5 Best eSIM for Japan Travel: How to Stay Online Easily
Looking for the best eSIM for Japan travel but not sure which one actually works? I’ve been there.
After a few trips (and a few slow connections), I finally found the eSIMs that make travel in Japan super easy. No lines at the airport, no confusing setup. Just scan, connect, and go.
In this post, I’ll share my top eSIM picks for speed, coverage, and value so you can stay online without a single headache.
What is an eSIM?
Basically, an eSIM (embedded SIM) is just a digital version of the little SIM card that used to go inside your phone.
But instead of swapping anything out, you download your mobile plan straight onto your device. No plastic cards, no fiddly tools, no panic at the airport.
It’s honestly one of the easiest ways to stay connected in Japan. You can buy a Japan eSIM online before you even leave home, scan a QR code, and you’re connected as soon as you land.
I love that I don’t have to deal with kiosks or guess which plan to buy after a long flight.
How eSIMs work for Japan travel
Here’s how it usually works:
- Pick a provider. I’ll share some good Japan eSIM options later.
- Buy your plan online before your trip.
- Check your inbox for a QR code (it usually shows up within minutes).
- Scan the QR code on your phone and follow the short setup steps.
- Land in Japan, and your eSIM automatically connects to a local network.
That’s literally it. You’re online and ready to explore.
Why I recommend using an eSIM in Japan
Once I started using eSIMs, I never looked back. It just makes travel smoother.
Here’s why you’ll love using an eSIM in Japan:
- You can buy and activate it before flying.
- Plans are flexible and easy to switch.
- You can keep your regular SIM active for WhatsApp or texts from home while using your eSIM for data in Japan.
- No extra plastic waste (a small win for the planet).
- Reliable coverage almost everywhere, from big cities to little onsen towns.
Just make sure your phone is unlocked and eSIM compatible before you buy. Once that’s checked, you’re ready to go.
Most modern phones support eSIMs, including:
- iPhones XS, XR, SE (2nd gen) and newer
- Google Pixel 3 and later
- Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer
Best eSIMs for Japan travel
If you’ve been comparing Japan eSIMs online, you’ve probably seen hundreds of options.
I’ve tried (and researched) a lot of Japan eSIMs, and honestly, not all of them are worth the hype. Some are super fast and reliable, while others struggle once you’re outside the cities.
Here are the ones that actually deliver solid coverage, quick setup, and good value.
Airalo
I’ve used Airalo on multiple trips, and it’s easily one of the fastest eSIMs for Japan. Their Moshi Moshi Japan plan connects to both SoftBank and KDDI au, so you get strong coverage even outside big cities.
Plans range from 1 GB / 7 days up to 20 GB / 30 days. If you’re also visiting Korea, Taiwan, or Southeast Asia, the Asialink eSIM is perfect. One SIM for multiple countries.
In independent speed tests, Airalo reached up to 140 Mbps. It’s perfect if you rely on maps, translation, or upload lots of photos like me.
Best for: speed, flexibility, and travelers visiting multiple countries.
Ubigi
I’ve used Ubigi a few times now, and honestly, it’s one of my top picks for Japan.
It runs on NTT Docomo’s network, Japan’s biggest and most reliable one, so you’ll stay connected even in smaller towns.
Plans start from 500 MB and go all the way up to 25 GB or unlimited, with monthly and yearly options too. The QR code arrives within seconds of purchase, and I had mine running in under 10 minutes.
Speed tests show around 70 Mbps, with strong coverage in Tokyo, Kyoto, and regional areas. It’s quick to load maps, scroll, and video call without buffering.
Best for: travelers who want fast speeds and dependable coverage across Japan.
Saily
Saily is one of those underrated gems that I think deserves more attention. It’s built by NordVPN’s parent company, so you get a few cool bonuses you won’t see elsewhere:
- Built-in ad blocker (saves data and battery)
- Web protection to keep your connection safe
- A virtual location tool (like a lightweight VPN)
Their plans start at US $3.99 for 1 GB / 7 days, and go up to 20 GB / 30 days. It’s simple to install through their mobile app, no QR code needed. Speed-wise, it’s solid in most urban areas, though a few users mention weaker indoor signal or slower LTE in rural regions.
Best for: budget-conscious travelers who still want privacy and solid data.
Sakura Mobile
If you prefer to buy from a Japanese company, Sakura Mobile is the one. It’s been trusted for years, and their eSIMs are made specifically for tourists and long-term visitors.
You can choose between data-only or voice + data plans, from 1 to 90 days, with data limits between 5 and 40 GB. I like that their customer support is fully in English, and setup only takes about 15 minutes.
Their plans run on NTT Docomo’s network, so coverage is strong. Their average download speed hits around 84 Mbps, so it’s fast enough for streaming or video calls, even outside the big cities.
Best for: first-time Japan visitors who want a reliable local provider and English help.
Mobal
Most eSIMs are data-only, but Mobal is different. It’s one of the few that gives you a real Japanese phone number, so you can make local calls. Super useful for restaurant bookings, deliveries, or emergencies.
They run on NTT Docomo’s network, which has the best overall coverage in Japan. Their short-term plans (8, 16, or 31 days) go from 3–100 GB, while long-term options can last 30–90 days or run monthly.!
Setup takes a bit longer because you’ll need to upload ID and wait for activation, but it’s worth it if you want reliable performance. Speed-wise, Mobal averages about 25 Mbps, which is perfectly fine for daily use.
Best for: longer trips or digital nomads who want a local number and stable network.
Which eSIM works best in Japan?
If you’re staying for a week or two, I’d go with Ubigi. It’s fast, simple, and reliable. And if you want fast performance without spending a fortune, I love Airalo.
If you need a Japanese number or plan to stay longer, Mobal is your best bet.
Whichever one you pick, eSIMs make life so much easier than lining up at the airport for a physical SIM.
How much data do you need in Japan?
If you’re getting ready for your Japan trip and wondering “how much GB do I need to get?”, you’re not alone. Between maps, Google Translate, and all the photos you’ll want to share, it adds up faster than you’d think!
A good rule of thumb: 1 GB per day
Most travelers (myself included) find that 1 GB per day is the sweet spot for regular use. If you plan to stream videos or video call friends back home, I’d go for 1.5–2 GB per day just to be safe.
How much data you’ll likely need
Here’s a quick guide based on how long you’re staying and how you use your phone:
- 3–5 days (light use): 3–5 GB should do it.
- 7–10 days (moderate use): 7–10 GB is ideal for typical Japan itineraries.
- 2 weeks (heavier use): 14–20 GB keeps you covered, even with some streaming.
- 1 month or long stay: 20–30 GB or an unlimited eSIM plan is your best bet.
What uses the most data in Japan
If you’re trying to figure out what’s eating through your data, here are a few sneaky culprits I’ve noticed:
- Video streaming or calls: 300–700 MB per hour, even on lower quality.
- Uploading photos/videos: Each one adds up fast (especially on Instagram!).
- Navigation apps: Google Maps and Apple Maps use about 5–10 MB per hour.
- Background app syncs: Turn these off before your flight as they drain data quietly.
Tips to stretch your data
- Download maps offline: Google Maps lets you do this. It’s a total lifesaver in rural areas.
- Use Wi-Fi when possible: Most hotels, cafés, and even train stations have it.
Turn off automatic app updates: Save them for when you’re back on Wi-Fi.
| Trip length | Data | Best for |
| 3–5 days | 3–5 GB | Short city trips, light browsing, using maps |
| 7–10 days | 7–10 GB | Standard Japan itinerary (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) |
| 2 weeks | 14–20 GB | Regular use + occasional streaming or video calls |
| 3–4 weeks | 20–30 GB | Long stays, work trips, or frequent navigation |
| 1 month+ | Unlimited data | Digital nomads or anyone relying on mobile data daily |
FAQs about Japan eSIM
Is eSIM better than a physical SIM card?
For short trips, yes! eSIMs save you the hassle of swapping cards and losing your home SIM. They activate instantly and usually offer great coverage through big Japanese networks like NTT Docomo, SoftBank, or KDDI au.
The only downside? Most eSIMs are data-only, so if you want to make local calls, look for one that includes a Japanese number.
Can I use my eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?
Yes! Most newer phones let you use dual SIMs, so you can keep your regular number active for messages or banking and use the Japan eSIM for data. I do this every trip. Just turn off data roaming for your home SIM so you don’t get surprise charges.
Do Japan eSIMs work everywhere in Japan or just in cities?
Most Japan eSIMs connect through the country’s major networks so you’ll get signal in most towns, on trains, and even in smaller onsen areas. In my experience, the only time it drops a bit is in remote mountain areas or deep valleys, and that’s the same for everyone, eSIM or not.
Can I use 5G with a Japan eSIM?
Yes, in big cities! Most providers offer 5G in places like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama. Just keep in mind it switches to 4G once you’re out in rural areas, but honestly, 4G in Japan is already super fast.
Can I use my Japan eSIM after leaving Japan?
Most Japan-specific eSIMs stop working once you leave the country, but some brands like Airalo Asialink or Ubigi’s regional plans cover nearby destinations too (like Korea and Taiwan). Perfect if you’re doing a multi-country Asia trip.
Can I buy an eSIM when I arrive in Japan?
Yes, but I honestly wouldn’t wait until then. You can get an eSIM at the airport (Narita, Haneda, or Kansai have vending machines and SIM counters), but prices are usually higher and setup takes longer when you’re jet-lagged. Buying it online before your trip means you land, switch off airplane mode, and you’re connected.
What happens if I run out of data on my Japan eSIM?
Most providers let you top up easily through their app or website. You just log in, buy extra data, and it’s added instantly. I’ve done this mid-train ride before. If your eSIM doesn’t support top-ups, just buy a second short-term plan from the same provider.
Can I share my Japan eSIM data with friends or family?
It depends on the provider. Some eSIMs (like Ubigi) let you hotspot, so you can share data between devices. I’ve done this for my partner’s phone, and it works great. Just check your plan terms as a few budget eSIMs disable tethering.
Are Japan eSIMs safe to use?
Yes, as long as you buy from a reputable company. Stick with providers like Airalo, Ubigi, Mobal, or Sakura Mobile. Avoid random marketplaces or third-party resellers with no reviews.
Before you go
If you’re getting your eSIM sorted, you’re already halfway to an easy Japan trip. Once you’re connected, you’ll be set for everything, from finding your next ramen spot to snapping photos at festivals or booking your ryokan stay.
If you’re still planning where to go, check out my guide to the best family onsen towns in Japan. They’re perfect for a relaxing escape, even with kids.
Autumn or spring travel? You’ll love my post on Japan festivals. It’s full of local events, matsuri dates, and free celebrations worth adding to your itinerary.
And if you’re packing right now, save yourself some stress with my Japan packing list.
Lastly, if Tokyo’s on your list, don’t miss my round-up of the best ryokans in Tokyo. These stays blend the traditional Japanese experience with the convenience of being right in the city.
