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How to Get Phone Service in Japan: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Group of traveling friends, connecting to Japan's local network using Journey Japan eSIM

Photo Credit to Vecteezy

Posted on

Apr 1, 2025

3 min

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Journey Japan

How to Get Phone Service in Japan: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Introduction

If you're heading to Japan, having reliable phone service is essential for navigating cities, accessing maps, translating menus, and staying connected. But Japan’s mobile landscape can be confusing, especially with different network standards, roaming fees, and options like eSIMs, SIM cards, and pocket Wi-Fi.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to stay connected in Japan, comparing service costs, convenience, and setup processes—so you can choose the best internet and data option for your trip.

Understanding Japan's Mobile Network

Japan has one of the most advanced mobile networks, offering extensive 4G LTE and growing 5G coverage. However, not all foreign and international phones work seamlessly. Here’s what you need to know before you arrive:

No 2G networks – Older 2G-reliant mobile phones won’t work on Japan's network. (You typically do not need to worry about this)
Check compatibility – Your cell phone must support Japan’s 4G LTE bands (Band 1, 3, 8, 18, 19, 21, and 28). You can check more about this in your specific mobile phone's settings.
Your phone must be unlocked – If it’s locked to a carrier, you won’t be able to use a local Japan SIM or Japan eSIM of any kind. This information can be found in your specific mobile phone's settings, as well.

Major Cell Phone Providers in Japan

Japan like most countries have many carriers, but the three major mobile network providers offering widespread coverage and strong internet connectivity are as follows:

NTT Docomo

– Known for the fastest internet speeds, and best coverage in country, particularly in rural areas.

SoftBank

– Good urban coverage with competitive data plans.

au by KDDI

– Fair balanced mix of coverage and pricing, though can be spotty at times.

Many prepaid SIM card and eSIM providers use these networks, ensuring strong connectivity across the country.

Japan's Own Mobile Phone Service Options

Let’s compare the main Japanese network options for getting data and internet phone service in Japan, including their pros and cons.

1. International Roaming

Your home carrier may offer international roaming in Japan, allowing you to use your existing SIM card and number. However, it’s often the most expensive option, with daily fees or per-megabyte charges.

Pros:

Easy to set up before departure
Keeps your existing number and sim card, allowing for overseas, and international phone calls.

Cons:

International roaming is massively expensive compared to local options
Data speeds may be throttled or slowed.
Additional and hidden fees may appear when traveling international.

Best for: Business travelers who need to keep their number and don’t mind high international costs.

2. Japan eSIM (Recommended)

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a Japanese mobile plan instantly with no physical SIM card required. eSIMs typically work with most modern smartphones, making them affordable, easy to set up, and provide excellent coverage.

Pros:

No need to swap physical SIM card
Instant activation online
Affordable, with some plans starting as low as $0.98/GB
Works on Japan’s fastest 4G and 5G networks
No store visits or device rental required

Cons:

Your mobile phone must support eSIM and be unlocked

Best for: Tourists who want an easy, affordable, and reliable way to stay connected in Japan.

💡 Journey Japan eSIM offers an affordable, high-speed eSIM solution with instant activation and full coverage across Japan.

3. Pocket Wi-Fi

Pocket Wi-Fi is a small portable internet hotspot that lets you connect multiple devices. It’s a popular choice for group travelers to keep their SIM cards, but connect their smartphones or other devices. You can typical rent these devices at the airport.

WARNING! Many of these companies will promoted "unlimited data plans" for their service, but this is not entirely clear. The unlimited data is "throttled", or slowed down after a certain amount of phone usage, or even at specific time periods during the day.

Pros:

Supports multiple cell phones and devices
Slow but reliable Wi-Fi connection in urban areas

Cons:

Must carry and charge an extra device
Can be expensive compared to eSIM
Limited battery life
Shared internet connectivity
Shady service information (unlimited data service)
Must return device to the airport rental service before leaving the country.

Best for: Group travelers needing shared data but doesn't mind a slow wi-fi connection.

4. Local SIM Cards

A physical SIM card or prepaid sim card service provides mobile data and allows for local calls. You can typical rent, or buy a prepaid sim card at the airport; pick up and activation can be time consuming and inconvenient.

Pros:

No extra device needed (unlike Pocket Wi-Fi)
Decent data plans for longer stays depending on the time period

Cons:

Requires purchasing in Japan (not always available at airports)
Your smartphone or cell phone must be unlocked
Often data-only with limited voice call/SMS functions

Best for: Long-term travelers in Japan who prefer to use and purchase a local Japan sim card.

5. Free Wi-Fi in Japan

Japan does a wonderful job in offering free Wi-Fi hotspots, especially in cities and tourist areas. However, relying solely on the free Wi-Fi option may not be practical for your trip.

Where to Find Free Wi-Fi service:

Airports, train stations, and some public transportation
Cafés like Starbucks and convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson)
Shopping malls and department stores
Tourist information centers

Pros:

Free to use Wi-Fi connection
Available in major cities and various public spaces (train stations, convenience stores, etc.)

Cons:

Not always reliable or fast internet/data speeds
Coverage gaps in rural areas
Security risks when using public networks

Best for: Travelers on an extremely tight budget who can not afford any other wi-fi option, or only needs minimal internet access.

Cost and Convenience Comparison

Option	Cost	Setup Process	Convenience Level
Int. Roaming	$$$$	Automatic, but costly	Moderate/High
eSIM	$	Quick online setup and purchase	Very High
Pocket Wi-Fi	$$$	Must rent and return before leaving	Moderate
Local SIM	$$	Requires in-person purchase	Low

Which Option is Best for You to Stay Connected while Visiting Japan?

For overall travelers: eSIM is the best mix of affordability and convenience for mobile phones.
For large groups/families: eSIM or Pocket Wi-Fi can be useful for sharing data to multiple devices.
For long extended stays: A local or prepaid SIM card may be worth considering.
For those keeping their number: Roaming works but is the most expensive mobile phone plan.

Final Thoughts

Japan’s mobile networks offer excellent coverage, but choosing the right mobile phone service depends on your travel needs. For most visitors and overall, an eSIM is the best choice, offering affordability, ease of use, and instant activation to Japan's wireless network. Just check that your mobile phone supports eSIM before your trip.

Need a reliable Japan eSIM for your mobile phone? Journey Japan eSIM offers seamless connectivity with fast speeds and affordable plans. Check out their simple, travel friendly plans here, all with 30-day coverage and private connection to the best service provider, NTT Docomo.

Safe travels and happy journeys!