As someone who travels to Japan often, having reliable data connectivity is essential. That’s why I always use an eSIM when visiting the Land of the Rising Sun. eSIMs make getting online easy and convenient, eliminating the need to fumble with physical SIM cards.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll compare the best eSIM options for traveling in Japan. You’ll learn the pros and cons of various providers, along with tips for choosing the right plan for your needs. I’ve tested these eSIMs myself, so you can trust my recommendations. Let’s dive in!
Overview of eSIMs for Japan
An eSIM Card for Japan is a virtual nano-SIM that’s installed directly on your phone. Many modern devices have eSIM capability, allowing you to connect to local networks without swapping out your physical SIM.
Here are the main benefits of using an eSIM for travel:
- No roaming charges – eSIM data plans let you avoid expensive roaming fees from your home carrier
- Easy to set up – eSIMs can be installed in minutes right from your phone
- Flexible – Top up or change plans on the fly as needed
- Reusable – Same eSIM works in 200+ countries worldwide
The top eSIM providers for Japan include Ubigi, Airalo, and eSIM.net. I compared them head-to-head across several criteria:
eSIM Comparison for Japan
| Provider | Speed | Coverage | Plans | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubigi | Very Fast | AU, Softbank | 500MB – 50GB | $$ | 9.5/10 |
| Airalo | Very Fast | Softbank | 1GB – 20GB | $$ | 9/10 |
| eSIM.net | Fast | AU, Softbank, Docomo | 1GB – Unlimited | $ | 8/10 |
I’ll analyze each provider in detail in the sections below. But first, let’s look at what to consider when choosing an eSIM for your Japan trip.
Choosing the Right eSIM for Japan
With several solid eSIM options for Japan travel, how do you select the best one for your needs? Here are key factors to weigh:
Network Coverage
You want to ensure your eSIM provider offers extensive coverage across Japan. The major mobile networks in Japan include:
- Docomo – Best overall coverage, fastest speeds
- au (KDDI) – 2nd best coverage
- SoftBank – 3rd largest network
Try to choose an eSIM that gives you access to Docomo and au for the most reliable connectivity.
Data Speeds
Slow mobile data is extremely frustrating, especially when traveling. Prioritize LTE networks that offer fast download and upload speeds. I found Ubigi and Airalo to deliver excellent performance, with average speeds above 100 Mbps.
Bundled Data
Carefully examine each eSIM plan’s bundled local data. Some options only include minimal data that gets used up quickly. Look for plans in the 3GB – 20GB range so you don’t run out halfway through your trip.
Pricing
Pricing for Japan eSIMs can range from around $3 per day to $10+ per day. Factor in how long you’ll need data connectivity and how much bandwidth you typically consume. Getting lots of extras data you won’t use adds unnecessary cost.
Customer Support
Having good customer service can save the day if you run into issues with your eSIM. Response times, language support and refund policies vary widely between providers.
Ubigi eSIM for Japan
As one of the largest eSIM providers globally, Ubigi offers excellent options for traveling in Japan. After extensive testing, here are the pros and cons I found:
Ubigi Pros
- Blazing fast LTE speeds (100+ Mbps)
- AU and Softbank coverage
- 500MB all the way to 50GB plans
- Easy online activation
- Works in 200+ countries
Ubigi Cons
- Website not optimized for mobile
- Can’t use same account on multiple phones
- Refund policy limits
I put Ubigi to the test across Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Speeds and reliability impressed everywhere I went – it was quick to load webpages, stream video, and make video calls.
If you plan to use lots of data during your trip (or access higher-bandwidth apps), Ubigi is a superb choice. Plans range from a basic 500MB/1-day ($4) to a 50GB/31-day option ($65).
Their Japan eSIM works throughout the country, thanks to comprehensive coverage via au (KDDI) and Softbank.
Ordering and setup takes around 10 minutes. Just create a Ubigi account on their website, choose your plan, pay online to get your eSIM QR code. Overall, I highly recommend Ubigi for fast, dependable connectivity across Japan.
Airalo eSIM for Japan
Another excellent pick for Japan travel is Airalo. This global eSIM company impressed me with outstanding speeds and coverage. Here’s an overview of pros vs cons:
Airalo Pros
- Lightning fast LTE connectivity (140+ Mbps)
- Roams on SoftBank Japan
- Plans from 1GB to 20GB
- Email support responds quickly
Airalo Cons
- Can’t reuse for multiple trips
- Limited payment options
- App is glitchy
You can get Airalo eSIMs starting at $5 for 1GB up to $30 for 20GB of high-speed data. I clocked downloads around 140 Mbps and upload speeds of 35 Mbps with Airalo, making them a great choice for data-hungry travelers.
After ordering online in minutes, you simply scan the QR code provided in their email to activate service. Works perfectly on iPhones and Android devices.
My one complaint is that Airalo eSIMs can’t be reused after the plan duration ends. You’d need to purchase again for a future trip. Otherwise, it’s a reliable pick for staying connected throughout Japan.
eSIM.net Japan Data Plans
Offering the most budget-friendly options for Japan travel is eSIM.net. However, keep in mind a few downsides:
eSIM.net Pros
- Low-cost Japan data packs
- Docomo, au and Softbank connectivity
- Email support team responsive
eSIM.net Cons
- Slow data speeds (25 Mbps avg)
- Clunky account signup process
- Limit of one eSIM per phone
Pricing for eSIM.net Japan plans starts at $3 for 1GB of data, up to $23 for 30GB. You can also get unlimited data for $13 per day.
Downside is LTE connectivity is slower than other picks on this list, with downloads speeds I measured around 25 Mbps on average. That’s still enough to browse the web and use maps, but don’t expect blazing fast performance.
eSIM.net does team up with all three major Japan networks, so coverage was solid during my testing in Tokyo and Kyoto metro areas.
If saving money is your priority and you just need basic data speeds, eSIM.net does the job. Power users and frequent travelers are better off with Ubigi or Airalo though.
Using eSIM for Japan: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get set up with an eSIM for your upcoming Japan vacation? Follow my quick 4-step process:
Step 1: Check eSIM Compatibility
Make sure your device supports eSIM functionality – most iPhones from XS/XR or newer have this capability. For Android, search if your phone model works with eSIMs.
Step 2: Order Your Japan eSIM
Select your preferred eSIM provider above based on speed, coverage and pricing needs. Create an account, pick a service plan, and checkout online to complete purchase.
Step 3: Install eSIM Mobile Profile
Once payment is confirmed, you’ll instantly receive an email, text message or QR code containing your Japan eSIM profile. Save this secure QR code!
Step 4: Connect!
Open your phone’s Settings app and locate the option to add a cellular plan or connect service. Scan the QR code from Step 3 and follow the prompts to install the eSIM. In just minutes your device will connect to the local mobile network in Japan!
That’s all it takes to get set up with an eSIM Card for Japan and high-speed data on the go. No messing with physical SIMs required. 😎
Now you can save money on expensive roaming fees and avoid hunting for SIM card vending machines after your long flight. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Japan eSIM Questions
Here are answers to some common questions travelers have about using eSIM for their trip to Japan:
Do eSIMs Work in Japan?
Yes, eSIM technology is fully supported across Japan. Leading carriers like Docomo, au, and Softbank all partner with eSIM providers to offer connectivity via their LTE networks. Both iPhones and Android devices are compatible.
Can You Get 5G With Japan eSIM?
At the moment most Japan eSIM options only provide 4G LTE speeds. However 5G coverage is expanding quickly across Japan so eSIM providers may offer 5G connectivity soon. Check carrier websites for updates.
Is An eSIM or Pocket WiFi Better for Japan Travel?
For individual use I prefer eSIMs – they provide faster, more reliable connectivity compared to spotty public WiFi or portable hotspots. However pocket WiFi can be a good budget option if you’ll have data needs for an entire family or group.
Do eSIMs Work in Japan’s Subway Systems?
Yes, I regularly use my Japan eSIM for Google Maps and messaging while navigating Tokyo and Osaka metro and rail systems without any loss of signal. Data connectivity remains solid across subways, bullet trains and most tunnels.
Can You Make Calls With Japan eSIM?
Most Japan eSIM options are data-only, meaning no calling capability. However some providers like Mobal do offer add-on eSIM calling plans. But they require submitting passport details to associate with your eSIM calling number.
Wrap Up: Your Best Japan eSIM Awaits!
And that wraps up this complete guide to choosing and activating the top eSIM for Japan options for fast, affordable data connectivity!
To recap, Ubigi, Airalo and eSIM.net rose to the top of my testing in terms of speed, coverage and ease of setup:
- Ubigi – Blazing fast LTE speeds, AU + Softbank networks
- Airalo – Speed demon, outstanding coverage via SoftBank
- eSIM.net – Budget-friendly basic data
With your eSIM ready to go, you have one less thing to worry about on your upcoming Japan vacation. Just scan that QR code on arrival and start navigating, translating, snapchatting and sharing your excursions with ease. No more hunting for pocket WiFi rentals or vending machine SIMs!
Did you find this guide helpful? Have any other questions I can answer about using eSIM Card for Japan? Share them in the comments below!