Posted on
Oct 8, 2025
4 min
read
/
By
Clay Thomas
eSIM not working? Troubleshooting it can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with half the pieces missing, especially when you're counting on staying connected during your Japan adventure. If this has happened to you, don't worry, you're not alone.
I've been there (many more times than I care to admit). Picture this: you've just landed in Tokyo, you've taken the most beautiful shots of cherry blossoms in bloom, getting ready to share upload to Instagram, and your eSIM decides to take a vacation. The good news? Most eSIM issues have straightforward fixes that don't require a computer science degree.
Let's dive into the real solutions that actually work.
Verify Device Compatibility
Before we go down any rabbit holes, let's make sure your device can actually handle an eSIM. This might sound obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people skip this step.
Check eSIM Support and EID Number
Not every phone speaks eSIM language. Even some newer models might surprise you. Here's how to check if your device is ready for the eSIM party:
For iPhone users:
Go to Settings > General > About
Scroll down and look for "EID"
If you see a long string of numbers, you're golden
For Android users:
Open Settings > About Phone
Look for "EID" or "Embedded SIM"
Some Samsung devices won't show the EID until after activation (yeah, I know, confusing)
No EID number? Your device doesn't support eSIM. Time to stick with that physical SIM card for now.
Confirm OS Version Requirements
Outdated software is like trying to run modern apps on a flip phone. Your eSIM needs recent software to function properly.
iPhone requirements:
iOS 12.1 or later for basic eSIM functionality
iOS 13 or later for dual SIM features
Android requirements:
Android 9.0 or later (varies by manufacturer)
Samsung Galaxy devices need One UI 1.1 or later
Update your software if you're running older versions. Yes, updates can be annoying, but they fix the bugs that make your eSIM not working, troubleshooting necessary in the first place.
Check eSIM Installation Status
Sometimes the issue isn't technical—it's that the eSIM never properly installed to begin with.
Verify Profile Installation
Think of this as checking if your digital key actually made it into your phone's keychain.
On iPhone:
Settings > Cellular > Cellular Plans
Your eSIM should appear here with a label
If it says "No Service" or isn't listed, something went wrong during installation
On Android:
Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager (Samsung)
Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (Google Pixel)
Look for your eSIM profile in the list
Confirm Network Plan Activation
Your eSIM might be installed but not activated. It's like putting the keys in the car ignition, but haven't started the car.
Check your eSIM provider's app or website profile to confirm your plan is active. Most providers have an indication that confirms when the eSIM is installed or activation is complete. If you don't see this confirmation, your plan might still be pending or is not yet installed correctly..
Fix Connection Issues
Now we're getting into the most common issues of the eSIM not working, troubleshooting steps. These are the most common connection problems and their fixes.
Enable Data Roaming
This one trips up almost everyone. Your eSIM won't work in Japan without data roaming enabled. Having this enabled forces the use from the data plan, even though you're not technically "roaming" with a local eSIM plan.
Steps for both platforms:
iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Data Roaming (on) > Select your eSIM plan and enable roaming
Android: Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Data Roaming (on) > Confirm it's enabled for your eSIM profile specifically
It is important to enable data roaming for both the eSIM and your device. One give the green light for the device to allow for data roaming, and the other the green light to select the eSIM as the source for your data roaming.
Toggle Airplane Mode
The classic "turn it off and on again" but for your cellular connection. This forces your phone to reconnect to the network.
Here's the right way to do it:
Turn on Airplane Mode
Wait 30 seconds (not 5 seconds—actually wait)
Turn off Airplane Mode
Give it up to 10-`5 minutes to fully connect
Enter Access Point Network
An access point network or APN for short, is essential a configuration to the direct line to the data service. When traveling between countries and connecting to different networks, sometimes devices can get confused or stuck on a different APN. Adjusting the correct countries APN values or information set by your eSIM provider should do the trick and allow you to access data.
iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Find APN > Enter Providers APN information > Save & toggle Airplane Mode ON/OFF or restart your device.
Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Access Point Names (APN).
(Path may differ slightly depending on device brand.) > Tap Add (+) to Create a new APN > Enter Providers APN information > Save and select eSIM as active > Restart your device.
Entering the correct information should configure the data to allow data use and connection. Make sure to double check each individual field is correct.
Update Operating System
I mentioned this earlier, but it bears repeating. Carrier settings and network protocols change constantly. Your phone needs the latest updates to speak the same language as Japanese networks.
Pro tip: Always update your OS before traveling, not after you've already installed your eSIM.
Resolve Activation Problems
Activation issues are like that friend who says they'll show up to dinner but never actually arrives. Frustrating, but usually fixable.
QR Code Installation Errors
QR codes can be finicky. Poor lighting, camera issues, or unstable internet can all cause problems.
Common solutions:
Ensure strong Wi-Fi connection during scanning. You typically need connection to install.
Hold your phone steady and scan in good lighting
If the QR code looks damaged or blurry, request a new one
Try manual installation if QR scanning repeatedly fails
Manual Setup Configuration
When QR codes fail, manual setup is your backup plan. You'll need these details from your eSIM provider:
SM-DP+ Address
Activation Code
Confirmation Code (sometimes)
Enter these exactly as provided in set up. One wrong character and the whole thing fails.
Depending on device's region model or carrier, manual set up might be unavailable.
Profile Reinstallation Steps
Sometimes you need to start fresh. Here's how to completely remove and reinstall your eSIM:
Important: Only do this if your provider can generate a new QR code. Most eSIM QR codes are single-use only. It is best to confirm if your eSIM is multi-access before removing.
Delete the existing eSIM profile from your device
Restart your phone
Install the new eSIM profile using a fresh QR code
Follow the activation steps again
Address Signal Problems
Signal issues can make you feel like you're shouting into the void. Let's fix that.
Manual Network Selection
Sometimes your phone picks the wrong network tower, like choosing the slowest checkout line at the grocery store.
iPhone:
Settings > Cellular > Network Selection
Turn off Automatic
Select a different network from the list
Test the connection
Android:
Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators
Disable Automatic Selection
Choose a network manually
Check Coverage Area
Even the best eSIM plans have coverage gaps. If you're in rural areas or underground, signal problems might be location-based, not device-based.
Use network coverage maps or apps like OpenSignal to check if you're in a dead zone. Sometimes walking a block or two makes all the difference.
Reset Network Settings
This is the nuclear option for network problems. It wipes all your Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth connections, but it often fixes stubborn connectivity issues.
iPhone: Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings
Android: Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings
Common Error Fixes
Let's tackle the error messages that make you want to throw your phone out the window.
"SIM Not Supported" Solutions
This error usually means your phone is carrier-locked. Even if your phone is "unlocked," some carriers leave hidden restrictions in place depending on your cellular plan.
Solutions:
Contact your original carrier to fully evaluate and unlock your device
Check if your phone has any enterprise or MDM restrictions
Try the eSIM in a different unlocked device to test
"Unable to Activate" Repairs
This vague error can have multiple causes:
Expired Plan: Your plan is expired or the data has been exhausted. Check purchase date or purchase a new eSIM.
Network congestion: Try activation during off-peak hours
Server issues: Wait a few hours and try again
Account problems: Contact your eSIM provider to check your account status
Connection Timeout Issues
Timeouts happen when your phone can't complete the installation or activation handshake with the network.
Quick fixes:
Use a stable Wi-Fi connection during installation and activation
Disable any VPNs or proxy settings temporarily
Clear your browser cache if using web-based activation
When to Contact Support
Sometimes you need backup. Here's when to wave the white flag and get professional help.
Required Information for Assistance
Before contacting support, gather this information:
Your device model and OS version
The exact error message you're seeing
When the problem started
Steps you've already tried
Pro Tip: Everyone's devices are different. Send screenshots for quicker results. This saves everyone time and gets you faster solutions.
Escalation Steps
If first-level support can't help:
Ask to speak with technical specialists
Request escalation to network engineering
Get a ticket number for follow-up
Document all troubleshooting steps attempted
Conclusion
When your eSIM not working, troubleshooting it doesn't have to ruin your Japan experience. Most issues stem from simple oversights—data roaming settings, outdated software, or installation hiccups. The key is working through these solutions systematically rather than panicing and randomly trying to tackle everything at once.
Remember, technology hiccups happen to everyone. Even the most tech-savvy travelers occasionally find themselves troubleshooting connectivity issues. The difference is knowing which buttons to push and when to push them.
If you're planning a trip to Japan and want to avoid these headaches altogether, consider getting your eSIM from a provider that specializes in Japan coverage. Journey Japan eSIM offers reliable connectivity across all 47 prefectures with 24/7 support to help you stay connected when it matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why does my eSIM work in some areas of Japan but not others?
Coverage varies by network provider and location. Rural areas, underground locations, and some buildings may have weaker signals. Your eSIM provider's network partnership determines which towers you can access across Japan. For the best available connection, ask for the eSIM provider's APN information.
2. Can I use my eSIM immediately after landing in Japan?
If connected correct, most eSIMs activate automatically when you arrive in Japan. Some require manual activation. Install your eSIM before traveling and enable it once you land. It may take 5-15 minutes to fully connect to local networks.
3. What should I do if my eSIM stops working mid-trip?
First, toggle airplane mode on and off. If that doesn't work, restart your device and check your data usage. You might have exceeded your plan limits. Contact your eSIM provider's support team if the issue persists.
4. Is it normal for eSIM activation to take a long time?
Initial installation and activation typically takes about 5-10 minutes. It can take up to an hour during peak times. If activation takes longer than 2 hours, there's likely an issue that needs troubleshooting or support intervention.
5. Why can't I delete my eSIM profile from my device?
Some eSIM profiles have restrictions that prevent deletion. This is especially true if they're still active. Try deactivating the plan through your provider's app first, then attempt deletion. Contact support if the profile remains stuck on your device.
3 min
read
/
Posted on
October 8, 2025
Journey Japan eSIM partners with Sando Lab: Amazing Data Meets Better Eats!
5 min
read
/
Posted on
October 6, 2025
eSIM Compatible Phones in Tokyo: Complete Travel Guide
5 min
read
/
Posted on
October 3, 2025
Best Japan eSIM Plans for Digital Nomads
5 min
read
/
Posted on
September 30, 2025
Best Japan eSIM for Students: Data for Japan Travel or Studying Abroad
