How to Buy eSIM in Japan: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

How to Buy eSIM in Japan: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

05 November 2025Jon Ng
Partager

Buying an eSIM in Japan is simple and convenient, whether you choose to purchase it online before your trip or buy one after you arrive.

The easiest way to stay connected is to buy an eSIM online in advance, then activate it when you land to avoid losing any data time.

This way, you’ll have mobile data ready to use as soon as you step off the plane.

You can find a variety of data plans that fit short visits or longer stays, and eSIMs work with many devices without needing a physical SIM card.

If you prefer, you can also buy an eSIM at airports or local stores in Japan, where staff can help you set it up on your phone.

How to Buy eSIM in Japan

cheap esim in japan

Understanding eSIM Technology

eSIM technology changes how we connect to networks by removing the need for a physical SIM card.

It offers a faster setup and works well for travelers in Japan who want mobile data without hassle.

Knowing how it works, differs from regular SIMs, and your device’s needs will help you pick the right option.

What Is an eSIM and How It Works

An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded inside your phone or device.

Unlike a physical SIM card, which you insert manually, an eSIM lets you download mobile plans via a QR code or activation link.

This means you can activate your mobile service instantly, without visiting a store or swapping cards.

With eSIM in Japan, I can get connected right when I land by scanning a QR code from a provider like Sakura Mobile.

The eSIM accesses local networks like NTT docomo or KDDI au, giving reliable coverage without the need for physical cards.

eSIM vs. Physical SIM: Key Differences

The biggest difference is that a physical SIM is a small plastic card you insert and remove, while an eSIM is built inside your device.

Advantages of eSIM:

  • No need to buy or carry a physical card
  • Instant setup by scanning a QR code
  • Switch between plans without changing SIMs
  • Works immediately on arrival in Japan

Limitations:

  • Only compatible devices can use eSIM
  • You can’t physically remove or swap it
  • Some providers may limit plan extensions

In Japan, eSIMs often provide better prices and no long waits, unlike physical SIMs bought at airports or stores.

 

Device Compatibility and Requirements

Not all phones support eSIM.

Most newer iPhones (from XR and later) and many recent Android models like Samsung Galaxy S and Google Pixel work with eSIMs.

To check if my phone supports eSIM, I look for an "EID" number in Settings > About Phone or Settings > General > About on iPhones.

I need a device with eSIM functionality plus the ability to scan QR codes to download the eSIM profile.

If my device isn’t compatible, I have to use a physical SIM instead.

Some devices allow using both an eSIM and a physical SIM together, which is good for managing multiple numbers.

Why Choose eSIM for Japan Travel

When I travel to Japan, I always look for easy and fast ways to stay connected.

Using an eSIM gives me flexibility with my phone plans, reliable internet, and sometimes even a local phone number.

Advantages for International Visitors

For me, one of the biggest benefits of an eSIM is that I can activate it before arriving in Japan.

I don’t need to hunt for a physical SIM card or stand in long airport lines.

Just scanning a QR code sets up my data instantly.

Because eSIM works digitally, I avoid language problems that can happen when buying SIM cards in person.

Many eSIM providers also offer full English support, which helps if I need help during the trip.

Also, eSIM lets me switch between my home carrier and a Japanese carrier without changing SIM cards.

This is great for travelers who want to keep their home number active without extra roaming charges.

Unlimited Data Plans and Connectivity

Connecting through local networks like NTT docomo or KDDI au means I get fast and stable internet coverage.

Some eSIM providers in Japan, like Sakura Mobile, offer unlimited 5G data plans with no slowdowns, allowing me to stream, navigate, or video call without worry.

Many plans are designed for short-term visitors, so they include flexible durations—from a few days to a month or more.

I can pick a plan that matches my travel length and data needs, often at better prices than international roaming or pocket WiFi devices.

Most eSIMs support hotspot use, so I can share my connection with other devices easily.

Obtaining a Japanese Phone Number

Some eSIM plans offer a local Japanese phone number.

This can be useful if I need to receive calls or texts while in Japan, especially for reservations or local services that require contacting me by phone.

Having a local number also helps avoid high international call costs.

Not all eSIM providers offer this, so I check if it’s included when choosing a plan.

Getting a Japanese phone number through an eSIM is simpler than registering a physical SIM card because there’s no need to visit stores or fill out lengthy forms.

Everything is handled online, saving time and hassle.

Where to Buy eSIM in Japan

Buying an eSIM for Japan can be done in a few clear ways.

You can get it online before your trip, buy it right after landing at the airport or local shops, or choose from official providers and trusted brands known for reliable service.

Buying eSIM Online Before Arrival

I prefer buying my Japan eSIM online before I fly.

It’s fast and easy.

You pick a plan, pay, and get a QR code by email.

This lets you activate your eSIM the moment you land without any waiting.

Some reliable providers I trust are Sakura Mobile, Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and Saily.

They offer English support and fair prices.

Buying online means no need to deal with language barriers or airport lines.

You can choose local Japanese eSIMs that use networks like NTT docomo for strong, fast connection.

Online options usually offer good deals and unlimited data plans for different lengths of stay.

 

Purchasing eSIM at Airports and Local Retailers

If you didn’t buy an eSIM before your trip, you can still get one at major airports like Narita, Haneda, or Kansai.

Airport kiosks sell eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Staff may help, but English support varies.

Local stores like Bic Camera, Don Quijote, and some convenience stores also sell eSIMs or SIM cards.

These places are good if you need a quick purchase inside Japan, but options can be limited and often cost more than online.

At airports and stores, selections might be smaller, and setup could take longer if you’re new to eSIM activation.

Official Providers and Trusted Brands

I recommend choosing well-known providers for a worry-free experience.

Sakura Mobile is one of the top local eSIM companies, offering unlimited 5G data on the reliable KDDI au network.

They provide full English support and instant QR code delivery.

Other trusted names like NTT docomo are behind many local eSIMs.

Global providers such as Airalo and Holafly offer convenience but use roaming networks, which might be slower or more expensive.

Look for providers with clear pricing, easy setup, and good customer support.

This ensures your eSIM works properly wherever you go in Japan.

How to Purchase and Activate Your eSIM

Buying and setting up an eSIM in Japan is a straightforward process.

You’ll need to choose a plan that fits your travel needs, then follow clear steps to purchase and install the digital SIM.

Once installed, activation is quick and usually done by scanning a QR code on your device.

Selecting the Right eSIM Plan

When selecting my eSIM plan, I focus on trip length, data needs, and network quality.

Many providers offer plans ranging from a few days to 30 days or more.

I look for options with unlimited data or enough data to cover streaming, maps, and calls.

I prefer plans on local Japanese networks like NTT docomo or KDDI au for better coverage and speeds.

English customer support is important to me in case I need help.

Some providers allow top-ups or extensions, but others do not, especially unlimited plans that are often one-time purchases.

Comparing prices helps too.

Short-term plans usually cost between 2,000 and 4,000 yen for a week, while longer plans vary more depending on data allowances.

Step-by-Step Purchase Process

First, I verify that my phone supports eSIM by checking the device’s settings for an EID or eSIM option.

Then, I visit a trusted provider’s website or app.

Popular sources include Sakura Mobile, Airalo, and Nomad.

I pick the plan that fits my stay and enter my payment details.

Providers usually send a QR code instantly via email.

This allows me to buy the eSIM before traveling or even upon arrival to Japan.

If I need support, I check if the provider offers English customer service online.

Buying online is cheaper and faster than airport kiosks or physical stores, which can have limited stock and longer waits.

eSIM Installation and Activation Instructions

Once I have the QR code, I connect to WiFi and open my phone’s settings.

On iPhones, I go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM and scan the QR code.

On Android devices, I go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs or similar, then add the eSIM.

If any APN settings are needed, the provider usually includes instructions.

After installation, the eSIM activates immediately, and I’m ready to use mobile data anywhere in Japan.

I keep in mind that deleting the eSIM profile usually means I cannot reinstall it without contacting the provider, so I avoid removal unless necessary.

My eSIM works well for hotspot use, which is useful when sharing internet with other devices during my trip.

Comparing Top Japan eSIM Providers

Choosing the right eSIM for Japan means looking closely at network coverage, plan details, and whether unlimited data or calls are offered.

Different providers have their strengths depending on location, usage needs, and budget.

Coverage and Supported Networks

Network coverage in Japan mainly depends on three carriers: NTT Docomo, KDDI au, and SoftBank.

I noticed that Japan Wireless uses both NTT Docomo and KDDI au networks, which means better coverage in cities, rural areas, and even trains.

Saily eSIM connects only through KDDI au, which is strong in urban centers and popular train routes but less reliable in remote regions.

Ubigi runs on NTT Docomo’s network, excellent for rural areas but sometimes pricier.

Providers like Sakura Mobile focus on local coverage, often providing stable connections on Japan’s top carriers.

Global brands like Airalo and Holafly offer convenience but may depend on the same carriers with some limits in speed or coverage.

Plan Features and Pricing

There’s a wide range of eSIM data plans available for Japan trips.

Providers generally offer fixed data and unlimited options.

Japan Wireless offers both unlimited daily plans, usually with a 3 GB high-speed daily cap before throttling, and cheaper fixed data packages from 5 GB upwards.

Price-wise, these plans are competitive and often include hotspot support.

Saily eSIM excels with very affordable small data packages starting at 1 GB, perfect if you don’t need much data.

Nomad eSIM and Holafly also offer flexible short-term plans.

Some plans include a Japanese phone number, which can be useful for local calls but often adds to the cost.

Make sure to check if tolls or calls are covered if this is important to you.

Support for Unlimited Data and Calls

Unlimited data plans often come with daily speed limits.

For example, Japan Wireless’s unlimited plans typically allow 3 GB at full speed per day before slowing down.

There is an option for a premium plan with no throttling at a higher price.

Saily’s unlimited plans do not throttle daily, which makes them more attractive if you need constant high-speed access.

However, their support is app-based live chat, which can be slower than phone assistance.

On the calls side, some providers include or offer local Japanese phone numbers for calls, but most focus mainly on data.

If you want call support, confirm beforehand.

When buying, consider providers like Japan Wireless if you want reliable support through phone and email.

Others like Ubigi rely mostly on FAQs and email, which may delay issue resolution.

Important Tips for Using eSIM in Japan

Using an eSIM in Japan can be simple if you pay attention to a few key details.

Timing your activation, managing your data wisely, and knowing how to switch plans can make your stay smoother and avoid unexpected problems.

Activation Timing and Avoiding Common Issues

I always activate my Japan eSIM either just before landing or soon after arrival.

This way, I avoid missing out on data when I need it most.

Activating too early, especially while still abroad, can sometimes cause connection errors or roaming charges.

Before scanning the QR code for installation, I make sure to connect to a stable WiFi.

This prevents setup failures.

Also, I turn off any other active SIMs on my phone to avoid conflicts during installation.

Compatibility is critical.

Not all phones support eSIMs, so I check my device’s settings for an EID number before purchase.

If using Android, I may need to enter APN settings manually after activation.

Data Usage Management and Fair Usage Policies

When I use an eSIM in Japan, I pay close attention to data limits and fair usage policies (FUP).

Some plans advertise “unlimited” data but may slow speeds after a certain amount of use, often around 3GB to 60GB depending on the provider.

If I choose an unlimited plan like those from Sakura Mobile, I expect no slowdowns or hidden caps.

For plans with FUP, I watch my daily or monthly data carefully using the provider’s app or my phone’s data tracker.

If I run out, some providers allow top-ups or extensions, especially on 4G plans.

Unlimited 5G plans often do not support extra data purchases, so I plan accordingly.

Switching Plans or Providers During Your Trip

Sometimes my travel plans change, and I need to switch eSIM plans or providers.

I make sure to understand the terms before buying because not all eSIMs support extensions or reactivations.

If I want to switch providers, I delete the current eSIM profile and activate the new one by scanning a fresh QR code.

Once I delete an eSIM, I cannot reinstall the same one without contacting customer support immediately.

Choosing a provider with good English support is important for smooth switching and problem-solving during my trip.

I also double-check if my phone supports multiple eSIMs or uses dual SIM mode to keep both local and home numbers active.

More articles

How to Buy ETC Card in Japan
How to Buy ETC Card in Japan: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
05 November 2025
How to Buy Wegovy in Japan
How to Buy Wegovy in Japan: Access, Process, and Key Considerations
05 November 2025