Traveling to Japan and want to stay connected without the hassle of buying local SIM cards? eSIM is the perfect solution! As more devices become eSIM compatible, using an eSIM for your trip to Japan is easier than ever. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting set up with an eSIM before your visit to Japan.
What is an eSIM and How Does it Work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card embedded directly into a device like a smartphone. Unlike physical nano-SIM cards that you can insert into your phone, eSIMs are programmed remotely.
To connect to a cellular network with an eSIM, all you need to do is scan a QR activation code provided by your eSIM service. This code contains all the necessary info for your device to access the mobile network.
The major benefit of using eSIMs when traveling internationally is convenience – no more hunting for SIM cards when you land or fumbling with tiny cards and SIM trays! Plus, you can even change plans remotely without needing to insert new SIMs.
Make sure to check if your device supports eSIM before purchasing an international data eSIM plan.
Check If Your Device is Compatible
The first step to using eSIM in Japan is making sure your smartphone actually supports eSIM connectivity.
Many newer high-end devices are eSIM capable, including most recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer devices, Google Pixel 3 and above, as well as some devices from Motorola, Xiaomi, Sony and more.
Refer to your device’s specifications to confirm if eSIM is supported. If you’re unsure, a quick google search of “your device model eSIM” should provide the answer too.
Here are a few popular models confirmed to work with eSIMs:
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- iPhone XS, XR and above
- Samsung Galaxy S20 series and above
- Google Pixel 3 and above
- Huawei P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
If your device does not support eSIM, your best bet is to purchase a physical prepaid SIM card once you arrive in Japan. Major providers like SoftBank, AU, Docomo and Rakuten Mobile offer tourists prepaid voice and data SIMs.
Choose Your eSIM Japan Provider
Now that you’ve confirmed your device works with eSIM, it’s time to pick an eSIM provider for your trip to Japan! For a detailed guide on this process, be sure to check out our comprehensive article on How To Use eSIM In Japan.
There are a few great options available with prepaid Japan eSIM data plans perfect for travelers:
Asian eSIM – Offers eSIMs in over 190 countries globally. Their Japan eSIM data packs come with 4G/LTE speeds and coverage on NTT Docomo network. Plans range from 1GB for 5 days to unlimited monthly plans.
eSIM.net – Provides prepaid Japan eSIMs with data-only plans on SoftBank network. Packages range from 1GB for 3 days to 30GB for 30 days. Rates competitive and affordable.
ConnecteSIM – Has Japan eSIMs with prepaid data packs on AU network. Choose from 500MB to 20GB with durations from 3 to 30 days. Simple online checkout and fast email delivery.
I recommend cross-checking the available plans against yourIntended travel duration and data needs. A baseline of 2GB per week should suffice for most tourists’ basic maps, messaging and social media usage.
Purchase Your Japan eSIM
Purchasing your eSIM plan is very simple and the entire process can be done online:
- Select your preferred Japan eSIM provider and choose a suitable data package based on expected usage and trip duration.
- Proceed through checkout and payment – payments can be easily made via credit/debit card.
- Shortly after payment, you’ll receive an email from the provider with your eSIM QR activation code and installation instructions.
Some eSIM providers have apps which make managing and refilling your plan even more convenient. For example, Asian eSIM has an app that houses your QR codes and allows instant in-app renewals.
Install and Activate Your eSIM
With your Japan eSIM QR activation code in hand, it’s now time to set up the eSIM on your device.
The installation process varies slightly across iPhone, Android and other device operating systems. Simply follow the step-by-step instructions from your eSIM provider to complete activation.
Here is a quick overview:
On iPhone
- Open Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan
- Use phone camera to scan the QR code email from provider
- Follow on-screen prompts and tap “Add Cellular Plan”
- Wait for carrier profile to configure and cellular plan to activate
On Android
- Open Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager
- Select Add Mobile Plan and scan QR code
- Name your eSIM plan > Download profile
- Once successfully added, turn on mobile data
That’s it! Within a few minutes your Japan eSIM should be up and running. You can confirm it is connected properly by checking for the network carrier name displayed at the top of your screen.
Connect seamlessly with eSIM in Japan
Using an eSIM is a breeze and makes staying connected abroad so convenient. With just a few taps, you can have data coverage ready for your arrival – no stress or long queues swapping out SIM cards.
So on your next trip to Japan, consider ditching the physical SIM card and enjoy the simplicity of an eSIM! With the help of this guide, you’ll be set up and connected in no time at all using this innovative eSIM technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do eSIMs work in Japan?
Yes, eSIMs function seamlessly across Japan with extensive coverage on all major mobile networks. As long as your device is eSIM compatible, purchasing a prepaid data plan is an efficient way to stay connected during your travels.
Can I use eSIM on iPhone in Japan?
Absolutely, recent iPhone models fully support eSIM connectivity. Follow the instructions when you receive the QR activation code to get up and running quickly through Apple’s built-in cellular settings.
Do I need to activate roaming on my eSIM?
Enabling data roaming is required for eSIMs to work abroad. But when using a dedicated Japan travel eSIM, all roaming charges are already included so you won’t pay anything extra.
What’s the best Japan eSIM provider for tourists?
Top picks are Asian eSIM, eSIM.net and ConnecteSIM. Compare their coverage maps, pricing, and data packages to find one that best meets your needs. Ubigi also offers extensive global eSIM plans.
How long does eSIM activation take?
Just 5-10 minutes! It only takes a few minutes to scan the QR code to install the eSIM profile. Then you’re all set to connect once the carrier settings complete configuration in the background.