Sometimes, finding free WiFi on your Japan trip can be tough. I think most of us have been in a similar situation before, arriving at the airport only to find we can’t access important travel docs by email or order an Uber because there's no internet.
Imagine the hassle of finding a sushi spot without a reliable Internet! Image credits to @fahrulazmi on Instagram
And this often means that we’re forced to pay roaming charges. Although many Australian telco providers only charge up to AUD 5 per day for this service, the cost can quickly add up if you’re in Japan for a two-week period, as this works out at AUD 70 per device.
Imagine if you are bringing a family of four with a mobile each, that’s almost AUD 300 just for internet access!
So, what should you do?
Which one is better, a SIM card or a pocket WiFi?
Opting for a pocket WiFi or a SIM card during your stay makes your travel experience in Japan easier. It basically simplifies everything, from exploring the best local sushi spots to booking tours and attractions or just finding your way back to the hotel hassle-free.
Not only are pocket WiFi and SIM cards more budget-friendly than expensive roaming charges, but they also help you connect your Klook app without any buffering! This means you can explore and discover activities across Japan effortlessly.
Download Klook on your phone now and travel hassle-free! Image credits to Zoff
It's your ticket to enjoying all that Japan offers, connecting you to experiences with just a tap.
Now, which one is better?
Well, to answer this is quite hard as there is no right or wrong answer, but let us help you to choose what suits your travel the best. Stay tuned till the end of the blog!
A travel SIM card in Japan
1. Can you buy prepaid SIM cards in Japan?
Ordering foods or cab is easy with this travel SIM! Image credits to Melissa
Individuals aged 18 and above visiting Japan have the option to purchase a local Japanese SIM card. However, there are specific limitations. Foreign visitors entering Japan are limited to using data-only SIM cards, and they are required to register their passports in accordance with Japan's SIM card registration regulations.
2. What are the options for SIM cards in Japan?
Since Japan is one of the top tourist destinations in the world every year, there are plenty of SIM card options available for tourists. The most widely used are Mobal and SoftBank, as they are easily accessible to travellers, and offer English support services for foreigners. This is the most important thing to consider when travelling in a non-English-speaking country.
For detailed information on registration requirements, you can refer to the respective carrier's website.
3. Where can I easily purchase data for the Japan travel SIM card?
If you prefer a SIM card over a pocket WiFi, you can get one on Klook. These SIM cards offer fast and efficient service from Japan's primary mobile operator, enabling internet connectivity across Japan upon your arrival.
You can choose from prepaid SIM card packages with unlimited data valid for 8 to 31 days.
Since it uses the line of Japan's primary telco, these SIM cards provide 4G internet speed, making your important tasks like loading maps, downloading tickets, or ordering a taxi much easier.
Upload your stories in a snap! Image credits to Gabrielle Henderson on Unsplash
However, it's important to note that these SIM cards are specifically for data and do not include call or text services. If you need to use a voice-calling service, you are advised to get your 4G SIM card at the airport and register it manually with the help of the staff at the counter.
Please note that these apps require a live local number to work: PayPay, Mobile Suica, Uber Eats, Wolt, Mercari, and Yahoo! Japan.
4. How to collect and activate your 4G SIM card
Grab a SIM and stay connected. Image credits to Van Tay Media on Unsplash
You can collect your Klook 4G SIM card from an airport of your choice. These SIM cards are operated by Docomo and can be activated on arrival.
Upon receiving your SIM card, you'll get a guidebook at the counter explaining how to activate it. The staff at the counter will be able to help, too, in case you need it.
Simply insert the SIM card into your phone, and it will automatically activate. Your SIM card becomes active across Japan, making it the ideal travel companion as you explore this exciting country. Whether uploading photos on Instagram, posting videos on TikTok, or video calling via WhatsApp, it's a straightforward and easy solution.
Whether you opt for a pocket WiFi device or a SIM card, these handy devices are obviously cheaper than data roaming charges and offer exceptional convenience, allowing you to get out and explore this beautiful country and access all the main attractions.
They help you navigate the streets via Google Maps, upload your status to Snapchat, and get in touch with your family.
Stay connected wherever you are! Image credits to Jupiter
Don’t know where to pick up your SIM card? Learn to navigate the Tokyo Airport - from Narita to Haneda.
6. Are there short-term Japan SIM card options for tourists?
Only stopping by Japan for a few days? No worries, you can always opt for the 4G eSIM instead. This option lets you access the Internet anytime and anywhere with instant connectivity without needing to insert a SIM into your phone.
That's right! With technological advancements, using an eSIM is as simple as scanning a QR code sent via email, and your line is activated automatically.
4G eSIMs are compatible with newer iPhone and Android devices and come in a variety of options, with plans that include 2.5GB and 5GB for 5 to 10 days, perfect if you’re planning a one-week trip to the Land of the Rising Sun!
The best part is? An eSIM card lets you access the Internet without removing your old SIM card. So, you don't have to worry about missing your local SIM card!
A Portable WiFi in Japan
1. How to get portable WiFi in Japan?
Other than a 4G SIM card, you can opt for a portable wifi device (also known as pocket wifi) instead. You can use the Internet during your trip to Japan using this device which allows you to pay per day basis for WiFi rental. You’ll find the Portable 4G WiFi Plan convenient as it’s packed with unlimited data and can connect 5 devices max.
Travelling in group is easy with portable wifi! Image credits to Hanna
These devices come with a nine-hour battery life, cover the whole of Japan, and allow multi-device connectivity, so your whole family can access the internet, regardless of whether they’re scaling Mount Fuji or visiting the Kiyomizu-dera temple.
Certainly, this is cheaper than paying for a roaming service from your local telco!
If you are looking for one, look no further! You can choose from 3 GB to 10 GB of high-speed unlimited Internet per day on Klook.
It utilises Softbank Internet services to ensure that you get the fastest Internet during your travel to Japan.
2. How to collect your portable WiFi device?
Airport pick-ups and drop-offs made your travel easy! Image credits to Karla Mariz Zafe
When travelling to Japan, you can pick up your portable 4G WiFi devices with unlimited data from the main airports. Collecting your device from the airport is convenient as it means you’ll have your WiFi device for the entirety of your stay, providing you with a reliable connection and convenient communication while you travel.
And once you’ve finished exploring, you can drop your device back at the airport of your choice – it doesn’t have to be the same one you landed at.
Simply present your voucher at the Airport Service Counter in your airport of choice to receive your device (depending on the option you choose, some devices will require a refundable deposit to be paid).
3. How to activate your portable WiFi device?
The activation is easy, if you are not sure, just follow the manual given. Image credits to Ellyne
Activating these 4G WiFi devices is simple. Press the ‘Power’ button until the screen turns on and sync it to your phone using the password provided. When you no longer require the device, press the ‘Power’ button again until the screen turns off.
This will save battery life, meaning you can use the device throughout the day before charging it overnight, so it’s ready for a fresh day of exploration.
Now that you’ve got your WiFi, you’re ready to explore the cities of Japan! Check out the best ways to travel around the country:
Which one is the best choice for my travel to Japan?
Well, it depends on your usage, preferences, your stay location, and duration.
4G SIM Card | Portable WiFi Device | |
|---|---|---|
Advantages | Convenient: Easily fits into your phone. Portable: No additional device to carry. Flexible: Can add-on voice-calling or additional data. | Shareable: Connect multiple devices. Extended Battery Life: Doesn't drain your phone's battery. Wide Coverage: Generally has good signal strength. |
Considerations | Limited to your phone's connectivity. May not be shareable with other devices. | Need to carry the pocket WiFi device. May have a rental fee or need to place a deposit. |
In other words, if you are travelling in a group and are concerned about your phone's battery, the packet wifi should be the nice pick. You can share the data with up to 5 people, but it also means that all of your friends need to stick together!
If you are traveling solo and require a voice-calling, a 4G SIM card is the way to go.
Edited by: Zulqarnain Yusoff
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