One of the first things you’ll want to do when arriving in Japan is ensure you have a reliable source of mobile data while you’re out and about. Depending on whether you’ll be in the country for just a short time or you’re relocating for the long term, you may want an eSIM, a physical prepaid SIM, or a phone plan.

eSIMs for Tourists

In the past few years, eSIMs have become a standard for traveling. Since they’re virtual, you can set up the SIM before you enter the country, meaning you’ll have an internet connection the moment you hit the ground. There are a huge number of eSIMs on the market, and the best option often depends on where you’re visiting. In Japan, the top choices include:

  • Ubigi — The various data plans available means you should be able to find something that suits your needs. Plans range from three days to one month, with data from 1 GB to unlimited. You’ll have 5G where available.
  • Saily — Plans are similar to those from Ubigi but start at five days. An advantage is that all plans come with a virtual location and ad blocker.
  • World eSIM — Ideal for lower mobile data needs, as fixed data plans start at 0.5 GB. There are also unlimited plans available for one to 30 days.

Prepaid SIMs

There is still the option to purchase a prepaid SIM in Japan, although you’ll need to check that the SIM will work with your phone if you purchased it in another country. You may like this option if you’ll be in Japan for a short time and want to have the option to recharge the card with extra data — this is an option for several physical SIMs. By ordering in advance, you can pick up your SIM at the airport to be immediately connected.

  • Mobal — If you want to have voice calls, you’ll need to choose Mobal, as it’s the only prepaid SIM that also gives you a phone number. Think about whether you need this, as it does increase the price. The company also offers worldwide shipping, meaning you can set up your SIM before you reach the country.
  • Sakura Mobile — Three card options are available. Choose whether you want seven, 15, or 31 days of unlimited data with 4G or 5G.
  • Shogun SIM — There are four card options (for seven days, 15 days, 30 days, and 60 days) but only the 15-day option has unlimited data.

Phone Plans

If you’ll be in Japan for the long term, it makes sense to take out a mobile contract. This is the most popular option for residents, with around 80% of people having a phone subscription. Plans are more economical, provide you with a phone number, and offer better coverage. The catch is they are only available to residents — you’ll need to provide your Japanese residence card, bank account information, and proof of address.

MVNO Contracts

Finally, a cheaper and more flexible option than a phone plan with a major provider is a contract with a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). These services use the infrastructure of the big mobile networks but often cost less than JPY 2,000 per month, have a shorter lock-in period during which a termination fee is payable (no automatically renewing two-year contracts), and make it possible to keep your current number.

Samsung Galaxy Note 10, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons