The Best Places to Buy A SIM Card in Japan
Japan is an amazing and multifaceted country where people are living in the 22nd century. The country is known for using the latest technology in everyday life. Perhaps only in Japan you can find such a large number of robots that have completely replaced human labor.
Perhaps everyone dreams of visiting this “country from the future”. Even though the main language of communication is Japanese, the local population speaks English well. At the same time, do not forget about new technologies — online translators that will help you not get lost in an unfamiliar country. All that is needed for this is a stable Internet connection.
In this article, let’s take a closer look at what types of communication are available for tourists and how to buy a SIM card in Japan.
The Evolution of SIM Cards: What Kind of SIM Cards Can You Find in Japan?
Japan is considered a leader in technology but the ways of communication here are no different from those offered by the neighbors. Here you can find standard Japan SIM card for tourist (Mini-SIM), micro-SIM, and nano-SIM, which are standard for most modern devices, as well as prepaid SIM cards. In addition, you can find eSIM — a digital SIM card that does not require a physical card and is actively used in new smartphone models.
Despite the wide variety of SIM cards, prepaid SIM cards and eSIM cards in Japan are particularly popular.
Prepaid SIM Cards
Prepaid SIM cards are one of the most popular types of communication among tourists. This method of communication is popular due to the fact that prepaid SIM cards do not involve long-term contracts. That is, the user buys a SIM card Japan for a certain period of time and with a certain amount of data. After the SIM card expires, it will be automatically locked — you will need to extend the package of services.
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of prepaid Japanese SIM cards:
Pros:
- Easy to purchase and activate without the need for a contract.
- No mandatory monthly payments or obligations.
- Convenience for short-term stay in the country.
Cons:
- Limited amounts of data, especially on cheap tariffs.
- Sometimes there are high prices for additional services (for example, calls or SMS).
- Limited coverage or internet speeds depending on the operator.
*Note: The amount of data varies from 1 to 10 GB, and the validity period of the SIM card is usually from 7 to 30 days, depending on the selected package.
eSIM Technology
eSIM is a convenient and flexible alternative to all types of physical SIM cards. It is ideal for travelers as it does not require a physical carrier. eSIM is a fully virtual SIM card with remote activation via the Internet. To purchase it, you do not need to visit the office of a mobile operator—everything can be done online.
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of eSIM:
Pros:
- There is no need for a physical SIM card, which saves space in the device.
- It is easy to change operators without changing the card, just through the phone settings.
- Convenient for travelers, as you can connect to local plans without buying a new SIM card.
Cons:
- Not all devices support eSIM, especially older models — check the eSIM compatibility of the phone.
- It can be difficult to set up for those who are not familiar with digital technology.
*Note: The amount of eSIM data depends on the selected package, usually varies from 3 to 20 GB. The validity period is from 7 to 30 days, depending on the operator and the tariff.
The Most Popular Japanese Mobile Operators: True Comparison
Today, there are three leading mobile operators in Japan: NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au. These operators offer a wide variety of tariff plans for both locals and tourists. In addition, there are online providers in the country, for example, eSIM Plus. The provider stands out due to its wide coverage, variety of tariff plans, as well as the quality of communication.
Here is a brief comparison guide of popular mobile carriers and providers in Japan:
| Provider | Price | Data Volume | Validity Period | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NTT Docomo | Around $20 for a month. | From 5 GB to 20 GB depending on the package. | From 7 to 30 days. | Wide coverage and high internet speed. |
| SoftBank | Around $17 for a month. | From 3 GB to 15 GB depending on the package. | From 7 to 30 days. | Good coverage and stable connection, especially in large cities. |
| au (KDDI) | Around $14 for a month. | From 5 GB to 10 GB depending on the package. | From 7 to 30 days. | Good coverage in rural areas and plans for travelers. |
| eSIM Plus | From $11.99 to $109.99. | From 1 GB to 100 GB depending on the package. | From 7 to 30 days. | It is convenient for travelers, offers a digital SIM card, fast activation and access to multiple operators. |
All mobile operators offer wide coverage and good communication quality. However, eSIM for Japan — eSIM Plus, and offers the advantages of virtual activation and eSIM card usage.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Japan?
Every tourist can buy a SIM card in Japan literally at every turn. However, tourists prefer such points of sale as: airports, official operators’ stores, electronics shops, and online eSIM purchases.
Airport
One of the most favorite places to buy tourist SIM cards is the airport. There are three major airports in Japan: Narita, Haneda, and Kansai.
Tokyo Narita Airport
- Availability: At terminals 1 and 2.
- Product range: Travel SIM cards from Docomo, SoftBank and others, as well as eSIM.
- Prices: Travel SIM cards cost from $20 for 7–10 GB for 7 days.
Tokyo Haneda Airport
- Availability: In the terminal of international flights, in shops, and kiosks.
- Product range: SIM cards with data and combination cards with the possibility of international calls.
- Prices: Prices start from $17 for 7 days and 3–5 GB.
Osaka Kansai Airport
- Availability: In specialty stores and kiosks in the terminal of international flights.
- Product range: Packages from major Japanese operators and international eSIM cards for tourists.
- Prices: From $13 for 7 days with 1–3 GB of data.
*Note: All cards have a limited validity period, and in most cases, you need to register with a passport.
Official Operators’ Stores
Buying a SIM card in Japan through the stores of official mobile operators (NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au) can be convenient but requires some knowledge, such as specific office addresses and opening hours. Most of the shops are located in large shopping malls and train stations, such as in Tokyo’s Shibuya area or the Tokyo Railway Station.
There are also many shops in large shopping areas, such as Ginza or Shinjuku in Tokyo. Additional stores are located in major shopping malls such as Roppongi Hills or Ikebukuro. Opening hours are generally from 10:00 to 19:00, but the time may vary depending on the location.
Electronics Shops
In Japan, SIM cards can be purchased from major electronics chains such as Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera. Mostly, local residents buy SIM cards in such stores.
Here are the main advantages of these stores:
- Convenience. The stores are located in major shopping areas and near transportation hubs such as Shinjuku or Shibuya in Tokyo.
- Product Range. Both stores feature SIM cards from leading carriers (NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au).
- Purchase Process. The SIM card purchase process is quick and uncomplicated. A passport is enough to purchase a prepaid card. In the case of a long-term contract, additional information will be required, including the address of residence in Japan.
- Opening Hours. Usually from 10:00 to 22:00.
Online Order
Another way to purchase a SIM card in Japan is to apply for an eSIM online. This is the most convenient and fastest way to connect to a mobile network without the need for a physical SIM card, as well as without visiting the office of a mobile operator.
You can buy eSIM both before and during the trip.
How to Buy a SIM Card in Japan
It is not difficult to buy and activate a SIM card in Japan if you follow these steps:
- Prepare the necessary documents. You will need a passport to purchase a SIM card in Japan. It is required to verify your identity.
*Note: You do not need a passport to purchase and activate eSIM.
- Check for the necessary documents. If you purchase a contract SIM card, additional documents may be required, such as proof of residence (for long-term users).
- Select a mobile operator. Popular options include Docomo, SoftBank, or Au. Pay attention to eSIM Plus.
- Pay for a data plan. Pay for the tariff plan using any convenient method.
*Note: When buying eSIM, you can pay for a data plan using cryptocurrency.
- Activate the SIM card. In the case of prepaid cards, activation often takes place immediately, on the spot. For contract cards, it may take several days to complete the registration process. For eSIM, the entire card purchase and activation process will take place online.
- Set up the network. In most cases, the phone will automatically be set up to use the Japanese network. If this is not the case, you can manually configure the APN (Internet Access Point) settings.
- Restart your device. After setting up, restart the device to make sure it is connected to the network.
Working Advice for SIM Card Usage in Japan
To ensure that using a SIM card in Japan leaves only pleasant impressions without overpayments and problems, follow the recommendations below:
- Check the amount of data. Monitor traffic to avoid overspending.
- Use public Wi-Fi. If possible, connect to Wi-Fi in public places.
- Use eSIM. If your device supports eSIM, this is a convenient option that eliminates the need to carry a physical SIM card.
- Do not use local calls. Instead of making regular calls, use Internet telephony (WhatsApp).
- Roaming settings. If you arrive with an international SIM card, make sure that roaming is enabled to use the local network, otherwise the connection may be limited.
By following these tips, you can effectively use your SIM card and mobile internet in Japan without spending extra money.
Conclusion: Prepare for the Trip in Advance and Use eSIM
Communication during the journey is one of the most important points that should not be forgotten. Therefore, when planning any international trip, you need to think in advance about which communication option will be optimal for you.
Choosing the right SIM card or eSIM will help you avoid unexpected expenses and ensure uninterrupted communication. Consider the length of stay, the amount of data, and the need for international calls to choose the most appropriate option.
