Posted on
Nov 10, 2025
5 min
read
/
By
Clay Thomas
Japan eSIM for Android is the connectivity solution you need when landing in Tokyo, Osaka, or anywhere across Japan's 47 prefectures. Too many travelers waste their few first hours in Japan trying to figure out how to connect to reliable internet, constantly fumbling with lousy airport WiFi or standing in long airport kiosk lines.
Well, there is a better way, and let me walk you through exactly how to get connected before your plane even lands. With this How-to guide, you will skip the hassle and start your trip right.
Understanding eSIM Technology for Japan Travel
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built directly into your Android phone. No physical card or tiny trays needed. Not even a "where did I put that SIM ejector tool" moment to be found.
Now, here's why this matters for your Japan trip:
Buy the plan online
Get an activation code in your email
Install it on your phone
Connect the second you touch down in Japan
No airport kiosks. No waiting. No confusion.
Journey Japan eSIM makes this even better. You get access to 99% coverage across the entire country on Japan's fast, local networks like NTT Docomo, Japan's largest and most reliable carrier. Experience lightning-fast speeds, and 24/7 support in English and Japanese in case there is ever a question or help needed.
Android Device Compatibility Requirements
Not every Android phone works with eSIM technology. Let me break down what you need to know.
Supported Android Phone Models
Most flagship Android phones from 2020 onward support eSIM. Here's what works (list is subject to change):
Samsung Galaxy compatible models:
S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 series
Z Fold and Z Flip foldable models
Most Galaxy phones from the past few years
Google Pixel compatible models:
Pixel 3 and all newer versions
Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 series
Works perfectly with Japan eSIM for Android plans
Other compatible brands:
Xiaomi 12T Pro and 13/14 series
Oppo Find X3 Pro and X5 models
Motorola Razr foldables
Select Sony Xperia models
The key thing? Most mid-range and flagship Android phones released after 2019 have this technology.
How to Check Android eSIM Compatibility
Verify your phone supports eSIM before buying any plan. This only takes 30 seconds.
Settings check method:
Open your Android settings
Look for "Connections," "Network & Internet," or "SIM Card Manager"
Check for "Add eSIM" or "Add Mobile Plan" option
If you see it, you're in business.
Dial code method:
You can easily check by using the Dial method.
Open your phone dialer
Type *#06#
Look for "EID" in the identification numbers
If an EID appears, your phone has eSIM capability.
Carrier unlock requirement:
Your phone must be carrier-unlocked to use any eSIM in Japan. This is critical!
If you are still paying off your phone through a carrier, your device is most likely locked? Not to worry. Call them and ask about their unlock policy. Most US carriers unlock phones after 60 days of service.
Additionally, to be on the safe side, calling your carrier to be sure their are no hidden restrictions set on your device before traveling ensures no data inconveniences.
Installing Japan eSIM on Android Devices
Installing your Japan eSIM for Android depends on your phone brand. Journey Japan eSIM uses activation codes instead of traditional QR codes. This makes the process simpler.
Samsung Galaxy Installation Steps
Samsung makes this straightforward:
Open Settings
Tap Connections
Select SIM Card Manager
Choose Add Mobile Plan
Scan your QR Code or enter your activation code directly
You'll receive the QR Code or activation code via email. Just scan, or copy and paste it into your phone. The eSIM profile downloads automatically.
Takes about 2 minutes from start to finish.
Google Pixel Installation Steps
Pixel phones have the cleanest eSIM setup process:
Go to Settings
Select Network & Internet
Tap SIMs
Choose Add More
Select Download a SIM Instead
Scan your QR Code or enter your activation code when prompted. The profile installs in under a minute.
Give your new eSIM a name like "Japan Data" for easy identification.
Other Android Brand Installation
Most Android manufacturers follow a similar pattern:
Xiaomi/Redmi: Settings > SIM Cards & Mobile Networks > Add eSIM
Oppo: Settings > Mobile Network > SIM Card & Mobile Data > Add eSIM
Motorola: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Carrier
The exact wording varies by manufacturer. You're always looking for an option to add an eSIM or mobile plan. Enter your QR or activation code when you find it.
Activating Your eSIM in Japan
Timing your activation correctly saves headaches and wasted data. Follow these steps carefully.
Pre-Departure Installation Process
Install your eSIM 24-48 hours before your flight. You need stable WiFi for the download. Doing this at home means you're not troubleshooting in an airport.
Critical step after installation:
Go into your eSIM settings and toggle Data Roaming OFF. This prevents the plan from activating while you're still in your home country. You don't want your 30-day timer starting before you board the plane.
Samsung users: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Select Japan eSIM > Toggle Data Roaming OFF
Pixel users: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Select Japan eSIM > Toggle Roaming OFF
Activation When You Arrive in Japan
Your plane lands in Japan. You're through customs. Now activate your connection.
Follow these steps:
Turn off airplane mode
Open your SIM settings
Select your Japan eSIM
Toggle Data Roaming ON
Set the Japan eSIM as your Default for Mobile Data
Your phone searches for the network. Within 30-60 seconds, you'll connect the local connection like NTT Docomo and full bars should appear. Just like that, you're connected across Japan with full speed internet.
Managing Android eSIM Settings
Android's dual SIM functionality is powerful once you understand it. Here's how to optimize your setup.
Dual SIM Configuration Options
Keep your home SIM active for calls and texts. Use your Japan eSIM exclusively for data.
This setup lets people back home reach you on your regular number. Meanwhile, you browse, navigate, and post in Japan.
Configure your SIM settings:
Calls: Home SIM (receive calls from family/friends)
SMS: Home SIM (text messages and two-factor authentication)
Mobile Data: Japan eSIM (all internet usage)
This configuration means you won't get hit with international roaming charges. Your home carrier sees your phone on its network. But you're not using its data services.
Data Usage and Monitoring
Android has built-in tools to track your data consumption.
Navigation path: Settings > Network & Internet > Internet > Select your Japan eSIM > App Data Usage
Here you can see which apps consume the most data. Set warnings if you're on a fixed data plan.
Hotspot functionality:
Journey Japan eSIM supports tethering. Share your connection with laptops, tablets, or your travel partner's phone. You can find more on the exact information needed to connect within the FAQ section.
Enable it here: Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering
Hotspot usage counts toward your data allowance on fixed plans.
Troubleshooting Android eSIM Problems
Let's face it, problems can happen. Here's how to fix them fast.
Common Installation Issues
Activation code not working:
Make sure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi connection when installing. Installing is impossible without a connection to begin with.
Additionally, double-check you've copied the entire code with no extra spaces. Most Android phones let you paste the code directly. Make sure to remove any hidden spaces, and try not to type it manually to avoid misspellings.
eSIM not appearing:
Restart your phone after installation. Sometimes Android needs a reboot to fully register the new profile.
Email not received:
Check your spam folder. The activation code arrives within minutes of purchase. If it's not there after 10 minutes, contact Journey Japan eSIM's 24/7 support.
Network Connectivity Solutions
No signal after arriving in Japan:
Verify data roaming is enabled for your Japan eSIM specifically. Many Android phones have separate roaming toggles for each SIM.
Adjust the APN or the "Access Network Point", to ensure your device is connecting to the direct network line associated with your eSIM profile. This can be found within the FAQ section.
Slow speeds:
Navigate to: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Preferred Network Type
Make sure it's set to "5G/LTE/3G/2G (Auto)". Check it's not stuck on 3G only.
Wrong network connection:
Your phone should automatically connect to the local provider. If it doesn't, go to Network Operators. Tap "Search Networks." Manually select it when it appears.
Most issues resolve within 5 minutes using these steps. Still stuck? Journey Japan eSIM offers 24/7 customer support through their website chat.
Why Choose Journey Japan eSIM
Japan eSIM for Android transforms how you experience Japan. No more airport confusion. No pocket WiFi devices to carry and return. No relying on spotty public WiFi.
You install it before you leave home. You activate it when you land. You stay connected everywhere. From the most southern Okinawa beaches to the northern Hokkaido mountains. All on Japan's most reliable network.
Journey Japan eSIM delivers exactly what travelers need:
Reliable nationwide coverage on NTT Docomo network infrastructure
Fast speeds with no throttling
Straightforward setup using QR activation codes
No app or downloads required
Real human support in English and Japanese
24/7 availability when you need help
The best part? Not only do you get great service and data, enjoy access to exclusive deals and offerings like Big Echo Karaoke and Lost Bar discounts with your Japan data. So, pick your plan. Receive your activation code via email. You're set. Your trip starts connected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use the eSIM on multiple Android devices?
No, each eSIM can only be installed on one device at a time. Once you enter the activation code and install the profile, it's locked to that phone.
Need connectivity for multiple devices? Either purchase separate eSIM plans or use your phone's hotspot feature. Journey Japan eSIM fully supports hotspot functionality.
2. What if I delete my eSIM profile?
Be careful here. Most eSIM profiles can only be installed once.
If you delete your Japan eSIM from your phone, you typically cannot reinstall it. There is not harm it trying again, but normally the same activation code won't work again. If this happens contact Journey Japan eSIM support for further assistance.
Their 24/7 chat can help. They may be able to issue a new activation code. It depends on your plan terms.
Best practice: Don't delete your eSIM until after your trip is completely finished.
3. Does it support hotspot on Android?
Yes, Journey Japan eSIM fully supports mobile hotspot and tethering on Android devices.
Follow the steps within their FAQ for Hotspot and Tethering setup.
For your device, enable it here: Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering
You can share your connection with laptops, tablets, or other travelers' phones. Your hotspot usage counts toward your data allowance. This applies if you're on a fixed data plan (10GB, 20GB, or 50GB options).
4. Can I keep my home SIM active?
Absolutely. This is one of the biggest advantages of eSIM technology on Android.
Keep your physical home SIM in your phone. You'll receive calls and texts on your regular number. Set your Japan eSIM as the default for mobile data only.
This dual SIM setup means you stay reachable on your home number. You avoid expensive international roaming charges for data usage.
5. How quickly will I receive my activation code?
Journey Japan eSIM delivers your activation code to your email within minutes of purchase.
Check your inbox and spam folder. The email contains everything you need:
The activation code for installation
Manual entry instructions
Step-by-step setup guidance
You can purchase and install your eSIM days or even weeks before your trip to Japan. Just remember to keep data roaming off until you actually arrive to avoid using your data allowance.
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