How to Get Internet in Japan | Pocket Wi-Fi & More

Japan is a fascinating nation and dream destination for many people. It`s also distant for numerous travelers, which is why understanding how to access the internet in Japan before your trip is important.

Thankfully, there exist multiple good options to help access the internet while exploring this lovely country, and I`ll outline how each works in this guide. I`m certain you`ll discover an alternative fitting your trip type and needs. While connectivity isn`t essential to enjoying Japan, having Internet access abroad proves handy when directions, translations or other information is needed.

During our travels, we utilize the Holafly eSIM card, which I give a strong recommendation since using a network while in Japan can be very expensive. Provided your device is compatible, Holafly is the best choice because it’s convenient, simple to install, and cost-effective. If, upon looking at the other choices in this guide, you feel Holafly is the optimal selection for your needs, we have a discount code you can take advantage of for added savings.

However, if you don’t have a compatible phone, or you prefer a physical SIM card, I suggest obtaining a SimOptions card that will be shipped to your address so you can insert it into your device before your trip.

Continue reading to receive an overview of the best approaches to obtain Internet in Japan so that you can avoid paying a high amount on your phone after your trip.

Roaming in Japan

While utilizing roaming services to access the Internet in Japan is possible, I do not recommend it. Roaming refers to using your phone abroad similarly to how you would use it at home. Your phone provider will connect to one of Japan’s local cellular networks, allowing you to browse the web and employ mobile data.

However, this alternative necessitates that your device be compatible with Japan’s network infrastructure. Additionally, if your phone doesn’t automatically trigger roaming, you’ll need to contact customer service and request they activate that function.

Additionally, using wireless networks in Japan is highly priced, with telephone businesses charging $5 to $10 or more for each megabyte, causing a huge bill when you return home. Instead, I suggest employing one of the techniques below to get Internet access in Japan since they’re much more affordable and trouble-free.

How to get Internet in Japan

There are several approaches to accessing mobile Internet while in Japan, though we particularly appreciate the Holafly eSIM, a digital SIM card with differing data bundles. Of course, you may favor another option, which is why I’m providing 6 methods for getting Internet access in Japan:

1. Holafly eSIM card
2. SimOptions card
3. Local SIM card
4. Pocket Wi-Fi
5. Public Wi-Fi network
6. Traveling abroad in Japan

1. Holafly eSIM, the best way to get Internet in Japan

Initially, the Holafly eSIM is highly recommended by me due to its ease and convenience. It’s a digital SIM card, so you’ll get it by email. It’s suitable if your device lacks a dual SIM card slot, or you’re already abroad.

To attain the eSIM, simply head to the Holafly website and choose your location. Most countries have several eSIM possibilities depending on the length of your trip, and they all allow for unlimited data usage. Once making your selection, you’ll receive the eSIM through email and can scan the QR code to immediately access the Internet in Japan.

Another beneficial aspect of Holafly is that it provides customer support through email or live chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, not all mobile devices are compatible with eSIM cards, so check if yours is compatible before making a purchase. Also, you cannot share mobile data with this digital SIM card, so your travel companions would need to obtain their own card if they want mobile internet access in Japan.

Below are the prices for the various international eSIM cards. Remember, you can receive a discount on Holafly through our link!

2. SimOptions card, another good way to get Japanese Internet

If you favor a physical SIM card, then SimOptionsis the best way to get Internet in Japan. Through this service, you can purchase your SIM card online and have it sent to your home within 1-3 business days. Then, insert it into your phone’s SIM card slot, and you can initiate utilizing your data.

It is important to order your card before your trip since delivery by regular mail takes a few days. You can see the various delivery options here. The website also allows you to chat with customer support or email them if you have any questions or issues.

Overall, SimOptions is a viable choice if your device has two card slots. This allows you to keep your default SIM card in your phone and still insert the international SIM card for travelers abroad. This Japanese data card comes in standard, micro, and nano formats, so compatibility shouldn`t be an issue.

Similar to Holafly, SimOptions offers plans depending on trip duration and data needs, and pricing is displayed below:

3. Local SIM card, another way to access the Internet in Japan

Another option available for accessing the Internet while in Japan is through the purchase and use of a local prepaid SIM card upon arriving at your destination. These cards can be obtained from company stores as well as authorized retailers and are also available for sale at some airports, malls, and train stations.

In this manner, you can procure the card without any type of data plan, then replenish it online or at the store when you need more data. Commonly, the card gets activated in the store when you purchase it, although you may also be able to go on the official website or mobile app to activate it.

While these cards can easily be utilized, the foremost downside is figuring out if they’re compatible with your device. You should also be conscious that specialized support is usually merely obtainable in Japanese, which will cause troubles if problems arise. Eventually, these regional cards solely provide Internet connection in Japan for a most thirty days, so it’s not the simplest choice for long-term trips.

We provide guidance on the most suitable SIM cards for Japan, but below is a brief overview of the available options and pricing:”

4. Pocket Wi-Fi, a way to enjoy portable Wi-Fi in Japan

Another common way to access the internet in Japan involves using portable Wi-Fi. A pocket Wi-Fi device, or wireless router, allows connection to a Wi-Fi network through a phone or other mobile device. It may contain a physical or digital SIM card with cellular data capabilities and connects to Wi-Fi in much the same way as at home.

We utilize the Solis router to work from our laptops when traveling abroad, even though there are other available choices specifically for Japan. If you wish to explore this option, I recommend renting a Japanese pocket Wi-Fi devicehere, which can be picked up at the airport or delivered to your hotel. You will simply need to fill out the online form with some basic information, as well as your flight number and the dates you require the service.

With a moveable Wi-Fi router in Japan, you can remain connected and utilize the Internet whenever and wherever you desire. Once you’re finished using the rental, return it to one of the post boxes across Japan or at the airport, using the shipping envelope that accompanied the device .

5. Public Wi-Fi network, a free way to get Internet in Japan

Another selection is making use of the free Wireless networks in public spaces like shopping complexes, eateries, and the Tokyo subway. While you’ll be able to access complimentary Internet in Japan in this manner, you’ll be utilizing a public network, which includes its own disadvantages.

For instance, some open Wi-Fi networks only permit you to access the Internet for a restricted time, and if you’re frequently on the move, this option is fairly impractical. There are also privacy and security matters of concern, so it’s not the most suitable solution .

6. Roaming, an easy way to access Japan’s Internet

Finally, for a quick and simple option, activating the international data capability in Japan could be considered. Most mobile devices turn this function on automatically, but using data overseas often results in high costs. Some phones don’t even offer this service in Japan as the expenses are very elevated.

You can check with your provider to see roaming rates and fees, and if you want to make sure roaming is deactivated on your device, go to the settings menu, and make sure data roaming is turned off.

How much does roaming Internet in Japan cost?

If you’re wondering about the cost to obtain Internet access in Japan through roaming, the answer depends on the phone provider. Some locations offer special deals or data plans, but the price can still be steep, costing more than $10 per megabyte.

Moreover, these are usually daily plans, so the expenses can really accumulate. I always advise checking the rates and terms in advance and deactivating roaming on your device if you do not intend to utilize this service.

How to use the Internet in Japan to make calls

In Japan, individuals from outside nations face limitations obtaining calling cards, so if you wish to place calls, you are able obtain a SIM card with mobile data.

As visitors are unable to maintain a Japanese phone number, I recommend employing a mobile application permitting calls, such as WhatsApp, Messenger, or Skype. Naturally, to implement these programs a quality Internet connectionin Japan is necessitated.

What is the best way to get Internet in Japan?

To summarize, if you want to access the internet in Japan, I propose obtaining a Holafly eSIM card. We enjoy using Holafly on our trips because purchasing and installing it is very quick and simple. For internet connections in Japan, Holafly offers eSIMs for 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, and 90 days, all with unlimited data.

However, you are unable to share data with other devices, so each traveler in your group must acquire an eSIM card. Even if you’re already abroad, you can still obtain one since it gets delivered to your email. Additionally, you can get a discount for being a Capture the Atlas reader. So, if after reviewing through our Holafly review, you decide to use this service, click our link to save money on your eSIM.

For individuals needing to utilize the Internet in Japan to work from a laptop, I recommend a portable Wi-Fi device. We employ the Solis router, which functions in Asia, but you can also lease a pocket Wi-Fi router in Japan by using this connection.

I hope this guide helps you get the best Internet in Japan, but if you have any questions or comments, leave them below. I’ll be happy to answer you! Enjoy your adventure in Japan!