Mobile internet in Japan: eSIM, pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card?

Updated October 30, 2026

Japan is easy to travel, but without mobile data you will struggle: train connections, Google Maps in huge stations like Shinjuku, translating signs and booking restaurants all need the internet.

The networks: docomo, au (KDDI), SoftBank, Rakuten

Japan has three established networks, docomo, au (KDDI) and SoftBank, plus the newer Rakuten Mobile. All three big ones are fast. In Opensignal’s Japan report from April 2025, au won every award for video, games and voice apps. Our Japan eSIM uses the au network, as a Japanese SIM with no detour through servers abroad.

Pocket Wi-Fi, SIM card or eSIM?

• Pocket Wi-Fi: a small router you rent. Good for groups, but you carry an extra device, have to charge it, pick it up and return it. If you split up, only one person has internet.
• SIM card: available at airports and electronics stores, but you need to swap your SIM and keep the tiny card safe.
• eSIM: no extra device, nothing to pick up or return. Scan the QR code and you are online. Your home number stays active for calls and SMS.

Unlimited data, no daily cap

Our Japan plans have unlimited data on your phone, from 3 to 31 days. Only hotspot has its own allowance of just under 1 GB per day (for example 6 GB for 7 days). So you can upload photos, take video calls and use maps all day without counting.

Install at home, the plan starts in Japan

For Japan you can install the eSIM before your trip, at home on your Wi-Fi. The plan only starts once the eSIM connects to a network in Japan. Days are counted as calendar days in Japan time. After landing, switch mobile data to the eSIM and turn on data roaming, done.

• Check first whether your phone supports eSIM: eSIM check.
• Step-by-step for iPhone and Android: installation guide.
• The QR code works only once, so do not delete the eSIM during your trip.

See the Japan eSIM plans with unlimited data.