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⚖️ Five ways to get online, compared
| Option | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| eSIM | Delivered within minutes of buying; nothing to pick up at the airport. Unlimited-data plans are available. | Needs an unlocked, eSIM-compatible phone. Usually data only, with no Japanese phone number. | Most travellers with a recent phone |
| Physical SIM card | Works in phones without eSIM support; sold at airports and electronics stores. | You have to swap out your home SIM, which is easy to lose, and pick the card up. | Travellers whose phone doesn't support eSIM |
| Pocket Wi-Fi rental | One device can be shared by a family or group, and laptops can connect too. | Must be collected, returned and kept charged; you lose data if you get separated. | Families, groups and people with several devices |
| International roaming | No setup, and you keep your own phone number. | Can be very expensive, depending on your plan. | Short trips on a plan with cheap roaming |
| Free Wi-Fi | Free at many stations, convenience stores, cafés and hotels. | Not available on the move or outdoors, so you can't rely on it for maps and transit. | A backup only — risky to rely on alone |
🛠 How to set up an eSIM (6 steps)
- Check that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked (look under Mobile data or SIM in Settings).
- Buy a plan that matches the length of your trip; plans that use major Japanese networks (docomo, au, SoftBank) are the safest choice.
- Before you leave, connect to Wi-Fi and scan the QR code from the confirmation email to add the eSIM.
- When you land in Japan, switch your mobile data line to the eSIM.
- Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM line — most travel eSIMs need it.
- Keep data turned off on your home line to avoid expensive roaming charges.
💡 Good to know
- Many plans count validity from first use rather than purchase, but this varies — check before you buy.
- Data-only eSIMs have no phone number, so regular calls and texts won't work — but apps such as LINE and WhatsApp do.
- A deleted eSIM often can't be reissued, so don't remove it during your trip.
Trip checklist · Trip cost calculator · Japan itineraries
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Frequently asked questions
Is an eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi better for Japan?
An eSIM is easiest for solo travellers with a recent phone. Pocket Wi-Fi suits families or groups sharing one device, or anyone who also needs to connect a laptop.
Can I get by on free Wi-Fi in Japan?
Free Wi-Fi exists at stations, convenience stores and hotels, but often not on the move, so you can't count on it for maps and train routes. It's best to have your own data.
When should I set up my eSIM?
Usually you install it (scan the QR code) at home on Wi-Fi before departure, then switch to it after landing in Japan. How validity is counted varies by plan, so check first.
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