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SIM Cards in Japan: The Best Prepaid Plans | 2025 Guide

Traveling to Japan? That is awesome!

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If you are up for taking in the breathtaking cherry blossoms in Kyoto, diving into the bustling streets of Tokyo, or chilling out in the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido, staying online is crucial for getting the most out of your adventure in Japan.

If you are hopping between cities, translating Japanese menus, or staying in touch with newfound pals, trust me (from one traveler to another), a solid internet connection is your ultimate travel sidekick. 

The moment you land, the bustling cities and picturesque landscapes invite you to share and stay connected. A common misconception most people have is that international roaming is the easiest choice to go for. However, you might be shocked that it often comes with hefty costs and limitations.

Want to skip a shocking phone bill in Japan? Snagging a local SIM is your best bet. Saves cash and gives you top-notch net speed and pocket wifi. Some providers even offer packages with unlimited data! That means your Instagram stories of bustling Tokyo or serene Zen gardens can zip online without a hitch.

But here is the kicker: Where do you even begin? Japan throws a heap of physical SIM card options your way, each with its own perks and quirks. Sorting out where to buy a physical SIM card and which plan to choose can be a headache.

No worries—I have got your back.

Stick around for the lowdown on picking the perfect SIM card that fits your vibe and keeps you connected while you are jet-setting in Japan. 

If you are planning on skipping around to the neighboring countries around East Asia, check out my guide for getting the best prepaid SIM plans around the area. 

Source

Reasons To Get Prepaid Japan SIM Cards

Thinking about roaming through Japan’s stunning spots and busy streets? Trust me, you will want a local SIM card. Here is why I think it is essential:

Stay Connected Effortlessly

With good connections, weaving through Tokyo’s buzz or finding that hidden gem in Kyoto is a piece of cake. With a local SIM, maps, instant language translation, and transport schedules are all in your hands—like carrying pocket wifi around! With unlimited data, you will feel like you are still at home.

Save on Costs

Ever noticed how steep those data roaming fees can get? Go local with your SIM to cut costs on data, and stay on top of your spending with prepaid options—no nasty bill surprises.

Experience Japan Like a Local

A local number makes everything smoother— whether you order dinner online or book tours. It makes web searches smoother and, sometimes, more welcoming for service providers who prefer dealing with local contacts.

Quick and Easy to Get

You can grab a SIM at the airport, any city convenience store, or at the post office once you land. Activation is quick, getting you connected in no time.

Reliable Service and Coverage

Japanese mobile networks really deliver, even way off the beaten path. Whether you are scaling Mount Fuji or hanging out at a local festival in the countryside, you can bet your service will hold up.

From what I have seen, whether you are a first-timer or repeat visitor, a local SIM in Japan isn’t just smart for saving money—it keeps you connected and safe while you soak up all the culture.

Where Can You Buy Japanese SIM Cards?

Simply landing from your home country at most international airports in Japan is enough. At Narita, Haneda, and Kansai airports, there are booths packed with prepaid SIM cards from leading carriers. Handy, right? Plus, there are usually English-speaking staff around to help answer any questions you have, helping you get the right one.

In case you miss out on grabbing one at the airport, no biggie—electronic stores sell them too. Swing by places like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera, where you can browse through a bunch of SIM cards and compare different plans right there on the spot.

Prices

The initial outlay for prepaid SIM cards usually starts off at approximately 3 000 JPY for a standard deal, providing roughly 3 GB of data that lasts for a month. If you think you will burn through more data, there are options with beefier data caps, although they will set you back a tad more.

A Note on eSIMs

For a smoother start, think about going for an eSIM. It is super convenient because you can handle everything online before you even touch down in Japan. Skip the hassle of physical cards—just a quick QR code scan and you are good to go. 

If that seems like a better option, I have a thorough eSIM card guide of multiple options that I have tried and tested in at least two countries and four cities.

Keep these tips handy, and you will be all set to choose the best SIM card Japan has to offer that suits both your needs and your budget, ensuring you stay connected throughout your journey.

© SoftBank Japan

SoftBank Japan

When I touched down in Japan, I went with a SoftBank SIM card, a hit among many travelers. I will walk you through my SoftBank saga so you can figure out if it is the match for you.

Coverage: SoftBank Japan

SoftBank’s coverage is extensive across Japan, and I can personally attest to its reliability. This is the coverage map for SoftBank's SIM card, as discovered on Speedtest's website:

Whether I was amid Tokyo’s dazzling lights or enjoying the serene scenes of Kyoto, I was connected without a hitch. In urban centers, the 4G LTE service was fast.

Surprisingly, even off the beaten path in less accessible spots, I still managed to snag a signal—definitely more than I bargained for!

And with 5G getting fired up in the big cities like Osaka and Nagoya, you will soon be able to tap into even quicker speeds. Here is what stood out about SoftBank’s SIM card:

  • Urban excellence: In major cities, internet speed is lightning fast, making navigation and live-streaming a breeze.
  • Rural connectivity: While hiking in rural parts of Japan, I still managed to share updates thanks to decent coverage.
  • 5G rollout: If your phone supports it, you can access 5G in select areas, which is a game-changer for high-demand online activities.

Prepaid SIM Cards Price: SoftBank Japan

Prepaid Japan SIM card prices at SoftBank come in a range to suit everyone's pockets and purposes. I went for a prepaid SIM card that cost me 4 500 JPY, giving me plenty of data for my short stay. 

Deals, Packages, Bundles, and Offers: SoftBank Japan

SoftBank offers a single data-centric prepaid plan for their tourist SIM card, priced at 1 650 JPY, providing 500 MB of data for a duration of 31 days.

You can buy this plan multiple times, with each activation adding another 31 days to the validity of your tourist SIM card.

Refill & Check Your Balance: SoftBank Japan

Recharging my SoftBank SIM card was straightforward. I could top up my balance at SoftBank stores, convenience stores, or by dialing 1400. Each method was user-friendly, had fast and secure delivery, and I appreciated the flexibility.

Here is how I managed my account:

  • SoftBank and convenience stores: Just walk into any SoftBank store, Lawson, FamilyMart, or 7-Eleven, and you can easily top up your SIM card.
  • Calling: To top up your SoftBank SIM card, you can call 1400 and follow the instructions. You can also call the same number to check your SoftBank balance.

APN/Internet Settings: SoftBank Japan

Setting up the APN for SoftBank on my smartphone was a breeze. There were instructions provided with the SIM package, which I followed without any hitches. Here are the steps I took:

  • Inserted the SIM card and restarted my phone;
  • Found “Mobile networks” in my settings;
  • Tapped “Access Point Names” → “+” in the action bar, and specified the “APN”, “Username”, and “Password”.

Once set up, the network was activated, and I was ready to go online. SoftBank made staying connected in Japan easy and hassle-free for me. Whether you are a social media enthusiast or need solid navigation aids, their service is something you can rely on during your Japanese adventure.

COMST Japan

Exploring the various other SIM card providers for Japan options, I have come across COMST, a provider that is gained traction among both locals and travelers. Let's see what makes COMST an appealing choice if you are planning a visit to Japan.

Coverage: COMST Japan

COMST operates as an NTT DoCoMo MVNO, utilizing the NTT DoCoMo MVNO network rather than maintaining its own mobile infrastructure. NTT DoCoMo boasts the most comprehensive coverage throughout Japan, although all mobile operators in the country offer essentially flawless nationwide service.

While you do not get full access to the NTT DoCoMo network, I was genuinely surprised by how well COMST Japan kept me connected. No matter if I was in bustling Tokyo or trekking through remote Hokkaido, I was always online. Their network is robust, even reaching some pretty remote spots:

  • Major cities: Seamless connectivity in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and more.
  • Rural areas: Reliable service in places like Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.
  • Tourist spots: Strong signals at popular locations such as Mt. Fuji and Hiroshima.

Knowing you can rely on consistent internet access with COMST is reassuring, especially when navigating a new country.

SIM Card Price: COMST Japan

Cost is always a factor when I choose a SIM card, and COMST Japan offers competitive pricing that doesn't break the bank. Here is a breakdown of their basic Japan SIM card options:

  • A 30-day SIM card with 2 GB data for 2 750 JPY;
  • A 30-day SIM card with 5 GB data for 3 520 JPY;
  • A 30-day SIM card with 300 MB/day (9 000 MB) for 3 740 JPY;
  • A 30-day SIM card with 10 GB for 3 960 JPY.

© COMST Japan

These rates are typical for Japan, making COMST a wallet-friendly choice for travelers who are after reliable service without breaking the bank. They also throw in some deals and discounts now and then, which can trim your costs even more.

Refill & Check Your Balance: COMST Japan

Staying connected without hassle is crucial, and COMST Japan makes it incredibly easy to top up and check your balance. Here is how I manage my account:

  • Top-Up Options:
    • Convenience stores: Easily purchase top-ups at Family Mart, 7-Eleven, and Lawson.
    • Online: Use their website to recharge directly from your phone or laptop.
  • Checking Balance:
    • COMST website: Their site also lets you check your usage in real time.

This convenience means I spend less time worrying about my connection and more time enjoying my travels.

Deals, Packages, Bundles, and Offers: COMST Japan

COMST offers just one prepaid plan with data: the Recharge Plans (data). They are a bit more budget-friendly compared to the starting rates for COMST SIM cards. Some options I found are that you can get 1 GB for 15 days at 1 000 JPY, 3 GB for 30 days at 1 800 JPY, 7 GB for 30 days at 2 500 JPY, or 9 GB (300 MB/day) for 30 days at 3 000 JPY.

APN/Internet Settings: COMST Japan

Setting up my first SIM card with COMST was straightforward. Their APN settings were easy to configure, and I was online in no time. Here is a quick guide on setting it up:

  • Name: COMST Internet
  • APN: linksmate.jp
  • Username: user
  • Password: mate

After these settings were entered, I restarted my device, and just like that, I was ready to explore Japan with a reliable internet connection at my fingertips.

Figuring out SIM cards in Japan can be tricky, but COMST Japan has really simplified things for me. Their wide network, reasonable costs, and straightforward recharge methods mean I hardly have to think about my phone connection while I soak up Japan's stunning and lively culture.

© IIJmoi (Japan Travel SIM)

IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

When I was figuring out how to stay online during my trip to Japan, I found the IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM card. Honestly, it changed the game for me. Here are a few insights that might help you figure out if it is a good fit for your trip.

Coverage: IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

Japan is renowned for its cutting-edge technology, and IIJmoi SIM card Japan doesn't fall short when it comes to network quality and coverage. I found that their Japan Travel SIM provided extensive coverage that includes both bustling city centers and more serene, rural areas. Here is what caught my attention:

  • Urban accessibility: In major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, the connection was flawless. I could stream videos, navigate maps, and post on social media without a hitch.
  • Rural reach: Venturing out to quieter spots like the Nara countryside or the coastal roads of Hokkaido, I still had reliable service. It was reassuring to know I could access my maps and essential travel apps even in less populated areas.
  • Transport connectivity: Even on speedy shinkansen rides, my connection remained stable, which was perfect for sharing my travel moments in real time.

SIM Card Price: IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

You will find the IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM at resellers like Bic Camera, Joshin, and Yodobashi Camera. Plus, you can grab one at different airports, including Haneda (HND) and the Narita airport (NRT) in Tokyo.

The Japan Travel SIM card comes in several price tiers, which I found to be quite reasonable, especially considering the comprehensive coverage. Here is a breakdown:

  • 1 GB of data available for 15 days for 1 990 JPY; 
  • 2 GB of data available for 3 months for 3 020 JPY;
  • 3 GB of data available for 30 days for 3 020 JPY;

Refill & Check Your Balance: IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

One of the conveniences I appreciated about the IIJmoi SIM card was the ease of managing it. 

Here’s how simple it is:

  • Top-Up options: You can top up online through their website, which is available in English—a big plus for those of us who might struggle with Japanese!
  • Checking your balance: The IIJmoi portal lets you check your data usage and balance effortlessly, so you are never caught off guard.
  • Flexibility: The freedom to add more data as needed means you won’t have to worry about running low at an inconvenient time.

Deals, Packages, Bundles, and Offers: IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

IIJmoi offers a few packages, catering to different types of travelers. Looking to stay connected in Japan, whether for work or fun? There is probably a plan that fits just right:

APN/Internet Settings: IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM

Setting up the IIJmoi SIM card was a breeze. Their instructions were clear, and I had my internet running in no time. Here is what you need to know:

  • APN setup: The package comes with simple instructions for configuring your Access Point Name (APN). Pop in a few details into your phone settings, and bam, you are online.
    • Name: iijmio
    • APN: iijmio.jp
    • Username: mio@iij
    • Password: iij
  • Troubleshooting tips: If you run into problems, they have got detailed guides to help you out.
  • Customer support: They have a team ready to help in both English and Japanese, which is great when you need a bit of tailored assistance.

Using the IIJmoi Japan Travel SIM card made my Japan journey smooth and connected, allowing me to focus on enjoying the stunning sights and unique experiences without worrying about connectivity issues.

Mobal Japan

Mobal Japan turned out to be a dependable ally on my journeys. Fun fact: it is probably the only provider out there that lets tourists make phone calls in Japan. Here is what Mobal has in store for those of us roaming around Japan.

Coverage: Mobal Japan

Mobal's coverage is impressive, stretching across Japan. From the glowing scenes of Akihabara to the serene temples of Nara, I hardly ever had issues with my connection. Mobal uses the extensive networks of major Japanese carriers, ensuring:

  • Consistent urban coverage: In cities, I enjoyed seamless pocket WiFi and service, perfect for navigating Google Maps or posting to Instagram.
  • Rural accessibility: Even in more secluded areas, such as hiking trails in Hokkaido, I was pleasantly surprised by the persistent signal.

Their wide coverage ensures that whether you are catching a bullet train or relaxing in a remote onsen, you will likely stay connected.

SIM Card Price: Mobal Japan

You can grab a Mobal SIM card online for as low as 3 990 JPY, with prices going up to 16 500 JPY. Plus, you can pick it up at convenient spots like airports (Travelex), train stations, and tourist information centers. Even better, select destinations offer free shipping, so you will have your SIM card ready to roll before your Japan trip.

Pricing with Mobal is straightforward and competitive, making it a popular choice among travelers like us who are budget-conscious yet require reliable service. 

Refill & Check Your Balance: Mobal Japan

Keeping track of your data usage and topping up with Mobal is incredibly user-friendly. Here’s how I managed it:

  • Online top-ups: Through Mobal's website, I easily added data to my plan using my credit card.
  • Check balance: The Mobal app made it a breeze to check how much pocket wifi I had left—no more guessing.

This user-friendliness is a lifesaver when you are bouncing around and need to manage your data quickly.

Deals, Packages, Bundles, and Offers: Mobal Japan

Mobal offers various plans tailored to different traveler needs, from quick visits to longer stays. They offer:

  • “Unlimited”, 7 GB with allowed local phone calls and local SMS, available for 30 days, costing 7 500 JPY.
  • “Unlimited”, 7 GB with allowed local phone calls and local SMS, available for 60 days, costing 12 000 JPY.
  • “Unlimited”, 7 GB with allowed local phone calls and local SMS, available for 90 days, costing 16 500 JPY.

Their flexibility in plan duration and data allowances makes it easy to choose a package that fits your travel plans perfectly.

Just a heads up, you won't be able to extend Mobal unlimited data-only SIM cards or add credit because, well, you simply don't need to! And keep in mind, these SIM cards will deactivate after 8, 16, or 31 days.

Mobal offers several internet options with just one data-packed prepaid plan: the Japan Unlimited SIM Long Term Plans, which includes a generous data bundle. You can choose from getting 1GB, 5GB(the most popular option amongst travelers), 10 GB, or 30 GB.

APN/Internet Settings: Mobal Japan

Setting up Mobal’s APN SIM card on my phone was straightforward. They provided clear instructions with the SIM card, and I was online within minutes after inserting the physical SIM card. Here's a simple breakdown:

  • Name: Mobal
  • APN: ppsim.jp 
  • Username: pp@sim
  • Password: jpn

Mobal Japan was crucial for my travel across the country, ensuring I stayed connected. It is perfect for everything from sharing my latest escapades on social media to finding my way to new spots.

Nippon SIM for Japan

In Japan, I came across Nippon SIM card. The coverage is impressive! I roamed from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Kyoto, and the connection remained stable. In urban areas, the 4G LTE speeds were a blessing for navigation and streaming content.

Heading into more remote regions like Hokkaido's countryside, I noticed a slight drop to 3G, but it was still reliable for basic web browsing and essential apps. Overall, if you plan to explore both cityscapes and more off-the-beaten-path locales in Japan, Nippon SIM for Japan is a good option.

SIM Card Price: Nippon SIM

Nippon SIM offers straightforward pricing and easy access. You can get a SIM card at resellers like Askul, Bic Camera, and Yodobashi Central, ranging from 1 780 to 7 980 JPY.

Or if you are landing by plane in Tokyo, you can buy one and have it sent to the post office for just 550 JPY. Delivery to your place is free and it arrives in five business days. International delivery is also an option, maxing out at 10 000 JPY.

Nippon SIM offers four types of SIM cards: SoftBank Network Plan, Unlimited Plans, Standard Plans, and App Count Free Plans. These SIM cards double as plans for Nippon SIM, but you can't extend them if you run out of your data limit.

Here are 13 Nippon SIM Standard Plans you can choose from:

  • “Unlimited”, 3 GB, available for 30 days, costing 2 480 JPY;
  • 9 GB available for 90 days, costing 3 980 JPY;
  • 15 GB available for 90 days, costing 4 980 JPY;
  • 30 GB available for 180 days, costing 4 980 JPY;
  • 18 GB available for 180 days, costing 5 980 JPY;
  • 20 GB available for 365 days, costing 5 980 JPY;
  • 30 GB available for 180 days, costing 6 980 JPY;
  • 50 GB available for 180 days, costing 7 980 JPY.

These are three Nippon SIM App Count Free Plans that you could also get:

  • 1 GB available for 7 days, costing 2 980 JPY
  • 2 GB available for 14 days, costing 3 980 JPY
  • 3 GB available for 30 days, costing 4 980 JPY

Refill & Check Your Balance: Nippon SIM

You can't top up Nippon SIM cards 'cause you can't extend their validity or add credit. So, if you need more data or your SIM card expires, just grab a new one.

APN/Internet Settings: Nippon SIM

Getting the Nippon SIM ready on my phone was straightforward, all thanks to the easy-to-follow directions in the SIM pack. Just stick to these steps if you are setting it up:

  • Insert the SIM into your phone.
  • Go to your phone’s settings and locate the ‘Mobile Networks’ section.
  • Select ‘Access Point Names’ and create a new APN.
  • Enter the details provided by Nippon SIM—these will be clearly listed in your SIM kit.
  • Save the settings and select the new APN as your active network.

Once set up, I was connected and ready to explore within minutes on multiple devices. The reliable service meant I could instantly share my experiences on social media, look up directions, or find a local restaurant without any interruptions.

© Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile

As someone who loves exploring every corner of a new country, I found that staying connected is crucial. In Japan, Sakura Mobile was one of the options I considered for my mobile needs. Here is a breakdown of what I learned about their services:

Coverage: Sakura Mobile

The coverage provided by Sakura Mobile genuinely impressed me. It extends across all of Japan, utilizing networks that reach even remote areas, perfect for when I ventured out to the less-traveled paths of Hokkaido and the rural landscapes of Shikoku. Here are the key points about their coverage:

  • Extensive reach: Whether you are in bustling Tokyo or tranquil Tottori, their network is robust.
  • Remote area access: For those who like off-the-beaten-path adventures, Sakura Mobile is reliable.
  • Speed: In urban centers, the internet speed is swift, ensuring smooth video calls and quick uploads of travel snaps to social media.

Knowing I could rely on my phone to guide me through winding streets and mountain trails made my journey worry-free.

SIM Card Japan Price: Sakura Mobile

Sakura Mobile offers various pricing options, which I found quite flexible according to different needs and budgets. Here is what options you have:

  • 4 950 JPY for unlimited data for 8 days;
  • 7 150 JPY for unlimited data for 15 days;
  • 9 900 JPY for unlimited data for 30 days;
  • 15 950 JPY for unlimited data for 45 days;
  • 17 600 JPY for unlimited data for 60 days;
  • 26 400 JPY for unlimited data for 90 days.

You can pick up a Sakura Mobile card at these major airports across Japan:

  • Chitose: New Chitose Airport (CTS – airport post office)
  • Chubu/Tokoname (Aichi): Nagoya/Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO – airport post office)
  • Osaka: Kansai International Airport (KIX – terminal 1)
  • Tokyo: Tokyo-Haneda International Airport (HND – terminal 3)
  • Tokyo: Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT – terminals 1, 2 & 3)

These are the Tokyo-Narita International Airport pick-up locations:

© Sakura Mobile: Terminal 1

© Sakura Mobile: Terminal 2

© Sakura Mobile: Terminal 3

Here are the remaining airports' pick-up locations:

© Sakura Mobile: Chitose

© Sakura Mobile: Osaka Terminal 1

© Sakura Mobile: Haneda Terminal 1

© Sakura Mobile: Nagoya

Refill & Check Your Balance: Sakura Mobile

If you run out of data or your Sakura Mobile SIM card expires, you will need to grab a new one. Unfortunately, you can't recharge your current one with extra credit or extend its validity.

APN/Internet Settings: Sakura Mobile

Setting up the internet on my device with Sakura Mobile’s SIM was straightforward. Here are the details you will need:

  • Name: ppsim
  • APN: ppsim.jp
  • Username: pp@sim
  • Password: jpn

Once set up, I was all set to navigate through Japan with endless internet access that supported all my apps from Google Maps to local restaurant finders.

Each of these points made my experience with Sakura Mobile not just satisfactory, but a key enabler of my incredible journey across Japan.

Wireless Gate Japan

Getting around Japan, staying connected is key for finding your way, posting updates, and staying in touch with folks back home. Here is the scoop on Wireless Gate Japan, which turned out to be an excellent find during my trip.

Coverage: Wireless Gate Japan

Wireless Gate Japan boasts impressive coverage, ensuring that I remained connected in bustling city streets and serene countryside vistas alike. Whether I was admiring cherry blossoms in Kyoto or navigating the electric streets of Tokyo, I experienced seamless service. Here is what stood out:

  • Urban connectivity: In major cities like Osaka and Tokyo, I enjoyed uninterrupted 4G service, which was perfect for live-streaming my adventures.
  • Rural reach: Even in more remote areas, such as the mountainous regions of Hokkaido, the coverage was reliable enough for GPS and on-the-go research.
  • Transport routes: On bullet trains, connectivity could wane, but overall, it held up remarkably well, keeping my playlists streaming and my social updates timely.

SIM Card Price: Wireless Gate Japan

Wireless Gate has something for everyone, covering various needs and budgets. You can get a Wireless Gate SIM card at Yodobashi Central for anywhere between 2 420 to 8 800 JPY.

Here’s what you might expect to pay:

  • 2 420 JPY for 1.5 GB available for 31 days;
  • 2 750 JPY for 3 GB available for 31 days;
  • 3 410 JPY for 5 GB available for 31 days;
  • 5 000 JPY for 50 GB available for 31 days;
  • 6 380 JPY for 30 GB available for 90 days;
  • 8 800 JPY for 90 GB available for 60 days.

Refill & Check Your Balance: Wireless Gate Japan

You can't buy top-ups for the Wireless Gate SIM cards since you can't extend the validity or add credit. If you need more data or if the SIM card expires, you will have to buy a new Wireless Gate SIM card.

APN/Internet Settings: Wireless Gate Japan

Setting up the APN for Wireless Gate was straightforward. The package included clear instructions, and I was online within a few minutes. Here is the quick setup:

No matter if it is your first visit or you are a frequent flyer, these guys are worth a look for staying connected no matter if you are only using your phone or multiple devices.

The Best Method for Maintaining Communication While Exploring Japan

As I planned my trip to Japan, making sure I had internet to post about my travels, navigate the area, and stay updated with my family and friends was essential. I did some digging into the physical SIM card Japan scene and here is a little wisdom I picked up that could help you pick the right option for staying connected in this amazing place.

First off, choosing between a local SIM card or an eSIM mostly hinges on whether your phone can handle it and how long you are planning to stay. Reading reviews can also help with deciding if that is the right option for you. For instance, Airalo eSIMs are popular around the region. 

You can get local prepaid SIM cards easily at airports, local shops, or even online. Prices usually kick off at a pretty decent point depending on how much data you are looking to use.

As for carriers, I looked at SoftBank and Mobal because they both have solid coverage and competitive rates. SoftBank shines with its dependable service even in less traveled spots, which is ace if you are thinking about wandering beyond the usual tourist trails.

Mobal, meanwhile, rolls out appealing deals for visitors, packing generous data allowances and some options for international calls.

If you are watching your wallet, consider carriers like IIJmoi and Sakura Mobile. They have SIM cards designed with travelers in mind, offering flexible rates and good network reach in all the major spots.

Here is a quick summary of my findings:

  • SoftBank: Best for wide coverage.
  • Mobal: Ideal for tourists needing international calls.
  • IIJmoi: Cost-effective for short trips.
  • Sakura Mobile: Offers specific tourist plans.

In conclusion, my preferred way to stay connected in Japan was to choose a physical SIM card that balanced cost, coverage, and convenience. For my two-week journey across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hokkaido, Sakura Mobile fit the bill perfectly, keeping me connected affordably and efficiently.

I hope this helps you find your perfect match for a worry-free travel experience in Japan!