Sim Cards for Tourists in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide

Japan is a country with a highly developed mobile network, making it easy for tourists to stay connected.

The Japanese mobile network is operated by four major carriers: NTT DoCoMo, KDDI, SoftBank, and AU.

Tourists can choose from a variety of prepaid SIM cards, which can be purchased at airports, train stations, and convenience stores.

Prepaid SIM cards in Japan usually come with a set amount of data, voice minutes, and text messages, and can be topped up as needed.

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In Japan, you can choose between a prepaid SIM card and a postpaid SIM card, with prepaid being the most popular option for tourists.

Prepaid SIM cards are available at major airports, train stations, and convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart.

You can also purchase a prepaid SIM card online before arriving in Japan, but be aware that delivery times may vary.

Prepaid SIM cards can be activated immediately, and you can top up your credit as needed.

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The most popular prepaid SIM card for tourists is the B-Mobile SIM, which offers 4G coverage and a range of data options.

The B-Mobile SIM card is available in various data sizes, from 1GB to 10GB, and can be purchased for as low as ¥500.

Another option is the docomo SIM, which offers a more extensive data plan, but at a higher cost.

The docomo SIM card can be purchased at major airports and train stations, and online.

It's worth noting that some SIM cards may have limited coverage in rural areas, so it's essential to check the provider's coverage before making a purchase.

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Mobal is a popular option for tourists in Japan, offering a voice and data SIM with 7GB of data, which can be topped up with additional data if needed. This SIM card is available with free shipping to many countries or can be picked up at various airports in Japan.

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Mobal uses Softbank's infrastructure, providing reliable coverage across Japan. In fact, Softbank's SIM cards cover 99% of the country's population. However, Mobal's prepaid plans are specifically designed for tourists, making it a hassle-free option.

For those who prefer not to use a SIM card, renting a Japanese phone is another option. These phones can be pre-ordered online and are generally cheaper than SIM cards. This is a good option for travelers whose international phones may not receive a signal in Japan.

If you're having trouble getting a signal with your international phone in Japan, you can rent a Japanese phone instead. These can be pre-ordered online and are far cheaper than Voice and Data SIM cards.

Renting a phone is a viable option for tourists who don't want to deal with the hassle of SIM cards.

Japan uses 3G as its main network, which can cause issues with international phones.

Additional reading: How Do International Sim Cards Work

Mobal is the only option that offers both data and voice capabilities. With Mobal, you get 7GB of data, and when that runs out, you can still use data at slower speeds. Top-ups are available, and you can also purchase 60-, 90-day, and long-term packages.

Mobal uses Softbank's infrastructure, which covers 99% of Japan's population. This means you'll have reliable coverage, but it's worth noting that Softbank's SIM cards are mainly for locals with postpaid plans.

One of the benefits of Mobal is that it's easy to set up, and you can top up your data as needed. If you're traveling from China, you'll also have access to a range of other prepaid packages.

Here are some key facts about Mobal:

Mobal's Pocket WiFi is a great option for local residents or long term travelers in Japan, as it works with all four major Japanese networks.

It's super easy to buy online with an international card, and you can get it shipped to your address in Japan.

The device is tiny, smaller than a box of Tic Tacs, and charges with a USB, lasting up to 12 hours on a full charge.

If you're not a long term traveler, there are alternative solutions available, such as renting a Pocket WiFi Router.

These pre-configured mobile WiFi routers can be switched on, connected to the hotspot with the specified information, and used on any WiFi-enabled device.

A hotspot ensures a rapid and easy connection to the internet, whether you're using a tablet, laptop, or phone.

You can buy a Japan SIM card before or after arriving in Japan. To purchase one before traveling, you can order online from providers like Mobal, Rakuten, or BIC Camera, and have it delivered to your home or collect it at the airport.

If you're already in Japan, you can buy a SIM card at a BIC Camera store or Yodobashi Camera, which are major shopping locations. To find a BIC Camera store, you can look for a sign that says "" (BIC Camera) in Japanese.

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To activate a Japan SIM card, you'll typically need to insert the SIM into your phone and follow the instructions provided. Some providers, like Mobal, offer a unique solution that allows you to collect your SIM or eSIM from over 20 locations across Japan, including airports and city centre pick-up points.

To activate a Mobal SIM card, you'll need your passport and SIM or eSIM order email. You can also purchase a Mobal SIM card with cash, and they offer a 20% discount for 2,376 yen.

Here are some popular prepaid Japan SIM cards for tourists:

You can also consider purchasing a data-only SIM card, which provides internet access without a phone number. This option is cost-effective and allows you to stay in touch without worrying about call minutes or SMS fees.

Buying a SIM card in Japan can be a cost-effective option for tourists. It's usually cheaper to buy a SIM card in Japan than to use your home country's roaming plan.

You can expect significant savings by using a Japanese SIM card. For instance, it was definitely cheaper for some travelers to use a Japanese SIM card than sticking with their Indian SIM and its roaming charges.

Don't forget to check with your service provider about their roaming fees. This will give you a clear idea of how much you'll save by using a local SIM card in Japan.

Staying connected in Japan is crucial for navigating the country's complex transportation system and accessing essential services. You can get internet by buying or renting a portable WiFi device, using free WiFi in cafes, hotels, and train stations, or by buying a local SIM card – which I highly recommend.

Free WiFi is available in many hotels, but it's often limited to guest rooms or lobbies. Cafes and restaurants like Starbucks and McDonald's provide free internet, but registration is usually required, and time limits can apply. Public spaces like train stations and shopping malls sometimes have free WiFi, but connections are typically slow or unreliable.

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A SIM card is a great alternative to free WiFi. It allows you to use navigation apps like Google Maps when exploring busy districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, where GPS accuracy is crucial to finding your way. You'll also be able to make local calls in case of emergencies or book reservations.

Some popular apps that require a Japanese phone number include PayPay, Mobile Suica, Uber Eats, Wolt, Mercari, Yahoo! Japan, and ePlus. If you plan to use any of these apps on your Japan trip, you'll want to make sure you have a voice + data SIM.

Here are some benefits of a voice + data SIM for tourists in Japan:

Having a good data and voice network in Japan makes everything easier – finding your way, translating signs, exploring local spots, and staying in touch with loved ones. Trust me, using Japanese public transport is the best way to save money and see the country, but it's tough without internet and apps!

A SIM card is a small chip that stores information about your network, allowing your device to connect to services you pay for without a lengthy setup.

There's no need to worry about personal info being stored on SIM cards, although you can store contact info and numbers for contacts - but that's become less common since smartphones took over.

This means you can easily switch to a new phone or device without losing your network connection, which is especially helpful when traveling abroad.

A SIM card is a small chip that can be inserted into your mobile phone which stores information about your network.

It's a quick way for a network to identify your device and ensures that the customer can connect to services they pay for, without a lengthy setup.

No personal information is stored on SIM cards, although you can store contact information and numbers for contacts.

This has become less common since the introduction of smartphones, where digital contact storage is more convenient and accessible.

You can check if your phone is compatible with eSIMs by looking for a 32-digit EID in your device's settings, or by dialing *#06#.

If your phone is locked to your local provider, you may not be able to use an eSIM, and will need to contact your provider for more information.

eSIMs are an alternative to physical prepaid SIMs, but have the downside of being incompatible with older phone models.

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Sim cards come in different types, each with its own unique features and uses.

The most common type is a standard SIM card, which is the one most people are familiar with.

These cards are small, rectangular pieces of plastic that contain a microchip and a tiny antenna.

A micro SIM card is smaller than a standard SIM card, but still contains all the necessary information.

These cards are commonly used in smartphones and other mobile devices.

Nano SIM cards are even smaller than micro SIM cards, making them ideal for newer devices.

These cards are also more secure, as they have a more complex encryption process.

There are also eSIM cards, which are digital SIM cards that don't require a physical card.

These cards can be programmed remotely, making them convenient for travelers or those with multiple devices.

Not all SIM card providers offer English-language support, so it's essential to look for tourist-friendly SIM brands with dedicated customer service.

Providers like NINJA WiFi offer multilingual setup guides and phone support in English, ensuring a smoother experience if you encounter activation issues.

If you prefer assistance in English, make sure to choose a SIM card provider that offers this service, such as NINJA WiFi.