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Japan is a fascinating country and a dream destination for many people. It’s also a faraway place for lots of travelers, which is why it’s important to know how to access the Internet in Japan before your trip.
Fortunately, there are several great options to help you get online while exploring this beautiful country, and I’ll share how each one works in this guide. I’m sure you’ll find an alternative that suits you and the type of trip you’re taking. While you don’t have to be connected to the Web to enjoy Japan, having Internet to travel abroad will come in handy when you need directions, translations, or any other type of information.
How to get Internet in Japan
During our travels, we use the Holafly eSIM card, which I highly recommend since roaming in Japan is very expensive. As long as you have a compatible device, Holafly is the best option because it’s convenient, easy to install, and cost-effective. If, after seeing the rest of the options in this guide, you think Holafly is the best choice for you, we have a discount you can use for even more savings.
However, if you don’t have a compatible phone, or you prefer a physical SIM card, I suggest getting a SimOptions card that will be shipped to your address so you can insert it into your device before your trip.
Keep reading to get an overview of the best ways to get Internet in Japan so you can avoid a hefty phone bill after your trip.
Roaming in Japan
While it’s possible to use roaming services to access the Internet in Japan, I don’t recommend it. Roaming is when you use your phone abroad in the same way you’d use it at home. Your phone company will connect to one of Japan’s local mobile networks, allowing you to browse the Internet and use mobile data.
Using roaming to use the Internet in Japan
However, this alternative requires that your device be compatible with Japan’s network, and if your phone doesn’t activate roaming by default, you’ll have to call customer service and request that they activate it.
Additionally, data roaming in Japan is expensive, with phone companies charging $5 to $10 or more per megabyte, resulting in a huge bill when you return home. Instead, I suggest using one of the methods below to connect to the Internet in Japan since they’re much more affordable and convenient.
How to get Internet in Japan
There are several ways to get mobile Internet in Japan, although our favorite is the Holafly eSIM, a digital SIM card with different data plans. Of course, you may prefer another option, which is why I’m sharing 6 ways to get Internet in Japan:
1. Holafly eSIM, the best way to get Internet in Japan
First, the Holafly eSIM is my top recommendation thanks to its convenience and ease of use. It’s a digital SIM card, so you’ll receive it by email. It’s ideal if your device doesn’t have a dual SIM card slot, or you’re already abroad.
1. Holafly eSIM, the best way to get Internet in Japan
To get the eSIM, just go to the Holafly website and choose your destination. Most countries have several eSIM options depending on the length of your trip, and they all have unlimited data. Once you make your selection, you’ll receive the eSIM via email and you can scan the QR code to access the Internet in Japan immediately.
Another nice thing about Holafly is that it offers 24/7 customer support via email or live chat. Just keep in mind that not all mobile devices are compatible with eSIM cards, so check yours here before making a purchase. Also, you can’t share mobile data with this digital SIM card, so your travel companions will have to get their own card if they want mobile Internet in Japan.
Below, you can see the prices for the different international eSIM cards. Remember, you can get a discount on Holafly by using our link!
DAYS | PRICE | GB |
|---|---|---|
5 days | $19 | Unlimited |
10 days | $34 | Unlimited |
15 days | $47 | Unlimited |
20 days | $54 | Unlimited |
30 days | $64 | Unlimited |
60 days | $84 | Unlimited |
90 days | $99 | Unlimited |
2. SimOptions card, another good way to get Japanese Internet
If you prefer a physical SIM card, then SimOptions is the best way to get Internet in Japan. Through this service, you can buy your SIM card online and have it delivered to your home in 1-3 business days. Then, insert it into your phone’s SIM card slot, and you can start using your data.
Of course, you must remember to order your card before your trip since it will take a few days to arrive by regular mail. You can see the different delivery options here. Also on the website, you can chat with the customer support team, or send them an email if you have any questions or issues.
2. SimOptions card, another good way to get Japanese Internet
Overall, SimOptions is a good choice if you have a device with a dual card slot. This way, you can keep your original SIM card in your phone and still insert the international SIM card for travelers. This Japanese Internet card comes in standard, micro, and nano formats, so you shouldn’t have any problem using it.
Similar to Holafly, SimOptions offers plans depending on the duration of your trip and the amount of data you need, and you can see the prices below:
DAYS | PRICE | GB |
|---|---|---|
10 days | $20 | 6 GB |
14 days | $50 | 10 GB |
15 days | $40 | 6 GB |
3. Local SIM card, another way to access the Internet in Japan
Another Internet option in Japan is using a local prepaid SIM card, which you can buy once you arrive at your destination. These cards are sold at company stores and authorized retailers, as well as at some airports, malls, and train stations.
In this way, you can buy the card without any type of data plan, then recharge it online or at the store when you need more data. Usually, the card gets activated in the store when you purchase it, although you may also be able to go on the official website or mobile app to activate it.
3. Local SIM card, another way to access the Internet in Japan
While these cards are relatively easy to use, the biggest downside is that you have to figure out if they’re compatible with your device. You should also be aware that technical support is usually only available in Japanese, which can make things difficult if you run into a problem. Finally, these local cards only offer Internet connection in Japan for a maximum of 30 days, so it’s not the best option for long-term trips.
We have a guide on the best SIM cards for Japan, but you can get a brief overview of the options and prices below:
CARD | 8 DAYS | 10 DAYS | 15 DAYS | 20 DAYS | 30 DAYS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Softbank SIM card | 500 MB/$12 |
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IIJmio SIM card | 1 GB/$15 |
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B-Mobile SIM card | 5 GB/$15 | 7 GB/$23 | |||
Rakuten Mobile SIM card | 3 GB/$8 |
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Sakura Mobile SIM card | Unlimited/$41 | Unlimited/$50 | Unlimited/$68 |
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BEST SIM CARDS FOR JAPAN |
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4. Pocket Wi-Fi, a way to enjoy portable Wi-Fi in Japan
Another common way to get Internet in Japan is by using portable Wi-Fi. A pocket Wi-Fi, or wireless router, allows you to connect to a Wi-Fi network from your phone or other mobile device. It can have a physical SIM card with mobile data or a digital one, and it connects to Wi-Fi in much the same way you do at home.
4. Pocket Wi-Fi, a way to enjoy portable Wi-Fi in Japan
We use the Solis router to work from our laptops when we’re abroad, although there are other options specifically for Japan. If you want to pursue this option, I recommend renting a Japanese pocket Wi-Fi device here, which you can pick up at the airport or have delivered to your hotel. You’ll just have to complete the online form with some basic information, as well as your flight number and the dates you need the service.
With a portable Wi-Fi router in Japan, you can stay connected and use the Internet whenever and wherever you want. Once you’re done using the rental, return it to one of the post boxes across Japan or at the airport, using the shipping envelope that came with the device.
5. Public Wi-Fi network, a free way to get Internet in Japan
Yet another option is to use the free Wi-Fi networks in public areas like shopping malls, restaurants, and the Tokyo subway. While you’ll be able to get free Internet in Japan this way, you’ll be using a public network, which comes with its own downsides.
5. Public Wi-Fi network, a free way to get Internet in Japan
For example, some public Wi-Fi networks only allow you to access the Internet for a limited time, and if you’re constantly on the move, this option is quite impractical. There are also privacy and security concerns, so it’s not the most ideal solution.
6. Roaming, an easy way to access Japan’s Internet
Finally, for a quick and simple option, you could activate data roaming in Japan. Most mobile devices activate this service automatically, but roaming tends to be pretty expensive. Some phones don’t even offer this service in Japan since the costs are very high.
6. Roaming, an easy way to access Japan’s Internet
You can check with your provider to see roaming rates and fees, and if you want to make sure roaming is deactivated on your device, go to the settings menu, and make sure data roaming is turned off.
How much does roaming Internet in Japan cost?
If you’re wondering how much it costs to get Internet in Japan through roaming, the answer depends on the phone company. Some places offer special deals or data plans, but the price can still be steep, costing $10 or more per megabyte.
Besides, these are usually daily plans, so the costs can really add up. I always recommend checking the rates and conditions beforehand and deactivating roaming on your device if you don’t want to use this service.
How to use the Internet in Japan to make calls
In Japan, foreigners are prohibited from purchasing phone cards, so if you want to make phone calls, you can buy a SIM card with mobile data.
Since tourists can’t have a Japanese phone number, I suggest using a mobile app that allows calls, such as WhatsApp, Messenger, or Skype. Of course, to use these apps, you’ll need a good Internet connection in Japan.
What is the best way to get Internet in Japan?
To sum up, if you want to get Internet in Japan, I recommend getting an Holafly eSIM card. We love using Holafly on our trips because it’s super quick and easy to buy, and you can install it instantly. For Internet access in Japan, Holafly has eSIMs for 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, and 90 days, all with unlimited data.
What is the best way to get Internet in Japan?
However, you can’t share data with other devices, so each traveler in your group must purchase an eSIM card. Even if you’re already abroad, you can still buy one since it gets delivered to your email. Plus, you can get a discount for being a Capture the Atlas reader. So, if after reading through our Holafly review, you decide to use this service, click our link to save money on your eSIM.
For those who need to use the Internet in Japan to work from a laptop, I recommend a portable Wi-Fi device. We use the Solis router, which works in Asia, but you can also rent a pocket Wi-Fi router in Japan by using this link.
I hope this guide helps you get the best Internet in Japan, but if you have any questions or comments, leave them below. I’ll be happy to answer you! Enjoy your adventure in Japan!
