Latest posts by MRPMWoodman (see all)
- Data Entry - 21.09.2025
- Free【世界逆転宣言！Music Video】/ 世界逆転宣言！ Sekai Gyakuten Sengen 2025 - 20.09.2025
- Free Images cosplay cosplayer maou-chan maou 2025 - 09.09.2025
How to get esims in japan
To get eSIMs in Japan across all 47 prefectures with 24/7 availability, focus on online providers and airport vending machines, as physical stores and counters often have limited hours. Here’s how:
- Online Purchase (24/7 Availability):
- Providers: Use services like Airalo, Sakura Mobile, Mobal, JapanWireless, Journey Japan eSIM, or KKday. These offer eSIMs with instant digital delivery via email or QR code, usable in all prefectures on reliable networks (e.g., NTT Docomo, SoftBank).
- Process: Buy on the provider’s website, select a plan (e.g., 3GB–unlimited, 7–30 days), and receive a QR code. Scan it to activate after landing. Ensure your device is unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Activation requires Wi-Fi or an internet connection, so plan ahead if arriving without access.
- Advantages: Purchase anytime, anywhere, before or during travel. Plans start at ~$4 for 1GB/7 days (Airalo) or ~$24 for unlimited data/30 days (Maya Mobile). Sakura Mobile and Journey Japan offer 5G unlimited plans with up to 3GB high-speed data daily.
- Tip: Pre-order for instant activation upon arrival or top up online if data runs out. Check coverage for rural areas (e.g., Hokkaido, Okinawa), though Docomo-based eSIMs cover 99% of prefectures.
How to get esims in japan
- Airport Vending Machines (24/7 Access):
- Locations: Major airports like Narita, Haneda, Kansai, New Chitose, and Chubu Centrair have 24/7 vending machines in arrival halls or baggage claim areas. Look for brands like J Walker SIM or NINJA WiFi.
- Process: Select an eSIM plan (typically 5GB–unlimited, 7–30 days), pay with cash or card (some are cash-only), and receive a QR code or instructions. Prices range from ¥3,000–¥10,000. Follow setup instructions on your device.
- Limitations: Limited plan variety compared to online options, and no staff support for setup issues. Ensure device compatibility (Band 1, 3, 19, 21).
- Convenience Stores and Electronics Stores (Limited Hours):
- Stores: Lawson, 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Bic Camera, and Yodobashi Camera sell eSIMs (e.g., IIJmio Japan Travel eSIM at Lawson). These are available in major cities across all prefectures but not guaranteed at every location.
- Hours: Most stores operate 7 AM–11 PM, with some urban convenience stores open 24/7. Electronics stores close earlier (e.g., 9 PM).
- Process: Purchase an eSIM package, scan the QR code, and activate. Prices vary (e.g., ¥2,480 for 3GB/30 days at Bic Camera). Passport registration may be required.
- Drawback: Not all stores stock eSIMs, and late-night access is limited outside urban areas.
- Key Considerations:
- Coverage: Choose eSIMs on NTT Docomo or SoftBank networks for near-universal coverage across all 47 prefectures, including rural areas like Tottori or Shimane.
- Data Needs: Light users need 3–5GB/week (maps, messaging); moderate users need 5–10GB/week (social media); heavy users need 10GB+ or unlimited (streaming, video calls).
- Device Check: Confirm your phone supports eSIM and Japan’s network bands (Band 1, 3, 19, 21). iPhones, recent Samsungs, and Google Pixels are typically compatible.
- Activation: Most eSIMs are data-only; for calls/texts, use apps like WhatsApp or consider Sakura Mobile’s Voice+Data eSIM (requires ID verification).
- Top-Ups: Online providers (e.g., Airalo, Mobal) allow instant top-ups. Physical stores sell top-up vouchers for some plans (e.g., IIJmio).
Recommendation: For 24/7 access across all prefectures, buy an eSIM online from Airalo or Sakura Mobile before your trip. Activate it upon arrival using airport Wi-Fi. For late-night arrivals, rely on airport vending machines. Avoid depending on physical stores for 24/7 access, as hours are inconsistent, especially in rural prefectures.
Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman
