Best eSIM cards for mobile data and roaming in Japan

Introduction

Japan represents a fascinating combination of traditional culture and modern technology, making it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world. Millions of travelers visit this island nation annually, attracted by historical monuments, excellent cuisine, futuristic cities, and breathtaking landscapes.

During a trip to Japan, reliable internet connection is absolutely essential - whether for navigating the complex public transportation system, translating Japanese signs, or sharing experiences with friends. However, traditional roaming can be extremely expensive, which is why more and more visitors choose eSIM as a practical alternative without the need to physically exchange SIM cards.

In this guide, we'll discuss in detail the best eSIM providers for Japan, including Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel, Jetpac, Global YO and GigSky. We'll analyze their most popular data packages (2 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB or unlimited) and help you choose the optimal solution for your trip.

With eSIM, you'll avoid high roaming fees and handle the entire process conveniently online. In the following chapters, you'll find complete information about installation, useful tips for traveling in Japan, and detailed comparisons of individual plans, so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about connectivity or unexpectedly high bills.

Best eSIM Providers for Japan

eSIM4Travel in Japan

4.4/5 ★★★★☆

eSIM provider eSIM4Travel from the USA offers very competitive prices for data plans and coverage in 170 countries. It doesn't offer an app, but allows easy setup via QR code and has excellent customer support through online chat.

Basic Information

170 countries, regional plans (Asia, Middle East, Latin America, Europe).

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Simple installation and activation.

Very competitive prices.

Excellent customer support.

No mobile app.

Absence of unlimited data plans.

Testing

Go to eSIM4Travel website View full review

eSIM4Travel in Japan uses SoftBank and KDDI networks, which are among the leading Japanese operators with excellent coverage throughout the country. This partnership ensures reliable connectivity in all major cities and tourist areas. For travelers seeking an affordable and dependable solution, eSIM4Travel represents one of the best options. Their service works immediately after activation, customer support is easily accessible and responds quickly. Price-wise, they are among the most competitive providers in the market. Additional benefits include no speed limitations, no need to install additional apps, and the ability to flexibly purchase additional data for an already activated eSIM card.

Airalo eSIM in Japan

3.4/5 ★★★☆☆

Airalo is a popular eSIM marketplace with coverage in 211 countries, fast activation and affordable prices. However, it's not always the best choice for unlimited data.

Basic Information

211 countries, local, regional and global eSIM.

Excellent iPhone app. 4.6 from 61,000 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.5 from 72,000 reviews.

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Wide coverage (211 countries) and easy activation.

User-friendly app and website.

Immediate functionality after installation without needing to restart.

Significantly higher prices compared to competitors.

Inability to purchase additional data without Wi-Fi after depleting the package.

Low rating on Trustpilot (2.6/5).

Testing

Go to Airalo website View full review

Airalo partners with SoftBank and KDDI networks in Japan. SoftBank is one of the largest operators in the country with extensive coverage, while KDDI provides excellent services especially in urban areas. Travelers report great experiences with Airalo not only in Japan but also in other Asian destinations such as South Korea, Taiwan, or Hong Kong. The eSIM activation process is extremely simple and takes approximately two minutes. Airalo's user-friendly app also allows easy monitoring of data usage and possible top-ups during your trip.

Holafly eSIM in Japan

3.5/5 ★★★☆☆

Holafly is a leading Irish eSIM provider with truly unlimited data in more than 160 countries. However, if you only need a small amount of data, it might be more expensive.

Basic Information

160 countries, local and regional unlimited eSIM.

Average iPhone app. 3.5 from 150 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.6 from 1,000 reviews.

Supports additional data purchases.

Hotspot mostly limited to 500 MB.

Speed limited according to Fair Use Policy (approx. 4.5 GB/day).

Pros and Cons

Truly unlimited data in 160+ countries.

Fast and helpful customer support.

Low transparency regarding FUP limits.

Hotspot not available in all countries.

Testing

Go to Holafly website View full review

Holafly in Japan uses the KDDI network, which ensures stable and fast internet connection in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, the Kanto region, Nagasaki, Osaka, and other tourist destinations in Japan. Holafly differs from other providers by offering exclusively unlimited data packages, so you don't have to worry about running out of data in the middle of your trip. Prices for these unlimited packages for Japan range from $19 to $99, depending on the validity period, which can be from 5 to 90 days.

It's worth noting that although the data is labeled as unlimited, with excessive use (such as continuous HD streaming or downloading large files), temporary speed restrictions may occur. Users report that after intensive use of approximately 5 GB in a short period, connection speed may be reduced, but this usually doesn't present a problem for normal usage.

Yesim eSIM in Japan

4.4/5 ★★★★☆

Yesim is a Swiss eSIM provider with coverage in 135 countries. It offers both fixed and unlimited data packages at very competitive prices.

Basic information

135 countries, local, regional and global eSIM (including unlimited).

Good iPhone app. 4.4 from 600 reviews.

Average Android app. 3.6 from 2,000 reviews.

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

May limit speed during excessive use.

Pros and cons

Top prices per GB.

Offers both fixed and unlimited packages.

More complicated installation than competitors.

Frequent spam notifications via email and app.

Go to Yesim website View full review

Yesim uses the KDDI network in Japan, which enables seamless mobile connectivity in Fukuoka, Kawanakajima, Kobe, Kyoto, Nagoya, Osaka, Saitama, Sapporo, Tokyo, and other Japanese cities. KDDI provides excellent coverage in all major urban areas and tourist centers. For more detailed information about Yesim services, we recommend visiting our comprehensive overview, where you'll find all the necessary details.

Jetpac eSIM in Japan

3.8/5 ★★★☆☆

Jetpac offers eSIM plans with coverage in more than 150 countries. Data packages from 1 GB to 40 GB, attractive pricing and benefits such as access to airport lounges during flight delays.

Basic Information

150 countries, eSIM for individual and multiple countries.

Average iPhone app. 3.8 from 46 reviews.

Average Android app. 3.6 from 224 reviews.

Supports additional data purchase.

Hotspot allowed.

Speed limited according to Fair Use.

Pros and Cons

Low price per GB and stable speeds.

Free airport lounges and ExpressVPN.

No unlimited data plans available.

No SMS and call support.

Go to Jetpac website View full review

Jetpac in Japan partners with the KDDI network, which provides high-quality coverage throughout the country, especially in large cities and tourist areas. KDDI is the second-largest mobile operator in Japan and offers stable 4G and 5G connectivity. For more information about Jetpac and their services, we recommend reading our detailed guide, where you'll find everything you need to know.

Best eSIM Plans for Japan

Below we provide a comparison of the most popular eSIM data packages for Japan. A complete overview of all available options can be found in our eSIM comparison tool for Japan, where you can filter offers by data amount, validity period, and many other parameters.

Free Data in Japan

If you only need minimal connectivity for basic communication or checking emails, Roamless offers a free eSIM with 500 MB of data for Japan. While this amount is limited, it can serve as an emergency solution or for a short time after arrival.

Another option is GigSky, which provides a test eSIM with 100 MB of free data without requiring credit card registration. This trial version allows you to test the service and check your device's compatibility before deciding on a paid version.

For more information about obtaining free data, check out our specialized article Free eSIM | How to Get Free Data for USA and Abroad. If you're looking for a comprehensive overview of all available eSIMs for Japan, including free offers, use our eSIM comparison tool.

Roamless

How to Configure eSIM for Japan

Purchasing and activating an eSIM for Japan is a simple process that will save you many problems while traveling. The main advantage is the ability to handle everything in advance from home, eliminating the need to search for SIM card vendors at Japanese airports or deal with language barriers.

• Complete guide to setting up eSIM on iPhone
• Detailed procedure for activating eSIM on Samsung phones
• Current overview of devices supporting eSIM technology

1. Check device compatibility: Before buying an eSIM, it's necessary to check if your phone supports this technology. Most modern smartphones from manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, Google, or Huawei are compatible with eSIM. To be sure, you can check our updated list of phones supporting eSIM or complete overview of compatible devices for 2024.

2. Select the optimal provider: For Japan, you have several reputable providers available, such as Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel, JetPac, Global YO, or GigSky. When selecting a data package, consider the length of your stay and planned activities – for normal use of navigation and social media, 2 GB is usually sufficient, for more intensive use we recommend packages of 5 GB or 10 GB. For the most accurate selection, use our eSIM comparison tool for Japan, where you can filter offers according to your specific requirements.

3. Installation using QR code: After purchase, you'll receive an email containing a QR code or activation code. In your phone settings, find the "Mobile Data" or "Mobile Network" section and select "Add Data Plan" or "Add eSIM." Scan the QR code and follow the displayed instructions. If you received only an activation code, you can easily convert it to a QR code using online tools.

4. Connection configuration: In most cases, the connection will configure automatically after installation is complete. If not, you may need to manually enter the APN (access point) according to the provider's instructions. Also, make sure you have data roaming activated for your eSIM profile – don't worry, no additional charges will be applied.

We strongly recommend performing the installation and configuration of your eSIM before departure, preferably in an environment with stable Wi-Fi connection. This will give you confidence that you'll be immediately connected upon arrival in Japan without any complications. More detailed information about first-time eSIM configuration can be found in our guide First eSIM | Everything from A to Z.

Tips for eSIM in Japan

Japan as a technologically advanced country offers travelers a unique combination of ancient traditions and futuristic innovations. Whether you're arriving as a tourist, businessperson, or digital nomad, reliable internet connection is key to maximizing your visit. Here are practical tips on how to best utilize eSIM during your stay:

Navigation and Transportation

Japan's transportation system is complex and extensive, especially in metropolitan areas like Tokyo. Mobile applications such as Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, or Hyperdia are invaluable for navigating dense networks of trains, subways, and buses. We recommend downloading offline maps and timetables, but for current information about delays or route changes, online connection is irreplaceable.

Overcoming Language Barriers

Japanese can present a significant challenge for foreign visitors. Applications like Google Translate with instant camera translation are extremely useful for translating signs, menus, or instructions. Some translators also offer offline packages, but for full functionality and current translations, internet connection is essential.

Managing Data Limits

Effective monitoring of data usage will help you avoid unpleasant situations. Most eSIM providers offer their own apps for tracking usage. You can also set data limits and alerts directly on your phone. For maximum data savings, we recommend reading our article Saving Data on Vacation | Proven Tips and Tricks, where you'll find useful tips such as:

• Downloading maps, guides, and dictionaries in advance for offline use
• Reducing the quality of streamed content and video
• Deactivating automatic updates and background synchronization
• Using hotel Wi-Fi for data-intensive activities like photo backups

If you're unsure how much data you'll need, check out our guide How Much Data You Need for Various Activities, which will help you select the optimal package. For the most precise selection, use our eSIM comparison tool, where you can filter offers by data amount and validity period exactly according to your needs.

Communication with Home

Most eSIMs for Japan provide only data services without standard voice calls and SMS. However, this doesn't mean you can't stay in touch with loved ones. With data connection, you can use applications like WhatsApp, LINE (very popular in Japan), Messenger, or FaceTime for free calls and messaging. If you need to call regular phone numbers, read our article Calling with Data eSIM | How to Make and Receive Calls Cheaply from Abroad, where you'll find detailed information about VoIP services and other options.

Security and Data Protection

Japan is generally considered a safe country, but cybersecurity should be a priority everywhere. When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, hotels, or train stations, we recommend using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your connection. This is especially important when accessing sensitive information such as online banking or email accounts.

Regional Travel

Planning to visit other countries in the region? Many providers offer regional eSIM packages for East Asia that include Japan as well as Vietnam, South Korea, China, and other destinations. These packages are often more cost-effective than purchasing separate eSIMs for each country. To find the most advantageous regional eSIM, use our eSIM comparison tool, where you can select exactly the countries you plan to visit. Also check out our guides for Thailand or Australia if you plan to extend your travels throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

✈️ Expert Tip: Japan is known for frequent natural disasters such as earthquakes or typhoons. Download the Japan Official Travel App, which provides current information about emergencies and warnings in English. In case of emergency, reliable mobile connection is invaluable.

Alternative Internet Connections in Japan

eSIM is one of the most convenient solutions for internet connection during your visit to Japan, but it's not the only available option. If for any reason you cannot or do not want to use eSIM, there are several alternative ways to stay online:

Traditional Physical SIM Card

Japanese SIM cards for tourists are widely available at international airports, electronics stores such as BIC Camera or Yodobashi, and many tourist information centers. The main providers are DoCoMo, SoftBank, and AU (KDDI), who offer special packages designed for short-term visitors.

The advantages of a physical SIM card include availability for almost any unlocked phone (even without eSIM support) and various package options. Disadvantages include the need for physical card exchange (which means temporary loss of access to your home number), potential language barriers when purchasing, and often higher prices than pre-purchased eSIMs.

When purchasing a Japanese SIM card, it's important to know that most tourist SIM cards offer only data services without the possibility of calls and SMS. You'll also need a passport for registration because Japanese telecommunications regulations require identification of mobile service users.

Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots

Renting a portable Wi-Fi router (known as "Pocket Wi-Fi") is an extremely popular choice in Japan. These devices create a private Wi-Fi network to which you can connect several devices simultaneously - ideal for families or groups of travelers who want to share one connection.

Pocket Wi-Fi can be reserved online before your trip and picked up at the airport or rented directly on site. Companies like Japan Wireless, Ninja WiFi, or Global Advanced Communications offer various packages with unlimited data for a daily fee between 700-1200 yen (approximately $5-12). More information about these devices can be found in our guide Best Portable WiFi Hotspots for Travel.

The main disadvantage of these devices is the need to carry and charge an additional device, which can be impractical during long days of travel. Some devices also have speed limitations after exceeding a certain amount of data, despite being marketed as "unlimited."

International Roaming

Using roaming services from your American carrier is the simplest but usually the most expensive solution. Standard roaming rates in Japan can be extremely high - often $20-50 for 1 GB of data, which can lead to bills in the hundreds of dollars for a several-day stay.

Some American carriers offer special roaming packages for Japan, which can be more affordable than standard rates. For example, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon have various travel packages that are worth considering if you prefer simplicity and keeping your home number. For more information about eSIM options from American carriers, check out our article eSim for your mobile operator (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile).

Public Wi-Fi Networks

Japan offers relatively good coverage with public Wi-Fi networks, especially in tourist areas. Free Wi-Fi can be found in most hotels, international café chains like Starbucks, at airports, train stations, and in many shopping centers. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka also provide city Wi-Fi networks in some public spaces.

For easier connection to various Wi-Fi networks, we recommend downloading the Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi app, which allows login to thousands of hotspots across the country with a single registration. Another useful application is Travel Japan Wi-Fi, which offers access to more than 200,000 hotspots.

Relying exclusively on public Wi-Fi has significant limitations - coverage outside main tourist areas may be limited, connection quality is often variable, and there's a significant security risk when connecting to unsecured networks. Therefore, we recommend always having a backup solution for internet connection, especially if you plan to travel outside major cities.

Mobile Networks and Operators in Japan

Japan boasts one of the most advanced telecommunications infrastructures in the world with excellent coverage and high-speed networks. Understanding the local mobile market will help you choose the best eSIM or other connection option for your trip.

Major Japanese Mobile Operators

NTT DoCoMo is the largest mobile operator in Japan with approximately 80 million customers. This company offers the widest coverage in the country, including remote rural areas and mountains. DoCoMo is known for its reliability and high quality of services, which reflects slightly higher prices compared to competitors.

KDDI (operating the "au" brand) is the second largest operator with approximately 60 million customers. KDDI offers excellent coverage in cities and tourist areas and is known for competitive prices and high-quality data services. Many international eSIM providers partner with KDDI due to their extensive network.

SoftBank, the third major operator, gained popularity after becoming the first Japanese provider to offer iPhone. SoftBank has excellent coverage in urban areas and is known for innovative services and packages focused on data-intensive users.

Rakuten Mobile is a relatively new player in the Japanese market, which launched full operations in 2020. It offers aggressively low prices and unlimited data plans, but its coverage is currently concentrated mainly in large cities and metropolitan areas. For tourists traveling outside main centers, Rakuten may not be the ideal choice.

Coverage and Signal Quality

The quality of mobile signal in Japan is generally excellent, especially in urban areas. Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, and other large cities have almost 100% coverage with 4G/LTE signal, and the 5G network is rapidly expanding. Tourist destinations such as Mt. Fuji, Hakone, or Nara also have reliable coverage from all major operators.

In mountainous or remote areas, coverage may be more limited, especially in national parks or on smaller islands. If you plan to visit more remote places, such as parts of Hokkaido or the Okinawa islands, DoCoMo usually offers the best coverage.

Japan also has an extensive network of underground spaces, including subway stations, shopping centers, and underground passages, which are mostly covered with signal thanks to special repeaters and indoor antennas. This means you'll likely remain connected even while using the Tokyo subway or visiting underground shopping complexes.

Which Networks Do eSIM Providers Use?

International eSIM providers partner with local Japanese operators to offer their services. Here's an overview of which Japanese networks the most popular eSIM services use:

• Airalo: Uses SoftBank and KDDI networks, ensuring good coverage throughout Japan
• Holafly: Partners exclusively with KDDI, ensuring stable connection in all major tourist destinations
• eSIM4Travel: Offers access to SoftBank and KDDI networks with automatic switching for optimal signal
• Yesim: Uses the KDDI network with good coverage in all major cities and tourist areas
• Jetpac: Works with the KDDI network, which provides high-quality coverage throughout Japan
• GigSky: Partners with DoCoMo, ensuring the widest coverage, including more remote areas
• Flexiroam: Offers access to SoftBank and KDDI networks with automatic switching for the best available signal

When choosing an eSIM provider, consider your travel plans. For a typical tourist visit including major cities and attractions, any provider will likely be sufficient. However, if you plan to visit more remote areas or smaller islands, we recommend selecting a provider using the DoCoMo network or a combination of multiple networks for the best coverage. For easy comparison of all available options, use our eSIM comparison tool for Japan, which will help you find the optimal solution according to your specific needs.

How to Call from Japan

Maintaining contact with family, friends, or business partners is an important aspect of any trip. With eSIM in Japan, you have several options for effective communication without high international call fees.

Internet Calling with Data eSIM

Most eSIM packages for Japan provide only data services without traditional voice functions and SMS. However, this doesn't present a significant obstacle because with high-quality data connection, you can use various applications for internet calling (VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol).

LINE is the dominant communication app in Japan, used by more than 90% of Japanese smartphone users. If you plan to communicate with locals, guides, or business partners, installing LINE is practically essential. The app offers high-quality voice and video calls, messaging, and many other features.

For international communication, popular applications include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Skype, or FaceTime. All these services work reliably with Japanese data connection and allow free calling and messaging to other users of the same platform.

More detailed information about internet calling can be found in our specialized article Calling with Data eSIM | How to Make and Receive Calls Cheaply from Abroad?

Specialized Services for International Calls

For calling regular phone numbers in the USA or elsewhere in the world, there are specialized services that offer much lower rates than traditional international calls.

Skype Credit is one of the most accessible options for international calls with competitive rates. Calling from Japan to the USA via Skype costs approximately €0.05-0.10 per minute, which is a fraction of the price of a regular international call. The service works via WiFi or mobile data and offers good call quality.

Google Voice represents another popular alternative, although its full functionality is mainly available for users in the USA. With an American Google Voice account, you can call many countries for very low rates or free. There are ways to access this service even outside the USA, but it requires certain technical knowledge.

Local Mobile Services

If you need a Japanese phone number for receiving calls during your stay, there are several options:

Mobal Japan SIM is one of the few tourist SIM cards that offers voice services and a Japanese phone number. Unlike most tourist data SIM cards, Mobal allows receiving and making calls. Prices start from approximately 3000 yen (about $20) for a basic package.

Japan Welcome SIM from DoCoMo offers, in addition to data services, the option to purchase a package for calls and SMS. This service is available at most international airports and tourist information centers.

Communication in Emergency Situations

In emergency situations in Japan, it's good to know the following numbers:

• 110 - Police
• 119 - Fire and Ambulance
• 118 - Maritime Rescue

These emergency numbers are available free of charge from any phone, including mobile phones without a SIM card or with eSIM for data services only. In case of emergency, you can also contact the Japan Visitor Hotline (050-3816-2787), which provides assistance in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese 24 hours a day.

Frequently Asked Questions about eSIM in Japan

Summary

Traveling around Japan becomes much more convenient thanks to eSIM technology. There's no need to search for physical SIM card vendors, deal with language barriers, or pay excessive roaming fees. You can secure internet connection from the comfort of your own home before departure and be immediately online upon arrival in Japan.

In our guide, we've detailed the most significant eSIM providers for Japan, including Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel, Jetpac, Global YO, and GigSky. Each of these providers offers specific advantages, and the optimal choice depends on the length of stay, planned activities, and individual data requirements.

Among the most popular data packages are 5 GB for standard use, 2 GB for short visits, 10 GB or 20 GB for longer stays, or unlimited plans for demanding users working remotely or frequently streaming content.

For an economical and reliable solution, eSIM4Travel is worth considering. Their service works flawlessly right after activation, customer support is easily accessible and responds quickly. Price-wise, they're among the most affordable options on the market, don't limit connection speed, and don't require installation of additional apps. Flexibility is ensured by the possibility of purchasing additional data for an already activated eSIM.

For travelers preferring unlimited data, the ideal choice is Holafly, which is the only one offering truly unlimited data packages for Japan, eliminating concerns about exhausting data limits during the trip.

We definitely recommend installing and activating your eSIM before departing for Japan. This will ensure immediate connection upon arrival and help you avoid potential configuration complications in a foreign environment.

For the most accurate and current comparison of all available eSIMs for Japan, use our comprehensive eSIM comparison tool, which allows you to filter offers by data amount, validity period, and other parameters exactly according to your individual requirements.