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What’s the best tourist SIM card for Japan (2024 guide)

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: January 22, 2024

If you’re headed to Japan and want to stay connected while exploring, we’ve got you covered with the top tourist SIM cards. No need to worry about losing touch with your loved ones or missing out on those Insta-worthy moments.

We’ve spent a lot of time in Japan and traveled all over the country. The first trips we would very often come across a “Handy” phone in our hotel room – a phone we could use throughout our stay. But those days are long gone now.

Nowadays, if you want to stay connected, you better have a local SIM card if you don’t want to rely on public hotspots. And trust me, from experience, we can assure you that a local SIM card is still highly recommended.

There are several spots offering free internet, mainly in the larger cities, and handy apps to connect to WiFi hotspots for free. We share more information on this app in this article. Still, there are still plenty of places that require a data subscription for internet usage.

Whether you prefer the convenience of ordering physical SIMs online and picking them up at the airport or exploring the innovative world of eSIMs, there are numerous ways to ensure you stay connected on your journey.

Keep scrolling for the best options!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

In a hurry? Our picks for the best Japanese SIM cards

Here are our top picks :

• Mobal Data SIMs : These SIMs are great for data-hungry users. Mobal has unlimited data plans with a very reasonable fair usage policy. You don’t have to worry about data speed and can be online the whole day.
• Mobal Voice + Data SIMs : If you need a Japanese Phone number to make voice calls or to use some specific Japanese apps.
• Sakura Data SIMs : Sakura SIMs, ordered through Klook, are the price-conscious option. They are cheaper than Mobal but have a stricter fair usage policy.
• Simcardgeek Esims : If your phone supports eSIMs this is the best and easiest way to go
• Airalo eSIMs : The cost-conscious option in the eSIM department for those who don’t need huge data packages.

Want more information on eSIMs? Skip to the eSIM section in this article . For a more extensive comparison of eSIMs, we would like to refer you to this article .

Japanese SIM cards

Japan Tourist SIM cards

Will you be in Japan for more than 3 months?

Mobal also has a long-term plan that does not require any paper contracts or other red tape.

Discover great apps for traveling to Japan. 

Japan Tourist SIM cards – The top choices

In this article, we discuss no less than 30 different Japan tourist SIM cards.  All of which have slightly different options.  It’s good to have a choice but with all these different options it is hard to see the forest for the trees.

We discuss all the details of the SIM cards further down in this article but here are our top choices:

For the occasional data user

Most SIM cards offer unlimited data but all providers have implemented a fair usage policy. If you consume more than what is covered by the fair usage policy your data speed will be reduced. Sakura Mobile cannot share the exact details of the fair usage policy, therefor we recommend them for occasional use. Their prices are very competitive but they cannot be used for video streaming or as a hot spot for your laptop.

If you just want to make sure that you can fall back on your data plan if you need it but you already know that you will only have to use it occasionally, these are your best options.

Short stays

At JPY ¥4,000 for 8 days the SIM cards provided by Sakura Mobile are reliable and very cheap. 

The SIM card offers unlimited high-speed data at 4G or 3G speeds.  You will find a very detailed document to check if your mobile is compatible with the local network. Sakura Mobile uses the NTT Docomo network in Japan, generally seen as the best network in the country.

Thanks to the detailed information you can buy this SIM with peace of mind, knowing that it will work once you are there. If you’re still unsure you can pay a supplement for compatibility insurance. With this insurance, you will receive a WiFi device in case the SIM does not work in your phone.

Alternatively, if your phone is incompatible (see our FAQ below) with the NTT Docomo network you can opt for a Mobal SIM that works on both the NTT Docomo and the Softbank network.

Click here for more information and to order your Sakura Mobile SIM card from Klook: Sakura Mobile Tourist SIM

Longer stays

If you are 2 of 3 weeks in japan.

For stays of 2 or 3 weeks , you’re in most cases also best off 16 or 21-day cards of Sakura Mobile that can be found on Klook.  At JPY ¥6,000 and JPY ¥6,500 they are the cheapest options that can be found for these durations.

Both SIMs offer unlimited high-speed data at 4G or 3G speeds.  4G is offered in major cities while the 3G is applicable in more rural areas. You will find a very detailed document to check if your mobile is compatible with the local network. Sakura Mobile uses the NTT Docomo network in Japan, generally seen as the best network in the country. It has a coverage of over 99%.

Once you have read through the detailed information you can buy this SIM with peace of mind, knowing that it will work once you are there.

If you’re still unsure you can pay a supplement for compatibility insurance. With this insurance, you will receive a WiFi device in case the SIM does not work in your phone.

Alternatively, if your phone is incompatible with the NTT Docomo network you can opt for a Mobal SIM that works on both the NTT Docomo and the Softbank network.

If you are longer than 24 days in Japan

If you will be in Japan longer than 24 days the 30-day card of Simcard GEEK that costs JPY ¥4,980 is a good buy.  The card comes with 7GB of high-speed data which should be sufficient to cover your needs.  This SIM card also connects to the NTT Docomo network which is generally recognized as Japan’s best network.

Simcard GEEK has a fair usage policy of 3GB/day.

Click here for more information and to order your SIMcard Geek SIM card: SIMcard Geek 30-day Tourist SIM

For the heavy data user

If you want to be online the whole day,  enjoy streaming music, or watch YouTube videos, you’re better off with the below SIM cards.  This may also be the case for those who will be sharing your data plan with friends or family members, maybe by means of a mobile WiFi device.

These SIMs also have a fair usage policy. In this case, however, you know the details of the policy and can therefore pay attention to it so that you are not faced with surprises.

Mobal offers SIM cards for 8 or 16 days with an unlimited data plan .  The cards have a fair usage policy which limits high-speed data to 3GB per day. 3GB is quite a lot, it will allow you to browse the internet for 36 hours, stream 600 songs, or watch 6 hours of standard definition video. 

Consuming this amount of data in one day would probably mean that not much time is left to see the many stunning sights Japan has to offer.

Click here for more information and to order your Mobal SIM card: Mobal Tourist SIM

Mobal has a SIM with an unlimited data plan for 31 days.   This card has a fair usage policy which limits high-speed data to 3GB per day. 3GB is a lot, in the previous paragraph we gave a small overview of what exactly you can do before you reach this threshold. 

If you go out and discover the city you will probably never consume that much data in one day and if you stay in your hotel you can use the WiFi provided by the hotel.

Japan SIM card for tourists – The details

Mobal is a company with a mission to help international travelers in Japan stay connected.

They’ve got offices in New York and the UK, so if you need any help, you can count on them to provide support in English.

Whether you’re staying for a short while or a long time, they’ve got data and data+voice options to keep you connected.

What we like most about them is that their website has all the info you need and they’re super quick at getting back to you when you reach out. When we once had a question we heard back from them within just two hours!

Size : Multi-size SIM cards.  The SIM can be adapted to fit in any mobile phone.

Network :  NTT Docomo, Softbank (3G & 4G)

Shipping :  Shipping is always free.  Data-only SIMs are shipped worldwide, for data+voice+text SIMs the list of countries is limited .  If shipping is not available to your country you can simply collect your SIM, for free, at one of the many pick-up locations.  There are locations at the airports and in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and other major cities across Japan.

Below are the shipping times.

Japan: 1 – 3 business days USA and UK: 2 – 5 business days (expedited, next business day, shipping to these countries is available for a fee) Other countries: 8 – 15 business days

Shipping of voice+text sims requires that a copy of your ID is to be sent to Mobal at the time of your order.  All details about shipping and pick-up locations are extensively explained on the website .

Activation : No activation is required for these SIM cards. They’re ready to use. You just need to insert the SIM and set the APN.

Topping Up : Data only SIM’s have unlimited data at 4G LTE speed.  Data+voice SIM’s have 7GB of data at 4G speed per calendar month.  This can work in your favor.  If you arrive on 23 October, and stay until 7 November (as an example) you will get 14GB of data. 7GB in October and a new bundle of 7GB as soon as November starts.

If you want more data at high speed you can top-up your account in your online account.

Fair usage policy : If you use more than 3GB in one day your data speed may be reduced to 128 kbps for 24 to 48 hours.

Click here for more information and to order your Mobal SIM card: MOBAL Tourist SIM

Simcard Geek

Simcard Geek is a sister company of Mobal. Despite being powered by Mobal they have a different product range than what you can get from Mobal directly.

Network : NTT Docomo (3G & 4G)

Shipping :  Shipping is always free and is available to your home or your accommodation in Japan.  You can also choose to pick up your SIM at any of the postal offices at the airports in Japan.

SIM cards are sent out a few weeks before your pick-up date.  If you order your SIM long in advance it may not directly be shipped.

Japan: 2 – 5 business days (expedited shipping is available for a fee) USA: 2 – 5 business days   UK: 2 – 5 business days (expedited shipping is available for a fee) Australia: 3 – 7 business days   Other countries: 8 – 15 business days

Pick-up at the airport in the postal office: your SIM will be ready for pick-up after 2 to 5 business days or 2 to 3 business days with expedited shipping.  Make sure to verify that the postal office is open at your arrival time.

Activation :  The Japan SIM card is active upon receipt. To start using your SIM you simply can follow the instructions in the supplied English user guide to enter your APN settings.

Fair usage policy : Unlimited SIM cards have a fair usage policy.  If you use more than 3GB in one day your data speed may be reduced for 24 to 48 hours.

Click here for more information and to order your SIMcard Geek SIM card: Simcard Geek Tourist SIM

Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile is a reputable Japanese company that specializes in providing wireless services for visitors to Japan. They offer a range of affordable solutions to keep you connected throughout your stay.

They offer English support. Our support question was answered quickly, correctly, and in clearly understandable English.

One standout feature of Sakura Mobile is its compatibility insurance option. For an additional fee of 500 JPY, you can add this insurance to your purchase if you’re unsure whether their SIM will work with your device. This provides peace of mind and ensures that you’ll be able to stay connected without any hiccups.

In the unlikely event that you do encounter connectivity issues, Sakura Mobile offers a solution to those who took the insurance option – an upgrade to a Pocket Wi-Fi device at no extra cost. Alternatively, if you prefer, they can also provide a refund.

You have multiple options when it comes to ordering Sakura Mobile SIMs. You can either purchase them through Klook or directly on their corporate website . While the widest range of options is available on their own site, it’s worth noting that Klook offers certain exclusives not found on the corporate website.

On the other hand, when ordering directly, you can choose from more pick-up locations or have the SIM shipped to any address within Japan, including hotels.

Size : Multi-size SIM cards. Normal, Nano or Micro sim.

Network :  NTT Docomo (3G & 4G)

Shipping :  When you order through Klook the SIM can be collected at Terminal 3 (the International terminal) of Haneda International Airport or Terminal 1 and 2 of Narita International Airport. There is also a pick-up location in the arrival lobby of the Kansai airport.

If you order direct you can have the SIM delivered to hotels and Airbnb’s or collect it at the airport (Haneda, Narita, Kansai, Chubu, New Chitose) or at the office in Shinjuku.

Activation : No activation is required for these SIM cards. They’re ready to use. You just need to insert the SIM and set the APN.  You can download a document that explains how to do this.

Available direct :

Available through Klook :

Click here for more information and to order your Sakura Mobile SIM card:

Japan SIM cards with pick-up abroad (via Klook)

Here are a few extra options for those who live in Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam or India.

The below providers offer SIM cards that are either shipped to your home or that can be collected at your airport of departure.

Personally I would prefer to pick-up my SIM in Japan.  This has the advantage that somebody can assist you with setting it up and in the unlikely event that it doesn’t work, you would be able to look for an alternative or arrange a refund on the spot.

A pick-up abroad might, however, be a convenient option if you don’t want to lose time collecting your SIM upon arrival.

Buying a SIM card in Japan

Don’t worry if you’re already in Japan when you’re reading this. 

It’s also possible to buy a tourist SIM card in BIC Camera and Yodobashi Camera stores as well as at Narita and Haneda airports. 

You can even order one online and pick it up in several locations in downtown Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka as well as other cities.

At the airport

If you want to start using your SIM card immediately you can buy one at the airport.

In the arrivals hall are sales counters from various operators and they will certainly be able to assist you in English. 

The drawback is that your choice will be more limited than in the shops in the city and you will be paying more, as is always the case at airports.

BIC camera also operates one small store in Narita and 2 in Haneda airport terminal 3 (see here and here ).  The sales points from the operators will likely be able to better assist you and give you advice while the stores from BIC camera will likely be cheaper.

In the cities

Another option to buy a SIM card in Japan would be to head to one of the BIC Camera or Yodobashi Camera stores in the cities. 

They sell various prepaid SIM cards for Japan tourists.  Usually, someone will be able to assist you in English but don’t expect the store personnel to speak the same level of English as they would at the airport. 

If you know what you need they will be able to point you to the correct package or confirm that what you picked is what you think it is. But you better speak some Japanese if you want to go into lengthy discussions about what would be the best option for you.

Finding these stores is easy.  Your hotel should be able to tell you the nearest one or you can use Google Maps.

A visit to a BIC Camera or Yodobashi Camera store is something that we absolutely recommend.  It is a fun experience during which you can marvel at all the electronic gadgets that are for sale.

But maybe you prefer to compare the various options from the comfort of your hotel room.  This is possible as well. 

You can order your SIM online with Mobal and pick it up directly at one of the many pick-up locations across Japan.

They have a very informative website and offer English support in case you have any additional questions. 

Japan eSIMs

Good news if you have a modern phone that supports embedded SIMs (eSIMs). You no longer have to worry about fiddling with your phone to replace the SIM card. All you have to do is click a link or scan a QR code.

Your SIM can stay in your device and you can switch between your own cellular plan and the Japanese plan. Super convenient and super easy.

Four providers offer eSIMs :

Simcard GEEK

Airalo esims.

Airalo eSIMs are available for a duration of 7 or 30 days and come with a data package ranging between 1 GB and 10 GB.

These are data-only contracts so voice calls are not supported.

• Size: eSIM card.
• Network: Softbank
• Duration: 7 or 30 days
• Pick-up: You will find all the information in the e-mail or the app.
• Activation: You can activate the eSIM when you want to start using it. You will need a WiFi connection to activate it.
• Topping Up: You can buy a new SIM if you’ve consumed all data of your existing eSIM.

Use our exclusive   WAPITI10OFF promo code to get an additional 10% off your Airalo eSIM.

Check all Airalo eSIM options: Airalo eSIM

The activation link is sent minutes after your purchase so you can still buy this SIM after you’ve arrived in Japan.

Check out this list if you’re not sure if these eSIMs are compatible with your phone.

The eSIMs connect to Japan’s Docomo network and is native to Japan. It connects to the Docomo network directly and is fast & reliable. You don’t need to enable data roaming for it to work.

The SIMs are data only, voice & text is not supported.

These are the various options:

Click here for more information about the Simcard GEEK eSIM options: Simcard GEEK eSIMs

In addition to the regular SIMs that we discussed above , Mobal also offers a selection of eSIMs.

Their eSIMs make use of the Docomo network and are native to Japan. All the options are data only, voice & text is not supported.

The data speed is 4G LTE. If the included data amount is fully used you can continue surfing until the SIM expires but at a slower speed of 200 kbps.

Click here for more information about the Mobal eSIM options: Mobal eSIMs

Frewie offers 2 eSIMS for use in Japan. When ordering a Frewie eSIM through Klook you will get a confirmation mail with a QR code to activate your eSIM. The mail is sent within 24 hours of your purchase.

The Frewie eSIM is a data-roaming SIM that connects to the Docomo network in Japan. It’s not a native Docomo eSIM, you will need to activate data roaming for it to work. Because it uses roaming it can be somewhat slower than the above eSIM options from Simcard GEEK.

One SIM works only in Japan, the other works in Japan & South Korea. Both are data only. The data package varies with the duration of the SIM.

Check prices and more info:

Frewie Japan SIM (5 – 30 days)

Frewie Japan & S-Korea SIM (14 or 30 days)

Japan SIM card for longer stays

For a short stay, you’re best off with a prepaid SIM card but if you’re staying in Japan for several months you could consider an unlimited long-term plan.  

Japanese providers are known to have a lot of red tape.   

A contract with them usually requires a lot of paperwork and a commitment of 2 years. For some, you even need to have a residence visa and/or a Japanese bank account.

Two providers offer long-term SIM plans :

Mobal offers an alternative to the red tape. 

Their long-term plan comes with no minimum duration, no activation, and no termination fee. 

The customer service team speaks English, is super-responsive, and you can easily order the SIM card online.

This is what you will get:

Japanese Phone number : A real Japanese phone number starting with 070, 080 or 090 (Softbank).  A voicemail service is included.

Free calls : All incoming calls and texts are free. Outgoing calls to other Softbank customers (including Mobal customers) are free from 1 AM to 9 PM.

Network : Your Mobal SIM will give you access to both the NTT Docomo network as well as the Softbank network so you’re sure to have the best reception whenever possible. The sim can be used in any unlocked device that supports the 3G or 4G Band 1 (2100MHz) frequency.

Shipping :  Shipping is always free but not available to all countries.  If shipping is not available to your country you can simply collect your sim for free, at one of the many pick-up locations.  There are locations at the airports and in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and other major cities across Japan.

Shipping of voice+text sims requires that a copy of your ID is sent to Mobal at the time of your order. 

If you don’t want to share these details online you can pick up your package in Japan. All details about shipping and pick-up locations are extensively explained on the website .

Activation : To activate your SIM follow the activation instructions provided with your sim.  During business hours the activation should be processed within 2 hours.

Upgrade data plan : The data+voice SIM has 7GB of data at 4G speed per calendar month.  If you want more data at high speed you upgrade your plan in your online account.

Fair usage policy : If you use more than 7GB in one month your data speed will be reduced to 128kpbs for the remainder of the calendar month.

Click here for more information and to order your Mobal SIM card: MOBAL Long-term SIM

Sakura Mobile offers a similar long-term plan specifically aimed at overseas tourists who will spend a considerable time in Japan.

The plan has no minimum duration, it can be canceled at any time. There’s a one-time activation fee for the voice service. (only to be paid if you want to use the voice+text features) 

To order the package you will need to provide a copy of your current passport. A utility bill with your address on it is also required as proof of residence if you want the SIM to be shipped to your home.

Japanese Phone number : A Japanese phone from NTT Docomo.

Calls : All incoming calls and texts are free. With the Sakura Dail app or the special prefix number you can call at special discounted rates. ( check the rates )

Network : NTT Docomo.  There’s a dedicated page to see if your device is compatible.

Shipping :  The SIM card can be shipped to your home address if you provide a proof of residence.  This is not required.  You can also collect it at the airport or in the Sakura Mobile office.

Normally it takes 2 to 5 days for the package to arrive. You will receive a tracking code with which you can track the shipment.

Activation : No activation is required for the data plan. A one-time fee of 5,500 JPY is required to activate the voice service.

Data plan : You can choose from 2 plans.  A lite plan with 4GB data/month or a premium plan with 25GB data/month.   Both plans are unlimited which means you can continue browsing at slower speeds if you’ve consumed the included data.  It’s also possible to top-up your data plan online.

Fair usage policy : Unknown

Click here for more information and to order your Sakura Mobile Long-Term SIM card: Sakura Mobile Long-term SIM

FAQ About Tourist SIM Cards for Japan

Will your phone work in japan .

Before you buy a SIM you need to be sure that your phone is compatible with Japan’s telecom network. It needs to be able to operate on one of the bands used by the telecom operators in Japan. 

Check the technical specs of your phone to see what bands are supported and see if there’s a match with the bands that the operators are using. We’ve listed all of them in the following section.

Your phone will also need to be unlocked.

If you don’t want to do this manually you can find pages online ( like this page ) where you can select your phone and the network operator to verify if they’re compatible.

Network providers in Japan

Japan has four mobile phone companies that operate their own network.  The three major players are NTT Docomo, Softbank (formerly Vodafone), and Au by KDDI.

A fourth challenger is Rakuten Mobile. Rakuten Mobile used to be a virtual operator but started building out its own network a few years ago. Today it covers about 94% of the population.

All other operators are virtual and use one of the existing networks. The tourist SIM cards we discussed in this article all work on either the Softbank or NTT Docomo network.

The network of NTT Docomo is recognized to be the best in terms of coverage.  Softbank comes in second although they are not far behind. Both these networks cover 99% of Japan (population-based).

These are the bands used by the Japanese operators:

Rakuten Mobile

Pocket WiFi device vs Tourist SIM card

One big perk of using a pocket WiFi device is that you can stay connected without having to mess with your phone.

No need to worry about changing your settings. Just remember to turn off your data connection to avoid those annoying roaming fees. With your SIM card still in the phone, you can stay connected with friends, family, work buddies, and anyone else who has your number just like you’re back at home.

If you want people to be able to contact you anytime, a pocket WiFi device is a great option.

Another advantage of pocket WiFi devices is that they let you connect multiple users at once (usually up to 10!).

Batteries of pocket WiFi devices usually last no more than a day. This is probably the biggest disadvantage. It is one more device that you need to charge on a daily basis.

Interested in Pocket WiFi devices?

See which ones you can rent in Japan . Or if you are going to use this often, you can buy your own device , just like us.

Which size of SIM card do you need

SIM cards have become increasingly smaller over the years. First, we had the standard SIM, then the Micro SIM and nowadays almost all modern phones use a Nano-SIM

Usually, providers use multi-size (3-in-1) SIM cards that are compatible with all phones.  Others only offer 2-in-1 (Micro and Nano) which means they will still be compatible with most current models. 

The technical specs of your phone will show what SIM you need.

In some cases, you will need to specify the requested SIM size with your order.

Free WiFi in Japan

You can easily find free WiFi at many places in Japan. Coffee shops like Starbucks, metro stations in all major cities, and JR train stations offer this convenient service.

Connecting to public WiFi networks was a pain the first time we were in Japan. Not only did we, have to do it over and over again. We also couldn’t get the connection to work for half of the time.

But now there’s a great app called Japan WiFi Auto-Connect that takes care of all the hassle for you. It automatically connects your phone to selected public WiFi hotspots. Only the trusted ones managed by reliable companies or authorities are used by the app for security reasons.

The app worked perfectly for 90% of the time during our last trips. Whenever we walked into a metro station or train station the phone usually connected to the WiFi in a matter of minutes.

The Japan WiFi Auto-Connect app is available for Android and Apple and makes free WiFi much more reliable for foreigners.

Still, I suggest not depending on free WiFi entirely, just like we don’t. As you move away from the big cities, finding reliable Wi-Fi spots becomes harder.

And even in the major cities, I find it super handy to have internet access all the time so I can look up stuff whenever something pops into my head – not just when I stumble upon a hotspot.

It’s a matter of convenience, but SIM cards are so cheap that I think it’s worth it.

Having a Japanese tourist SIM card turned out to be priceless.  With Google Maps we could easily find our way around the cities, we discovered interesting places to eat and we weren’t restricted to touristic restaurants since we could use our mobile phone to translate the menus.

It really helped us to travel deeper and get a better, less touristy experience of Japan.

There’re many different tourist SIM cards so we wrote this post to help you choose the one that suits your needs.  All information is accurate at the time of writing.

We will regularly update this article but if you notice any changes we would appreciate it if you let us know so we can update our post.

Enjoy Japan!

Truly Tokyo

A Tokyo Travel Guide

How To Get A Prepaid Voice/Data SIM In Japan for Visitors

Visitors to Japan can purchase and use prepaid voice and data SIM cards in Japan. Here are all the details you need to do so.

The Takeaway

• Note: b Mobile has stopped selling their PAY G SIM. So, for now, we recommend getting a regular data-only SIM without voice. For full details, visit our How To Buy A SIM Card In Tokyo page
• b-mobile offers a prepaid voice/data SIM for visitors to Japan.
• The SIM is called the PAYG SIM.
• You can order it online and have it delivered to your hotel in Japan OR
• You can purchase it at Yodobashi Camera shops in Japan.
• After purchase, you must submit scans of your passport photo page, proof of address and your entry stamp to Japan in order to use the SIM.
• The PAYG SIM offers 3GB of data, 60 minutes of calls and is valid for one week.
• You can also purchase a Japan SIM card online to pick up on arrival at Narita, Haneda or Osaka airports.

The Details

• Until recently, it was impossible for visitors to Japan to purchase prepaid voice SIM cards. The best way for visitors to get their own phone number was to rent a phone or use their own phone and risk exorbitant roaming charges.
• This situation changed in 2014 when b-mobile introduced the PAYG SIM prepaid voice/data SIM card. It’s a bit fiddly to purchase and use, but if you’re determined, see below for full details. If not, skip to the end of this page for links to my pages on prepaid data-only SIM cards, and pocket wifi or cellphone rental in Japan.

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Where to Purchase PAYG SIM cards

There are three ways/places to purchase these PAYG SIMs:

• Directly from the b-mobile site .
• At Yodobashi Camera stores in Japan.
• At the Hyatt Regency or Kyoto Royal Hotel and Spa in Kyoto.

After Purchase

• If you order the SIM online, it will be sent to a physical address in Japan that you specify (usually your first night’s hotel). If you purchase it from a store or hotel in Japan, you just carry it out of the shop. After receiving the card, you must do the following:
• Login to the b-mobile user site and enter the SIM details of the card and upload a scan of your passport photo page. If your passport photo page does not show your legal address (and most don’t), you’ll have to upload another form of identification that shows your legal address (a driver’s license etc) in addition to your passport photo page.
• On the activation date (that you specify when you purchase the SIM), b-mobile will send you an email saying the card is ready to use. Insert the card into your phone and set the APN settings.
• Login to the b-mobile user site and upload the same scan of your passport and proof of address, along with a scan of your entry stamp to Japan. This must be done within 24 hours of arrival. If you purchase the card inside Japan, you must do this within 24 hours of the activation date.

Other Options

Needless to say, this rather troublesome process will put off many potential purchasers. In fact, you REALLY have to want your own phone number in order to do this. For most people, it is MUCH easier to do one of the following:

• Buy a prepaid data-only SIM and make calls using Skype. For details, see my How to Buy a SIM Card in Tokyo page.
• Rent a phone and/or a pocket wifi (pocket router). For details, see my How to Buy a Prepaid iPhone SIM Card in Japan page.

Tokyo Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
• Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Tokyo District Map

• Imperial Palace Area
• Tokyo Station
• Shimbashi Shiodome Hamamatsucho Shinagawa
• Akihabara Kanda
• Roppongi Akasaka
• Harajuku Aoyama
• Ebisu Daikanyama Meguro

Disclosure: trulytokyo.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

Should You Buy a SIM Card in Japan?

The ability to stay connected is one of the most common concerns for travelers, and how best to do that is a hot topic for those coming to Japan. While SIM cards, wifi routers, roaming and free wifi are available, it can be tough knowing which of those is best for your needs—and budget. Here’s how SIMs stack up against the other options.

Roaming in Japan

Let’s start with the simplest option of all—mobile roaming. If you decide to do nothing other than bring your cell phone along and allow it to roam on Japanese networks, you could find yourself racking up a rather large phone bill.

While some cellular providers in other countries, such as T-Mobile in the United States, do offer low-cost international roaming packages, many do not, and a few days of roaming can see you paying astronomical amounts for data use and phone calls. Those tabloid-esque headlines of globetrotters coming home to six-figure fees appear often enough to instill fear into the heart of travelers both cheapo and less so.

If you are considering roaming, it’s recommended that you ask your local mobile provider for all the necessary figures and fine print before your trip to Japan. You’ll generally find that buying a SIM card for use here is a much more economical option—the fees are fixed, so there won’t be any nasty surprises.

SIM card vs. wifi router

Many visitors to Japan wonder whether it will be a better idea for them to get a SIM card or a wifi router. If you’re one of them, the first thing to ask yourself is how many mobile devices you are going to be using. A big plus of a pocket wifi router is its ability to connect multiple devices (usually 10-15) to the internet at the same time. So if you’re going to be traveling in a group, or need to have a laptop, cell phone and tablet online, a wifi router is usually recommended as the easiest and most economical solution.

That said, a SIM card offers several advantages over a wifi router. For one thing, unless you’re tethering, data doesn’t have to be shared among your other devices—which is handy, because even though many wifi routers seem to offer unlimited data, in reality this is not the case, and speeds can be greatly throttled after a certain amount has been used. SIM cards don’t offer unlimited data either, but the amount provided is usually more than enough for travelers wanting to share pictures and video clips, use email and make calls over the internet. If you do run out of data on a tourist SIM, some providers allow a top-up— Sakura Mobile is one of these, and top-ups can be done online.   SIM cards also tend to be lower in price than wifi routers, and don’t require you to carry another device around with you to connect to the internet. The latter makes some people feel more at home.

What about free wifi?

A lot of people ask about free wifi in Japan, wondering if they might be able to forego getting a SIM card (or wifi router) and rely solely on the wifi available publicly. While you can find (some) free wifi in (parts of) Japan, even in major metropolitan areas like Tokyo, it’s not guaranteed.

Japan is still quite a bit behind many other developed countries when it comes to free wifi, and, while more and more publicly-accessible wifi should become available in the lead-up to the Rugby World Cup and 2020 Olympics, it’s not advisable to have free wifi as your only means of getting online. Yes, you’ll find it on some trains and in major tourist attractions, as well as some cafes and restaurants, but large chunks of your travels are likely to happen offline. Having a SIM card will keep you connected.

Other benefits of a SIM card

Using a SIM card makes getting around easier, allowing you to use Google Maps and other navigation tools that require an internet connection. It also makes finding your way around menus, shops and other aspects of daily life in Japan simpler, giving you access to the Google translate app and other tools that can visually translate signs and so on, as well as online dictionaries and travel guides. Find out more about SIM cards from Sakura Mobile .

Advantages of Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile is one of the leading names in wireless solutions in Japan, providing short-term travel and longer-term products to keep people connected. Running on the NTT DoCoMo mobile network, which is Japan’s largest 4G LTE network, always-on connectivity is a given. This, together with its full English-language support and years of experience serving the foreign market, makes Sakura Mobile a popular choice for international travelers.

If a wifi router is a better match for your needs, you can order one from Sakura Mobile too. The company offers both SIM cards and pocket wifi devices for travel in Japan.

• Internet connection
• Mobile Phones

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TokyoeSIM is quite popular among travelers

I opted for TokyoeSIM for my trip to Japan this year. The setup was straightforward, and the service was flawless throughout my 20-day journey. It felt great not having to fret over potential roaming charges.

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What is eSIM?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that serves the same purpose as a traditional physical SIM card but is integrated into a device, eliminating the need for a removable card. Instead of physically inserting or swapping out a SIM card in a device, eSIMs allow users to activate a cellular plan from a carrier directly over the internet.

This technology is especially useful for devices that may benefit from compact designs and for people who frequently travel, as it enables them to switch carriers or plans without changing a physical card.

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Is it possible to simultaneously use my physical sim card and the tokyoesim, what should i do if i delete or lose my esim qr code, can i use the esim on multiple devices or reuse it after removal, can i share data with other devices, what is the speed that i will have with the tokyoesim, when should i activate the esim card, do i have to activate data roaming on my device, what should i do if i run out of data or reach the end of my esim's validity period.

Each eSIM has a set data limit and validity duration. If your data is consumed before the validity days are over, your eSIM will become inactive, disconnecting your internet access. Likewise, when the plan's duration expires, your eSIM deactivates.

To avoid disruptions, consider topping up your eSIM if you anticipate needing more data. This way, you'll always have internet when it's crucial.

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Dual SIM refers to a phone's capability to hold and operate two separate SIM cards simultaneously, allowing users to have two different phone numbers or service providers on a single device.

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What happens to my remaining data after my plan expires?

Using A Travel SIM Card In Japan: The Best Brands And How To Use One

October 26, 2023 November 3, 2023 by Angela Ayson

Using a travel SIM card has become essential when going on a trip to Japan nowadays. 

Aside from letting you stay connected to your loved ones while you’re abroad, having an internet connection allows you to access Google Maps and translating apps—both of which are very important when traveling to a country like Japan. 

Are you wondering what is the best travel SIM card to use when you’re in Japan? Worry no more! We’ve got a rundown of the best SIM card and eSIM brands for you to try on your next trip, including how to use them and where buy them!

Best Travel SIM Cards and eSIMs In Japan

Here are our top picks for the best travel sim cards in Japan:

DOCOMO  is one of the top data providers and mobile phone operators in Japan. Access high-speed internet at all times while you’re traveling by purchasing the Docomo Japan travel eSIM! Once purchased, you will receive a voucher carrying a QR code that you’ll scan to set up your eSIM. 

Enjoy unlimited 4G data for seven (7) days of use. Note that your internet speed will be reduced to 256 kbps after you reach your daily limit for the day.

Get your Docomo travel eSIM on KKday!

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SoftBank is another prominent communications and network provider in Japan. With over 400,000 Wi-Fi hotspots all over the country, you’re guaranteed to stay connected when you avail SoftBank travel sim! SoftBank currently offers a prepaid data-only travel SIM card for tourists. For only 1,650 JPY, you get to enjoy 500 MB for 31 days, including the date of purchase. 

If you prefer eSIM, SoftBank also has an eSIM option for fuss-free setup while you’re on the go!

Get your SoftBank eSIM on KKday!

[visual-link-preview encoded=”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”]

Sakura Mobile

If you’re a heavy data user, we highly recommend getting the Sakura Mobile travel SIM card. Sakura Mobile operates under NTT Docomo—Japan’s largest network with the widest coverage area. With Sakura Mobile travel SIM card, you’re guaranteed fast LTE and unlimited data that lets you stay connected for the rest of your trip. 

Starting at 4,500 JPY, you can enjoy unlimited data for eight (8) days with the Sakura Mobile travel sim. They also offer 15 days (6,500 JPY) and 30 days (9,000 JPY) sims respectively.

Order your Sakura Mobile travel SIM card via KKday!

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Where To Buy Japan Travel SIM Cards

You can buy a Japan travel SIM card upon your arrival in Japan! There are several shop counters at airports where you can buy these SIM cards; however, do note that these shops are not open 24/7. Alternatively, you can also buy SIM cards via vending machines and electronic shops.

Many network providers also allow online pre-orders via their official website. You can choose to have your travel SIM card either shipped to you prior to your flight or pick them up at airports or hotels. 

For your convenience, though, it would be best to purchase your SIM card or eSIM in advance on KKday. 

How To Use Japan Travel SIM Cards 

Japan travel SIM cards are so easy to activate! Most physical SIM cards are just plug-and-play—all you have to do is insert them into your smartphone. Some require a short registration for you to activate the data. This all depends on the network provider whose service you are using.

Meanwhile, eSIMs are activated through a unique QR code sent to you by your choice of provider.

KKday promo code for you!

Enjoy a 5% OFF discount on select KKday Japan items using the code “BLOG5OFF” upon checkout on the KKday app!

Download the KKday app now: iOS | Android 

>>>Access high-speed internet in Japan and explore your connectivity options of travel sims and wi-fi rentals via KKday!

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• SIM Card Guides

Prepaid SIM card for Tokyo: Where to Buy in 2024?

If you want to enjoy excellent internet connectivity during your trip, a Tokyo SIM card may be the best option.

Leoneska R.

January 1, 2024

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Holafly saves you +30% compared to other roaming fees

Plans that may interest you

If you want to know how to stay connected during your experience, you have come to the right place. We will discuss the options you have to buy your Tokyo SIM card , where and how you can do it, and introduce you to an alternative that may be the most interesting solution for you.

There is something for everyone in Tokyo. This city is a combination of modernism and tradition. You can find temples and ancient gardens, but at the same time, you will be in the leading territory of technology and innovation. These are important reasons to visit this Asian city.

There are alternatives like international roaming or staying connected to pocket WiFi , but these are expensive and inconvenient options. That’s why prepaid SIM cards are often the choice of many tourists arriving in the city. Regarding what is trending among travelers, we also find the virtual SIM card or just eSIM for Tokyo.

Unlimited data eSIM for Tokyo

Buy an Unlimited data eSIM for Tokyo with 5% OFF. Code: MYESIMNOW5

Where can I buy a prepaid SIM card for Tokyo?

It is no secret that you have a lot to do once you are in Tokyo, and probably the first thing you have in mind is not to buy a prepaid SIM card. The options that tourists have to buy one are varied . Telecommunications are constantly evolving, and the market keeps expanding every day. 

Nowadays, you can find stores that sell data SIM cards for Tokyo or any other destination in the world, either locally or even online. As you can see below, getting an internet connection as a tourist will not be a problem, and you will not have to depend on a public network or any other alternative.

Mainly tourists or travelers have a couple of alternatives to buying their Tokyo prepaid SIM card, and among these options, they will find multiple providers they can use:

• Buy a Tokyo travel SIM card or virtual SIM card before your trip starts through online stores .
• Buy once you are in Tokyo through physical stores of cellular operators working in Japan with coverage in the city.

You may be interested in Best SIM card for Hong Kong

Buy before you travel.

On many occasions, this is the most popular option for the moment, thanks to the money you can save and the convenience it comes with. No one likes to use travel time to figure out how to stay online or in contact with friends and family. The virtual stores that offer prepaid SIM cards have accessibility in several languages and through different channels. So clearly, we can recommend purchasing your data SIM card for Tokyo before your trip starts through online stores. 

Generally, the purchase process is simple , so you don’t have to worry about anything else. Find one of these online stores using your web browser, choose your destination and convenience plan, and then complete your payment.

The prepaid SIM card you purchased will be shipped to your address, so keep in mind the time that delivery might take to plan. Before choosing a store, we encourage you to verify information such as the coverage and operator that will support your service in Tokyo. This may affect the speed of your internet there. Finally, if you have an eSIM-compatible phone, the best solution may be to connect with Holafly’s eSIM in Tokyo , like the one you will find in Holafly’s online store.

We want to help you make your decision, so if you are still thinking about it, we will give you the advantages of buying your Tokyo prepaid SIM card:

Pros of buying a data plan for abroad before traveling

• From start to finish   

Just as you read, you can get internet access and communication from the very first moment you get off the plane. Buying your prepaid SIM card before your trip will allow you to have this perk in case you need to order a cab, find an address, or any other situation that requires a connection.

• You can save money.

Cellular services in Japan can be a bit expensive compared to other destinations. The online stores adjust their plans to the length of stay of their customers, so you can save money by buying a Tokyo travel SIM card this way.

• You can find unlimited data plans.

In some cases, like with Holafly and their virtual SIM card for Tokyo, you can enjoy unlimited data within the package’s use period. Convenient for destinations like Tokyo, where the internet is high-speed, and you can quickly run out of data if it is limited.

• Accessibility for all

Within the city of Tokyo, many of the advertisements and stores are in their native language and with their lettering. Online stores maintain their websites and customer service in several languages so your shopping can be made more tourist-accessible.

Buy your tourist SIM card in Tokyo.

So far, we have talked about how to buy your data SIM card for Tokyo before your trip. However, another option is to do it once you arrive at your destination. You can do this through the physical stores you will find if you walk around the city.

Operators like NTT Docomo or SoftBank sell their prepaid SIM cards all over Japan and Tokyo. Not only do they do it through their stores, but in some franchises like 7-Eleven or Family Mart, you can also find it at airport counters. It is essential to mention that if you opt for these options, you will probably have to pay in local currency, and you may be asked for your passport to get the chip.

This is one of the best cellular carriers in Japan and its capital. It offers services with almost total coverage throughout the territory and also has about nine Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). Among the sub-operators, we can find Bmobile, Mobal, and Nippon SIM, all managing similar tariffs and supported on NTT Docomo’s network.

Their Tokyo prepaid SIM cards have options ranging from 8 to 90 days of use, offering unlimited data in some packages but no local calls or messages. Among the channels most used by tourists, we can find Mobal and Sakura for having customer service in English.

Mobal 

As mentioned above, it is one of NTT’s MVNOs. This company offers short-term SIM cards, which you can pay for on their website and pick up once you arrive in Tokyo. It also provides customer service in English and Japanese and options of 8, 16, 31 days of use or more in their unlimited data packages. These plan versions do not include local calls or messages. To include them, you must buy a prepaid SIM card for 30, 60, or 90 days of use for a higher cost.

It can be considered the second-largest cellular company in Japan as it is independent of NTT, does not lag behind its competition, and offers Tokyo prepaid SIM cards to its customers. You can purchase at SoftBank shops, consumer electronics stores, and the SoftBank rental counter at the airport. Their tourist data package includes 3 GB of browsing for 30 days but does not offer local calls or messages. In the purchase process, you will also be required to have a passport and be of legal age.

How much does a prepaid SIM card for internet in Tokyo cost?

It may surprise many, but although there are many local providers to buy your Tokyo SIM card from, they are expensive compared to remote solutions. You can base your choice on the amount of data you expect to use and the length of your stay in the city.

For more basic solutions, prices can range from $15 to $30 for 100 MB to 5 GB data packages. If you are a customer with higher consumption or plan to spend a long time in Tokyo, the ranges go up to $55 to $75 for use in 30 or 90 days, respectively. The latter can include unlimited data and offer calls and messages to local numbers.

Unlimited data eSIM card for Tokyo

Lately, virtual SIM cards have been gaining great fame among travelers, and as you have seen, we have been recommending this product throughout the article. And that is because these eSIMs will offer you practically the same or similar benefits as a physical SIM card. The eSIM is digital, so buying and using one is very easy. By this, we mean you will save time buying a physical SIM card in a store or waiting for the delivery. You can also learn more about what an eSIM is with us.

Holafly is an online store specializing in selling eSIMs for numerous countries, including, of course, eSIM for Tokyo . With this eSIM, you can enjoy an excellent internet connection in Tokyo, and best of all, with unlimited data! Yes, as you are reading, if you want to be able to use all the internet you wish to during your trip, this could be your ideal option. Read on to find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of this prepaid virtual SIM card.

Advantages and disadvantages of Virtual SIM cards

Advantages:

• Quick purchase and activation processes.

Purchasing and activating an eSIM is easy. You just make your purchase from an online store like Holafly and wait a few seconds for a QR code to arrive in your email. With this, you can activate your eSIM and get connected.

• Get an eSIM anywhere in the world.

Are you already in Tokyo and struggling to get data? No matter where you are, you can always buy an eSIM, and it will arrive directly on your email to use your cellphone in Tokyo with an internet connection. There is no delivery cost, and you don’t have to wait more than a few minutes.

• You can renew services with top-ups

All data plans are unlimited as long as you are within the usage days. If your stay is extended, you can purchase a top-up to extend the data plan for the same destination for more days.

• Multi-country coverage

If you’re traveling around multiple countries on your vacation, with Holafly’s multi-country virtual eSIMs, you can connect to the internet in different Asian countries with their eSIM for Asia, and there are no additional charges! In other cases if you should use specific packages like the eSIM for tourists in Indonesia .

Disadvantages:

• Limited compatibility with cellphones

The main disadvantage of eSIM cards is their limited compatibility. Being new tech, many older cell phones do not offer support, so before you buy, check your cellphone is compatible.

How much does a tourist eSIM for Tokyo cost?

Virtual cards with data for Tokyo usually vary in price depending on the days the data is valid. In addition, the price will also depend on the provider you purchase your eSIM from. Below are the reference prices of a virtual store that offers virtual SIMs for Tokyo with excellent benefits.

Virtual SIM card for travel in Tokyo

If you wish to use a Holafly Tokyo city eSIM plan with unlimited data card with data for your trip to Tokyo , here are their prices:

eSIM Card Asia

On the other hand, if you travel to different cities in various Asian countries, we recommend that you take an eSIM for Asia with you. You get Internet connection in South Korea, Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Laos. The available plans and prices are as follows:

Frequently asked questions about SIM cards for Tokyo

We have reached the end of this article, and we hope that the information provided will greatly help. However, below we will leave you with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the internet while traveling.

If you are only traveling for a few days or weeks, then you will need a prepaid SIM card. This way, you will avoid signing up for a subscription plan. But remember that you can buy both prepaid physical SIM cards and prepaid eSIMs, but if you have an eSIMs compatible phone, we recommend you to use this one, as it is easier to buy and use.

Currently, there are plenty of options for having an internet connection during your trip. Such as international roaming or renting a pocket WiFi, but these options are costly. Also, you can get free WiFi points in many places in the city, but it can be unstable and insecure.

To check if your phone is compatible with an eSIM, you must check with the company from which you’re buying the eSIM. This information will be on their website. You can use Holafly’s list of supported devices to confirm

Roaming services in Tokyo vary between cellular providers as each operator has a different rate. But on average, the value per MB is usually between $5 and $10. Watching a show on Netflix at that rate could cost hundreds. That’s why we recommend buying a SIM card or virtual SIM to avoid roaming costs.

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Where To Buy A SIM Card In Tokyo

Wondering where to buy a SIM card in Tokyo? It’s quite straightforward – you can buy a data-only SIM card just a short walk away from Tokyo Station.

Most likely, your first stop in Japan will be Tokyo so it makes sense to buy one there as soon as you arrive. A good place to do so is BIC Camera in Yurakucho (although you’ll also find branches of BIC Camera in places like Shinjuku and further afield in Osaka and Kyoto).

For more details on buying a SIM card in Japan and the offerings at BIC Camera, see How to Buy a SIM Card in Tokyo on our companion website TrulyTokyo.com

Here’s how to get to the BIC Camera in Yurakucho:

By JR Trains (JR Yamanote Loop Line): Take the JR Yamanote Loop Line and get off at Yurakucho Station. Exit via the Kokusai Forum Exit, and you will see the Yurakucho BIC Camera right in front of you. You’ll find all the SIM cards right near the Kokusai Forum Entrance to the store. Note that you can easily walk here from Tokyo Station in about five minutes.

By Tokyo Subway: If you’re coming by subway (most likely the Yurakucho Line), get off at Yurakucho Station. Exit the subway station via exit D4, which connects you directly to the BIC Camera. Once you go inside, go to the ground floor and find the Kokusai Forum Entrance, near which you will find all the SIM cards.

Easier Ways To Get A Japanese SIM Card

If you don’t want to be bothered with buying a SIM card after arriving in Japan, you can buy a SIM card online and have it delivered to your arrival airport or your first night’s lodgings.

Even more convenient is buying an eSim before you arrive in Japan which you can easily get up and running yourself. See our Japan eSim and pocket wifi guide for all the details.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Saily: An eSIM for travel 4+

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Navigate the world of connectivity with Saily — your gateway to seamless e-SIM services. Say goodbye to physical SIM cards and embrace digital convenience wherever you go. With Saily, you can get internet data with a few taps, avoid costly roaming fees, and travel the world connected. What is an eSIM? An eSIM (or a digital SIM) is embedded into your smartphone but works the same way a physical SIM card does. The difference? You can start using one the moment you realize you need internet data. No shops, queues, or frustration over opening your SIM port — just an easy, instant internet connection. Why choose Saily? Go online instantly • Download, subscribe, install, and welcome aboard! You can now connect to the network and enjoy your internet connection. • Never worry about running out of data in the middle of a hike — get an instant top-up with a few taps and experience uninterrupted connectivity. Travel the world • Get local data plans in over 100 countries and enjoy the convenience of staying connected wherever your adventures take you. • Keep your existing phone number and stay reachable. Receive calls as you usually would, regardless of your location. No strings attached • Experience the freedom of no contracts or long-term commitments. • Avoid expensive roaming fees and unexpected hidden charges. • No need to look for physical shops and overpay for your data. The perfect holiday partner • Set up your eSIM before you even step outside the airport — start your holiday stress free, knowing your connectivity is sorted • Be connected while you travel — stay in touch with your friends and family wherever you are. Seek adventure, not free Wi-Fi • Embrace the digital nomad lifestyle. Travel as much as you want and change plans without hassle. • Have access to the internet everywhere you go without the need to hunt down free Wi-Fi. Secure and reliable • Created by the security-focused team that brought you NordVPN — your digital safety is our top priority. • Enjoy safe transactions and a reliable service. Experience the future of connectivity. Download Saily now and dive into a world without borders!

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Condé Nast Traveler

The 30 Best Hotels in Tokyo

Posted: February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024

Fueled by the promise of millions of travelers for the 2020 Olympics, Tokyo’s hotel machine has continued apace despite the Games that never were. In fact, we challenge you to name another major metropolitan center in the world that’s cranking out new digs across all budgets with as much fervor as Japan’s capital. Both local and international investors are building new rooms with such zeal that several brands are spawning multiple flagship locations within the city limits. (We’re eagerly awaiting the opening of Janu Tokyo—a spin-off brand by Aman —and the completed renovation of the legendary Park Hyatt Tokyo .)

And the demand is still outpacing supply: The Land of the Rising Sun is a darling destination of our post-pandemic era of revenge travel, and Tokyo is its epicenter, made more appealing by the precipitous decline of the yen. But while food, attractions, and souvenirs feel like a devilishly good deal, hotels in Tokyo have been rejiggered to match foreigners’ wallet sizes—the average stay at a five-star property has effortlessly climbed beyond $1,000 a night. That being said, there are still great finds to be scored in the mid-range and budget categories: sleek, ultra-clean rooms pocketed across all of the city’s major hubs. These are the best hotels in Tokyo for every budget.

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Read our complete Tokyo travel guide here .

Sign up to receive the latest news, expert tips, and inspiration on all things travel

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi

Yuen Bettei Deita

TRUNK(HOTEL) Yoyogi Park

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo

Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

Hamacho Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo

Hoshinoya Tokyo

The Peninsula Tokyo

MUJI Hotel, Ginza

Takanawa Hanakohro

Toggle Hotel Suidobashi

Hotel New Otani Tokyo

Mustard Hotel Shimokitazawa

Lyuro Tokyo Kiyosumi by The Share Hotels

The Strings by InterContinental, Tokyo

Sequence Miyashita Park

Bulgari Hotel Tokyo

Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya

Conrad Tokyo

Palace Hotel Tokyo

Hotel Toranomon Hills

Hotel Groove Shinjuku, A Parkroyal Hotel

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

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5 Best SIM Cards at Narita Airport | Unlimited Data Options

Published on 2022-06-06 by Sakura Mobile

In order to enjoy your trip to Japan to the fullest, you are going to need to get a SIM card soon after you arrive at Narita Airport.

However, there are many different providers that you could choose from, all with different plans and prices.

Upon arriving at Narita Airport, the following questions might come up:

• Which SIM card should I buy?
• I don’t want to buy a cheap SIM card if it isn’t going to work properly.
• I want someone to tell me what criteria I should be looking at when choosing a SIM card.

Rest assured.

In this article, we will be recommending to you 5 of the best SIM card providers at Narita Airport.

We have included a comparison of each of the providers so that you can decide which SIM card is suitable for you.

Table of contents

3 points to think about when choosing a sim card at narita airport, compare 5 sim card providers at narita airport, top 3 sim cards at narita airport.

• If you don’t know which provider to choose…

Pickup and return

Things to be careful of when buying a prepaid sim card, for long-term stays (more than 3 months), consider getting a long-term contract, japan does not have free wifi so be sure to get a sim card.

• Reserve a SIM card in advance on the internet
• Will you have enough data?
• Is there good English support?

Below we will go into more detail about each point.

1) Reserve a SIM card in advance on the internet

If you have the option to reserve your SIM card in advance, we recommend taking it. This has the potential to save you lots of money. For example, you can save 2,000 JPY on an 8-day SIM card just by reserving it online.

You might be thinking that you want to avoid the hassle of navigating through a website and just buy directly at the airport. However, this is not recommended as airport counters have a limited amount on stock.

If you arrive at the airport and the counter that you visit is out of the product you are looking for, you will have to survive in Japan without internet connection until you can get a SIM card from a different provider.

To avoid unnecessary stress, reserve your SIM card online.

2) Will you have enough data?

If you are not sure about the amount of data that you will be using on your trip, we suggest that you go with unlimited.

Japan’s options for free WiFi spots are very limited, and it would be a large inconvenience to have no data when you need it.

Some companies will give you a set amount of data for the number of days that you are traveling. There are times when this is the cheaper option, but if you want to use your phone as much as you want outside of your hotel room, it would be wise to get unlimited data to save stress.

3) Is there good English support?

It is easy to disregard English support by assuming you pick up your SIM card from the airport, put it into your phone, and after that do not have to deal with anything else.

However, there may be times during your trip when the SIM card malfunctions or does not connect properly. In these cases, having English support to help you solve your problems can be a lifesaver.

Not only that, but it is important to make sure customer support can be reached in various ways. In the best-case scenario, you will be able to contact your provider through email, live chat, and the phone.

↑ Go back to the table of contents

Below is a comparison between some of the best SIM card providers that you can find at Narita Airport. This table should give you a better idea of each company’s prices and services.

Scroll right for more →→

About prepaid SIM cards with phone numbers

In Japan, there are little to no prepaid SIM cards sold with a phone number. In general, travelers to Japan will only be able to purchase what is called a data-only SIM card.

This is because the ID verification process surrounding getting a phone number is very strict in Japan. It is difficult to sell SIM cards with phone numbers due to these regulations.

There are a few companies that do advertise prepaid SIM cards that include a phone number, but some of them may be operating illegally. If you are looking to purchase one of these SIM cards, you should be aware of the risks.

Even with a data-only SIM card, you will have the ability to use applications like Skype or WhatsApp, so it may be wise to use these when you want to make phone calls.

👑 #1. Sakura Mobile

Key features

• Unlimited data plan starting from 4,500 JPY
• Stable, fast docomo 4G network
• 99% of populated area is covered
• Reliable, year-round English customer support
• Pickup at any international airport in Japan
• Order online, pick up as early as the next day
• Delivery to the hotels across Japan is also available for free

Sakura Mobile is the first on our list of SIM card providers. With SIM cards on the docomo network, one of the three biggest networks in Japan, you can expect to have strong connection almost anywhere in the country.

Unlike some other providers that only have pickup counters in certain airports, you can find pickup counters for Sakura Mobile in any international airport in Japan.

Sakura Mobile has a simple online reservation system that lets you pick up your SIM card, in some cases, as soon as the following day. If you get stuck during the reservation process or your stay in Japan, there is also English support available 7 days a week to help you through any problem.

Below is a video that shows the pickup process from Sakura Mobile—watching it should give you a better idea of where to go and how to get your product at Narita Airport.

🥈 #2. JAL ABC

• Purchase counters at Narita, Haneda, and Kansai
• Many data options for SIM cards
• No online reservation available

JAL ABC is a provider that operates under Japan Airlines, a large and trustworthy company. Unfortunately, they do not have an online reservation system, but all the prices are listed on their website so you know exactly what you are getting.

For those who know for sure that you will not need unlimited data, JAL ABC has multiple smaller-data options.

🥉 #3. SoftBank Global Rental

• Both prepaid and rental options
• Flat rental fee per day
• English support via email, chat, and phone

If you don’t know which provider to choose…We recommend Sakura Mobile

• Unlimited data plan
• Fast connection speed on the docomo network
• Multiple pickup counters all over Japan
• Online reservation, pick up next day at the earliest
• Year-round English support

Sakura Mobile is the provider that we would recommend for your SIM card needs. Over the years, Sakura Mobile has served thousands of visitors to Japan. With over 3,000 customer reviews and an average rating of 4.7/5, Sakura Mobile has gained a reputation among travelers for having reliable service.

Aside from airport pickup, Sakura Mobile can also deliver to your hotel in Japan, or you can pick up your product directly from the Tokyo office.

Currently, Sakura Mobile is offering a campaign on travel SIM cards that will get you free shipping. Be sure to take advantage of it while it is still available!

Below are the details of each pickup counter as well as details about returning your SIM card.

Pickup locations

The following are all the Sakura Mobile airport pickup counters and their hours of operation.

• Narita Airport Terminal 1 (7:00 am – one hour after the final international flight arrival)
• Narita Airport Terminal 2 (7:00 am – one hour after the final international flight arrival)
• Haneda Airport Terminal 3 (5:00 am – 12:00 am)
• Kansai International Airport (7:00 am – 9:00 pm)
• Chubu Centrair International Airport (9:00 am – 5:00 pm)
• New Chitose Airport (9:00 am – 5:00 pm)

You can find more information about the specific locations of each counter here .

• Sakura Mobile SIM airport pickup counters

Returning your SIM card

You may be wondering if you have to return your SIM card at the end of your stay. There should be no worries there, as you can simply dispose of your Sakura Mobile SIM card when you are done using it.

Not having to think about the return process of a SIM card can be helpful for those who are worried about the steps to returning or are simply forgetful.

Is your phone unlocked?

If your phone is locked, it will not be able to take SIM cards from other carriers. This means you will not be able to use a SIM card from Japan properly. If you are unsure whether or not your device is unlocked (also referred to as SIM-free), you will need to contact your cellphone carrier.

Additionally, you may need to directly visit the carrier in your home country to get your phone unlocked, so make sure to confirm this before you travel to Japan.

What size SIM card does your phone hold?

If you have never changed the SIM card in your phone before, it may be news to you that there are three different sizes of SIM cards. You can find them in regular, nano, and micro sizes.

When you buy a prepaid SIM card, be sure to choose the right size.

Sakura Mobile’s SIM cards all come with a free adjuster, so you can use the SIM card no matter your device.

Is your phone compatible with Japanese frequency bands?

There are certain network signals used in Japan that may not be compatible with your device. The docomo network which Sakura Mobile is on uses Band 1 and Band 19.

We are aware that network compatibility is likely a new concept to many, so feel free to reach out to our customer support team if you have any questions.

For more information and to check whether or not your device is compatible, visit this page .

• Sakura Mobile SIM card device compatibility

If you are unable to get any of the above points figured out before coming to Japan, we recommend that you purchase a portable WiFi device instead of a SIM card. This will allow you to stay connected even if your phone is not unlocked, the SIM card does not fit, or your device is not compatible.

Sakura Mobile also offers Pocket WiFi for travelers; check out the link below if you are interested.

• Sakura Mobile Pocket WiFi plans

Sakura Mobile also offers multiple different long-term plans for those residing in Japan. You can find out more about them here.

• Sakura Mobile long-term SIM card plans

If you are interested in learning about the different options that Japan has for monthly contracts, visit the article below.

• 8 Best SIM Cards in Japan | Cell Phone Plans for Long-Term Stay

However, Japan only has these spots in places like fast-food restaurants or coffee shops, and some of them do not work at all. Not to mention that you will not be able to find these kinds of places when you explore rural Japan or while you are riding a train or bus.

To avoid the stress of having to scramble for free WiFi everywhere you go, we strongly recommend that you have a plan for getting a SIM card before landing in Japan.

Especially because of the large amount of SIM card companies at Narita Airport, it can be hard to decide which provider to choose from.

Each company differs in its prices and the plans they offer, so make sure to look carefully and choose based on your own needs and priorities.

We hope that this article helped you narrow down which SIM card provider you want to use in Japan.

• Check out Sakura Mobile’s plans!

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