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Best eSIMs for Japan in 2025 –

Best eSIMs for Japan Travel in 2025 – Honest Comparison & Top Picks

 

Planning a trip to Japan and wondering which eSIM is truly the best? With the rising popularity of eSIMs among travelers, many find themselves asking: Which eSIM actually works well in Japan? What’s the real experience like?

In this guide, we compare top eSIM providers based on actual user feedback, satisfaction scores, and real-world performance.

Whether you're visiting for a short vacation or a longer stay, this article will help you choose the best eSIM for your Japan trip—with confidence.

 

Service Data Plan Usage
period
Lowest
Price
Network App
Available
Hotspot Support
Channels
Support Hours Key Features Cancellation Policy Validity
JapanConnect eSIM

Unlimited/
1GB-50GB/
DayPass
1day-
30days
 1GB/3days
6$
NTT DOCOMO(IIJ)/
KDDI・
SOFTBANK
Email 9:00–18:00/JST One of the most affordable
mid-data plans in the industry.
60 days
Holafly
Holafly
Unlimited 1day-
90days
 Unlimited/1day
1.99$
KDDI Chat 24/7 Specialized in unlimited data
eSIM services.
No expiration※1
Airalo
Airalo
1GB-
20GB
1day-
30days
1GB/7days
4.50$
KDDI・
SOFTBANK
Email / Chat 24/7 Manage installations, data usage,
and recharges easily via app.
Depends on plan
Ubigi

Unlimited/
500MB-
50GB
1day-
30days
1GB/30days
4$ 
KDDI・
DOCOMO
Email 10:00–17:00/JST NTT Docomo's 5G high-speed line
is available
90 days
Saily

Unlimited/
1GB-
20GB
1day-
30days
1GB/7days
3.99$
KDDI Email / Chat 24/7 NordVPN offers virtual locations to
get around geoblocks 
30 days
Nomad

1GB-50GB 1day-
30days
1GB/7days
6$
KDDI・
SOFTBANK 
✓  ✓  Email / Chat  24/7  Easy data management with the app.
Unlimited data also available.
No expiration※1
World eSIM

Unlimited/
500MB-20GB/
DayPass
1day-
30days
3GB/7days
6.90$
SOFTBANK  Email 9:00–18:00/JST It is provided by a Japanese listed
company, so it is trustworthy
30 days

※1.While an eSIM technically does not expire, inactivity or carrier policy can cause your eSIM to become deactivated.

 

In this article, we first explain eSIM overview, pros and cons, and Japan's telecommunications situation for those new to Japan eSIM.

If you want to see our recommended Japan eSIM ranking comparison rather than learning how to choose eSIM, you can scroll to the relevant section below!

 

Best Japan eSIM Rankings Here

 

About the Author
Koki Abe - Author of Japan eSIM Guide

Koki Abe

Founder, Japan eSIM Portal

  • Runs a trusted eSIM store for international travelers to Japan
  • 8+ years of experience in telecom sales, including smartphones and fiber internet
  • A backpacker who has traveled across 16 countries
  • Shares real-world insights from using eSIMs while traveling abroad
  •  

 

Contents

eSIM Basics | How It Differs from SIM  and Pocket WiFi

Comparison of Mobile Services

When traveling abroad, choosing between eSIMs, mobile carrier roaming, or renting a Pocket WiFi can be confusing. Each option has its own pros and cons, but eSIMs stand out for their speed and simplicity when it comes to getting connected. In this section, we’ll explain how eSIMs differ from traditional SIM cards and cover the key advantages and disadvantages of using an eSIM.

What is an eSIM?

 

From Purchase to Activation | eSIMs Are Ready to Use in Minutes

esim sim difference

esim sim difference

With an eSIM, you can purchase online and activate it in just 5–10 minutes by scanning a QR code on your smartphone.

If you set it up before your trip, you’ll be able to start using mobile data as soon as you arrive in Japan. Simply enable the eSIM in your phone’s settings and turn on data roaming if needed.

On the other hand, physical SIM cards require shipping time when ordered online—usually at least one day. While buying one at an airport or local shop allows same-day use, you’ll still need to swap the SIM and manually configure settings like the APN.

If speed and convenience matter, eSIMs are clearly the better choice. They’re especially ideal for short-term travel or business trips where quick setup and immediate connectivity are essential.

 

3 Benefits of Using an eSIM

benefits of esim

eSIMs offer several advantages over traditional physical SIM cards.

First, there's no need to swap out SIM cards—everything is handled digitally, so you won’t risk losing a tiny SIM while traveling. Since the entire process from purchase to setup can be completed online, it saves both time and hassle.

Another key benefit is that you can set up your eSIM in advance before leaving for Japan. This allows you to take your time choosing the right plan that fits your trip length and data needs.

Once you arrive, your eSIM is ready to go—just activate it in your phone’s settings.
One of the biggest perks is being able to connect to the internet the moment you land at the airport.

 

Drawbacks and Limitations of eSIMs

esim demerit

While eSIMs are highly convenient, there are a few important points to keep in mind.

 

cannot be used on incompatible phones

First, eSIMs cannot be used on smartphones that don’t support eSIM technology. Some older models or budget devices may not be compatible, so it’s essential to check whether your phone supports eSIM before purchasing.

 

Setup may be tricky

If it’s your first time using an eSIM, the setup process—such as scanning a QR code or enabling mobile data—might feel a bit tricky. In that case, we recommend choosing a provider that offers clear instructions and reliable customer support.

 

Use QR code on the correct device

Also, an eSIM can only be installed and used on the device it was first activated on. Since QR codes are usually issued once and cannot be reissued, make sure to scan it on the correct phone.

 

How to Check EID on iPhone and Android

eid how-to check

The easiest way to check your EID is to dial "*#06#" using the default phone app on iPhone or Android.

If your smartphone supports eSIM, making this call will display "EID (32-digit eSIM identification number)". If you can confirm the EID, you can use eSIM both domestically and internationally.

 

Survey of Japan's Internet Penetration Rate | Introduction to Major Telecommunications Carriers!

japan tokyo network

We have surveyed Japan's internet situation, including free Wi-Fi availability!

 

Japan's Free Wi-Fi Penetration Rate

All major airports in Japan with direct international flights are equipped with free Wi-Fi.

However, outside of tourist destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, free Wi-Fi is not necessarily widely available throughout Japan.

Japanese Airports Free Wi-Fi Availability
Narita Airport
Haneda Airport

Most free Wi-Fi services provided in Japan require procedures such as "email registration," "agreement to terms of use," and "SNS authentication," which many overseas visitors find cumbersome to use.

Additionally, compared to Western countries, Japanese companies do not strongly embrace the concept of using free Wi-Fi to extend customer stay time, and many restaurants and cafes do not offer free WiFi.

In Japan, for communication during overseas travel, rather than relying on free Wi-Fi, it is safer to use encrypted internet connections such as eSIM or rented pocket Wi-Fi.

 

How Are Japan's Internet Connection Speeds?

Japan median internet speeds comparison chart

(Source: SPEEDTEST Official)

Japan's mobile network speeds, as an island nation, are slower than the global average. Please refer to the following table for detailed data on Japan's internet communication speeds.

Fixed Broadband Mobile Network
Global Average Speed 102.48Mbps 92.82Mbps
Japan's Average Speed 215.06Mbps 62.83Mbps

The above are reference values using "SPEEDTEST," a famous speed testing site. (As of May 2025)

While mobile networks may be inferior, Japan's fixed broadband (Wi-Fi) has actual measured speeds more than twice the global average, making it extremely fast.

In Japan, Wi-Fi environment construction using fiber optic lines has been promoted centered around NTT, so there is a high possibility of using comfortable networks in hotels and ryokans.

 

Japan's Three Major Telecommunications Carriers

japan Major Telecommunications Carriers

While Japan has many companies providing mobile networks, most of them use the networks of the three major companies: "NTT Docomo," "KDDI," and "Softbank."

Let's look at the average execution speeds and coverage areas of Japan's three famous telecommunications carriers.

Network Carrier Coverage Area※1 eSIM Providers
Using This Network
Communication
Speed※2
Provider
NTT docomo
(Coverage Details)
NTT Docomo coverage area map in Japan JapanConnect eSIM,
Ubigi
47.09Mbps NTT
KDDI (au)
(Coverage Details)
KDDI au coverage area map in Japan JapanConnect eSIM,
Holafly, Ubigi, airalo,
Saily, Nomad
46.23Mbps KDDI
Softbank
(Coverage Details)
Softbank coverage area map in Japan JapanConnect eSIM,
airalo, Nomad,
World eSIM
46.90Mbps Softbank

※1 Coverage areas reference nperf.com coverage maps (tap to open)
※2 Communication speeds reference SPEEDTEST.com

Japan's largest telecommunications carrier is NTT, and its subsidiary NTT Docomo covers a very wide area throughout Japan, including urban areas, tourist destinations, mountainous regions, and coastal areas.

However, NTT Docomo is prone to radio interference in crowded environments such as buses and trains, which can cause communication instability.

On the other hand, KDDI (au) and SoftBank may be somewhat inferior to Docomo in coverage areas of mountainous and coastal regions, but they are evaluated as having excellent communication speed and stability in major urban areas and tourist destinations.

When comparing eSIM options by telecommunications carrier, it is advisable to choose eSIM services that partner with each eSIM provider based on the areas you plan to visit.

 

Prepaid SIMs Sold at Japanese Airports Are Expensive

SIM counter at Japan Airport

Many prepaid SIMs are sold at Japanese airports, and recently they can even be purchased from vending machines. While convenient as they can be used immediately upon arrival in Japan, the prices are quite high due to the demand.

Let's take a look at the prepaid SIM prices sold at Narita Airport for reference.

Domestic Rental WiFi/Prepaid SIM Companies Sold in Airports (Prices include tax)
Unari-kun SIM
  • ¥4,500 / 7 days / unlimited
  • ¥6,000 / 15 days / unlimited
  • ¥7,000 / 30 days / unlimited
TRE SIM
  • ¥3,000 / until depleted / 3GB
  • ¥4,800 / until depleted / 7GB
Anyfone Japan
  • ¥7,150 / 8 days / unlimited
  • ¥8,800 / 16 days / unlimited
  • ¥9,790 / 33 days / unlimited
SoftBank Official Prepaid SIM for Travel
  • ¥6,500 / 31 days / 3GB
  • ¥7,150 / 90 days / 10GB

(Source: Narita Airport Official Website)

As shown above, SIM card sales counters at airports have aggressive pricing strategies.

Hmm, they sell prepaid SIM cards at Narita Airport. ¥5,000 for 31 days 10GB or ¥2,000 for 6 days 1GB - quite expensive. pic.twitter.com/WhS7xsrVfu

— Karma@8/13(Sun)West U-31b (@ingaoh) X

 

Price Comparison by Travel Duration | The Cheapest eSIM in Japan

In this chapter, we divide Japan travel periods into short-term and medium-term and compare the prices of each eSIM. Let's see which eSIM service offers the best value for use in Japan.

↓ First, check required plan duration + data capacity for overseas travel ↓

 Data Usage Calculator

"How many days? How much data?" solved

 

eSIM Price Comparison | 1 day, 3 days, 5 days, 7 days

We compared the prices of eSIM services for short-term periods: 1 day, 3 days, 5 days, and 7 days.

eSIM Service Data/Duration/Price※1
JapanConnect eSIM
JapanConnect eSIM logo
1GB/3 days/6$
5GB/7 days/11$
Unlimited/3 days/11$
Unlimited/7 days/20$
Holafly
Holafly logo
Unlimited/1 day/1.99$
Unlimited/3 days/12.90$
Unlimited/5 days/20.90$
Unlimited/7 days/29.90$
airalo
airalo logo
1GB/7 days/4.50$
Ubigi
ubigi logo
10GB/7 days/14$
Unlimited/7 days/26$
Saily
Saily eSIM logo
1GB/7 days/3.99$
Nomad
Nomad Logo
1GB/7 days/6$
Unlimited/3 days/11$
Unlimited/7 days/23$
World eSIM
World eSIM app logo
3GB/7 days/6.90$
Unlimited/5 days/20.80$
Unlimited/7 days/29.80$

※1 Prices as of July 9, 2025. Please check the latest pricing on each eSIM official website.

For trips to Japan within one week, Saily is the cheapest for light data usage within 1GB.

For unlimited data plans, JapanConnect eSIM offers industry-leading low prices and is recommended for those who want to watch videos and listen to music with high-volume data usage.

 

Cheapest eSIM for Short-term Japan Travel Summary

 

eSIM Price Comparison | 15 days, 30 days

Let's look at the price comparison of eSIM services for medium to long-term travel periods of 15 to 30 days.

eSIM Service Data/Duration/Price※1
JapanConnect eSIM
JapanConnect eSIM logo
10GB/15 days/17$
30GB/30 days/24$
Unlimited/15 days/32$
Unlimited/30 days/59$
Holafly
Holafly logo
Unlimited/15 days/50.90$
Unlimited/30 days/74.90$
airalo
airalo logo
2GB/15 days/6.50$
5GB/30 days/11.50$
10GB/30 days/18$
20GB/30 days/26$
Ubigi
ubigi logo
20GB/30 days/31$
Unlimited/30 days/69$
Saily
Saily eSIM logo
5GB/30 days/10.99$
10GB/30 days/17.09$
20GB/30 days/23.74$
Nomad
Nomad Logo
5GB/30 days/11$
10GB/30 days/17$
20GB/30 days/25$
World eSIM
World eSIM app logo
5GB/15 days/11.95$
10GB/30 days/18.95$
20GB/30 days/29.95$
Unlimited/15 days/50.80$

※1 Prices as of July 2025. Please check the latest pricing on each eSIM official website.

Nomad is recommended for those who want to use light data amounts of 5GB to 10GB within 15 to 30 days!

For those who want to use medium data amounts of 10GB to 20GB, Saily offers the cheapest rates.

If you need 30GB or more, JapanConnect eSIM offers unlimited data at industry-leading low prices.

 

Cheapest eSIM for Medium to Long-term Japan Travel Summary

 

Top 7 Recommended eSIMs for International Travel: Comparison Ranking

In this section, we present our top 5 recommended eSIMs for overseas travelers, ranked based on user reviews and feedback.

Start by reviewing the comparison table below to explore the key features of each eSIM service.

Service Data Plan Usage
period
Lowest
Price
Network App
Available
Hotspot Support
Channels
Support Hours Key Features Cancellation Policy Validity
JapanConnect eSIM

Unlimited/
1GB-50GB/
DayPass
1day-
30days
 1GB/3days
6$
NTT DOCOMO(IIJ)/
KDDI・
SOFTBANK
Email 9:00–18:00/JST One of the most affordable
mid-data plans in the industry.
60 days
Holafly
Holafly
Unlimited 1day-
90days
 Unlimited/1day
1.99$
KDDI Chat 24/7 Specialized in unlimited data
eSIM services.
No expiration※1
Airalo
Airalo
1GB-
20GB
1day-
30days
1GB/7days
4.50$
KDDI・
SOFTBANK
Email / Chat 24/7 Manage installations, data usage,
and recharges easily via app.
Depends on plan
Ubigi

Unlimited/
500MB-
50GB
1day-
30days
1GB/30days
4$ 
KDDI・
DOCOMO
Email 10:00–17:00/JST NTT Docomo's 5G high-speed line
is available
90 days
Saily

Unlimited/
1GB-
20GB
1day-
30days
1GB/7days
3.99$
KDDI Email / Chat 24/7 NordVPN offers virtual locations to
get around geoblocks 
30 days
Nomad

1GB-50GB 1day-
30days
1GB/7days
6$
KDDI・
SOFTBANK 
✓  ✓  Email / Chat  24/7  Easy data management with the app.
Unlimited data also available.
No expiration※1
World eSIM

Unlimited/
500MB-20GB/
DayPass
1day-
30days
3GB/7days
6.90$
SOFTBANK  Email 9:00–18:00/JST It is provided by a Japanese listed
company, so it is trustworthy
30 days

※1.While an eSIM technically does not expire, inactivity or carrier policy can cause your eSIM to become deactivated.

Now, let’s dive into the details of each top-ranked eSIM provider for international travelers!

If any of the eSIM services listed above caught your interest, just click the logo to scroll to the relevant section.

 

JapanConnect eSIM | Industry-Leading Low Prices for Medium-Data Plans

JapanConnect esim logo

(Image quote:JapanConnect eSIM official

Basic Info
Provider BeaconLink LLC
Carrier DOCOMO/KDDI/SOFTBANK
Lowest Price  1GB/3days/6$
eSIM Delivery Instant
Activation Fee Free
Phone Number None
Tethering Available
Support Channels LINE / Email
Support Hours 9:00–18:00 (JST)

Pros of JapanConnect eSIM

  • Among the lowest prices in the industry
  • Easy setup — just scan the QR code
  • 30-day free cancellation guarantee available
  • Multi-network compatible for wide coverage

Cons of JapanConnect eSIM

  •  No dedicated app available
  •  Support is not available 24/7

User Reviews


★★★★★

I used it for my temporary trip back to Japan. Setup was super easy and it activated immediately after landing. The price was much better compared to others! I’ll definitely use it again.
Trip to Japan / 30代Female

★★★★☆

Signal was weak in some areas, but overall I was satisfied. The LINE support was especially helpful!
Vietnam Trip / 20代Female

★★★★★

Cheap! Fast access! I'd love to see more plan options in the future!
Taiwan Trip / 30代Male


JapanConnect eSIM is a prepaid eSIM service provided by BeaconLink LLC, a Japanese company.

It offers some of the best value mid-range data plans for international travel — ideal for travelers who want enough data without paying high prices.

A 30-day full refund guarantee is included, so even if your trip gets canceled, you can get a full refund as long as the eSIM hasn’t been installed.

 

\ Best Prepaid eSIM for Budget-Conscious Travelers /

Visit JapanConnect eSIM Official Site

Use exclusive coupon code “esimenb” for 5% OFF

 

 

Holafly | eSIM Service Specialized in Unlimited Data Plans

(Image quote:Holafly official

Basic Info
Provider Holafly
Carrier KDDI
Starting Price  Unlimited/1day/1.99$
eSIM Delivery Instant
Activation Fee Free
Phone Number None
Tethering Available
Support Channel Live Chat (with auto-translation)
Support Hours 24/7

Pros of Holafly

  • Focused on unlimited data — ideal for heavy internet usage
  • 24/7 live chat support with automatic translation for convenience
  • No expiration date — use it for your next trip if unused

Cons of Holafly

  •  Support is not provided by native Japanese speakers
  •  Tethering may be limited to 500MB per day

User Reviews


★★★★★

A friend recommended this to me. Unlimited data at a great price. It was my first time using an eSIM and I found it very easy and affordable for staying connected overseas.
Australia Trip / 20代Male

★★★★★

I saw a video on YouTube by someone who used it, and they had a discount coupon, so I bought it for less. Setup was easy and it connected right away.
France Trip / 20代Female

★★★★☆

In some countries the signal was weaker, though that might not be the eSIM's fault. The 24/7 support is great, but I found the translated replies a bit confusing at times. Overall, I'm satisfied.
Singapore Trip / 20代Female

Holafly is an eSIM provider specialized in unlimited data plans. It allows you to access the internet freely in over 200 countries without worrying about data limits.

Perfect for travelers who want to enjoy streaming video or music on the go without relying on public Wi-Fi. However, please note that tethering may be limited to around 500MB per day and not fully unlimited.

The 24/7 chat support is convenient, but it is often handled by non-Japanese staff using auto-translation. If you’re comfortable using international services, Holafly is a solid option for reliable, unlimited mobile data abroad.

 

\ Unlimited data! 200+ countries /

Holafly Official Site

5% OFF code "APPHAX5"

 

Airalo | Popular eSIM App for Backpackers Supporting 200+ Countries

airalo esim

(Image quote:airalo official

Basic Info
Provider Airalo
Carrier KDDI/SOFTBANK
Starting Price 1GB/7days/4.50$
eSIM Delivery Instant
Activation Fee Free
Phone Number None
Tethering Available
Support Channel Email & Chat Support (English)
Support Hours 24/7

Pros of Airalo

  • Airmoney rewards system — 5% cashback for future purchases
  • App-based management — check data usage and instant top-up
  • World's largest eSIM store — covering 200+ countries

Cons of Airalo

  •  There is no unlimited plan

User Reviews


★★★★★

Using Airalo's eSIM was extremely comfortable! The app operation is simple, and because I completed the purchase and setup in advance, I was able to connect to the internet immediately after arriving at my destination. Especially during my stay in France, communication was stable in both urban and rural areas, and I could use map and translation apps without any problems. The data amount was reasonable, and the plan price was satisfactory. It was my first time using an eSIM, but it was more convenient than I expected.
France Trip / 40代Female

★★★★☆

The peace of mind of being able to use the internet immediately upon arrival was significant.
Thailand Trip / 50代Male

★★★★★

I was worried whether it would actually work locally since it's just tap operations, but once I got used to the operation, it was convenient and good.
Spain Trip / 30代Female

Airalo is the world's first eSIM store launched by a Singapore-based startup in 2019. As the world's largest eSIM service for overseas travel, it covers over 200 countries and has been featured in numerous international and domestic media outlets.

Perfect for experienced travelers who want to manage their eSIM through an app with ease. The app's functionality is outstanding, allowing you to purchase data and install eSIM for all supported countries. The Airmoney cashback system offers 5% rewards on purchases, which can be used for discounts on future data purchases.

However, please note that there is no unlimited plan, so it may not be suitable for travelers who want to use large amounts of data.

 

\ Travel the world affordably /

Airalo Official Site

10% OFF first order "ESIMPORTAL10"

 

Saily | Provided by NordVPN with Built-in VPN Function

Saily esim

(Image quote:Saily official

Basic Info
Provider Saily
Carrier KDDI
Starting Price 1GB/7days/3.99$
eSIM Delivery Instant
Activation Fee Free
Phone Number None
Tethering Available
Support Channel Chat Support (with auto-translation)
Support Hours 24/7

Pros of Saily

  • Built-in VPN function powered by NordVPN technology
  • App-based data top-up and usage monitoring available
  • Single eSIM supports multiple country data plans

Cons of Saily

  •  Payment in USD only
  •  Limited medium to large data plan options
  •  Short 30-day usage period

User Reviews


★★★★★

The VPN function worked perfectly in China where internet restrictions are strict. I could access social media and Google services without any issues. The setup was straightforward and the connection was stable throughout my trip.
China Trip / 35代Male

★★★★☆

The virtual location feature is unique and useful for privacy. However, the data plans are quite expensive compared to other providers. Good for security-conscious travelers.
Europe Trip / 28代Female

★★★★☆

Being able to bypass censorship was invaluable during my business trip. The NordVPN backing gives confidence in the service quality.
Middle East Trip / 42代Male

Saily is a travel-focused eSIM service provided by NordVPN, the world-renowned VPN service provider. It features a unique virtual location function that enhances internet connection security by routing through encrypted servers, effectively changing your apparent location.

Perfect for travelers visiting countries with strict internet regulations, including China, where it helps bypass online censorship and access restricted content. The service is backed by a major VPN provider, ensuring reliable security and privacy protection.

However, the service has limitations including USD-only payments, fewer large data plan options, and a relatively short 30-day usage period. Best suited for travelers who prioritize security and privacy over cost-effectiveness.

 

\ NordVPN-powered eSIM service! /

Saily Official Site

Exclusive 5% OFF code "japanconnect"

 

Ubigi | Provided by Japan's NTT Group with DOCOMO 5G Network Access

(Image quote:Ubigi official

Basic Info
Provider Ubigi
Carrier DOCOMO/KDDI
Starting Price 1GB/30days/4$
eSIM Delivery Instant
Activation Fee Free
Phone Number None
Tethering Available
Support Channel Email Support (Japanese)
Support Hours 9:00-17:00 (JST)

Pros of Ubigi

  • Reusable eSIM profile — top up offline without Wi-Fi
  • NTT Group subsidiary for reliable service

Cons of Ubigi

  •  App registration process can be challenging
  •  Email-only customer support
  •  Data usage starts immediately after purchase

User Reviews


★★★★☆

The setup was simple and easy to understand, so I could use it smoothly. It was mostly stable, so there was no stress.
France Trip / 40代Female

★★★★★

Great value for money in Europe. The ability to top up data without Wi-Fi was incredibly convenient during my travels.
Italy Trip / 35代Male

★★★★☆

Being backed by NTT gives confidence in the service. However, the immediate activation after purchase caught me off guard.
Germany Trip / 28代Female

Provided by French telecommunications company Transatel, Ubigi became a consolidated subsidiary of NTT Communications in 2018 when Japan's NTT acquired half of its shares.

Perfect for budget-conscious travelers to Japan who want reliable connectivity at the lowest prices. The service supports NTT DOCOMO's 5G network and offers unique offline data top-up capabilities through its reusable eSIM profile system.

However, users should be aware of the more complex app registration process and email-only support. The immediate activation upon purchase may also catch some travelers unprepared, so timing your purchase is important.

 

\ High speed!  NTT Docomo's 5G  /

Ubigi Official Site

First-time 10% OFF "WELCOME10"

 

Nomad | Rising Popularity with Local-Price Competitive Rates

Nomad esim

(Image quote:Nomad official

Basic Info
Provider Nomad
Carrier KDDI/SOFTBANK
Starting Price 1GB/7days/6$
eSIM Delivery Instant
Activation Fee Free
Phone Number None (Data-only)
Tethering Available
Support Channel Email & App Support
Support Hours 24/7

Pros of Nomad

  • Rich plan variety — unlimited, regional, and flexible data options
  • Simple setup with automatic APN configuration

Cons of Nomad

  •  Data-only service — no phone number included
  •  Fewer supported countries compared to major competitors

User Reviews


★★★★★

Always reliable! Using the Nomad eSIM was super easy, I had no issues during my trip. Great coverage and very fair pricing.
Japan Trip / 35代Male

★★★★★

Great App! The automatic network switching worked perfectly across multiple countries. I'll continue using it for future travels.
Europe Trip / 28代Female

★★★★☆

Easy to set up and good coverage at a very fair price. The multiple carrier support really makes a difference in remote areas.
USA Trip / 42代Male

Nomad is a rapidly rising eSIM service launched by LotusFlare in 2020 with the motto "travel like a local with local prices." Featured in The New York Times and boasting a 4.8 rating on the App Store, it has gained significant popularity among budget-conscious travelers.

Perfect for travelers seeking the lowest possible rates without compromising on quality. The service offers exceptional value with frequent sales that can make plans up to 50% cheaper than competitors, plus diverse plan options including single-country, regional, and unlimited data plans across 165+ countries.

However, the service is primarily data-only (except for some Thailand plans) and covers fewer countries than some competitors. Despite these limitations, the combination of competitive pricing, reliable multiple-network support, and user-friendly automatic setup makes it an excellent choice for cost-conscious travelers.

 

\ Travel like a local with local prices /

Nomad Official Site

 

World eSIM | Provided by Tokyo Stock Exchange Listed Japanese Company for Peace of Mind

World eSIM

(Image quote:World eSIM official

Basic Info
Provider World eSIM
Carrier SOFTBANK
Starting Price 3GB/7days/6.90$
eSIM Delivery Instant
Activation Fee Free
Phone Number None
Tethering Available
Support Channel Email Support
Support Hours 9:00-18:00 (365 days)

Pros of World eSIM

  • Operated by Tokyo Stock Exchange listed Japanese company for reliability
  • Diverse plan options — unlimited, fixed period, and daily pass plans
  • Industry-leading low prices among Japanese eSIM providers

Cons of World eSIM

  •  Customer support not available 24/7
  •  Short 30-day usage period

User Reviews


★★★★★

It has become very easy to use communication abroad without the hassle of purchasing a phone locally or exchanging SIM cards after traveling like in the past. I'm very satisfied.
Spain Trip / 40代Female

★★★★☆

For small data amounts, the price is cheap, so I'm satisfied (using free Wi-Fi, even a small amount is sufficient).
Thailand Trip / 30代Female

★★★★☆

Being backed by a major Japanese company gives confidence. The variety of plans makes it easy to find something that fits your travel style.
Europe Trip / 35代Male

World eSIM is operated by Vision Inc., a publicly listed Japanese company on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Vision Inc. has been providing "Global WiFi" rental services for overseas travelers in Japan and has been leading Japan's telecommunications industry for over 20 years as an established company.

Perfect for travelers who prefer dealing with a trusted Japanese company and want access to diverse, affordable data plans. The service leverages expertise gained from Global WiFi operations, offering partnerships with major international carriers and some of the most competitive prices among Japanese eSIM providers.

However, the service has limitations including non-24/7 customer support and a 30-day usage limit. Despite these constraints, the reliable support system from a major Japanese corporation and the wide range of plan options make it an attractive choice for Japanese travelers seeking peace of mind.

 

\ Trusted Japanese company, 200+ countries /

World eSIM Official Site

24/7 online purchase available!

 

 

eSIM Setup and Usage for Japan Travel

how-to esim setup

Let's check the specific eSIM activation methods when using eSIM for Japan travel.

The following are setup methods common to many prepaid eSIM services, but please follow the detailed manual from your eSIM provider.

We will explain the activation method for each device, so click on your device type to scroll to the relevant section.

eSIM Setup Methods by Device

※ For iPhones with iOS 16 and earlier, and Android devices, you need to scan a QR code displayed on a separate device. If you only have one smartphone, please print the QR code in advance.

 

iPhone Setup Method

Setting up eSIM for Japan travel on iPhone or iPad.

Open the iPhone Settings app under Wi-Fi environment.

 

 

Android Setup Method

Let's look at the eSIM setup method for Japan travel on Android. (Screenshots are from Pixel 6a)

Open the Android Settings app under Wi-Fi environment.

 

The downloaded Japan travel eSIM will be added to Network & Internet → SIM, so tap on it.

 

FAQs

 

Which eSIM is recommended for Japan?

Top recommended eSIMs for Japan travel include JapanConnect eSIM, Airalo, and Holafly. JapanConnect eSIM offers multi-network access with Japan’s major carriers such as au (KDDI), SoftBank, and NTT Docomo, making it highly reliable in terms of speed and connection stability. If you prefer unlimited data, Holafly is a solid choice. For travelers who want affordable pricing with small data volumes and flexible plans, Airalo is a popular option.

 

Can I purchase a Japanese eSIM?

Yes, Japanese eSIMs can be easily purchased online. Services like JapanConnect eSIM, Nomad, and Airalo offer eSIM plans that can be activated either before your trip or immediately upon arrival. You don’t need a physical SIM card, and most eSIM-compatible unlocked smartphones are supported.

 

Are there eSIMs for tourists in Japan?

Yes, many eSIM plans are specifically designed for inbound tourists visiting Japan. Providers such as JapanConnect eSIM, Holafly, and Airalo offer plans ranging from 3 to 30 days, using major Japanese carrier networks like NTT Docomo, au, and SoftBank.

 

Which is better for Japan: Airalo or Ubigi?

Generally, Airalo is more popular in Japan due to its affordable pricing and flexible options for data and duration. Ubigi may offer faster speeds in specific areas where NTT Docomo’s 5G is available, providing wide and stable coverage. However, for cost-effectiveness and ease of use, many travelers prefer Airalo.

 

Can I buy an eSIM at a Japanese airport?

In many cases, eSIMs can be purchased from vending machines at Japanese airports. However, due to the high installation and maintenance costs, airport eSIMs tend to be more expensive. It is recommended to purchase an eSIM online before arrival and activate it using airport Wi-Fi. Services like JapanConnect eSIM and Airalo support instant issuance, so there is no need to look for a SIM vendor upon arrival.

 

Which is better for Japan travel: eSIM or pocket WiFi?

For solo travelers, an eSIM is generally more convenient. It eliminates the need to rent or return a separate device, allowing you to connect directly with your smartphone. On the other hand, if you’re traveling in a group or require unlimited data, pocket WiFi may be worth considering. For short trips or individual use, eSIMs are often superior in both cost and convenience.

 

📱 eSIM Duration Calculator

Once your travel dates are set, you might wonder how many days of eSIM to purchase.
Simply enter your arrival and departure times to get the recommended duration!

🎯 Calculation Results

24-hour basis
days
Calendar days basis
days
UTC basis
days
🎯 Recommended: days
※ Displaying the safest duration

⚠️ Important: About "1 Day" Calculation Methods

eSIM providers use different "1 day" counting methods:

  • 24-hour basis: 24 hours from activation = 1 day
  • Calendar days: Local time 00:00-23:59 = 1 day
  • UTC basis: Day changes at UTC 00:00

📌 Please check each service's terms to understand their day counting method before purchase.

💡 Helpful Tips

  • 🔄 For connecting flights, calculate from your first arrival destination
  • ⏰ Consider time zone changes that might affect day calculations
  • 📞 Consider purchasing 1 extra day for emergency communication needs