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Mobile data in Japan โ€‹

Quick notes on getting mobile data or cell service when traveling in Japan.

Table of contents โ€‹

TL;DR - Quick recommendations โ€‹

Here is my quick recommendation for getting cell phone service while traveling in Japan:

Traveling solo or as a couple? โ€‹

  • Use the eSIM method for data-only service. Consider the eSIM with voice and data if you plan on making calls. However, you do not need reservations if you are just one or two people.

Traveling for work? โ€‹

  • Use the mobile router method for fast, reliable internet.
  • While global shops like Starbucks or McDonald's offer free Wi-Fi, many cafes and train stations do not. (Free Wi-Fi is not as common in Japan as in the United States.)
  • Another option is to use the eSIM method and find co-working spaces when you need to work.

Traveling as a group? โ€‹

  • Have one person use the eSIM with voice and data for a Japanese phone number. This person can make reservations and sign up for services.
  • Everyone else can use the eSIM method for data-only service.
  • For those on travel-friendly carriers like T-Mobile, use the carrier method.

Overview โ€‹

There are three options for getting mobile data when traveling in Japan:

  1. eSIM method - Buy an eSIM card from travel eSIM providers.
  2. Mobile router method - Rent a mobile router.
  3. Carrier method - Enable your cell service provider's international roaming services.

Who should use the eSIM method?

  • Those with an unlocked phone that is not limited by the cell service provider.
  • Those with a phone that supports eSIM (iPhone 11 and newer models).

Who should use the mobile router method?

  • Those using an older phone that does not support eSIM.
  • Those with a phone locked by the cell carrier.
  • Those needing to connect multiple devices to Wi-Fi.
  • Those needing to download and upload large files from a computer.

Who should use the carrier method?

  • Those whose cell service provider offers free or affordable international roaming services.

eSIM method โ€‹

What is an eSIM? โ€‹

  • An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that can be used on a smartphone.
  • It allows you to use mobile cellular services without a physical SIM card.
  • Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIM cards can be downloaded from the provider's app.

Which iPhone models support eSIM? โ€‹

  • All iPhones released after 2019 support eSIM (iPhone 11 and newer models).
  • Examples: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, and newer models.
  • For more information, refer to the Apple Support page.

How to use eSIM โ€‹

  1. Research and purchase an eSIM card from providers (options listed below).
  2. Install the eSIM provider's app.
  3. Purchase a data plan.
  4. Install the eSIM card.
  5. Enable the data roaming setting before flying.
  6. Mobile data is now available.
  7. Disable the data roaming setting when returning.

Video tutorials โ€‹

eSIM providers (ranked by recommendation):

  1. Nomad
    • 25% off using KEITLQPQFA referral code - help doc
  2. Airalo

eSIM with voice and data โ€‹

For those who want a Japanese cell phone number during their stay, consider the Short Term Voice+Data eSIMs from Mobal.

While it is more expensive than data-only eSIMs, it allows you to make and receive calls in Japan like a local.

It is great for making reservations and signing up for Japanese apps and services.

Mobile router method โ€‹

Also known as Pocket Wi-Fi, mobile routers are portable Wi-Fi routers that you can rent during your trip.

  • Mobile routers are useful if you have multiple devices to connect and need fast, reliable internet.
  • However, it is annoying having to charge and carry an additional device.

Tip: Carry it in your backpack with a power bank to keep it charged. Most mobile routers last only a few hours on a single charge.

Options and pricing โ€‹

Carrier method โ€‹

See if your cell service provider offers international roaming services.

  • For example, T-Mobile offers free international data roaming in Japan.

Pros

  • The simplest option - likely only requires enabling and disabling the data roaming setting from your cell service provider's app.

Cons

  • Expensive - Additional charges may be costly, so check the rates before using it.
  • Limited data - Most carriers impose a data cap for international roaming.

tags: japan, mobile, data, esim, router, carrier, wifi, wi-fi, sim, roaming, cell