Review

Ubigi eSIM Reviews for Japan. Complete 2025 Guide with Real User Experience & Pricing

Ubigi eSIM Reviews for Japan: Complete 2025 Guide with Real User Experience & Pricing
sufferer

Considering eSIM for Japan travel but wondering about Ubigi's reputation and reviews?

This article answers the above question with detailed Ubigi reviews Japan travelers need to know.

Recommended for Japan and international travel, Ubigi is an eSIM service covering 200 countries worldwide. Users can purchase data plans through the official website and check data usage and add top-ups via the mobile app.
When Ubigi users visit Japan, they can instantly connect their smartphones to the internet by purchasing data through the app, even without an existing internet connection.
※After initial eSIM purchase, users must register for a My Account and set up the eSIM profile in the app

Editorial Team

No need to carry mobile WiFi routers or swap physical SIM cards!

 

 

(Image source:Ubigi Official)

Compatible Devices SIM-unlocked iOS, Android, Windows
Coverage 200+ countries
Customer Support Email support 
Validity Period 6 months
Support Hours 9:00~17:00 (Japan Time)
Operating Company Transatel

\ NTT Group's eSIM for 200 countries worldwide /

Purchase Ubigi data

First-time 10% discount code "WELCOME10"

 

Once you get used to it, the Ubigi eSIM app is extremely convenient. However, Ubigi differs from other eSIM services in many specifications, and it's somewhat unique in that data usage begins immediately after purchase, and you can use all data packages with a single eSIM.

Many people are unsure whether Ubigi is truly recommended as an eSIM for international travel.

 

In conclusion, Ubigi is recommended for the following people:

Who Ubigi is recommended for

  • People temporarily returning to Japan who want stable Docomo network eSIM
  • People who want to check data usage and make additional purchases through an app
  • People who want to manage travel data plans with a single eSIM profile

Ubigi is a telecommunications company based in Europe, and recently became a subsidiary of the NTT Group, so Ubigi's Japan plans using NTT Docomo's communication infrastructure are also well-developed.

 

Editorial Team

Ubigi is recommended not only for Japan travel, but also for temporary returns to Japan!

 

However, there are also disadvantages to Ubigi.

Ubigi Cautions

  •  Customer support is not available 24/7
  •  Usage begins immediately after data purchase

 

This time, we'll provide detailed explanations of the major Japanese NTT brand eSIM app "Ubigi" on the following 3 points, and clarify who Ubigi is recommended for.

Ubigi explanation points

  • Reviews
  • Pricing
  • How to use

Let's take a detailed look at the latest information about the eSIM app "Ubigi" as of May 2025!

 

Writer Introduction
Profile Image

Koki Abe

eSIM Portal Administrator

  • Operates travel eSIM store for international travelers
  • 8 years of sales experience in telecommunications (mobile, fiber optic)
  • Backpacker who traveled to 16 countries worldwide
  • Shares insights on eSIM benefits discovered during travels
  •  

 

Basic Information about Ubigi eSIM App for Japan Travel

Ubigi Basic

First, let's review Ubigi's basic information. We'll explain in an easy-to-understand way what kind of company operates it, whether the network quality is reliable, and what eSIM actually is.

 

"Ubigi" is a Reliable NTT Group eSIM App for Japan Travel

Ubigi is an eSIM app deployed in 200 countries worldwide by the French company Transatel.
With APN (carrier access points) in Europe, it boasts industry-leading communication quality and pricing in Europe.

In November 2022, a partnership with NTT Resonant Co., Ltd., which provides OCN Hikari services under Japan's NTT Group, was announced. Thanks to this collaboration with the NTT Group, Japanese-language desk support is also available.

 

Ubigi app
Additionally, most eSIM services only allow data purchases through their official websites, which can be somewhat inconvenient.
However, Ubigi has a dedicated app, making additional data purchases quick and convenient directly from the app.

 

Which Network Does Ubigi Use?

The signal automatically selects the most accessible option among partnered carriers in your destination country.

Communication networks connect to destination country carriers through European and American bases (servers). In Japan, it selects from Docomo and AU networks.

With Ubigi, there's peace of mind knowing no manual configuration is required when crossing country borders.

 

What is eSIM

eSIM (Embedded SIM) means embedded SIM, and can be used by configuring a carrier profile in your device's mobile network settings.

In contrast to traditional physical SIM cards, you don't insert a SIM card into your smartphone.

With Ubigi, simply scan the QR code and follow the on-screen instructions for setup.

 

Editorial Team

Once you arrive at your destination airport and turn ON eSIM roaming, you can immediately use mobile data communication!

 

Benefits of eSIM

Since eSIM doesn't require insertion into a SIM tray, it can be used alongside another SIM card that's already installed.

For example, you can use your domestic SIM card for SMS while using eSIM for mobile data. You can freely switch which SIM to use in your mobile data communication settings.

 

Editorial Team

The benefit of eSIM is that you can always receive SMS while saving on internet costs with Ubigi!

 

For compatible eSIM devices, please see the FAQ section.

(Image source: Ubigi Official)

Compatible Devices SIM-unlocked iOS, Android, Windows
Coverage 200+ countries
Customer Support Email support 
Support Hours 9:00~17:00 (Japan Time)
Operating Company Transatel

\ NTT Group's eSIM for 200 countries worldwide /

Purchase Ubigi data

First-time 10% discount code "WELCOME10"

 

Advantages of Ubigi

Let's explore the four key advantages of Ubigi.

Ubigi's Advantages

  • Japan data plans use Docomo network through NTT subsidiary
  • Check remaining data and add top-ups through the app
  • Complete solution with a single eSIM profile
  • Tethering functionality available

 

Comprehensive Japan domestic plans! Docomo network access through NTT subsidiary

Ubigi japan price

Having become part of the NTT Group, Japan domestic plans are also well-developed. For temporary stays in Japan, mobile contracts with Japanese carriers can be cumbersome.

With Ubigi's prepaid system, mobile data can be purchased immediately. Currently, you can choose from 11 different plans.
Since the communication network operates under NTT, it uses the Docomo network (network selection displays as Ubigi), providing peace of mind for those who prefer Docomo's coverage.

 

Check data balance and add top-ups through the app

Ubigi data plan usage

Top-ups through the app are reflected instantly.Even when you're out of data and not connected to the internet, you can purchase data through the app using Ubigi's network.

Additionally, you can check your data plan balance in real-time through the app, and expiration dates are displayed down to the exact time for peace of mind.

Editorial Team

With Ubigi's app, you can prevent situations like "suddenly unable to use due to data overage or expiration"!

 

Complete solution with a single eSIM profile

ubigi data plan manage

With Ubigi, once you install the eSIM profile initially, you can reuse the same eSIM profile when purchasing different data plans.

Therefore, there's no need to scan QR codes repeatedly and activate eSIM multiple times each time you purchase a data plan.

This means that with just one activation, you can use all traveler data plans that Ubigi offers for 200 countries worldwide.

 

Hotspot functionality available

ubigi hotspot

Ubigi allows hotspot without issues on any plan.
You can connect laptops and tablets to the internet using just one smartphone connected to "Ubigi".

 

Disadvantages of Ubigi

Ubigi is not recommended for people who fall into the following categories:

Ubigi's Disadvantages

  • Somewhat expensive for destinations outside Japan and Europe
  • Customer support is email-only and takes some time
  • Usage begins immediately after data purchase

Let's explain each point in order.

 

Regions outside Japan and Europe are somewhat expensive

"Ubigi" is somewhat expensive for regions outside Japan and Europe. For destinations beyond these regions, using other eSIM services would be cheaper in terms of pricing.

Which eSIM company offers the best rates varies by country and duration, so we explain this in detail in the article below.

 

Customer support is email-only and takes some time

Additionally, Ubigi handles troubleshooting support through an email-based customer desk.

There is no chat support, and since it's email-only correspondence, it may take some time to receive a reply.

For those who prefer the security of 24-hour chat support, the eSIM app "airalo" covering 200 countries worldwide is recommended.

Airalo is explained in detail in the article below.

Comprehensive eSIM app "airalo" explanation article 👇

 

Usage begins immediately after data plan purchase

Most travel eSIMs don't start usage until you install the eSIM after purchasing a data plan and turn on data roaming at your destination.

However, with Ubigi, the validity period applies immediately after data plan purchase, and usage begins right away.

Therefore, it's not suitable for those who want to install the eSIM in advance several days before travel to prepare.

 

Ubigi Reviews and User Testimonials

Let's examine both negative and positive Ubigi reviews through X (formerly Twitter) testimonials.

However, there weren't many negative Ubigi reviews, and it was generally praised for being affordable and having good connectivity.

 

Negative "Ubigi" Reviews and Testimonials

Let's start by looking at the negative reviews.

 

I'm using Ubigi's eSIM for this UK stay, which was convenient during last year's temporary return to Japan.

While it was smooth and comfortable in Japan 🇯🇵, in the UK 🇬🇧 it completely fails when entering the subway, and sometimes doesn't work even inside buildings, which is somewhat disappointing...

I'm a bit worried about how the user experience will change when I move to the countryside in a few days 🥲

Source: X

Editorial Team

While Japan's subways now have communication coverage, they used to have unstable connections.
Not just Ubigi, but overseas subways still often have unstable communication.

 

For some unknown reason, I can't access any Yahoo Japan-related sites at all when using Ubigi SIM domestically (crying) This is troubling @UbigiOfficial I can't even check the weather forecast... pic.twitter.com/Whnd4JEaQD

Source: X

Source: X

 

Editorial Team

Since Ubigi's APN is often based in Europe, Japan region-limited websites can sometimes get caught by geo-blocking.

 

Ubigi can't be contracted for Vietnam alone... The all-Asia plan is a bit expensive but can't be helped. I'll buy 3GB. If there's leftover, I can use it in Japan too.

Source: X

Source: X

 

Editorial Team

While Ubigi covers many countries, outside of Europe it's somewhat limited compared to "airalo" and others.

If there's no plan for your destination country, you can use the BEST (regional) plan if the country is included in a regional plan.

 

Positive "Ubigi" Reviews and Testimonials

Now for the positive reviews.

 

Convenient item for returning home ①
Ubigi's eSIM card.
I didn't know such things existed until someone told me about it, but it's a communication method where you download an app and SIM card to your phone and purchase plans. It's mobile data only, but for Japan, a month-valid 3GB data plan costs £7. Convenient because you can use it immediately upon arriving in Japan. pic.twitter.com/pNdtigbgT5

Source: X

 

Editorial Team

Japanese mobile companies like Y!mobile and UQ Mobile require at least 6 months maintenance.
For temporary stays in Japan, contract-free prepaid eSIM is recommended!

 

In Japan, I used Ubigi's eSIM which was recommended here before. It was comfortable. It was cheap, and my husband used it too.
I recommend it to those going to Japan as well.

Source: X

 

Editorial Team

Ubigi's Japan pricing starts from 360 yen/day, so you can save money with short-term, small data volumes.

 

Thank you. I'm learning about Ubigi for the first time. It's convenient that it can be used regardless of location (country).

Source: X

 

Editorial Team

Ubigi covers 200 countries worldwide, with BEST plans covering major countries and regional roaming plans including countries rare for tourism!

 

My travel companion eSIM, Ubigi (UBG), was very comfortable in each country. Since there's a lot of free Wi-Fi overseas, I finished with plenty to spare.
Since there were also transits, I used the EU UK Switzerland plan, 10GB, 2,560 yen with coupon code. How excellent!

Next time I'll also activate OCN Mobile One's international roaming while probably using UBG again pic.twitter.com/Rw7djoBzhN

Source: X

 

Editorial Team

Ubigi's European regional plans are very cost-effective! Even when crossing countries, it connects without requiring settings changes, which is convenient!

 

(Image source:Ubigi Official)

Compatible Devices SIM-unlocked iOS, Android, Windows
Coverage 200+ countries
Customer Support Email support 
Support Hours 9:00~17:00 (Japan Time)
Operating Company Transatel

\ NTT Group's eSIM for 200 countries worldwide /

Purchase Ubigi data

First-time 10% discount code "WELCOME10"

 

Ubigi Pricing Plans by Country and Period

Ubigi's pricing varies compared to other eSIM services - it can be cheaper or more expensive depending on the region.

Therefore, rather than making an immediate decision based solely on Ubigi's pricing, always compare with our recommended eSIMs before purchasing.

Ubigi

ubigi logo

JapanConnect eSIM

JapanConnect eSIM logo

Holafly

World eSIM

world esim app logo

airalo

Countries Covered 200 countries 133 countries 200 countries 200 countries 200 countries
Recommended Duration 1-30 days 3-30 days 5-60 days 1-30 days 1-30 days
Recommended Data 500MB-10GB 1GB-50GB/
Unlimited
Unlimited 500MB-3GB 1GB-3GB
Support Email Email/LINE Chat Email Chat
Support Hours 9:00-17:00
(JST)
9:00-18:00
(JST)
24 hours 9:00-18:00
(JST)
24 hours
Hotspot
Dedicated App ×
Cancellation Policy × ×
Headquarters Country France Japan Ireland Japan Singapore

 

Ubigi Has 3 Types of Pricing Plans

Unlike other international travel eSIMs, Ubigi's data plans come in the following three types:

  • One-time Plans...Available for short-term use from 1 day to 30 days
  • Monthly Plans...Fixed data plans that automatically renew each month
  • Flat-rate Plans...Purchase data plans for fixed periods like 6 months or 1 year upfront

Among the above plans, most people will use the travel-oriented one-time plans.

Ubigi also offers extensive one-time plan packages, ranging from 500MB to 50GB, and even unlimited data plans.

However, some regions may have fewer data plan options, so if you can't find the data plan you want for your destination, consider using a different eSIM service.

 

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

 Data Usage Calculator

"How many days? How much data?" solved

 

Ubigi Japan Monthly

Honestly, monthly and flat-rate plans are not recommended.

For example, as shown above, Japan offers 20GB for ¥3,900 per month. Japanese budget SIMs like ahamo and Rakuten Mobile offer 20GB for ¥2,000-3,000.

Additionally, Ubigi's data plans don't include phone numbers. For long-term use, it becomes inconvenient without voice calls and SMS, so it's better to contract for an eSIM or SIM with a phone number locally.

 

Editorial Team

Be careful! Ubigi's monthly plans cannot be canceled for 3 months once purchased, and flat-rate plans cannot be canceled or refunded during the contract period!

 

From here, we'll introduce Ubigi's pricing tables for Japan and Asia regions. These are as of May 2025 and may change.

Real-time pricing can be confirmed on the Ubigi official website.

 

Japan and Asia Region Pricing Table

Here's Ubigi's pricing table for Japan and various Asian countries.
(As of August 1, 2025. Subject to periodic changes due to agreements with overseas carriers.)

BEST Asia and Asia are regional roaming plans including Japan, convenient when traveling to multiple countries.

Within 7 days
Within 30 days
10GB Unlimited 1GB 10GB 50GB Unlimited
Japan 14$ 26$ 4$ 17$ 59$ 69$

 

How to Use Ubigi

This chapter explains everything from Ubigi's purchase method to actual usage. As a precaution, Ubigi data plan usage begins at the time of purchase, so make sure to purchase data just before travel or after arriving at your destination.

 

"Ubigi" Data Purchase Method

Let's explain how to purchase Ubigi data.

 

First, access the Ubigi official website.

Select the "region" you want to purchase and press "View Data Plans".

 

For stays within one month, uncheck "Monthly" and "Annual" options other than "One-time," and press "VIEW DATA PLANS".

 

Select your preferred "data plan".

 

Tap "Purchase new eSIM" and "enter required information".

 

Select your payment method. Besides credit cards, Apple Pay and PayPal are also available.

After payment is completed, you'll receive an email with a QR code.

 

From here, mobile data communication setup is explained separately for iPhone and Android.

 

How to Use "Ubigi" on iPhone

Let's explain Ubigi's mobile data settings for iPhone.

Open the Settings app and tap in this order: "Cellular""Add eSIM""Use QR Code".

 

Scan the QR code that came in your email. (You'll need to display the QR code on a device other than your iPhone or print it out)

 

From this point onwards, only perform these steps after arriving at your destination.

 

Select Ubigi from Cellular Data and turn the line ON. Follow the above steps to turn Data Roaming ON and you'll get signal connectivity.

 

How to Use "Ubigi" on Android

Let's explain Ubigi's mobile data settings for Android.

Tap the "Settings app". Enter "Network & Internet".Tap the SIM "+".

 

"Set up an eSIM" will appear, so download it.

 

Press "Next" and "scan the QR code" sent via email.

 

※From this point onwards, only perform these steps after arriving at your destination.

 

When "Use Ubigi?" appears, press "Download".

"Ubigi" will be added to downloaded SIMs, so tap it.

 

(Image source:Ubigi Official)

Compatible Devices SIM-unlocked iOS, Android, Windows
Coverage 200+ countries
Customer Support Email support 
Support Hours 9:00~17:00 (Japan Time)
Operating Company Transatel

\ NTT Group's eSIM for 200 countries worldwide /

Purchase Ubigi data

First-time 10% discount code "WELCOME10"

 

Ubigi FAQ

We've compiled frequently asked questions about Ubigi. Please review if you're considering purchasing Ubigi.

 

Does Ubigi's Japan eSIM come with a phone number? It's not displaying?

No phone number is included. It's data-only service.

 

What is Ubigi's referral code?

Here's the referral code for 20% OFF your first Ubigi order: → "2TSK9QSX"

 

I can't activate Ubigi.

Activation can take several tens of minutes. If it still doesn't work after waiting, check if your device supports eSIM and is SIM-unlocked.

If there's no problem, try restarting your device once. For Ubigi inquiries, click here.

 

Which devices support eSIM?

One simple way to check if your phone is eSIM-compatible is by dialing a special code using your phone app.

Step-by-step

  1. Open your phone’s dialer app (the same one you use to make calls).
  2. Dial *#06# and press the call button.
  3. Look for something called EID (Embedded Identity Document).

If an EID number appears, your phone likely supports eSIM.
If you don’t see an EID, your device may not be compatible with eSIM technology.

 

Conclusion

Article Summary

  • For Europe travel, Ubigi is among the industry's cheapest prepaid eSIMs
  • For travel between Japan and America, set plans are convenient
  • Ubigi's dedicated app makes checking data balance and additional purchases easy
  • Data management with a single eSIM profile
  • Tethering functionality available

eSIM allows you to use internet overseas simply by configuring mobile communication settings, without removing the tray and swapping SIM cards.

With Ubigi, it's a one-stop solution from purchase to usage start! If you're traveling to Japan, why not prepare a comfortable communication environment with Ubigi?

 

(Image source:Ubigi Official)

Compatible Devices SIM-unlocked iOS, Android, Windows
Coverage 200+ countries
Customer Support Email support 
Support Hours 9:00~17:00 (Japan Time)
Operating Company Transatel

Ubigi is a recommended eSIM service for the following 4 reasons:

Who Ubigi is recommended for

  • People who want to use stable Docomo network for Japan travel
  • People who want to check data balance and make additional purchases through an app
  • People who want to manage travel data plans with a single eSIM app

\ NTT Group's eSIM for 200 countries worldwide /

Purchase Ubigi data

First-time 10% discount code "WELCOME10"

-Review

📱 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