Blog

Pocket WiFi vs eSIM vs SIM Card: What’s the Best Internet Option for Japan?

Man on the phone laughing and enjoying his conversation via his Journey Japan eSIM connection

Photo credit by Vecteezy

Posted on

Apr 24, 2025

3 min

read

Journey Japan

You are almost finished with building your Japan itinerary, and are on your way to having the greatest trip to Japan. You have booked your accommodation, printed out your plane tickets, and now you have came to a cross roads - what to do about internet service.

One thing you do know is that you are going to need to stay connected, but what is the best way to stay connected in Japan? An eSIM, pocket wifi, or physical sim card?

This article will give you everything you need to know about eSIMs, physical sims, and pocket wifi devices like, what you should be mindful of when choosing your connection option, the pros and cons of each service, a direct comparison for multiple categories, and finally which option and service would be best for your upcoming travels.

All this information provided for you, before making your final decision. Let's take a look!

For starters:

Things to note before continuing:

Both eSIM companies (like Journey Japan eSIM) local sims, and pocket wifi device will provide you a cheaper price than any home cellphone provider plan for Japan. We highly advice to change your data network plan when traveling in order to save the most money.
If your phone is unlocked, you have access to eSIM technology, physical sim card, and pocket wifi connectivity while in Japan.
If your phone is locked, you will only be able to use pocket wifi while traveling Japan.
eSIMs are simpler and more convenient set ups than physical sims cards or pocket wifi.
eSIMs can work with most devices/model phones, however, it is best to check compatibility list or phone information before hand.

SIM card, eSIM, and Pocket WiFi: Japan’s Connectivity Options

With travel becoming more popular that ever to Japan, more connectivity options are becoming available for travelers. Most people are familiar with physical sim cards and even travel sim cards, but there are newer and more advanced options now like pocket wifi and eSIM.

Let’s review these further in-depth, and touch on a few other connection options while traveling in Japan:

Japan eSIM

Starting with Japan eSIMs, these are the most convenient and simplest options in order to connect to Japan’s local internet network.

With just an activation or QR code, your device can connect in seconds and receive the fastest internet speeds, similar to a local sim card user, while keeping you primary sim card intact.

Japan Pocket WiFi

Pocket WiFi in Japan allows for not only one device to receive internet access, but can also connect multiple devices to shared Wi-Fi connection.

These portable wifi boxes can normally be purchased upon arrival in Narita or Haneda, ( the major international airports in Japan) at a pocket wifi rental shop.

Physical SIM card

The classic SIM card, the card we all have come to know, is still available for some devices in order to receive connection in Japan.

While only being available for certain devices, due to most phones' technological advancements, physical SIM cards can still be a provide strong internet access for users in the right environment.

Other Connectivity Options

Shared Wifi: Hotel, Coffee Shops, and Internet cafes.

With the intention to draw more visitors in to their businesses, many hotels, coffee shops and Internet cafes provide the perk of a shared internet connection which can be an option for your internet access.

Whether you need to purchase an hourly rate or possibly a beverage in order to connect, this can be a good value option and is still on the table.

Free Public wifi

For the cheapest data and the most cost affordable travel, you can look to free, public wifi hotspots as your main support.

Though inconsistent, these spots can be found in various places in Japan, but mainly only around the major tourist and visitor areas such as international airports, popular train stations, some accommodating restaurants, and even in rare cases phone booths for emergencies.

SIM vs Pocket Wifi vs eSIM Japan: What you should check?

Individually, each category option provides different levels of benefit and perks for users such as internet speeds, data usage, different data plans, extensive data coverage, multiple device connections, keeping your physical sim card, tethering, and so much more.

However, what should you really be looking for when planning for your hassle-free trip?

Internet Access Speeds

Slow data speeds are the most inconvenient part of choosing the right internet option. Whether you’re navigating Google maps, uploading content, or staying connected with friends back home, you need service that responds quickly.

Always check if the provider offers 4G/LTE or 5G networks and if speeds are throttled after a certain data limit. A fast, stable connection saves you time and frustration, especially when traveling to Japan.

Network Coverage

Reliable internet coverage shouldn’t only be in select areas — it should be available almost everywhere. Let’s be real, 100% coverage is difficult, especially in rural or mountainous regions, but 99% extensive coverage is much more do able.

Look for providers that partner with major local networks, ensuring you have the best chance of staying connected regardless of location.

Seamless Connection

Getting connected shouldn’t take hours — or even minutes. It should take seconds. Whether you’re activating an eSIM or turning on your pocket wifi device, a quick and simple setup is crucial.

Ideally, you want a solution that requires minimal technical knowledge and works as soon as you .

Customer Support

No matter how seamless a service claims to be, or how minimal the steps to connect are, problems can happen. Having access to 24/7 customer support, preferably in your language, makes all the difference.

Quick, helpful responses can save your trip if you encounter issues like connection drops, SIM activation trouble, or lost devices.

Convenience

Convenience is key when you’re on the move. For the most stress free trip, you want to reduce the number of things to worry about (such as carrying a physical pocket wifi device everywhere you go).

Choose an option that integrates smoothly into your routine without extra steps or gear.

Easy Access and Setup

A good setup process should be as straightforward as possible. No complicated instructions, no visits to the store, no extra fees.

Look for options that allow pre-trip setup or instant activation, especially if you’re arriving in a foreign country and want to avoid language barriers, long queues, or logistical headaches.

Availability

As quick as the world is nowadays it’s not enough that the option exists — it should be readily available. Whether you’re ordering online before departure, or picking up at the airport, the option should be easy to obtain without unnecessary waiting times or paperwork.

Use Time

Consider how long you’ll be in Japan and need the service. Some plans may have strict time limits (daily or weekly usage), while others allow more flexible, travel friendly-term use.

Choose based on whether you’re taking a short vacation, a month-long trip, or staying for an extended period. Additionally, unlimited data may sound great, but if it is throttled after a few gigs, it might not be worth the cost.

Security

Staying connected shouldn't come at the cost of your personal data. For the safest connection, eSIMs use encrypted mobile networks, ensuring your data stays protected wherever you travel.

Physical SIM vs Esim vs Pocket WiFi: Pros & Cons

Data Plans: How much data do you need?

This will really determine on your phone usage and length of stay on your Japan trip. Travel SIMs and eSIM plans have various types of individual data plan amounts that fit well with any and all travel itinerary.

With physical SIM cards these are typically prepaid and require selecting a GB amount upfront. Once the data runs out, you’ll need to either top up or switch to a new data plan. Topping up may not always be simple due to removal of previous

eSIMs provide the same plan flexibility for data usage, but with instant delivery, setup, and no sim card removal required. Some plans even provide 30-day coverage to keep your Japan trip hassle free.

Of course, with the data package plans you are able to use all of your normal device's features for traveling like Google Maps, Google Translate, WhatsApp, etc.

Pocket WiFi devices don’t use fixed individual data plans. Instead, they offer shared connections for multiple devices.The multiple shared devices are able to connect to one portable wifi router, granting connection to all members.

However, don’t be fooled. Having all members connected in theory is a positive, but when being on a shared network, pocket wifi's service is divided amongst all parties. This leads to slower speeds, longer loading times, frequently dropped coverage, etc.

Now, pocket wifi devices will advertise “unlimited data”. However, again, don’t be fooled. While “unlimited data” is slightly true, the daily data limit is usually quite low.

Once users approach this threshold, you experience what is called “throttling” limiting your data usage, resulting in slower speeds and minimal to no connection. If this happens, you would have better luck with a free, public wi-fi connection, so be careful.

Internet Access and Coverage

Internet access in Japan is readily available, but actual extensive coverage is difficult to come by. Where pocket wifi piggy-backs off of various connections, eSIM technology allows activation to be embedded directly into your device and onto a local Japan network for the greatest access and coverage.

Additionally, these coverages will depend on your provider. NTT Docomo has known to be the best provider in Japan, so if a company is connected to this provider, it is a safe bet they have great coverage.

But why are they the best provider?

Initially, there are two different type of internet connections known as shared or dedicated bandwidth.

Connectivity options like Japan eSIMs or Physical SIM cards are able to provide dedicated bandwidth, allowing for a private data connection, or giving users access to the "fast lane of internet speeds".

On this "fast lane", no user shares the same data connection. Users have individual connections and can not have their speeds slowed or signal interrupted by other users. This is the ideal type of connection to have. No throttled speeds. No dropped coverages.

Pocket Wifi devices however can not access a dedicated bandwidth. Pocket wifi uses shared bandwidth, where everyone is sharing the data connection. This allows for internet access for additional devices to connect, but in-turn sharing internet causes slower speeds per person.

A good way to imagine this is, similar to a highway during rush hour with many vehicles. Too many users slow down speeds and cause signal interruptions while others are using the service.

Convenience and Connection

Being able to connect your phone or even extra devices to Japan's internet is important, but this should be seamless and as stress free as possible. Japan eSIMs and pocket wifi differ greatly due to the preparation and steps needed for each one. For instance:

As eSIMs are a digital asset, these are available to ordered online and and can be received immediately by email after purchase. The overall process requires minimal set up, and can be done individually. You can avoid wasting time renting and waiting in line for a portable wifi or physical sim card at a pocket wifi rental or sim card shop.

With Japan pocket wifi devices, (after waiting at one of the major Japanese airports' kiosks to rent a pocket wifi), you can connect multiple devices, but you still need to carry around a physical item. This adds an additional device to keep track of during your Japan travels.

Additionally, in using pocket wifi, battery life is also required to function properly and will usually only last about 4-6 hours on average. If you require longer duration, you will need to consider bringing a power bank; carrying another extra device during your trip.

Now for eSIMs, you do need to have your phone unlocked by your normal service provider for the most efficient use, but these make your trip to Japan so much easier and convenient.

Whether you are traveling around Japan's major cities or rural areas in Japan, your connection should be as convenient at possible.

Japan eSIM vs Pocket WiFi vs Physical SIM Card: Key Differences

Here is a comprehensive chart using Journey Japan eSIM to show the key features and points between eSIM and pocket wifi.

Feature	Japan eSIM	Japan Pocket WiFi	Physical Sim Card
Internet Speed	Fast, reliable speeds (4G LTE /5G, depends on provider)	Shared speeds (slower with multiple people / users)	Decent speeds (depends on Sim card provider)
Network Coverage	Excellent (depends on provider, usually NTT Docomo)	Okay, but depends on the Pocket Wifi rental provider	Okay, but depends on the device and Sim card provider
Device Connections	Works on single device ( possible hotspot function available)	Can share with multiple devices, but slows with more users	Only one physical sim card available per phone.
Setup & Activation	Instant via Activation or QR code (no store visits)	Slow; Requires pickup or delivery, then manual setup	Slow; Requires pickup or delivery, then manual setup. Dual Sim card unavailable. Must check phone providers removal procedures.
Portability	No extra device needed	Must carry extra device + charger or power bank	Must have a new physical sim card
Battery Life	Uses phone battery (minimal drain)	4-6 hours (needs charger for longer use)	No batteries required
Security	High (private bandwidth connection)	Moderate-Low (shared bandwidth; network risk for multiple devices)	Moderate-High (private bandwidth; data breach possible)
Availability	Buy online anytime and activate instantly	Pick up in person at airport or pocket wifi rental shop	Pick up in person at airport or sim card rental shop
Pricing	Affordable. Can start at $0.98/GB for 30-day monthly plans	Typically $5–$10 per day, extra fees for lost/damaged devices	Pricing Varies, extra fees for lost/damaged sim cards
Convenience	No physical setup, works instantly	Physical device requires rental, charging, and returning.	Physical Sim card requires rental, professional installation, and returning
Reliability	High; Consistently fast speeds, no sharing issues	Low; Slows down with multiple users, can be throttled	Moderate reliability; Data usage can be throttled

Conclusion: eSIM vs Physical Sim vs Pocket WiFi - Japan's Best Deal

When choosing between a Japan eSIM , Physical Sim card, or Japan Pocket WiFi for your trip, it all comes down to what matters most—speed, convenience, reliability, and peace-of-mind .

While pocket wifi has good value and can be useful for multiple people traveling to Japan, the hassle of carrying an extra device, high pricing, battery life concerns, and potential speed slowdowns make it less ideal for solo travelers or those who prioritize seamless connectivity.

Physical sim cards are a decent choice for solo user travel styles that do not care as much about an easy, convenient, and stress-free set up. Waiting in line at sim card shops to receive you sim card, having to remove the physical sim from your phone( no dual sim option), there are many steps needed to get only receive a moderate service.

Japan eSIMs, on the other hand, offer instant activation, top-tier security, and direct access to Japan’s fastest networks—without the extra baggage. With affordable pricing and dedicated bandwidth, you get faster, more reliable speeds than shared connections.

So, what is the best way to stay connected?

For stress-free, high-speed, and reliable connection throughout Japan, eSIMs are the clear winner.

Of course, Japan eSIM providers and local carriers may vary, but when it comes to reliable coverage, and fast data speeds, eSIM technology rein supreme. Feel confident while using a Japan eSIM.

If you are considering an eSIM for your upcoming trip to Japan, take a look at Journey Japan eSIM. Their plans are made for travelers by travelers, offering affordable data plans with the fastest internet connection using NTT Docomo private network. All plans come with a 30-day usage and 99% nationwide coverage, and making your trip as hassle-free.

Which ever option you choose, we hope this guide helps and wishing you the best on your journey!