Stay Connected in Japan
Navigate, share, and stay in touch with our comprehensive eSIM guide for Japan.
1Introduction to Japan as a Travel Destination
Traveling in Japan is an amazing experience, but it's essential to have reliable internet access throughout your trip. English isn't widely spoken in Japan, especially outside of major cities, which means online maps and translation apps become vital tools for every traveler. Whether you're navigating Tokyo's complex transit system, checking train schedules, translating a menu, or keeping in touch with family, a good data connection makes it all possible. Having mobile internet also lets you use cashless payment apps, share photos on social media, and make the most of your Japan adventure without getting lost or stuck.
2Mobile and Internet Infrastructure
Japan boasts one of the world's most advanced mobile network infrastructures. The country's major carriers – NTT Docomo, au (KDDI), SoftBank, and the newer Rakuten Mobile – provide extensive nationwide coverage and high-speed connectivity. In fact, all four operators reach over 98-99% of the population, with Docomo generally known for the widest coverage (covering over 99% of Japan) and leading the pack in 5G rollout.
Urban areas are typically blanketed in 4G LTE and have growing 5G coverage, while even smaller towns and tourist sites usually get decent 4G reception. Mobile internet speeds in Japan are impressively high in the cities – often among the fastest globally – but can slow down in rural regions. Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto enjoy widespread LTE and expanding 5G networks, delivering smooth streaming and web browsing. In dense urban areas (Tokyo metro, Osaka, etc.), signal strength is excellent underground and in high-rises, and you'll rarely lose service. In more rural areas – for example, the mountains of Hokkaido or remote parts of Okinawa – NTT Docomo is often considered the gold standard for coverage.
Network Providers Overview
| Provider | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NTT Docomo | 99%+ population coverage with strong 4G/5G | Best overall coverage, especially in rural and mountainous regions |
| au (KDDI) | ~98-99% population coverage with 4G/5G | Strong urban coverage, good performance in most areas |
| SoftBank | ~98-99% population coverage with 4G/5G | Excellent urban coverage, slightly less rural penetration |
| Rakuten Mobile | Expanding network, better in urban areas | Newest carrier, still building out rural coverage |
3Guide to Getting Mobile Internet
Local SIM vs eSIM
Staying connected in Japan can be achieved through a local SIM card (or eSIM from a Japanese carrier) or by using an international travel eSIM that works in Japan. Local Japanese SIM cards typically come in prepaid data-only plans (e.g. 5 GB for 30 days, or even unlimited daily data for a set period). The advantages of a local SIM are potentially higher data allowances and reliable, full-speed access to the carrier's network. You might get true 5G access and high-speed unlimited data on some local plans. You also gain a Japanese phone number if the SIM supports calls/SMS. The downsides include the hassle of finding a vendor and the time spent registering. An international eSIM offers maximum convenience - you can buy and set up from home and hit the ground running with mobile internet as soon as you arrive in Japan. If your phone supports dual SIM, you can keep your home SIM in for receiving calls or SMS and use the eSIM for affordable local data. These plans are typically data-only (no Japanese phone number).
Where to Buy
Local Japanese SIM cards for tourists are readily available at airports, electronics stores, and carrier shops. Upon arrival at major airports like Narita, Haneda or Kansai, you'll find kiosks for NTT Docomo, SoftBank, au, and MVNO providers offering prepaid SIMs. In cities, large electronics retailers such as Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera sell travel SIMs over the counter. When buying a local SIM in Japan, bring your passport, as by law you may need to show ID for activation. For eSIMs, you can purchase online before your trip through providers like Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad. These are installed via a QR code or app and can be activated as soon as you land in Japan.
4Major Mobile Providers and Plans
Airalo
Airalo is one of the world's largest eSIM marketplaces, known for affordable rates. For Japan, Airalo offers the "Moshi Moshi" eSIM which provides speedy 4G data on local networks. Airalo eSIMs in Japan connect to KDDI (au) and SoftBank networks. This means you get dependable coverage – au and SoftBank are both major carriers with extensive 4G and 5G across Japan. Installation is straightforward: you purchase through the Airalo app or website, receive an eSIM QR code or install directly via the app, and follow on-screen instructions. Airalo allows hotspot/tethering on its plans as long as your device supports it.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moshi Moshi 1GB | 1 GB | 7 days | ~$4.50 |
|
| Moshi Moshi 3GB | 3 GB | 30 days | ~$8.50 |
|
| Moshi Moshi 20GB | 20 GB | 30 days | ~$26 |
|
Holafly
Holafly is an eSIM provider that specializes in unlimited data plans. If you prefer not to worry about data caps at all, Holafly's Japan eSIM is very appealing: every plan comes with unlimited data at 4G/LTE speeds (and 5G where available). You simply choose the number of days you need. Holafly eSIM connects to major Japanese networks (SoftBank and KDDI) to provide its data service. In practice, users report solid connectivity throughout Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and even rural areas. Setup is done via the Holafly website or app, and there's 24/7 customer support via chat.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited 5 Days | Unlimited* | 5 days | ~$19 |
|
| Unlimited 15 Days | Unlimited* | 15 days | ~$47 |
|
| Unlimited 30 Days | Unlimited* | 30 days | ~$64 |
|
Nomad
Nomad is another popular eSIM app that offers a variety of data plans for Japan. It's known for flexibility, giving users a choice between "Day Plans" (which include a set amount of data per day, kind of like unlimited daily with fair use) and "Regular Plans" (a one-time data allotment with longer validity). In terms of network, Nomad eSIMs for Japan connect via SoftBank and KDDI (au) networks – the same robust infrastructure used by Airalo and others. This ensures strong coverage across Japan for Nomad users. Installation requires the Nomad app: you purchase the eSIM through the app (or their website), and then install it to your phone with a few taps.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Japan 1GB | 1 GB | 7 days | ~$6 |
|
| Japan 10GB | 10 GB | 30 days | ~$20 |
|
| Japan 50GB | 50 GB | 45 days | ~$35-40 |
|
Local Tourist SIMs
Local tourist SIMs are readily available at airports and electronics stores throughout Japan. Major carriers like NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au offer prepaid options, as do specialized tourist SIM providers like Sakura Mobile and Mobal. These give you direct access to Japanese networks with no roaming middleman. If you need a physical SIM card with a Japanese phone number, this is often your best option. Many tourist SIMs come with English-language support and setup assistance at the counter.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term Tourist SIM | 3-5 GB typical | 7-15 days | ~$20-30 |
|
| Medium-term Data SIM | 10-20 GB typical | 15-30 days | ~$30-50 |
|
5Device Compatibility and Activation
Before choosing any SIM or eSIM option, make sure your device is unlocked (not tied to a carrier network lock) and supports the necessary network bands. Most modern smartphones will work fine in Japan, but double-check if you have a very old or region-specific model. If your phone is carrier-locked, you'll need to get it unlocked to use a local SIM or eSIM abroad. On the technical side, Japan's networks use common bands for 4G/LTE (Band 1, 3, 19, etc.) – if your phone is from North America, Europe, or Asia, it likely has compatible radios. Also verify that your phone's OS is updated to support eSIM and that it's one of the eSIM-enabled models (the vast majority of iPhones and flagship Androids in recent years qualify).
6Tips and FAQs for Staying Connected
Can I use tethering & hotspots with my Japan data plan?
Most eSIM plans allow you to use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your other devices or travel companions. For example, Airalo explicitly supports personal hotspot use. If you plan to tether a lot, be mindful of any limits – e.g. Holafly unlimited eSIMs limit tethering to 500 MB per day. In general, tethering a laptop can consume data quickly (video calls, etc.), so if you have a capped plan, use it sparingly or download big files while on Wi-Fi.
How can I best use dual SIM capability in Japan?
If your phone is dual SIM (physical + eSIM or dual eSIMs), take advantage of it. Load the Japan eSIM for data and keep your home SIM active for calls/texts. Just disable data roaming on your primary SIM to avoid accidental charges. This way you can receive SMS verifications or important calls on your regular number while using affordable local data on the eSIM. On iPhones, for instance, you can label one line "Primary" and the other "Japan Data" and assign mobile data usage to the Japan line in settings.
Should I download maps and apps before my trip?
Before your trip (or when you have a Wi-Fi connection), download offline maps for areas you'll visit on Google Maps or Maps.me. Although you'll likely have mobile data everywhere in cities, offline maps are a lifesaver if you venture into a mountain village with spotty signal or if you run low on data. Likewise, install essential Japan travel apps ahead of time: translation apps (Google Translate, DeepL), transit navigation apps (Japan Transit Planner, Google Maps, NAVITIME), and any regional guides.
Can I rely on public Wi-Fi in Japan?
Relying on public Wi-Fi alone in Japan is not recommended. While you will find free Wi-Fi hotspots at airports, many train stations, convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart), cafes, and tourist attractions, the coverage is hit-or-miss. Connections can be slow, require registration, or simply be unavailable when you need them. A travel eSIM or SIM is far more reliable for continuous access. Treat free Wi-Fi as a backup – for instance, to conserve data when sitting at a Starbucks or to download a large app update.
Should I rent a pocket Wi-Fi device instead?
In the past, many tourists rented pocket Wi-Fi devices in Japan. These are portable routers you carry with you. While they provide good connectivity for groups, they are an extra gadget to charge and carry, and often you have to pick them up and return them. An eSIM eliminates that hassle – no extra devices, no deposit, no return shipping. Unless you have a group of 4-5 all wanting to share one connection (and you specifically want a single bill), eSIMs or individual SIMs are usually a better choice nowadays.
Conclusion
Staying connected in Japan is essential for navigating the country's complex transit systems, translating menus and signs, and making the most of your travel experience. With Japan's excellent mobile infrastructure, you can expect reliable high-speed connectivity in most areas. For most travelers, an international eSIM offers the best balance of convenience and value - you can set it up before your trip and have internet access the moment you land. Airalo provides great value for money with affordable data packages, while Holafly offers peace of mind with unlimited data plans (albeit with some fair use limitations). Nomad stands out for its flexible options, including large data packages with extended validity. Those staying longer or needing a Japanese phone number might consider a local SIM card instead. Whichever option you choose, having reliable mobile data will significantly enhance your Japan experience, helping you navigate, communicate, and share your adventures with ease.