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

How To Use Japan Travel SIM Card

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

picture of Japan with esim logo
via KKday

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!

 

SoftBank

SoftBank branch in Ibaraki Japan
via Wikimedia Commons

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!

 

Sakura Mobile

photo of Japan with Sakura Mobile logo
via KKday

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!

 

Where To Buy Japan Travel SIM Cards

Woman Using Phone in Osaka, Japan
via PRImageFactory (Getty Images)

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!

Japan KKday Promo Code

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!