'll need. If you're primarily staying in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, any of these options should work well. But if you're venturing off the beaten path, NTT Docomo might be a better choice for its wider coverage.

Where to buy a SIM Card in Japan

If you're planning to buy a SIM card for your trip to Japan, here are a few options to consider:

• Before Arrival: Ordering your SIM card online before you arrive can be a convenient option, allowing you to pick it up at airport counters in major airports like Narita (Tokyo), Haneda (Tokyo), Kansai (Osaka), and Chubu (Nagoya). This way, you can have your SIM card ready as soon as you land and avoid any potential delays or queues at the airport.
• At the Airport: If you prefer to buy a SIM card upon arrival, vending machines and mobile carrier kiosks are available at most international airports in Japan. However, be aware that SIM cards purchased at the airport tend to be more expensive than those bought elsewhere.
• At Mobile Carrier Stores: All major mobile carriers, including NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au (KDDI), and Rakuten Mobile, have stores in major cities throughout Japan. Buying directly from a carrier store offers a wider selection of plans and personalized assistance. This is a great option if you're unsure how to activate your SIM card or want personalized advice. However, you will likely need to present your passport for ID verification, and there might be language barriers if you don't speak Japanese.
• At Electronics & Convenience Stores: Prepaid SIM cards are also readily available at electronics retailers like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera, as well as convenience stores like Lawson, FamilyMart, and 7-Eleven. This is often a cheaper option than buying at the airport and offers greater convenience, especially if you need a SIM card outside of regular business hours.
• Online Purchase Options: Some providers offer online SIM card delivery before your arrival in Japan. This can be a good option if you want to have everything set up in advance. Where you buy your SIM card online depends on your preference, but be sure to factor in shipping times and compare prices, as they might be higher than buying directly from the operators after arrival.

How much does a SIM card cost in Japan?

The cost of a data SIM card in Japan varies depending on the type of SIM card, data allowance, validity period, and where you buy it from. Tourist SIM cards with data-only plans typically range from ¥2,000 to ¥8,500 (approximately USD 15 to USD 60) for 5 to 30 days.

eSIMs, like the Nomad eSIM, offer a more convenient option starting at USD 10 for 5GB. Local SIM cards require registration and offer monthly plans ranging from ¥3,000 to ¥8,000 (approximately USD 20 to USD 55).

How to top up your SIM card

If you run out of data on your Japan SIM card, adding more is usually straightforward. You can typically check your data balance through your mobile carrier's app or by using the USSD codes provided by your carrier.

How to recharge:

1. Online payment via carrier website: Most carriers in Japan allow you to top up your data online through their website using a credit or debit card. Simply log in to your account, select the desired data plan, and make the payment.
2. Convenience store top-up: You can also top up your SIM card at most convenience stores throughout Japan, such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart. Purchase a top-up voucher and follow the instructions to add credit to your account.

If you find topping up a hassle or anticipate needing a lot of data, some providers offer unlimited 4G/5G data plans. These plans provide peace of mind, allowing you to use data without worrying about overage charges. However, they might be more expensive than pay-as-you-go options.

Choose Nomad Japan eSIM

For a hassle-free and convenient way to stay connected in Japan, consider Nomad's eSIM. With Nomad, you can buy your eSIM online before you even arrive in Japan, ensuring you have instant connectivity upon landing. Our eSIMs offer flexible data plans to suit your needs, and they work seamlessly with eSIM-compatible devices, eliminating the need to swap physical SIM cards.

Plus, you can keep your primary number active and use eSIM for calls via messaging apps, making it ideal for travelers who want to stay connected with family and friends back home.

Learn more about how our eSIM works and buy your Japan eSIM today to experience seamless connectivity throughout your trip. Explore our Japan eSIMs and discover where you can enjoy high-speed data without the hassle of buying physical SIM cards.

Tips for using mobile data in Japan

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your mobile data in Japan:

Which apps to download:

• Google Maps & Hyperdia: These navigation apps are essential for getting around Japan, especially with its extensive public transportation network. Hyperdia is particularly useful for planning train journeys. Have a rough idea of how much data is used for GPS navigation so you can ration it with the data plan that you’re using while traveling.
• WhatsApp & LINE: While WhatsApp is widely used globally, LINE is the dominant messaging app in Japan. Having both apps can help you stay connected with both local and international contacts.
• Uber & JapanTaxi: While Uber is available in Japan, its coverage is limited to major cities. JapanTaxi is a popular alternative that offers wider coverage and allows you to hail taxis directly from the app.

Avoiding data overages:

Take advantage of free WiFi hotspots whenever possible. Many cafes, hotels, and public areas offer free WiFi, allowing you to conserve your mobile data. Also, ensure your phone is compatible with Japan's 4G/5G bands. Most modern iPhones and Android devices should work fine, but it's always a good idea to check beforehand.

Frequently asked questions about buying a SIM card in Japan

Do I need a SIM card, or can I rely on free WiFi?

While free WiFi hotspots are increasingly common in Japan, coverage can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. Having a SIM card with data provides more reliable and flexible connectivity, allowing you to navigate, access information, and stay connected without relying solely on WiFi availability.

Can I use a SIM card from another country in Japan?

It depends on your carrier and plan. Some international SIM cards might work in Japan, but they could be expensive. Check with your carrier for roaming rates and options.

Which carrier has the best coverage for rural areas?

NTT Docomo generally has the best coverage for rural areas in Japan. However, it's always a good idea to check coverage maps for specific locations before making a decision.

Do I need a Japanese ID to buy a SIM card?

Most of the time, no. However, some stores or carriers might require ID for registration, especially for local SIM cards. It's best to check with the specific store or carrier beforehand.

Are there data-only SIMs available for tourists?

Yes, all major carriers offer data-only SIM cards suitable for tourists. These are a great option if you only need data and don't require calling or texting capabilities.